Step into the Pivot

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ami Hindia, a veteran of Fidelity's workplace investing group, as she opens up about her incredible journey of prioritizing health and adopting a servant leadership approach. From overcoming breast cancer to transitioning into leadership and battling imposter syndrome, Ami's story is a testament to the resilience and power of embracing one's true self.

Ami shares her journey towards embracing her Indian heritage and how this acceptance has empowered her to bring her whole self to work. Learn about the impact of representation, the challenges of code-switching, and the powerful outcomes of humanizing ourselves in the workplace. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to all listeners to embrace their unique identities and foster genuine connections, even amidst societal pressures. Don't miss out on this candid and moving conversation with Ami Hindia, filled with wisdom and inspiration for anyone facing similar challenges.

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Ami Hindia is the Central & Southeast Divisional Manager for Core Market Sales within Fidelity’s Workplace Investing. She has been working with advisors and plan sponsors in the retirement plan space for over 20 years. As a leader, she supports her team whose focus is building advisor & TPA relationships and winning new 401(k) plans for Fidelity in the Core Market space. Prior to being in this role, she was on the institutional asset management side of Fidelity as a Defined Contribution Investment Only (DCIO) wholesaler for 11 years. She was responsible for wholesaling Fidelity Advisor Funds, Fidelity VIP Portfolios, and Fidelity sub advised portfolios on the insurance, bank, broker-dealer, and TPA recordkeeping platforms across the North Central part of the country. Prior to joining Fidelity in 2010, Ms. Hindia served as a vice president and regional sales director for the investment-only division at Columbia Management, where she supported both insurance and qualified plan distribution efforts as the firm’s North Central retirement specialist. Previously, she was a key accounts manager for institutional clients at UBS Global Asset Management, and a sub advisory wholesaler at JP Morgan Asset Management. She started her career at Deutsche Asset Management (formerly Kemper Funds/Scudder Investments) where she was an internal annuity wholesaler. She has been in the financial industry since 1999. Ms. Hindia earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. She also holds the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) 7, 63, and 24 licenses and holds the Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist (CRPS) designation.

Connect with Ami Hindia:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fidelityamihindia

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

This episode is a masterclass in the importance of self-advocacy, especially for women in lower-level management roles. Teresa shares her insights on articulating one's value in the workplace, the psychological aspects of self-worth, and the necessity of flexibility in tough economic times.

After experiencing the shock of being laid off after excellently managing a five-state region and a team of 38 employees, Teresa Howe found herself at a significant crossroads. Picking herself back up, she went to work at a new company where she was laid off due to budget cuts. Hear Teresa's powerful story of resilience and growth as she navigates two major career pivots, including declining a rehire offer due to misaligned company culture and the bold choice to launch her own consulting business amidst the global pandemic.

Tune in to gain inspiration from Teresa’s journey of perseverance, self-awareness, and setting strong boundaries to achieve professional success on her own terms.

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Teresa Howe of TRH Consulting has worked in the relocation and real estate industry for over 30 years. She managed multiple business lines for a multi-state region for Coldwell Banker Realty (NRT) until 2017. She then became the VP of Business Development at Pacific Union International, a large California brokerage. After a year there, Pacific Union was subsequently sold to Compass. After two layoffs within two years and some soul-searching, she started her consulting firm in 2020. By addressing pain points and focusing on problem resolution, she helps companies generate new sources of revenue, improve customer service, and grow their customer base through strategic business development. She uses her experience to help people overcome the challenges she faced during her career. 

Connect with Teresa Howe:
Website: www.teresahowe.com 

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

This episode covers sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Please prioritize your well-being while listening.

Can one person’s courage truly change others lives? Just days before his high school graduation, Lori's son, Josh, was injured during a school shooting. Josh displayed remarkable bravery by helping to disarm one of the shooters, tackling him to the ground. Lorie shares the gripping details of that day, the heart-wrenching moment when she received Josh’s call, and the intense crisis that her family faced. This episode is a powerful testament to the extraordinary strength and composure that both Lorie and Josh exhibited in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Lorie’s story serves as a profound reminder of the significant impact one person’s actions can have on a broader scale. Lorie reflects on how this life-changing experience has shaped her perspective on personal growth and courage. Join us as we embrace the core message: if you have a pivot, step into it. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Lorie for her openness and for sharing her and Josh’s transformative journey with us.

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Lorie began her career in financial services in 2013 with a Registered Investment Advisory firm in South Denver. Initially serving as a paraplanner, she provided technology and operations support before advancing to a Client Services Manager role with Empower Retirement, where she managed a portfolio of over 300 Core Market plans. She then joined Fidelis Wealth Advisors, bringing her extensive experience and dedication to client service.

