In this episode of 'More Than Work', host Rabiah Coon sits down with Yesim Nicholson, an author, podcast host, and career coach. They discuss Yesim's diverse career journey, managing career changes, and the important aspects of finding fulfillment beyond job titles. The conversation also delves into Yesim's book 'Ready to Quit Your Job?' and her insights on balancing financial concerns with career satisfaction. Tune in for inspiring stories, practical advice, and a fun Q&A segment.

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work

00:34 Meet Yesim: Author, Podcast Host, and Career Coach

01:20 Navigating Career Changes and Challenges

02:33 The Journey to Becoming a Career Coach

07:37 Balancing Work and Personal Life

12:14 Writing the Book: Ready to Quit Your Job?

18:46 Finding Fulfillment in Your Career

24:39 Reflecting on Career Lessons

26:09 Identifying Positives in Your Job

27:25 Introducing the Podcast

28:51 The Concept of Toe Dippers

31:34 Encouraging Career Changes

32:45 Health and Decision Making

35:39 The Fun Five Questions

43:09 Channeling Confidence

44:31 Where to Find Yesim Nicholson

45:09 Closing Remarks

Note from Host:

Yesim and I met when I was a guest on her podcast. Either my SEO or her solid sleuthing brought us together. I’m nearly done with her book and finding it helpful as I consider what I’m doing in my life (or at least in one aspect of it). It is good to assess sometimes and see if you can align what you do with what you want. That’s really what “More Than Work” is about. We got along like old friend and Yesim is as authentic as it gets! I recommend the book, the podcast and a chat with her wholeheartedly. If you’re reading this, I’ve probably heard from her recently. Be well.

 +++++ 

Find Yesim

Website 

Podcast

Book - Ready to Quit Your Job?  

LinkedIn 

 +++++ 

More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of More Than Work, host Rabiah interviews M. Brady, a psychotherapist and musician, who shares his journey from being a professional tennis player to discovering his passion for psychotherapy and music. M discusses his long career in therapy, his struggle with anxiety and vulnerability, and how these experiences influenced his album. He also reflects on the impacts of early humiliations, the importance of creativity, and coping with personal losses. Throughout, M emphasizes the value of embracing vulnerability and taking risks in life.

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work Podcast

00:34 Meet M. Brady: Psychotherapist and Musician

01:29 M's Journey into Psychotherapy

02:48 The Intersection of Sports and Psychology

04:43 Overcoming Personal Challenges

08:29 Exploring the Concept of Unprocessed Losses

18:14 M's Return to Music

25:35 Discussing Musical Influences

28:17 Challenges of Performing Live

30:01 Overcoming Personal Barriers

33:15 Inspirations and Advice

35:47 Fun and Personal Questions

40:46 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Note from Rabiah (Host): 

I’ve been slow to edit podcasts this year. But I still have a passion for sharing others’ stories. Thank you for sticking with me and there are over 100 episodes in the backlog so you can listen to more if you haven’t already. I’ll be setting up more interviews and getting more episodes out soon.

M. Brady is exactly who I was looking for when I started More Than Work. He has a job but he also has a passion, and he is pursuing it in his own way, in his own time. I related to this as I thought about comedy lately. M was very open about his past and what he went through to get to where he is today, the creator of an EP, in addition to being a psychotherapist. I was tempted to sneak in a little therapy when we chatted but resisted! Enjoy the listen and check out the tunes! 

 +++++ 

Find M Brady

Website: mbradymusic.com 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6JpYhnIRsYXjORa8FL2uCt 

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/m-brady/1724662113 

 +++++ 

More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of 'More Than Work,' host Rabiah engages in a profound conversation with Kileen Barry, founder of Kaizen Collective and a sex therapist. They dive into Kileen's journey from digital marketing to therapy, exploring her motivations, influences, and the pivotal books 'Come As You Are' and 'Maybe You Should Talk to Someone.' The discussion covers Kileen's academic path, her unique approach to therapy, which emphasizes a holistic and salutogenic model, and her passion for integrating mental, physical, and nutritional care. The episode also touches on the importance of boundaries, Kileen's self-care practices, and her aspirations for Kaizen Collective. Join Rabiah and Kileen as they uncover the layers of professional and personal evolution, making this more than just work.

