If Only

Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone: How Choosing “Bold” as my “One Word” in 2023 propelled me to take risks, creating powerful and long-lasting connections and relationships that have made a profound difference in my life.

I share about a conversation I recently had with my friend Sandra Frank, one of the powerful connections I made in 2023.

During this conversation I solidified my commitment to have everyday women be celebrated on the If Only podcast; to give the opportunity for everyday women to be celebrated and acknowledged for the difference they are making. Women like me and many of my 2023 guests who perhaps don't regularly receive the accolades, or the acknowledgment or awards as some women who are in the upper echelon of their field or who are all over social media and in the news. But my belief is women like my listeners, like my guests, who are successful in their own right, are the bedrock of our society and our world and make the most profound difference day to day in how things go, either with their family, with their job, or with their communities that they're involved in. These women get up every morning and whether they're excited for the day or not, that they put one foot in front of the other and do the very best they can to make it all work.

The shows in 2024 will acknowledge the monumental yet unnoticed contributions made by my guests who juggle roles and responsibilities at home, work, and the community. The 'everyday woman' is who I want to hear from, and I believe you do too!

I know these stories resonate profoundly with my listeners, fostering a sense of belonging and relatedness. So I invite you to reach out so people can hear your story and celebrate YOU! I am looking for women who have broken through an If Only and created the results they were yearning to achieve.

You can be a stay at home woman, a working woman or a business owner; I welcome all women who have a story to tell. I also share my “One Word” for 2024 and how I came to select “Completion” and what this choice signifies for me for the coming year.

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

Unlocking Fulfillment in Teaching: Trusting your instinct with Jane McCaul

In a world where doubt and skepticism often cloud our paths, Jane McCaul's journey unfolds like an unexpected twist in the pages of a gripping novel. From the corporate grind to the realm of education, she encountered a revelation that would alter the course of her life. It was a realization that shattered her self-doubt and ignited a flame of unwavering belief in her instincts. As Jane shares her transformation, one can't help but wonder: What unexpected turn of events led her to embrace the power of trusting oneself, and what turn of events can lead to yours?

Jane McCaul is not only a dedicated high school English teacher, but also a woman who has fearlessly pursued her passions and made a meaningful impact on the lives of her students. With a background in the hospitality industry, Jane made the courageous decision to transition into education and follow her dream of becoming a teacher. As a department chair and English teacher, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a contagious passion for literature and language into the classroom.

Jane's journey has taught her the importance of trusting her instincts, even when faced with doubt or uncertainty. Her commitment to her students and the joy she finds in witnessing their intellectual growth is a testament to her dedication and authenticity as an educator.

It is a privilege to have Jane as a guest on the show, where she will undoubtedly inspire listeners seeking fulfillment in their journey.

"I am never leaving. This is where I'm supposed to be. To hear those kinds of things from the kids or to see them succeed and for them to just be so proud of themselves, that makes my heart want to burst open." - Jane McCaul Foster

Strong Student Relationships

Jane McCaul fosters deep connections with her students, believing that relationship-building is critical within the educational sphere. She maintains that displaying a genuine level of care and respect towards students can evoke a reciprocal response, driving their motivation and willingness to learn. Furthermore, Jane insists on authenticity and a personal touch, rejecting conventional advice to suppress warmth, to create a welcoming and engaging learning environment.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Read David Thoreau aka the original “environmentalist” as Jane said! Here is one of his poem’s. "I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived. I did not wish to live what was not life, living is so dear; nor did I wish to practice resignation, unless it was quite necessary. I wanted to live deep and suck out all the marrow of life, to live so sturdily and Spartan-like as to put to rout all that was not life, to cut a broad swath and shave close, to drive life into a corner, and reduce it to its lowest terms, and, if it proved to be mean, why then to get the whole and genuine meanness of it, and publish its meanness to the world; or if it were sublime, to know it by experience, and be able to give a true account of it in my next excursion." Henry David Thoreau
• Research the highly regarding and rated charity Give Kids the World led by another powerful, authentic and loving woman, Pam Landwirth,
• Check out Jane McCaul's LinkedIn profile to learn more about her background and career journey.
• Embrace your own instincts and make decisions based on your intuition.
• Consider how pursuing YOUR dreams will make a meaningful impact on your life and the lives of others.
• Jane Mccaul - LinkedIn
• Research the highly regarding and rated charity: Give Kids the World