In addition to her securities licenses, Lorie holds health, life, accident, property, and casualty insurance licenses in the state of Colorado. She has earned her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation from the CFP® Board of Standards and is an active member of the Financial Planning Association (FPA).

Lorie recently launched the “Fearless Females” podcast, creating a platform for empowering discussions that inspire women in the financial services industry and beyond. Through insightful interviews and stories, she builds a community where challenges are met with resilience, amplifying female voices and demonstrating her commitment to fostering inclusivity and fearlessness in finance.

PERSONAL

Lorie holds an MBA from Colorado State University. In her leisure time, she loves hiking with her family, traveling with her husband David and their five children. Lorie is deeply committed to empowering women in finance and supports the Economic Literacy Council and Aspen Effect with their youth programs, helping to foster financial literacy and economic empowerment among the younger generation.

Connect with Lorie Jones:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loriejones

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Ever wondered how one can pivot from a life-altering trauma to newfound strength and purpose? Join us for an emotionally charged episode of "Step Into the Pivot" as we welcome Liam Polonijo, who bravely shares his story of resilience following a devastating car accident. This event not only left him with chronic back pain but also threw him into the deep end of emotional and mental challenges during the crucial final years of high school. Amid the global pandemic, Liam recounts his harrowing experience, including an aggressive bystander at the crash scene and the immense pressures of navigating therapy, graduation, and college applications while dealing with lingering injuries.

But that's not where Liam's story ends. He takes us through his remarkable healing journey, which includes returning to his passion for martial arts and boxing, as well as becoming a certified lifeguard and swim instructor. With heartfelt candor, he shares the quick healing lessons he has discovered and stresses the importance of self-healing and consistent practice. This episode is more than just a recount of overcoming adversity; it's a deep dive into personal growth, the joy of helping others and embracing life's toughest moments. Celebrate Liam's triumphs with us and gain invaluable insights into turning personal challenges into stepping stones for success.

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Liam is an avid Inner Bonding practitioner: he discovered the six-step process amid the Covid pandemic and now uses it daily. Through committed practice, he has up-leveled his leadership, communication, organization, and time-management skills, and has been able to successfully navigate numerous personal and professional transitions. Liam serves as Generation Z Consultant to Courageous Being, providing valuable input across the center’s varied services for both individuals and organizations. He is a certified lifeguard and swim instructor, Psychology student at the University of Colorado Boulder, and the founder of Lucky Charm Learning LLC coaching service.

Connect with Liam:

LinkedIn

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

What does it take to transition from working at a Registered Investment Advisory firm to founding your own consultancy and law practice? From navigating a difficult business partnership to launching her consultancy with a single client during a global pandemic, Bonnie reveals her passion for transforming the retirement plan industry and her determination to build a scalable platform for advisors. Her story is a testament to tenacity and vision.

Discover the essentials of brand authenticity and the pivotal role of adaptability in small business success. Hear about strategies such as maintaining focus on core goals, depersonalizing feedback, and the advantage of having a supportive network, including a business coach. We reflect on the significant opportunities that have emerged from building Endeavor and share key insights on embracing change with confidence and sincerity. Don’t miss this episode packed with invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.

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Bonnie Treichel is the Founder and Chief Solutions Officer of Endeavor Retirement, a consulting firm dedicated to solving problems for plan sponsors, advisors and service providers in the retirement plan industry. Her unique experience as an ERISA attorney and advisor helps her bring governance solutions for day-to-day issues that are an inevitable part of running a successful retirement plan. Bonnie is also a Partner at Endeavor Law, a firm dedicated to supporting the ecosystem of financial services with their retirement plan-related decisions, documentation, compliance, regulation and litigation.

As a thought leader on retirement plan governance issues, Bonnie has been quoted in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, InvestmentNews, 401(k) Specialist, Ignites, PlanAdviser, NAPA Net Daily, and Journal of Pension Benefits. She is an active member of the American Retirement Association and has served in various leadership roles as well as the American Bar Association’s Tax Division where she is on the Lifetime Income Committee. She was awarded InvestmentNews 40 Under 40 in 2023, the ABA’s On the Rise - Top 40 Young Lawyers Award in 2022. She is also a member of the Women in Pensions Network, the State Bar of California, and is a current advisory board member of RISA, LLC.

When she isn’t working on retirement plan issues, Bonnie enjoys traveling, spending time with her golden retrievers, Sadie and Sunny, running, riding her bike and volunteering for Make a Wish.