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work Podcast

00:34 Meet Kileen Barry: Founder and Sex Therapist

02:04 Kileen's Journey into Therapy

02:20 From Digital Marketing to Therapy

03:18 The Impact of Books on Kileen's Career

04:16 Personal Experiences with Therapy

09:21 Kileen's Nonprofit Work and Its Influence

13:57 Understanding Salutogenic Model in Therapy

24:26 The Importance of Discussing Sex in Therapy

27:36 Generational Shifts in Attitudes Towards Sex

30:34 The Wire Monkey Experiment

31:42 Attachment Styles and Personal Growth

32:31 Book Recommendations and Attachment Theory

34:01 Transitioning Careers and Education

39:27 Starting a Private Practice

40:02 Holistic Mental Health Approach

43:31 Maintaining Boundaries as a Therapist

48:37 Fun and Personal Insights

53:34 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Note from Rabiah (host): It seems that though there are huge gaps between episodes lately, they are also somehow coming right on time, especially since I know what is coming next. Editing this one was a joy and gave me a sense of normalcy that I haven’t had in over a month. I broke my leg and left A&E at 2:30am on my birthday. That wasn’t how I planned to start my year of being 45. But in listening and editing, I appreciated the conversation that I’m now sharing with you because this is a conversation with a friend who I got to learn a lot about and who I wouldn’t have been able to engage with in the same way at 35 or 25. Kileen is full of grace and her career change more than made sense. I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did and am curious about what you, the listener, will take from it.

 +++++ 

Find Kileen

PHIIRST

 +++++ 

Mentioned in this episode:

polysecure by Jessica Fern

Dr. Aaron T Beck

Salvador Minuchin, MD

Katy Milkman

Katie Porter

 +++++ 

More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this captivating episode of 'More Than Work,' our host Rabiah Coon engages with AJ Waters, the visionary behind Stronger Skatepark. From the initial spark of passion for skateboarding to the creation of an inclusive community space, AJ shares the journey of founding Stronger Skatepark. Listeners will gain insights into the hurdles of entrepreneurship, the power of community-building, and the significance of personal growth through adversity. Whether you’re a skateboarding enthusiast, interested in the startup world, or looking for inspiration on overcoming personal challenges, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for all.

Introduction to AJ Waters: The episode kicks off with Rabiah welcoming listeners and introducing AJ Waters, highlighting their unexpected journey from skateboarding hobbyist to the founder of an inclusive skatepark.

Starting Stronger Skatepark: AJ delves into the early days of skateboarding, the inspiration behind founding Stronger Skatepark, and how a single event sparked the idea to create a welcoming space for skaters in Portland.

Challenges and Triumphs: Overcoming financial, legal, and personal hurdles, AJ shares the resilience and determination that carried them through the toughest times while founding the skatepark.

Running a Business: AJ compares past experiences to the challenges and rewards of running Stronger Skateparks, drawing parallels between caregiving and entrepreneurship.

Inclusivity in Skateboarding: Emphasizing the core value of Stronger Skatepark, AJ discusses efforts to create a skate park where everyone, regardless of age or ability, feels welcome.

Personal Journey and Mental Health: AJ opens up about their personal growth, mental health journey, gender and sexual identity, and the profound impact of creating a space that supports diversity and accessibility.

Expanding During a Pandemic: AJ recounts the challenges and opportunities of expanding Stronger Skate Parks despite the pandemic, underscoring the importance of community support in uncertain times.

Advice and Personal Insights: Wrapping up the episode, AJ shares wisdom on the importance of slowing down and being mindful amidst life's busyness, offering listeners a moment of reflection.

