If Only

Claiming Your Authentic Self

If you feel like your workplace identity is overshadowing your true self, and you're tired of not being able to fully express yourself authentically, then you are not alone! It's frustrating when you feel like your voice isn't being heard and your unique contributions aren't being valued. It's time to break free from the mold and prioritize being true to yourself in your professional environment. Remember, being the first to challenge the status quo comes with its own set of challenges, but it's worth it to pave the way for a more inclusive and authentic workplace culture.

My special guest is Riki Riki is a neon-loving, karaoke-obsessed, and glitter enthusiast on a mission to help women live unapologetically and love boldly. As the founder of I've Had Enough, she curates perspective-shifting conversations and is a soon-to-be ICF certified relationship coach. With a knack for engaging, humorous, and faith-filled approach, Riki doesn't shy away from courageous conversations.

She has helped over 300 singles develop healthier dating strategies and women of all ages embrace their authentic selves. Through her work, Riki embodies the importance of authenticity in professional settings, as well as overcoming work-related challenges. Her unique journey and passion for empowering women make her a valuable voice in navigating workplace challenges and prioritizing well-being.

“Being the first comes with challenges, but so does being last. So you choose.” - Riki

In this episode, you will hear about:

• Embracing diverse representation in careers empowers women to envision new possibilities.
• Navigating workplace challenges as a woman cultivates resilience and leadership skills.
• Prioritizing authenticity in professional settings fosters genuine connections and confidence.
• Overcoming work-related PTSD involves reclaiming personal well-being and finding inner strength.
• Implementing strategies for a healthy workplace culture boosts productivity and employee satisfaction.

Resources:

• Find out ore about Riki and her coaching services: https://www.enoughthecauserie.com/
• Book a discovery call with Riki here. https://lnkd.in/e2X2Bi3D
• Connect with Riki on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikia-c-ceasar/
• Purchase a copy of Riki's book, "Off Of The Sidelines: From Benchwarmer to MVP: An Intentional Dating Playbook" -https://a.co/d/amTgkuN

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.

Living the Life You've Imagined: Answering the Whisper on Your Heart Are you ready to uncover the surprising truth about pride and satisfaction? Rachael Edmondson Clark shares a unique perspective that challenges traditional notions of pride and invites you to rethink your own journey.

Discover the unexpected connection between pride and comparison, and the powerful shift towards finding fulfillment from within. Rachael, an accomplished entrepreneur and mental health advocate, provides valuable expertise in addressing burnout in corporate careers and transitioning to entrepreneurship. With a strong emphasis on the positive impact of nature on mental wellness, Rachael highlights the importance of building a robust support network for personal and professional growth. Her extensive experience and strategic insights make her a trusted resource for corporate professionals looking to overcome burnout and excel in the entrepreneurial realm.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover effective strategies for overcoming burnout in corporate careers.
• Learn about the importance of nature for enhancing mental health and well-being.
• Explore the process of transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship.
• Uncover the key to building a strong support network for success in business.
• Gain insights into powerful strategies for personal and professional growth.

Harnessing Nature's Power Nature plays a crucial role in mental, as emphasized by Rachel's advice to connect with nature for alignment. Spending time outdoors can help individuals restore balance, find clarity, and improve mental well-being. Harnessing nature's power can support individuals in overcoming challenges, reducing stress, and enhancing resilience.

Resources:

• Rachael shares about the powerful impact on her life through reading Joeseph Campbell’s The Heroes Journey. Find out more about the book here-https://www.jcf.org/learn/joseph-campbell-heros-journey
• Rachael also recommends the documentary about Joseph Campbell-Finding Joe. Here is the link to it on YouTube-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8nFACrLxr0
• Rachael was also impacted by watching the video Choice Points that can be found here-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OV15x8LvwAQ
• Seek support from a coach or mentor to navigate career transitions, personal growth, and leadership development, and consider the value of having a support network to guide you through challenges and opportunities.
• Embrace the journey of self-discovery and personal growth, and remember that it's okay to seek physical restoration, emotional well-being, and mental clarity as part of the process.

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.

Get ready to be inspired by my guest today, Marilyn Johnson, as she tells her incredible story of resilience and personal growth while navigating a life that was not handed to her on a silver platter! Marilyn shares the many challenges of being a business owner and community leader.

Stay tuned to discover the unexpected twists and turns that led Marilyn to where she is today. You won't want to miss this captivating tale of self-discovery and empowerment.