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

In a world where compliance can stifle true culture shift, diversity expert Regenea Hurte fearlessly challenges the status quo, advocating for inclusive workplaces that celebrate individual brilliance, one transformative ripple at a time. My special guest is Regenea Hurte Regenea Hurte, also known as Gena, is an accomplished professional in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Currently serving as the diversity, equity, and inclusion advisor for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Gena brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role. With a focus on building inclusive cultures, she provides visionary leadership and oversees the implementation of a comprehensive DEI and civil rights framework.

Through individual and group training, coaching, and policy review, Gena helps organizations create welcoming environments where faculty, staff, and students can thrive. Her tag phrase, "Culture beyond Compliance," encapsulates her belief that true cultural transformation goes beyond mere checkboxes and requires a genuine commitment to fostering a sense of belonging for all individuals. With her extensive knowledge and practical approach, Gena is a valuable resource for professionals looking to create diverse and inclusive workplaces that go beyond compliance.

"We need to understand that a lot of the decisions we make are influenced by identities we couldn't choose or change. But we also need to recognize that the world is engaging with us based on those same identities." - Regenea Hurte

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Enhance decision-making skills and understand the impact of major life decisions.
• Overcome significant life changes and thrive.
• Unlock the power of diversity and inclusion to create a stronger and more innovative workplace.
• Cultivate resilience and seek support to overcome obstacles and achieve personal and professional growth.
• Foster a culture that goes beyond compliance, creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Unlock Power of Diversity Regenea Hurte emphasizes the power and value of diversity in all its forms.

Building cultures that go beyond compliance to truly celebrate and embrace diversity sparks innovation and expansion. Through this, we create thriving environments in which individuals feel valued and are free to bring their unique skills, perspectives, and experiences into the mix.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Connect with Regenea on social media to stay updated on her latest projects and insights. https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahurte/
• Explore the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach website to learn about their diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and how you can get involved.
• Consider booking Regenea Hurte as a speaker for your organization or event to inspire and educate your audience on creating a more diverse and inclusive environment.
• Take advantage of the individual and group training, coaching, and policy review services offered by Gena to help your organization become a more welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Follow the Culture beyond Compliance approach advocated by Gena to create a truly inclusive culture in your organization, moving beyond mere compliance with diversity and inclusion initiatives.
• Support and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in your own life and community by actively working towards creating welcoming environments where all people feel they belong.
• Take the time to reflect on your own biases and beliefs and challenge yourself to grow and learn in the area of diversity and inclusion.

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

Trusting Your Inner Wisdom: The Key to Making Powerful Decisions | Karen Lee Cohen

A dynamic and empowered Karen Lee Cohen embarks on a courageous quest to conquer her fears, ignite her purpose, and challenge societal norms, as she unlocks the power of trusting herself in a world that demands answers before action. My special guest is Karen Lee Cohen Karen Lee Cohen is an eight-time Regional Emmy award-winning producer and executive producer, as well as the former director of programs for WNBC TV in New York. With her extensive experience in the television industry, Karen has worked with renowned celebrities such as Della Reese, Bob Hope, Rod Sterling, Lily Tomlin, Peter Allen Jewel, and Al Roker. In addition to her successful career in television, Karen is also the founder and president of Crystal Pyramid Productions, Inc. She is a non-denominational minister, business and spiritual mentor, and a sought-after speaker.

The title of Karen's prescriptive memoir is IT’S ABOUT TIME: My Award-Winning TV Adventure and it’s available on my website and on Amazon.com, which won the 2023 NIEA Award, offers valuable insights and tips for navigating the ups and downs of the entertainment industry.

Currently, Karen is working on her second book, "Let's Be Peace," which explores alternative health and wellness modalities and spiritual journeys. Her goal is to inspire others to develop self-confidence and trust in themselves.