Note from Rabiah (Host): 

This episode was recorded last year but of course delayed until now. As I mention at the start of the episode, AJ was introduced to me via friend of the pod (and friend of me) Eriko Ono who knows AJ from the Portland, OR skate scene. In December, after the podcast was already recorded, we got to meet in person and I got to see Stronger Skatepark myself. It is a special place. I even bought a sweater that is too cool for me to own but I wear it anyway! This is a fun interview and a very open discussion I enjoyed with AJ. I appreciate so much when my guests are willing to talk about things that could be difficult. In addition to talking about the work AJ is passionate about, as a trans man, he was willing to answer some of my questions about his transition which gave me a rare insight into that experience as it will you, the listener. Enjoy the episode and let me know if you visit the skate park!

 +++++ 

Find AJ

Stronger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stronger_skatepark 

Stronger Website: https://www.strongerskatepark.com/ 

AJ’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_j_waters 

 +++++ 

Mentioned in this episode:

Skate Like a Girl: https://www.skatelikeagirl.com/ 

Neil Cicierega: https://www.youtube.com/@NeilCicieregaMusic 

 +++++ 

More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of 'More Than Work', a podcast on personal and professional fulfillment, host Rabiah engages in an insightful discussion with Jessica Berg. Berg is the founder of 'Moon Rock Wellness', a digital platform designed to help busy individuals, particularly working mothers, cultivate everyday habits of wellness. Jessica shares her personal journey leading to the creation of Moon Rock Wellness, including a life-altering encounter with burnout that led her to prioritize her well-being and set boundaries in her corporate job. She also discusses the importance of maintaining balance, practicing daily mindfulness, and investing time and energy into activities that genuinely fulfill us.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:36 Guest Introduction: Jessica Berg

00:55 Getting to Know Jessica: Personal Life and Location

01:46 Introduction to Moon Rock Wellness

01:56 The Importance of Consistent Wellness Practices

02:56 Personal Wellness Journeys and Challenges

03:44 The Impact of Motherhood on Wellness

07:28 The Role of Mindfulness in Everyday Life

10:59 Exploring Moon Rock Wellness: Services and Impact

14:32 The Journey to Founding Moon Rock Wellness

18:53 Balancing Corporate Life and Passion Projects

24:06 Addressing Burnout: A Personal Experience

25:40 The Impact of Burnout on Personal Life

26:34 Taking Action: Setting Boundaries at Work

26:56 The Importance of Communication in Setting Boundaries

27:30 The Struggle of Balancing Work and Personal Life

30:20 The Power of Doing Nothing: Embracing Breaks

32:40 The Influence of Passion Projects on Work

33:34 The Power of Scheduling and Time Management

42:08 The Joy and Inspiration from Children

43:34 Connecting with Moon Rock Wellness

45:01 Conclusion: The Importance of Kindness to Self

Note from Rabiah (Host): 

It has been a while. For personal reasons and comedy reasons I had to put a pause on the pod until I was ready to commit the time and effort again but now, More Than Work is back! Thank you for checking out this episode. Jessica was easy to talk to and may inspire you to take 5 minutes for yourself. She has done that for me. I’ll leave you to it, listener. Be sure to check out other episodes too. I’m happy to have you here!

 +++++ 

Find Jessica

Website: www.moonrockwellness.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moon_rock_wellness 

 +++++ 

More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

Fernando Kabigting: From Corporate to Creative Life

In this episode of More Than Work, host Rabiah Coon talks with their guest, Fernando Kabigting. They delve into Fernando's life-changing decision to leave his corporate job in fashion to enter the creative industry, specifically floral design. Fernando touches on his experiences from starting in advertising, transitioning to fashion, to eventually establishing his own business that transcends traditional floral design. He also discusses his motivations, personal values, and commitment to sustainable and responsible practices in his work. Lastly, he shares how important it is to see yourself represented in an industry and forging your own way as an immigrant.

00:08 Introduction

00:50 Welcome Fernando

01:49 Fernando's Journey into Fashion

05:04 Transition to Floral Design

07:41 Creating a Sustainable Business

17:57 Reflections on Identity and Business

36:20 Dealing with Overwork & Achieving Balance

Note from Rabiah (Host): 

After admiring Fernando’s work from afar for quite a while, I finally reached out to ask him to be on the podcast. In the past, we lived in the same city and I got to see first-hand what a dynamic person he is but getting the chance to talk to him about what motivates him reminded me of the importance of sharing stories and showing who we are. This episode felt like why I created the podcast. 

