If Only I Was Good Enough: Arina Aristova

In a world where fear held her back, Arina Aristova, a seasoned corporate attorney, discovered an unexpected twist that would change her life forever. The hidden desire to write, suppressed for years, finally surfaced, beckoning her towards a path of self-discovery. Confronting her fear of inadequacy, Arina embarked on a journey that led her to explore the intricate relationship between humans and AI resulting in her first novel The Charter Of Ailith.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the keys to unlocking your inherent abilities, leading to a life filled with purpose and satisfaction.
• Explore the depths and impacts of artificial intelligence on our rapidly evolving society.
• Conquer self-doubt and learn the critical importance of avoiding comparisons with others for personal growth.
• Appreciate the lasting rewards of reading and foster a lifelong passion for knowledge.
• Embrace the necessary strategies for self-care as a conduit to healthier living.

Arina Aristova, a remarkable author and legal practitioner, has made a name for herself in not one, but multiple rings of professional accomplishment. Immersed in the world of literature since she was eleven, Arina has an innate passion for using words to create poignant narratives that resonate deeply with the readers. Now living in the vibrant city of New York, Arina has am accomplished career while nurturing her two daughters. Her distinct literary prowess, legal acumen, and keen cultural insight enables her to map out stories that dissect the depths of human existence and the overlapping realms of technology and society. Her exploration of artificial intelligence and its potential influence on our future is particularly noteworthy.

Resources:

Scary Smart The Future of Artificial Intelligence and How You Can Save Our World by Mo Gawdat

https://www.mogawdat.com/scary-smart

Finding Balance and Happiness: Bola Audena's Guide to Self-Discovery

Embark on an inspiring journey with Bola Audena as she defies convention, resigns from a successful career, and embraces her spiritual growth to find personal and professional fulfillment.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Unearth the connection between spiritual growth and comprehensive personal and professional fulfillment.
• Walkthrough Bola's courageous leap from corporate life to paving her entrepreneurial path.
• Apprehend the ripple effect of patronizing Black-owned enterprises on community economic growth.
• Discern the transformative potential of self-awareness, balance, and audacious choices.
• Master the art of developing discipline in spiritual practices, surrendering to uncertainties, and nurturing curiosity.

Welcome Bola Audena, an accomplished management consultant and managing partner at MBA Growth Partners. With a specific focus on go-to-market strategies, strategic planning, and business process optimization, she has built a career spanning over 18 years. Bola is a firm believer in the power of self-discovery and balance in achieving personal fulfillment and professional success. Her journey towards shaping and improving her spiritual health has significantly influenced her perspective on life and business, demonstrating her commitment to continual growth.

Resources:

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit MBA Growth Partners website: You can learn more about Bola Audena and MBA Growth Partners by visiting their website at www.mbagrowthpartners.com. Explore their services, case studies, and client testimonials to see how they can help your organization achieve strategic growth and operational efficiency.
• Contact Bola Audena: If you're interested in working with Bola Audena and MBA Growth Partners, you can reach out to her directly at Bola [email protected]. Whether you have questions, want to schedule a consultation, or discuss your specific business needs, Bola is available to help.
• Linkedin Profile-https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolaaudena/
• “You have to keep breaking your heart until it opens.” This quote came from Rumi, a 13th Century Persian poet, a Sufi mystic, who is also one of the most popular poets and best-selling poets in the United States. More information about Rumi can be found here https://poets.org/poet/jalal-al-din-rumi

From Fear to Freedom: Embracing Your Shadows for a Life of Self-Acceptance with Winnie Chan Wang

Witness the incredible journey of Winnie Chan Wang, an immigrant's daughter who ran the race of life, chasing success to feel safe. But just when she thought she had it all, a near-death accident shattered her world, leaving her questioning everything she knew. Little did she know, this traumatic event would become the catalyst for a profound transformation.

Follow Winnie's path as she delves into the depths of shadow work, unlocking the key to reclaiming her energy, embracing self-acceptance, and ultimately discovering the remarkable power of having it all...

Meet Winnie Chan Wang - an extraordinary guide in personal transformation, an international speaker, bestselling author, and known by all as 'the queen of compassion and transformation'. This mindfulness and acupuncture guru uses spiritual science to help individuals navigate their pain and anxieties and invites them to stand powerfully in their authenticity. With a Master of Science degree from Alhambra Medical University, Winnie co-authored the book 'Honoring Darkness', showcasing her personal journey of making 'lemonade out of life's lemons'.

Her non-profit organization, Compassionate Transformation Community, brings forth mental wellness resources for youth and parents, proving that wellness is truly for everyone at every level of income.

What if I can have everything I want? What if I don't have to choose between my health, my family, and my career? Everything is in alignment. - Winnie Chan

Wang In this episode, you will be able to:

• Gain insights into the world of holistic wellness and alternative therapies to improve overall health.
• Discover the transformative power of shadow work and self-acceptance in personal growth.
• Understand the art of balancing health, family, and career to optimize productive living.
• Learn about the essence of authenticity and its role in effective self-care.
• Realize the benefits of incorporating meditation and spirituality in your journey to personal transformation.