In this episode, you will hear about creating the possibilities of:

• Transforming Your Life: Learn how to transition from business ownership to fulfilling your personal goals.
• Making a Difference: Discover the importance of community involvement for entrepreneurs and how it can impact your success.
• Boost Your Confidence: Uncover strategies for building self-confidence through personal transformation.
• Overcoming Financial Challenges: Explore effective strategies for overcoming financial challenges in business.
• Expanding Your Network: Learn the vital role of mentorship and networking in professional growth.

Marilyn Johnson, the founder of the Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, boasts 25 years of experience in creating custom clothing and costumes. As a transitioning entrepreneur, her current role as president of the Laurel Board of Trade offers valuable insights into the importance of community involvement and personal transformation. With a focus on implementing strategies for personal transformation and community engagement, Marilyn's journey from business owner to a life filled with personal fulfillment and community impact serves as a beacon of inspiration for entrepreneurs navigating similar transitions. Her expertise and commitment to community leadership make her a credible source for understanding the significance of community involvement for entrepreneurs seeking to make a meaningful impact beyond business ownership.

Resources:

• Connect with Marilyn through Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marilyn-johnson-5432037/
• Find out more about the Laurel Board of Trade here https://laurelboardoftrade.org/about-us
• Or if you are out of the area look into your local board of trade.
• Review for yourself the positive skills, abilities and gifts you have or have gained through challenging circumstances.
• Be kind to yourself and practice the muscle of tenacity!

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.

Kiersten Lortz is an accomplished coach, speaker, author, and musician, known for her ability to help Type A moms reach big goals without stress, overwhelm, or guilt. As the founder of Possibilities Coaching, LLC, she is dedicated to empowering ambitious women to create abundance professionally and personally through her 90-day Time to Thrive program. With a degree in violin performance and years of study in neuroscience and personal development, Kiersten brings a unique blend of humor, inspiration, and vulnerability to her work, making her relatable and effective with clients and audiences alike.

Her annual Possibilities Conference and her book, "Possibilities," showcase her commitment to helping women reclaim clarity, confidence, and control. Kiersten's expertise in achieving sustainable results without burnout or overwhelm makes her a sought-after figure in the realm of personal transformation.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover how ADHD can impact women and gain insights for personal empowerment.
• Explore the fascinating link between neuroscience and managing depression for a better understanding of mental wellness.
• Uncover powerful tools for personal transformation to enhance your self-awareness and resilience.
• Learn about the benefits of redefining personal narratives and how it can positively shape your life.

Resources:

• Find out more about Kiersten by visiting her website and book a free call with her to explore working with her in her 90-day Time to Thrive program. https://kierstenlortz.com/
• Follow Kiersten on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiersten-lortz-a89646265/
• Join Brenda and Kiersten at the Possibilities Conference in Columbia Maryland on March 1st to gain valuable insights, tools, and inspiration for reclaiming your story and thriving in every chapter of your life. https://kierstenlortz.com/possibilities-conference-2025/
• Look into DBT Therapy's “Please” skill to find the basic self-care practices that can help you take care of yourself physically and mentally. https://dbt.tools/emotional_regulation/abc-please.php
• Talk to your doctor and see if they believe an evaluation for ADHD might be appropriate for you.
• Kiersten talks about going outside and standing in your bare feet on the ground as a form of grounding.
• Here are some suggested practices to help to ground yourself and ease anxiety. https://www.choosingtherapy.com/grounding-techniques/

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.

From Pleasing to Purpose: Finding Your Authentic Voice in Life and Business

If you're feeling the weight of keeping secrets and struggling to navigate personal relationships, then you are not alone! The impact of childhood secrets can linger into adulthood, affecting how we view ourselves and interact with others. But what if there's a way to break free from the burden of secrecy and step into a more authentic, self-loving identity?

Let's explore the power of embracing authenticity and fostering empathy in our daily interactions. My special guest is Dr. Lisa Gordon Dr. Lisa Gordon, affectionately known as the fairy godmother of chiropractic and wellness, has been providing care to the Howard County community since 1989. With a focus on gentle chiropractic techniques, applied kinesiology, and nutrition response testing, she tailors treatment programs to each patient's individual needs.

As a seasoned healthcare professional, Dr. Lisa brings a wealth of life experience and education to our conversation, delving into topics like overcoming the fear of being judged and the impact of childhood secrets on adulthood. Her insights and expertise will surely resonate with our audience, offering a unique perspective on embracing authenticity and fostering empathy in daily interactions.