 +++++ 

Find Fernando

Website: https://www.fdkflorals.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fdk_florals 

 +++++ 

Mentioned in this episode:

Jonathan Anderson https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.anderson/

 +++++ 

More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of 'More Than Work', Rabiah, an IT professional and stand-up comedian, talks to guest Sean Arkless about his journey from low self-confidence and working in retail to becoming the co-founder of Sjark Limited and vocalist of the London based band, 'Hello Amnesia'. Sean shares his experiences as a freelancer and his decision to start his own music production company. He also discusses his ongoing Master's degree in Musical Theater, the role of mentors in his career development, the value of being assertive and possessing a 'learn and seek' mindset. Sean's advice is to 'live fearlessly and choose your own adventures', encouraging others to pursue their dreams and never give up despite challenges. The podcast ends with Sean providing information on where listeners can find more about his work.

00:08 Introduction to the Podcast

00:37 Guest Introduction: Sean Arkless

01:04 Sean's Journey to London

01:45 Sean's Educational Background and Career Path

03:15 Sean's Passion for Musical Theater

04:49 The Art of Storytelling through Musical Theater

06:09 Sean's Journey into Sound Engineering

10:25 The Birth of Sjark Limited

13:08 Solving Industry Problems through Sjark Limited

20:12 The Story of Hello Amnesia

22:47 The Band's First Gig and the Impact

23:16 The Story Behind the Band's Name

25:36 Musical Influences and Discoveries

29:22 The Journey from New Zealand to England

30:01 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Inspiration

32:28 The Turning Point: A Concert Experience

33:55 The Power of Determination and Dreams

34:58 Fun Five: Getting to Know More About Sean

41:03 Where to Find Sean and His Music

42:17 Wrapping Up the Conversation

Note from Rabiah (Host): 

So, I’ll be honest, this is the first time I’ve used AI to write the bulk of my show notes and I’m super impressed but this part is me, the HI (human intelligence entity, Rabiah). Sean and I met at a gig I was doing which was a variety show with super talented people he went to school with. He was cool and we went to a concert together (which we talk about here) and then another concert and I’ve seen him perform, and I’m so glad you get to hear him now.

There have been some gaps in me posting so if you’ve been waiting a while, I’m sorry. I needed a break, again. I’m trying to get the great interviews I have in the can out to you sooner than later though. Thanks for sticking with me! And if you’re new, don’t stop listening at this episode. There really many great ones to come and over a hundred from the past. Thanks for being here. 

 +++++ 

Find Sean

Sjark Limited: www.sjark.co.uk 

Sean’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanarklessmusic

Hello, Amnesia: https://www.instagram.com/Hello_Amnesia 

 +++++ 

Mentioned in this episode:

Rock the Rock Records (Hawaii): https://rocktherockrecords.com/ 

Scotty Rockstar: https://www.instagram.com/scottyrockstar/ 

Lasse Corus: https://www.lassecorus.com/ 

 +++++ 

More Than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

This week’s guest is Mark Nicholas, comedian, comedy workshop leader and tutor. 

After getting his comedy start while on an extended trip to Vietnam, Mark has been working his way around the London comedy circuit. He created his show Laugh-Able to be an inclusive space for acts with disabilities. Being autistic himself and coming from a family of those serving or caring for others with disabilities, he is an advocate and activist in that space.

Before all of this, Mark started work he continues today. During college, he was working in a bar and realized it wasn’t for him when he saw an ad on Gumtree that led to him working as a tutor and then in special education. He talks about all of this and his work as a union rep in the episode.