"Our imaginary friends are real, they're just in another dimension. We come into this earth plane open to those things, and if we can be open enough to it, we're kind of hearing them." - Karen Lee Cohen

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the profound connection between Karen Lee Cohen and her spirit guides and angels and tap into a world of guidance and inspiration.
• Unlock the secret to career success by cultivating unshakeable confidence that propels you forward and opens up limitless opportunities.
• Tap into the power of self-trust and unleash your true potential, making decisions with ease and conviction.
• Explore the fascinating realm of communication with spirits and enhance your learning ability, gaining profound insights and wisdom.
• Align your values with your work and experience a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose, creating a harmonious and rewarding career journey.

Unshakable Confidence for Career Success

Karen delves into an insightful discussion on the importance of confidence in career success. Drawing from her own experiences in the television industry, she highlights the need to trust oneself and be willing to learn things along the way, rather than needing to know everything in advance. This unshakeable confidence, according to Cohen, is essential for career progression, and can even encourage individuals to venture into unfamiliar territories and discover new opportunities.

Resources:

• Visit Karen Lee Cohen's website, www.letsbepeace.com, to learn more about her and her work.
• Purchase Karen's award-winning book, “It's About Time”, to read about her experiences in the television business and her journey with angels and guides.
• Join Karen's email list on her website to receive a list of her teammates, the angels and guides she works with, and their specific roles.
• Grab a copy of the list of Karen’s teammates and how to connect with them.
• Find out more about Sue Storm, The Angel lady- http://theangellady.net/
• Purchase the book written by the musician Jewel’s mom, Lenedra Carroll. The Architecture of All Abundance: Seven Foundations to Prosperity.
• Explore Dr. Andrew Weil breathing techniques to create inner peace.
• Exp

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

Cherissa Jackson, a remarkable force of change, joins host Brenda McGregor on this episode. With 23 years of active duty military service, including three combat deployments, Cherissa's battlefield expertise earned her the title of America's Combat Nurse. Her dedication to healthcare was recognized when she won the prestigious Star Nurses Nightingale Award in 2020. Cherissa's passion for innovative technologies shines through her cannabis business, We Decode LLC, where she utilizes DNA sequencing to map medicine's healthiest outcomes. Her wellness reports and precise cannabinoid matching have been acknowledged as one of the top 50 most innovative products in Innovation and Tech magazine.

Get ready to be inspired as Cherissa shares her journey and offers valuable insights on how innovative technologies can revolutionize healthcare outcomes.

You can't help everybody without making sure that you're whole, without making sure that you're good, without ensuring that you're at peace. Take care of yourself first. - Cherissa Jackson

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover how innovative technologies improve healthcare outcomes and patient experiences.
• Learn about the importance of self-worth for women and how it positively affects overall well-being.
• Explore effective strategies for protecting patients' medical information and maintaining privacy in healthcare settings.
• Understand the key components of HIPAA compliance in healthcare and how to ensure patient data security.
• Take proactive steps towards self-improvement and personal growth for a more fulfilling and successful life.
• Discover how healthcare technology improves outcomes.

The advent of healthcare technology has revolutionized patient care by improving outcomes and their overall experiences. Cherissa Jackson's groundbreaking company, Wedecode, harnesses the power of DNA analysis to furnish personalized health data. This empowers patients to take control of their health, leading to enhanced healthcare outcomes as individuals can make informed decisions about therapies and lifestyle modifications.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Cherissa Jackson's website, We Decode LLC (www.wedecodellc.com), to learn more about her cannabis business that uses DNA sequencing for mapping medicine's healthiest outcomes.
• Check out the article in Innovation and Tech magazine that features Cherissa's technology as one of the top 50 most innovative products.
• Consider booking a coaching session with Brenda McGregor Coaching, of which Cherissa is one of the founding members.
• Connect with Cherissa on social media to stay updated on her work and accomplishments.
• Read T.D. Jakes' book on forgiveness to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of forgiving oneself.
• Seek therapy or counseling to embark on your own journey of self-discovery and healing.
• Reflect on your own experiences and see if you can relate to Cherissa's journey of not feeling enough and take steps to find your own sense of self-worth.

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

Teressa Waters, a powerful change agent, defies societal expectations and fights for inclusivity and diversity, challenging the status quo in her pursuit to create lasting impact and change in communities.