"I think any time we can love each other anyway, even though our political views are different, our religious views are different, our lifestyle views are different, if we can love each other, that is bringing more love to the world, and that's healing." - Dr. Lisa Gordon

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Embrace your uniqueness and overcome the fear of being judged.
• Learn the importance of feeling safe and secure in your relationships.
• Uncover the impact of childhood secrets on your adult life.
• Discover the path to finding self-love and embracing a lovable identity.
• Navigate and foster empathy when dealing with differences in your professional life.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Learn more about Dr. Lisa’s practice, the services she offers, and her approach to healthcare by visiting her website- https://drlisagordon.com/
• Visitors can explore the website to gain a deeper understanding of Dr. Lisa's work and schedule appointments or consultations. o You can also contact her office at 667-240-2923.
• Neuro Emotional Technique (NET) - Dr. Lisa Gordon mentions using NET in her practice to help individuals disconnect from past emotional experiences that may be impacting their current beliefs and behaviors. Reach each out to her to find out more and if it is a good fit for you.
• Within Her Circle - Brenda mentions she and Dr. Lisa are members of a women's networking group called Within Her Circle which provides members with opportunities for professional support, connection, and personal and professional growth. This serves as a call to action for individuals interested in joining similar groups to support their journey

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.

From Banking Protégé to Communications Maven: One Woman's Journey to Entrepreneurship

My special guest is Amanda Gluck Amanda Gluck is the founder and CEO of Bytesize Communications, specializing in marketing and communications consulting. With her dedicated focus on empowering companies to showcase their achievements, establish credibility, demonstrate thought leadership, and cultivate strong organizational cultures, Amanda has proven herself as a formidable force in the industry.

Her proficiency in formulating impactful marketing and communication strategies has consistently delivered tangible results for her clients. Additionally, Amanda's active engagement in community organizations, including her past role as the President of the SMPS Society for Marketing Professional Services, Maryland Chapter, and her current position on the Women's Leadership Conference committee for the Howard County Chamber of Commerce, further underlines her commitment to excellence.

Amanda's journey from a marketing professional to a successful entrepreneur serves as a compelling testament to the pivotal role of mentorship and strategic guidance in achieving business success. It's all about the ebb and flow of giving and receiving in life.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• Mastering the Art of Business Launch with Mentor's Guidance: Uncover the secrets to a successful business launch with the guidance of a mentor.
• Harnessing the Power of Professional Networking: Learn the game-changing benefits of professional networking for entrepreneurs.
• Crafting an Unforgettable Brand: Discover effective branding and communication strategies to elevate your small business.
• Embracing Entrepreneurship: Navigate the transition from full-time work to entrepreneurship with confidence.
• Cultivating Business Growth Through Referral Networks: Unlock the key to building a referral network for exponential business growth.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Amanda Gluck- Reach out to Amanda to explore working with her [email protected] or https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandagluck1/
• Bytesize Communications- Visit her website to find out more about her unique approach to marketing and communications https://bytesizecommunications.com/
• Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) - Join this organization to connect with marketers, business developers, and professionals in the AEC industry. It provides opportunities for networking, mentorship, and career advancement. https://www.smps.org/
• Howard County Chamber's Women's Leadership Conference - The Women's Leadership Conference is mentioned as a platform for networking, collaboration, and professional development. You can join like-minded women at the event on March 7, 2025. Here is a link to find out more and register! https://www.howardchamber.com/womens-leadership/
• Business/Life Coach - Consider hiring Brenda McGregor as a business or life coach to provide guidance, support, and help in breaking through doubts and barriers. Reach out to her here [email protected]
• Pickleball - Incorporate physical activity like pickleball into your routine for mental breaks and physical exercise. It can help in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and provide a fresh perspective when returning to work. Interested? Find out more here https://usapickleball.org/what-is-pickleball

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.

Charting New Paths: The Unstoppable Rise of a Voice Unheard

If you're feeling the weight of personal hurts and self-doubt, struggling to break free from a cycle of negative relationships and unfulfilled dreams, then you are not alone! Precious Jewel's journey from self-doubt to empowerment will inspire you to break free from the limitations and create the life you truly desire.

Through her own experiences, she's shown that it's possible to overcome challenges and transform your life, and her powerful story will ignite your own journey to personal and professional growth.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Overcoming generational curses: Unlock the secrets to breaking the cycle and achieving success against all odds.
• Lifelong learning benefits: Discover how continuous learning fuels entrepreneurial growth and success.
• Writing for personal growth: Unleash the power of writing to elevate your personal development and career trajectory.
• Business networking strategies: Master the art of effective networking for accelerated business success.