Resources:

Contact Winnie Chan Wang:

LinkedIn

Website

Book: Honoring Darkness: Embrace Shadow Work To Nourish And Grow Your Power

How Living In The Question Can Transform Your Life: A Conversation with Becky Thoroughgood

Unleash the transformative power of curiosity and embrace the mystery of life as host Brenda McGregor interviews the inquisitive and determined acupuncturist Becky Thoroughgood, who navigates her natural desire to have all the answers, discovering for herself and her patients the profound healing potential of living in the question.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Harness the power of inquisitiveness to open up new avenues for personal growth and enrichment.
• Dive into different acupuncture therapies and their potential to improve health and vitality.
• Break down the philosophy of Chinese medicine into relatable nuggets of wisdom.
• Witness the transformative power of daily practices like writing and creative activities to expand the questions and lead to self-discovery.

Becky is a wonderful blend of empathy, intelligence, and an unyielding curiosity for life's deeper questions. Rooted in her journalism background, she has an uncanny knack for storytelling which she brilliantly applies in her work as an acupuncturist and wellness coach. Becky's life took an unexpected turn 25 years ago - an overwhelming battle with insomnia and a weakened immunity led her to seek help from acupuncture. This personal journey ignited in her a passion for East Asian medicine that ran deep. Today, she holds a master’s degree in acupuncture and is a certified health and wellness coach. A respected guru of holistic health, Becky's wisdom has been featured in several prominent health journals.

Resources:

Becky Thoroughgood Contact Information

LinkedIn

Website

Phone: 717-303-8579

Email: [email protected]

Quote and books Becky shared: “Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.” — Rainer Maria Rilke

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

https://www.elizabethgilbert.com/books/big-magic/

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

https://juliacameronlive.com/books-by-julia/the-artists-way-a-spiritual-path-to-higher-creativity-audiobook/

Unlocking Body-Mind-Spirit Balance with Acupuncture: A Conversation with Lynn Schwartz

Lynn Schwartz's life took an unexpected turn when she stumbled upon an ad for a real estate career, but she knew deep down that something was still missing. It wasn't until she experienced the transformative power of acupuncture that she found her true calling. Now, Lynn helps others unlock their inner observers and find balance between their body, mind, and spirit. Her story serves as a reminder to listen to our hearts and follow our passions, even if it takes an unexpected twist. What unexpected twist will lead you to your true calling?

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore the impact of assuming responsibility for crafting a meaningful life.
• Delve into the many ways acupuncture enhances physical, mental, and spiritual health.
• Understand how to dismantle generational cycles and establish healthier patterns.
• Grasp the significance of creating a network of supportive and inspiring people.
• Adopt techniques for self-observation and embracing responsibility for your well-being.

Allow us to introduce Lynn Schwartz, a skilled classical five-element acupuncturist committed to the deep-reaching benefits of this ancient healing art. After obtaining her degree from the Traditional Acupuncture Institute and serving as a faculty member at Tai Sophia, Lynn continued to cultivate her knowledge and practice through various roles, including the co-founder of the Classical Acupuncture and Healing Center. Lynn's personal connection to acupuncture and her dedication to fostering positive change has led to numerous speaking engagements and educational opportunities. She is a believer in the transformative potential of acupuncture to balance the body, mind, and spirit.

Resources:

Lynn Schwartz: LinkedIn

Discover how Sonja Der, a speech-language pathologist turned business owner, defied expectations, and built a thriving coaching business with tenacity and a determination to succeed, in this insightful episode of the If Only podcast.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Unearth the power of feedback and how it catalyzes personal progress.
• Discover the formidable strength in empowering women and tapping into their immense potential.
• Delve into reflective tactics for personal growth, illuminating the path to inner success.
• Learn how to foster robust relationships and network with purpose and intention.
• Understand the triad of success - time, commitment, and tenacity - in cultivating a thriving business. List 2:

Sonja Der is the fascinating and unstoppable force behind Bridge Performance Coaching, a venture that sprouted from her passion for leadership development. With a background in the medical field as a Speech Language Pathologist, Sonja has taken her love for coaching beyond her previous professional sphere. The fruits of her labor are reflected in her innovative trademarked process, now known as CoachCruiting. Her relentless dedication has assisted countless small businesses, particularly those employing between 35 to 50 people, to help them overcome growth obstacles. An outgoing networker, Sonja finds joy in making rewarding professional matches, elevating workplace cultures, and helping businesses to thrive.