Connect with Bonnie:
mailto:[email protected]
endeavor-retirement.com
@btreichelesq
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnietreichel/

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Can rest be the ultimate productivity hack? This week on "Step Into the Pivot," we confront the exhausting culture of perpetual busyness and advocate for the revolutionary concept of "rest and receive." Teresa opens up about her conference-induced fatigue, setting the stage for a candid discussion with Ivana. Ivana takes us deeper into the necessity of genuine rest, dismantling societal norms that link constant activity with personal worth. Together, they explore practical strategies for integrating rest into our daily lives, emphasizing how imperative it is for women, especially busy professionals, to restore their inner vitality. Tune in to learn about Ivana's transformative "Rest and Receive" retreat that promises to help women relax and recharge.

Ever wondered how to plan a vacation that truly rejuvenates you? Teresa and Ivana tackle the often-overlooked art of vacation planning, providing insights that can turn your next trip into a restorative escape rather than a hectic marathon. Teresa shares her experiences advising colleagues on travel to Croatia, emphasizing the country’s breathtaking cultural and natural beauty. They discuss common travel pitfalls—like overly packed itineraries—that leave you more tired than before you left. From balancing activities and relaxation to nourishing your body with good food and physical movement, discover the secrets to crafting a holiday that genuinely recharges you. Plus, hear about their anticipation for an upcoming trip to Croatia and how they plan to make it an ultimate restorative getaway.

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

When faced with life's toughest challenges, how do we find the strength to press forward? This week, we're joined by Kim Ryan, a beacon of resilience, whose story of loss and empowerment offers a guiding light. With a career spanning 25 years in the financial services industry, Kim opens up about the seismic shift her life took following her father's sudden passing. Her narrative uncovers the deep roots of independence instilled by her mother and the bonds that held them together through the darkest times.

Our conversation with Kim doesn't shy away from the raw emotions of grief, but it's also a tribute to the triumph of the human spirit. She reflects on the profound encouragement from her mother, which led her to embrace financial and emotional self-reliance from a young age. Kim's insights into transitioning from a protected family life to carving out her identity at the Colorado School of Mines are relatable to anyone who's ever faced the daunting task of building a life in uncharted territories. The dialogues we share in this episode are as much about recognizing the value of independence as they are about honoring the continuous evolution of parental guidance and the undying support within families.

Ending on a note of heartfelt gratitude, we thank Kim for her vulnerability in sharing her journey with us. Her story is a powerful reminder that the adversities we face can become catalysts for growth and change. We're left inspired by Kim's courage and hopeful that her experiences resonate with listeners grappling with their own hurdles. Until next week's episode, let's carry with us the belief that every pivot in life, no matter how daunting, offers a new path to personal growth and discovery.

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Kim has extensive experience in the financial services industry with Fortune 100 and 500 companies. She has held senior level positions at TIAA, Charles Schwab, and Morgan Stanley. She is a proven strategic leader with deep expertise leading large-scale, critical initiatives. Kim is recognized for establishing strategic direction, building and leading high-performing cross-functional teams and connecting with stakeholders to drive tactical execution. Her leadership experience spans the full spectrum of corporate initiatives including strategy, annual business planning, offer and product development, client experience and engagement and support models.

Connect with Kim Ryan:
[email protected]
mycorpally.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-watters-ryan/

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Ever wondered how to champion work-life harmony without sacrificing career success? Kristie Hill, a wealth management advisor from Northwestern Mutual, graces us with her compelling narrative of redefining the traditional work schedule to embrace the fullness of family life. Her courageous steps towards establishing a flexible work environment serve as a beacon for those seeking to align their professional endeavors with personal values. In our engaging conversation, Kristie uncovers the essentials of intentional communication with employers, the art of setting boundaries, and the strategic use of time to enhance both personal satisfaction and career flexibility.

In an era where the lines between office and home blur, Kristie's journey illuminates the path to a more integrated, fulfilling existence. With keen insights into the evolving dynamics of work patterns, particularly when parenthood enters the equation, she offers a fresh perspective on professional efficiency and the ability to adapt in the face of unprecedented changes like remote work due to COVID-19. Her proactive decision to uproot for a richer family life exemplifies the courage needed to reevaluate life's priorities. 

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Me: I grew up in Portland, OR, learning to appreciate the good coffee and beer that can be found in the pacific northwest, along with the amazing outdoor wonderland, which I backpacked religiously, with my husband and yellow lab, Thea.  That was before kids, and before my body decided that it didn’t appreciate sleeping on the cold ground any longer…

My Family:  I am incredibly blessed to be the mom of two adorable, sassy little boys, Elliot and Declan.   Never a dull moment with these two in tow!  My husband, Ty, is on this exciting ride with me. I’m the planner; he brings the spontaneity. Our goals: raise good humans, do what we love, and never stop exploring.   In 2021 we moved to Bend, OR and have been enjoying the exploration of a new terrain, with mountains, lakes, and the Deschutes River.