My special guest is Precious Middleton Precious Middleton is the founder of HR Boutique and Business Services, where she specializes in providing tailored HR solutions to streamline processes, enhance workplace culture, and ensure compliance with labor laws. With a strong focus on progressive talent acquisition and effective human resource practices, Precious is dedicated to transforming workplaces and driving success while prioritizing employee satisfaction.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Precious is an avid reader, actively engaged in community service, and has authored a book. Her personal journey of growth through writing makes her a valuable guest to share insights on the impact of writing on personal development.

“Life is not easy. But if you put your mind, effort, and energy into what you want to see grow and believe in yourself, regardless of the noise, you can still achieve great things.” - Precious Middleton

Resources:

• Visit Precious’s business website to discover how she can partner with you to provide comprehensive HR Solutions. https://hrboutiqueservices.com/
• Connect with Precious on Linkedin. https://www.linkedin.com/in/precious-middleton/
• Precious's Book – Find out in depth details about Precious’s journey through purchasing her book, Pulling Back the Covers, published under a pseudonym, Diamond P. It can be purchased here. https://a.co/d/f4xxAQV
• Creating a Life You Love Group Coaching Course – Take your own leap in learning and growth by joining Brenda’s next group coaching course. Contact her at [email protected].
• Toastmasters - Precious talks about attending Toastmasters meetings to improve her public speaking skills. If this is something that interests you, find out more on their website. https://www.toastmasters.org/
• Boys and Girls Club of America - Precious spoke about the positive impact of giving back specifically noting her volunteer work with the Boys and Girls Club of America. Visit their website to find out more or to donate to their cause at https://www.bgca.org/

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.

The Ripple Effect: How Transforming Your Own Life Can Change the World

Hey there, working moms! Today’s show introduces Certified resilience coach, Jess Yocum, who shares her journey of resilience and balance in her personal and professional life. She's not just talking the talk but walking the walk, and her insights might just surprise you. Want to know how she's shaping a better future by living a better now? Stay tuned to discover the unexpected twists in her story, and how it could help you find your own path to resilience and balance.

My special guest is Jess Yocum Jess Yocum is the founder and principal coach of Riverdrop Consulting. With a background in organization development and leadership, Jess helps moms in leadership integrate their skills and strengthen their resilience. Her vision is to see working moms confidently embrace their leadership potential, free from the weight of mom guilt.

Jess holds a master’s degree in organization development and leadership from Fielding Graduate University and is an ICF certified coach. With her experience as a working mom of three, Jess brings a deep understanding of the challenges and pressures faced by modern working moms, making her insights and guidance invaluable for those striving to achieve greater resilience and balance in their personal and professional lives.

“I wasn't meant to do it all, and I wasn't meant to do it alone.” - Jess Yocum

In this episode, you will learn about:

• Mastering the art of work-life balance for working moms - finding harmony between career and family life.
• Empowering moms to thrive in leadership roles - unlocking your full potential and making a significant impact in the workplace.
• Overcoming the struggle with mom guilt in parenting - embracing a guilt-free mindset and enjoying the journey of motherhood.
• Importance of self-care for working moms - prioritizing your well-being to enhance productivity and happiness.
• Building resilience in personal and professional life - equipping yourself with the mindset and tools to bounce back from challenges stronger than before.

Empowering Moms in Leadership:

Empowering mothers in leadership positions involves providing support, opportunities, and resources to help them thrive. By recognizing and utilizing their skills, working moms can confidently lead and make a positive impact in their professional endeavors. Empowering moms in leadership is crucial for creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Reach out to Jess through her website Riverdrop Consulting-https://riverdropcoaching.com/
• Connect with Jess on Linkedin at-https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-yocum-maod-acc-bcc-664881145/
• The Center for Nonviolent Communication (CNVC) is an international nonprofit peacemaking organization that shares Nonviolent Communication around the world. It helps people peacefully and effectively resolve conflicts in personal, organizational, and political settings. You can find more information on their website www.cnvc.org to explore this further.
• Self-Care Exploration: Take the time to explore what self-care means to you. It may not necessarily involve expensive spa days, but could be as simple as volunteering, showing up for someone in need, or having a meaningful conversation with a friend. Consider what makes you feel most alive and incorporate that into your self-care routine.
• Feelings and Needs Reflection: Take the time to reflect on your feelings and needs. Consider what you need to feel safe, secure, comfortable, and in control. Understanding your needs and values can help guide your decision-

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.

From High School Dropout to Healing the World: One Woman's Journey Through Hardship and Growth

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the constant negativity and stress in your life, and you're desperately wishing for a way out, then you are not alone! Whether it's the weight of personal challenges or the impact of the world around you, finding a way to navigate through the overwhelm can seem like an insurmountable task.