Teressa Waters is a dynamic force for change in Prince McGregor's County, Maryland. As the founder and vice president of Cross Cultures Community Center, Inc. (CCC), she has been instrumental in promoting diversity and social-emotional learning (SEL) in her community. With a background in diversity management, including working for the CIA for ten years, Teressa brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her work. Her passion for empowering youth and families led her to establish the Artesian Cultural Arts Estate, a division of CCC, where she offers workshops, wellness classes, and exhibits that foster social, emotional, and intellectual wellness.

Teressa's commitment to inclusive programming and her dedication to supporting underserved communities shine through in her role as a change agent.

We are honored to have Teressa as a guest on our podcast, sharing her insights and strategies for implementing culturally responsive and inclusive programming in educational and youth settings. Being present is so important because it allows you to appreciate every single second that you've been given, and it allows you to appreciate and value every single person that comes into your life space. - Teressa Waters

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Learn strategies for promoting diversity and social-emotional learning to create an inclusive and supportive environment.
• Gain insight into the unique challenges faced by black women professionals and discover ways to support and empower them.
• Understand the importance of supportive leaders and mentors in nurturing the growth and success of youth in diverse communities.
• Explore the power of a strong support system and how it can positively impact the personal and professional lives of individuals.
• Discover the love language of acts of service and how it can deepen connections and foster a sense of belonging in diverse communities.

The experiences of black women in professional settings often involve overcoming substantial hurdles, including stereotypes and unconscious biases. These challenges can sometimes result in their contributions being overlooked or dismissed. By bringing awareness to these issues and cultivating more inclusive workplaces, we can propel meaningful change and provide every individual with an equal opportunity to shine.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Check out the Artesian Cultural Arts Estate division of CCC for workshops, wellness classes, and exhibits that promote social, emotional, and intellectual wellness.
• Explore the biophilic programming and therapeutic arts offered by Artesian Enterprises to cultivate sustainable and transferable plant life.
• Support local artists by attending their exhibits and engaging with their work.
• Get involved with ACAC programs and services that promote social change and local community and economic development.
• Learn more about Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and its importance in children's development.
• Embrace diversity and respect what different ethnicities, genders, and backgrounds bring to the table.
• Ground yourself in nature and appreciate the value of the smallest things for personal growth and self-love.
• Consider supporting Teressa’s mission to grow the Artesian Cultural Arts Estate is to promote diversity through arts and culture, further lifelong learning, and help improve the quality of life of the youth and families they serve beyond by donating here https://gofund.me/6bab4ac7

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

Have you ever heard these myths about developing self-confidence and finding fulfillment?

Myth 1: You have to be perfect to be confident.

Myth 2: Fulfillment is found in external achievements.

Myth 3: Self-confidence is something you're either born with or without.

In today's episode, our guest Karen Mason will debunk these myths and share the truth about building self-confidence and finding true fulfillment in life.

Our esteemed guest today, Karen Mason, has a unique blend of experience in law and life. With a brilliant career in law spanning over two decades, including roles as a judge, assistant state's attorney, and an adjunct faculty member, she has developed an array of life-changing insights. Karen's upbringing grounds her perspective, as she grew up understanding the determination of her grandmother, a former sharecropper. Passionate about finding fulfillment in life despite the odds, Karen's journey is nothing short of inspirational.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Acquire knowledge on building up self-confidence and finding life fulfillment.
• Grasp the potency of visualization to create a bright life trajectory.
• Take on techniques to neutralize feelings of insufficiency and push through your comfort zone.
• Recognize the role of vision boards in sustaining concentration and motivation levels.
• Observe how media and art can contribute to female empowerment, with the Barbie movie serving as a perfect example.

Visualization is a powerful tool in manifesting your goals and aspirations. Visualizing ourselves in our desired scenario can provide motivation and inspire action towards accomplishing the vision. Through techniques such as creating a vision board, we can subtly engage our minds in productive, focused thinking that propels us closer to our dreams.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Check out Karen Mason's profile on the Prince McGregor's County Bar Association website to see her professional memberships and affiliations.
• Reflect on the importance of recognizing the value of your own voice and consider how you can start using it more confidently in your own life.
• Take the opportunity to reflect on your own heritage and the impact it has had on your life.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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