We talk about:

• Mark’s path from drama class to comedy
• Coming to terms with being autistic and the support Mark received from his family
• Why Mark left his career in the formal education system and went into private tutoring
• Setting up his own comedy night for disabled acts (LaughAble)
• Inclusion

Note from Rabiah (Host): 

Mark and I met at a gig, while doing the Zoom circuit during lockdown. You’ll be listening to a chat between me and a colleague but also me and a friend. He has included me in his shows and made me more comfortable talking about having Multiple Sclerosis (MS) on stage and off. He’s a funny guy and we share a few laughs on the episode but also share an important chat. It is a privilege to get to learn about my friends in this way and to share the chat with you. 

 +++++ 

Find Mark

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marknicholasstandupcomedian 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marknicholascomic 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marknicholascomic 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mnicholascomic 

 +++++ 

Mentioned in this episode:

Laugh-ABLE Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laughablecomedynight 

Laugh-ABLE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laughablecomedynight/ 

Laugh-ABLE Twitter: https://twitter.com/laughable_night

Tamsyn Kelly: https://www.instagram.com/tamsynkelly/ 

 +++++ 

More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

Tw: incest joke

This week’s guest is Dr. Jeanne Retief, founder of FIGGI. FIGGI a community created out of career change and wanting to share with others and be a support system, and self-care products.

Dr. Retief earned a PhD in Human Rights and Criminal Law. And ran a Human Rights consultancy in South Africa for 13 years. After moving to her current location in Portugal, things changed for her, in more ways than one, including a diagnosis with panic disorder and founding a new company. Having already earned a PhD, she even went back to school to learn about cosmetic chemistry! 

In this chat we talk about:

• Getting diagnosed with panic disorder
• Managing mental health
• Career change
• FIGGI the community and skincare line she founded
• The FIGGI blog and podcast
• Rooibos

TW: abuse

Note from Rabiah (Host): 

I took a bit of a break. And it is almost too appropriate that my first episode back is this one given the openness around mental health that Dr. Retief brought to the conversation. Why did I take a break? Overwhelm. And other things. I would say it was a choice but it was a necessity. For those listening for the first time, thank you for being here. And to those who checked in because they didn’t hear a new episode in a while or those who are back after time passed, thank you too! There are over 100 more episodes in the backlog with fantastic guests and more to come! 

 +++++ 

Find Dr. Retief

Website: https://www.figgilife.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanne_figgilife/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075876828370 

 +++++ 

Mentioned in this episode:

Dr. Edith Eger: https://dreditheger.com/ 

 +++++ 

More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

his week’s guest is Elizabeth Mhangami, social entrepreneur.

Lizz grew up in Zimbabwe and moved to the US when she was 19. After working in various jobs including at the Chicago Athletic Foundation, she also earned her bachelor’s degree at Loyola University. She then started the job that would define her career so far, working with young people from underserved communities. 

Prior to moving to the states the first time, Lizz was part of the Rotary international as a youth. Her later work with Rotaract started her thinking more about youth communities, especially at home. She founded Vanavevhu, a 5013c for kids in Zimbabwe, many who are heads of household. She ran the organization for 7 years and has handed over the day to day operations. Now, she is back in the US and heading up major gifts at the Mikva Challenge in Chicago. 

We talk about her childhood through adulthood and the influences and experiences that led to to a path of working in and leading service organisations. 

Topic we discuss:

• Youth service organizations
• Impact of having a mother who was engaged in service
• Immigrating to the US
• Poverty in America
• Working with underserved communities
• Being a founder and what that entails

Note from Rabiah (Host): 

This conversation was a long time coming since Lizz and I became acquaintances, virtually, and would often joke around but then would also get into serious conversations. It was a pleasure to bring this experience to More Than Work to share with you! She is a wonderfully interesting and intelligent person who has dedicated her career to serving youth. I learned so much about her experiences moving to the US from Zimbabwe and you will too. I hope you enjoy this insightful and also joyful discussion. Maybe it’ll inspire you too.

 +++++ 

Find Elizabeth

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emhangami/

 +++++ 

Mentioned in this episode:

Vanavevhu: http://www.vanavevhu.org/

Rotary International: https://www.rotary.org/en 

bell hooks: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bell_hooks 

Mikva Challenge: https://mikvachallenge.org/ 

 +++++ 

More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!