The struggle is real, and the search for peace and agency can be exhausting. But what if there were a simple, yet powerful tool that could help you reclaim your sense of calm and control in the midst of it all?

My special guest is Jade Connelly-Duggan Jade Connelly-Duggan, a corporate culture and wellness expert, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Having assisted the NSA in effective communication with the CIA and played a pivotal role in preserving a Fortune 100 beverage company's culture during a merger, her expertise in somatic leadership spans diverse industries.

With a focus on transforming personal challenges into growth opportunities, Jade's commitment to teaching soft skills with a significant return on investment makes her a valuable resource for business leaders and managers seeking to foster a positive organizational culture.

Her insights are particularly beneficial for those interested in creating a supportive work environment and driving positive ripple effects within their organizations.

"I love this sort of creating a pattern interrupt, because a lot of our functioning in the world, a lot of the ways we respond to things are we've been training our bodies to do it this way for, I don't know, in my case, 47 years." - Jade Connelly-Duggan

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover how to manage stress through practical embodied practices.
• Learn effective strategies for fostering a positive organizational culture.
• Uncover the role of body awareness in effective leadership.
• Explore how to transform personal challenges into growth opportunities.
• Understand the importance of community in personal and professional development.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Jade’s Linkedin page to read more about her. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nsfwleadership/
• Visit Jade’s company website to find out how you can engage with her. https://humaningwell.com/about-us/our-team/
• When there's something you wish were different in the world, and then decide if you will take action or let it go.
• Consider the impact of stress on your body and how it affects your hormone cascade. Recognize your power and agency in creating your hormone cascade every moment, and learn to notice and shift your body's response to stress.
• Take a moment to notice your breath and get present in your body. Use a tangible item or visual cue to prompt you to pause and take a breath, allowing yourself to notice any tension or resistance in your body.
• Consider the ripple effect of your actions and the influence you have on others. Recognize the power of your presence and the impact you can have on those around you.

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.

Wisdom for Living an Authentic Life

Does this sound familiar? Have you ever felt like you're constantly striving for perfection, only to feel defeated and exhausted? If you've been told to always aim for perfection, you've probably experienced the pain of feeling like you're not good enough no matter how hard you try. It's time to break free from the shackles of perfectionism and embrace authenticity.

Let's talk about how you can build a personal brand for success without being weighed down by the pursuit of perfection. My special guest is Rochelle "Slay" Hemingway.

Rochelle "Slay" Hemingway, a proud United States Air Force veteran, has dedicated over 30 years to serving the country with honor. With a distinguished military career as a command chief master sergeant, she now channels her discipline, determination, and leadership into empowering professional women through her business "Slay to Success."

As a keynote professional speaker, three-time self-published author, talk show host, image consultant, and personal brand expert, Rochelle inspires women to embrace their authentic selves and confidently step into their power.

Her holistic approach focuses on personal branding, fashion, and a positive mindset, empowering women to dominate their paths to success and be unforgettable in their lives.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Understand the Impact of Military Service on Personal Development: Discover the hidden influence of military service on personal growth and success.
• Master the Transition from Military to Entrepreneurship: Uncover the key strategies for a seamless shift from military life to successful entrepreneurship.
• Craft Your Personal Brand for Success: Learn the essential steps to build an authentic personal brand that sets you up for success.
• Establish Harmony: Strategies for Work-Life Harmony as an Entrepreneur: Unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious balance between work and personal life as an entrepreneur.
• Embrace Vulnerability in Leadership Roles: Explore the power of vulnerability in leadership and its impact on personal and professional growth.

"What can I do today to affect future generations?" Rochelle Hemingway

Resources:

• Rochelle's Business Slay to Success: Rochelle Hemingway's business Slay to Success is a resource for professional women looking to step into their power confidently and embrace their authentic selves. The business offers keynote professional speaking, self-published books, image consulting, and personal brand expertise. You can find more information about the services and offerings here https://www.slaytosuccess.com/about-5
• Journaling: Rochelle emphasizes the importance of journaling as a tool for self-reflection and personal growth. She highlights how journaling helped her recognize patterns in her life and make positive changes. Consider incorporating journaling into your daily routine to gain insights and track your personal and professional development.
• 80/20 Rule-The Pareto Principle: Rochelle discusses the significance of the 80/20 rule, which focuses on identifying the critical 20% of activities that yield 80% of the results. This principle can be applied to time management and decision-making. Find out more about this tool here https://www.simplypsychology.org/pareto-principle.html
• Legacy Building: Rochelle shares the importance of building a legacy and making a positive impact on future generations.

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.