Resources:

Sonja Der LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonja-der/

On this episode of If Only, entrepreneur Carmelita Chichester discusses the benefits of entrepreneurship and the importance of trusting oneself. But just as the conversation gets intriguing, a shocking interruption leaves Chichester in a difficult situation, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats. What will happen next? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Unlock the secret to maintaining authenticity in your personal and work life.
• Recognize the vital role of self-assurance and embracing risks in your career.
• Refine your communication techniques for addressing sensitive issues and promoting understanding.
• Break free from the fear of failure and seize leadership positions.
• Dive into the world of entrepreneurship and the value of trusting your instincts.

With a background in industrial engineering and a wide range of expertise in business process improvement, Carmelita Chichester has not only made a name for herself, but built a strong foundation for her family and her businesses. Carmelita's journey from managing national cybersecurity projects to founding her own businesses, including Affinitas LLC, offers immense inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her determination, creativity, and insight into the value of trusting oneself make her the perfect mentor for anyone seeking to build their own business empire.

Resources:

https://www.affinitasinc.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmelitac20/

Unconventional Paths to Career Success: Yvonne Atterberry-Brooks

Have you heard the myths about achieving success and fulfillment in your career and personal life?

Myth #1: There is only one path to achieve your goals.

Myth #2: You have to sacrifice your passions for a steady income.

Myth #3: You need to have everything figured out before pursuing your dreams.

But the truth is, there are alternative paths to achieve your goals and find fulfillment.

Our guest, Yvonne Atterberry-Brooks, will share how identifying passions and consistently pursuing them can lead to a fulfilling career and personal life.

Don't fall for the myths, join us to discover the truth. In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the significance of balancing passions and consistency to attain success.
• Learn how to navigate and conquer challenges faced by women in corporate environments.
• Gain insight into aligning personal values with organizational objectives for a fulfilling career.
• Explore the benefits of strategic partnerships and collaborations in creating a positive impact.
• Uncover non-traditional pathways for achieving personal and professional aspirations.

Meet Yvonne Atterberry-Brooks, a compassionate problem-solver with decades of experience working in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Yvonne built her career in the Department of Health and Human Services, honing her skills in team building and project management. Now retired, she channels her energies into supporting causes close to her heart, volunteering with organizations such as the Zonta Club and Laces Education. Through sharing her story of overcoming obstacles and adapting plans, Yvonne inspires others to find unconventional ways to achieve success on their own terms.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-atterberry-brooks-53b24a11/

Beyond 'If Only': Cassie Bond on Proactive Career Growth

If you're feeling frustrated and stuck in your career because your attempts to communicate, balance your work and life, and proactively seek advancement have not yielded the desired results, then you are not alone!

In this episode, you will hear solid, real life experience to help you to:

• Advance your career by actively pursuing personal growth and opportunity creation.
• Inspire a positive workplace rooted in trust and mutual respect.
• Acknowledge the value of candid communication and sustained discussions.
• Bounce back from rejection and tailor your strategies for victory.
• Strike a balance in your professional and personal life while fully engaging in the present.

My special guest is Cassie Bond:

With a reputation for excellence in her field, Cassie Bond serves as the Vice President of Commercial Strategy at Lodging Dynamics Hospitality Group. In this role, she leads all efforts for revenue generation, focusing on sales, revenue, and digital marketing. Cassie's extensive experience in revenue management has earned her recognition as an industry expert, and she is frequently invited to speak at events and contribute to publications. In 2018, she was honored as the HSMAI Corporate Revenue Management Professional of the Year, and in 2022, she was named one of the top 50 women leaders of DC by Women We Admire. A strong advocate for peer growth and women's leadership, Cassie is committed to supporting women with the hospitality industry.

Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassie-bond-chrm-crme-69721111/

Say hello to Mary Jordan, a determined and passionate entrepreneur who made a bold leap from her biotech background to launch her own lingerie boutique, Bra La La. Mary boasts extensive experience of over 15 years in biotechnology, working with highly respected institutions such as NIH. Driven by a desire to make a positive impact on women's lives, Mary established Bra La La which focuses on providing personalized services to help women find their perfect fit.

Join Mary as she discusses her inspiring journey of career transition and the lessons she's learned along the way. If you're feeling overwhelmed and discouraged because you've taken the necessary steps to make your career transition, but the results have been minimal and you can't seem to break through to your desired outcome, then you are not alone!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Delve into the fascinating shift from biotechnology to lingerie enterprise management.
• Grasp the significance of tailored customer service experiences in retail businesses.
• Find out how to establish an encouraging space for breast cancer survivors to thrive.
• Master the equilibrium of managing work, personal life, and community engagement.
• Realize the importance of adapting business tactics during challenging times like the COVID-19 outbreak.

The key moments in this episode are:

• 00:00:00 - Introduction
• 00:01:12 - Mary's Background
• 00:09:00 - Starting Bra La
• 00:11:52 - Bra La Experience
• 00:15:11 - Maple Lawn
• 00:17:53 - Overcoming Fear
• 00:19:49 - The Nurses Project
• 00:24:26 - Giving Back
• 00:27:01 - Work-Life Balance
• 0:34:29 - Inspiration

Resources:

https://bra-la-la.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-jordan-b8aa067/