My Career: Graduating from Portland State University in 2007, I began my career with Northwestern Mutual in 2008.  At that time, I was running an internal team, building financial plans for multiple advisors in the state.  But I have always had a passion for building relationships and helping make an impact in the lives of those I come across so, in 2014, I started my financial planning practice.  I love what I do and feel extremely lucky to have a career that helps people achieve their goals and capture financial peace.

Connect with Kristie Hill:
[email protected]
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiehill/

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

As we wade through the waters of professional evolution and personal growth, Mel Doman joins us with a tale that transforms the way we think about mental health in the workplace. Stepping out from the traditional role of a clinical mental health therapist, Mel charts her foray into the world of organizational psychology—a move born from the conviction that the corporate environment is a breeding ground for addressing mental health proactively. Her frank discussion peels back layers of misconceptions surrounding psychologists and celebrates the authenticity that shapes her approach to change the workplace narrative on mental health.

Throughout the episode, you'll walk alongside me as I unravel my own battles with mental wellbeing, highlighting the profound impact of sharing our true selves. From an intimate social media post that resonated with many to the birth of a book aimed at guiding others through the thicket of workplace mental health, the journey is a testament to the unexpected victories that can arise from vulnerability. Mel's story, accented with laughter and life's lighter moments, encourages us to find happiness in our own pivot stories—reminding us that sometimes, the greatest leaps lead to the most remarkable transformations. Share in the joy and hardships of embracing change, as we salute those who dare to take the road less traveled.

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Melissa Doman, MA is an Organizational Psychologist, Former Clinical Mental Health Therapist, & Author of Yes, You Can Talk About Mental Health at Work (Here’s Why And How To Do It Really Well). Melissa works with companies across industries around the globe – including clients like Google, Dow Jones, the Orlando City Soccer Club, Microsoft, Salesforce, Siemens, Estée Lauder, & Janssen. She’s spoken at SXSW and has been featured as a subject matter expert in Vogue, NPR, the BBC, CNBC, Inc., and in LinkedIn’s 2022 Top 10 Voices on Mental Health. Having lived abroad in South Korea, England, Australia and traveled to 45+ countries, Melissa calls upon her global experiences to inform how she works with companies around the world. She has one core goal: to equip companies, individuals, and leaders to have constructive conversations about mental health, team dynamics, and communication in the workplace. Her work and book aim to accomplish just that.

To learn more about Melissa, her work, or the book – please visit www.melissadoman.com.

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Have you ever felt the weight of expectation pressing down on you, shaping your every move? Alice Tang, a trailblazing financial advisor, joins us to unravel the complexities of a life built under the ambitious eye of a 'tiger mother.' In a candid and inspiring session, Alice recounts her personal evolution from the youngest female manager at her first job to a beacon of guidance for women and young girls navigating life's transitions. Her poignant narrative offers a glimpse into the stamina developed through relentless competition and the lessons learned in finding growth amidst the drive for excellence.

This episode is not just about the pursuit of achievement; it's a deeper look at how we define ourselves beyond our accomplishments. We discuss the significance of morning rituals, how they shape our days, and engage in a thought-provoking conversation about self-worth that transcends material success. Alice imparts her wisdom on living with intention, navigating relationships with grace, and recognizing the profound impact of life's fleeting encounters. Embrace the gift of reflection and discover how your admiration for others can mirror your deepest values, guiding you toward a life of resilience and intentional growth.

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Alice Tang is an inspiring, compelling, and energetic financial advising expert who works to help individuals build better relationships, create wealth, and support their connections.

True wealth isn’t measured solely by your pocketbook but by the deep connections you build and nurture throughout your life. To prosper, you must help others thrive and create value and opportunities for them to shine.

From humble beginnings growing up in a small family in Hong Kong to attending the University of London with minimal conversational English experience to immigrating to the United States with no network, family, or career, Alice knows what it’s like to feel like an outsider who doesn’t belong.

These experiences have given her the unique opportunity to practice new ways to build her network, support her community, and help others accelerate their success. And that’s what she’s set out to do.

As a strong advocate for female and next-generation leaders, Alice shares her talents, tools, and techniques to help others break through their limiting beliefs, seize opportunities, build deeper relationships, and succeed on their own terms.

She is widely regarded as a thought leader, a Portland Business Journal Woman of Influence 2023, and commonly requested as a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and trainer for organizations looking to empower and inspire their teams.

Website:

https://askalicetang.com

LinkedIn:

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

Connect with Theresa and Ivana:

Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com
LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants

Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com
LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeing

SITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com
LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot