Your Next Step with Mahdieh Rassafiani

This one's personal.

This week I sat down with the most requested guest amongst my friends - my mum (Behnaz). She grew up in a small town in Iran, lived through the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War, became a doctor, raised two kids, and then immigrated to Australia with no job, limited English, and no family around her. She did it once. Then she went back to Iran and did it all over again.

It took her eight years to get her fellowship as a GP in Australia. She started from scratch twice, at an age when most people are thinking about slowing down.

This conversation covers resilience, identity, what it means to be authentic, and why she believes life is far simpler than we make it.

One of the most honest, emotional episodes I've recorded. I hope it stays with you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Your why has to be bigger than the goal. Title and status won't carry you through hard seasons. Purpose will.
• Failure only exists when you're attached to one outcome. Reframe the setback as part of the path.
• Support systems are everything. Accepting help is a strength, not a weakness.
• You can start over at any age. She began her Australian registration when her peers back home were retiring.
• Authenticity is about values, not status. She never wanted the car or the clothes. She'd rather give the money away.
  Help without expecting anything back. The thing she's most proud of is help no one even knew she gave.
• Don't judge your past self by your present wisdom. You did the best you could with what you had.
• Life is simple. Be a good person. Do your best. That's enough.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 - Introduction

02:52 - Growing up through the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War

05:33 - Leaving Iran, studying medicine, and immigrating to Australia

09:41 - Starting over, a master's degree without knowing how to use a computer

17:05 - What people misunderstand about her

21:26 - The season of life that almost broke her

25:28 - Her relationship with failure and why she reframed everything

33:06 - Was there a time you were worried about me but said nothing?

40:41 - Her advice for anyone who feels lost right now

43:37 - Where she sees her future going

CONNECT WITH MAHDIEH

INSTAGRAM — https://www.instagram.com/mahdieh.rassafiani/

FOLLOW YOUR NEXT STEP PODCAST

INSTAGRAM — https://www.instagram.com/yournextstep.pod/ 

TIKTOK — https://www.tiktok.com/@yournextstep.pod 

YOUTUBE — https://www.youtube.com/@YourNextStepPodcast

Everyone says "be authentic." 

Very few actually show you what that looks like.

In this episode I sit down with Braith who has built across startups, content, and music and one thing stands out - he doesn't wait. 

He follows curiosity, takes action, and isn't afraid to look a little "weird" doing it.

This isn't about having it figured out. It's about trusting the process while you do.

This isn’t a conversation about having it all figured out. 

It’s about trusting the process. 

If things don't fully make sense yet this one's for you.

WHAT WE COVER:

• Why curiosity is your biggest unfair advantage
• Standing out with zero experience or social proof
• Using AI without sounding like everyone else
• Why giving value for free early changes everything
• Building a personal brand that converts, not just gets views
• Letting go of advice that no longer serves you
• Rejection as redirection

TIME STAMPS:

02:10 - Curiosity as a growth engine 

04:45 - Why giving value early in your career pays off 

07:15 - Outreach strategies and building social proof 

10:05 - Overcoming age and experience doubts in startups

13:30 - AI: automation vs. authenticity 

17:00 - How social media levels the playing field for young founders 

20:40 - Getting started with personal brand and content 

24:05 - Why consistency beats motivation 

27:30 - Using AI ethically without losing your voice 

31:00 - Music as therapy and brand extension 

34:10 - Owning your "weirdness" as a differentiator 

37:20 - Unlearning outdated advice 

40:15 - Handling skepticism about youth and credibility 

43:30 - What's next: Kinso, personal brand, and music 

47:20 - Rejection as a filter, not a failure 

50:00 - Identity, perseverance, and staying true to yourself

CONNECT WITH BRAITH:

• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/braith-leung/
• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/braith.mp4/
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@br.ai.th

FOLLOW EX-VICARIOUS WEBSITE: https://ex-vicarious.com/

FOLLOW EX-VICARIOUS: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ex-vicarious/

FOLLOW KINSO ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/kinso.app/

JOIN KINSO WAITING LIST: https://www.kinso.ai/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnZDMKnHvF45_2dfXwTDm_d6eiHOf52s8fFxsRF5h2LU4P9Wl1Nzh-yNVWe88_aem_zY8EOUBpV15akD_g0brlmg

CONNECT WITH MAHDIEH ON INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/mahdieh.rassafiani/

FOLLOW YOUR NEXT STEP PODCAST SOCIALS

• INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/yournextstep.pod/
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@yournextstep.pod
• YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@YourNextStepPodcast

In this episode, I sit down with May Ku, founder of Reev, a dating app built to bring depth and real conversation back into modern dating.

We talk about her journey growing up in a highly competitive environment in Korea, struggling with identity, and how that shaped the woman and founder she is today. 

What I loved about this conversation is that it’s not just about building a tech product, it’s about understanding human connection.

We dive into the realities of modern dating - rejection, ghosting, technology fatigue, toxic dynamics -  and why so many of us feel disconnected despite being more “connected” than ever.

May shares why she believes dating apps shouldn’t just be about swiping… but about conversation, curiosity, and emotional intelligence. We also unpack the mindset shifts required to build something meaningful, both in love and in business.

This episode is for anyone navigating dating in this generation, building something from scratch, or learning how to separate rejection from identity.

Whether it’s relationships or entrepreneurship, growth requires resilience.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Growing up in a competitive culture and struggling with identity
• The real story behind launching Reev
• Why modern dating feels harder than ever
• Rejection and how to stop taking it personally
• The role technology plays in connection (and disconnection)
• Lessons from love that translate into business
• Why cheating is more complex than we think
• Recognising and stepping away from toxic relationships
• Feminine and masculine energy in today’s dating landscape
• The future of dating apps

CHAPTERS

00:00 – Introduction & Mae’s Background
 03:06 – From Competitive Culture to Founder
 06:10 – Why Modern Dating Feels Broken
 09:00 – Rejection & Emotional Resilience
 11:43 – Technology’s Impact on Relationships
 15:02 – Mindset Shifts in Entrepreneurship
 17:52 – Lessons from Love & Business
 20:39 – Understanding Cheating
 23:57 – Toxic Relationship Patterns
 26:40 – Feminine & Masculine Energy
 29:54 – The Vision Behind Reev
 32:48 – The Future of Dating
 35:37 – Final Advice

CONNECT WITH MAY

• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayhyunjiku/ 
• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/maytheku/ 
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@may.the.ku 

DOWNLOAD REEV 

• ANDROID - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.reev.app&hl=en 
• APPLE COMING SOON

CONNECT WITH MAHDIEH ON INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/mahdieh.rassafiani/ 

FOLLOW YOUR NEXT STEP PODCAST SOCIALS

• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/yournextstep.pod/ 
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@yournextstep.pod 
• YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@YourNextStepPodcast 
• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-next-step-podcast/ 

In this episode, I sit down with Vithyaa Thavapalan to unpack the thinking and discipline behind her journey as an entrepreneur, fire investigator, community builder, and mother.

We talk about leadership under pressure, building confidence when the stakes are high, and why boundaries are essential for sustainable growth. Vithyaa shares how motherhood reshaped her priorities and leadership style, forcing greater clarity around time, energy, and alignment.

We also explore community, real influence beyond visibility, and what it takes to build a life and business that actually lasts.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Community accelerates growth, resilience, and perspective in entrepreneurship.
• Confidence is a leadership skill that helps you move through self-doubt.
• Clear boundaries protect energy, focus, and long-term performance.
• Strong leadership is about empowering others, not controlling outcomes.
• Sustainable success requires self-care, especially in high-pressure roles.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

02:58 Entrepreneurial Journey and Community Building

06:04 The Forensics Industry and Emotional Impact

09:02 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence

12:09 Navigating Relationships and Boundaries

14:54 The Role of Social Media in Connection

18:08 Self-Care and Balancing Motherhood

21:10 Leadership and Empowering Others

23:46 Reflections on Life Changes and Growth

27:05 Future Aspirations and Community Events

29:55 Final Thoughts and Lessons Learned

CONNECT WITH VITHYAA

• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vithyaa-thavapalan-6453a3108/ 
• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/vithyaathavapalan 

BROWN BOSS BABES INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/brownbossbabesau/ 

WHAT THE FIRE PODCAST - https://www.instagram.com/whatthefireau/ 

FOLLOW MAHDIEH ON INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/mahdieh.rassafiani/ 

FOLLOW YOUR NEXT STEP PODCAST SOCIALS

• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/yournextstep.pod/ 
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@yournextstep.pod 
• YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@YourNextStepPodcast 
• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-next-step-podcast/ 

In this conversation, I sit down with Parth Galati, co-founder of Gather Wealth, to unpack the journey, mindset, and decisions that shaped his path from India to Australia. We explore what long-term success really looks like - beyond revenue and titles - and how relationships, creative thinking, and multidisciplinary experience become a founder’s unfair advantage. Parth breaks down the thinking behind Gather Wealth and his mission to simplify financial management for families while keeping the human element intact. We also talk about fear, choosing execution over hesitation, and why clarity, conviction, and strong relationships are the real compounding forces behind building something that lasts, in business and in life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Wealth is a byproduct, not the goal. Relationships and trust define real success.
• Range creates leverage. Multidisciplinary thinking is a strategic edge for founders.
• Simplicity wins. The best systems reduce friction and keep the human element intact.
• Fear is handled through action. Confidence is built by starting small and moving forward.
• Relationships compound. Human connection outperforms capital in the long run.

CHAPTERS

00:00:00 Introduction and Background

00:03:00 Entrepreneurial Journey

00:09:00 Multidisciplinary Experiences and Creativity

00:15:00 Overcoming Fear and Building Resilience

00:21:00 The Importance of Relationships

00:27:00 Gather Wealth: Mission and Vision

00:33:00 Defining Success and Future Goals

CONNECT WITH PARTH & GATHER WEALTH

• PARTH’S LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/parthgulati/ 
• GATHER WEALTH WEBSITE - https://gatherwealth.com.au/about 
• GATHER WEALTH LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/company/gatherwealth/posts/?feedView=all 
• GATHER WEALTH INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/gatherwealth.au/ 

DOWNLOAD GATHER WEALTH $$

• iOS  - https://apps.apple.com/au/app/gather-wealth-money-manager/id6737944089 

FOLLOW MAHDIEH - https://www.instagram.com/mahdieh.rassafiani/ 

FOLLOW YOUR NEXT STEP PODCAST SOCIALS

• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/yournextstep.pod/ 
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@yournextstep.pod
• YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@YourNextStepPodcast
• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-next-step-podcast/

In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Martin for a real conversation about the parts of growth and entrepreneurship that rarely get spoken about.

We talk about how her upbringing shaped a relentless work ethic, the pressure that came with it, and what happens when ambition starts to override emotional and physical health. Jessica shares her journey from a pre-med path into marketing, the financial challenges that forced her to ask for help, and what it actually takes to build a business when you’re learning everything in real time.

This conversation goes beyond career pivots and business milestones. We unpack self-worth, vulnerability, health, and the mindset shifts required to build something sustainable. It’s a reminder that success without alignment is empty and that real leadership starts when you stop tying your value to how much you produce.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Jessica’s upbringing shaped her strong work ethic and resilience.
• She transitioned from a pre-med program to a career in marketing.
• Financial struggles led her to seek help from family.
• Building a business requires overcoming significant challenges.
• Health issues prompted her to focus on wellness and self-care.
• Vulnerability is essential for personal growth and connection.
• Self-worth should not be tied to productivity or achievements.
• Surrounding oneself with positive influences fosters an abundant mindset.
• Aligning with one's purpose can reignite passion and motivation.
• Everyone has the potential to achieve their dreams by uncovering their true selves.

CHAPTERS

00:00 – Introduction & guest background
 03:00 – Life challenges & personal growth
 05:55 – Career pivot & discovering passion
 08:50 – Financial struggles & asking for help
 11:48 – Building a business & overcoming obstacles
 15:13 – Health, wellness & burnout
 18:07 – Vulnerability & emotional awareness
 20:59 – Mindset & redefining self-worth
 24:04 – Aligning with purpose & values
 27:04 – Future aspirations & impact
 30:06 – Final reflections & key takeaways

CONNECT WITH JESS

• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/byjessicamartin/ 
• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-martin-708515138/ 

FOLLOW MAHDIEH - https://www.instagram.com/mahdieh.rassafiani/ 

FOLLOW YOUR NEXT STEP PODCAST SOCIALS

• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/yournextstep.pod/ 
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@yournextstep.pod
• YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@YourNextStepPodcast
• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-next-step-podcast/

Summary

In this reflective bonus episode, I share my thoughts on turning 28, the importance of self-reflection, and the life-changing decision I made two years ago to stop drinking. I talk about how choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle has transformed my mental health, social life, and personal growth, and I reflect on the wisdom from friends that has shaped me along the way. As I step into my next chapter, I’m moving with positivity, gratitude, trust, delusion, and unwavering execution.

Takeaways

• Self-reflection shaped the way I’m stepping into 28 with more clarity and intention.
• Choosing to stop drinking became one of the most transformative decisions of my life.
• Living alcohol-free has elevated my mental health, confidence, and creativity.
• The wisdom from the people around me continues to shift my mindset in the best ways.
• I’m entering this next chapter with gratitude, trust, healthy delusion, and execution.

Chapters

00:00 Reflecting on Birthdays and Personal Growth

03:00 The Decision to Stop Drinking

05:51 The Impact of Sobriety on Life

09:09 Sharing Wisdom from Friends

12:01 Embracing the Future with Positivity

FOLLOW MAHDIEH - https://www.instagram.com/mahdieh.rassafiani/ 

FOLLOW YOUR NEXT STEP PODCAST SOCIALS

• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/yournextstep.pod/ 
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@yournextstep.pod
• YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@YourNextStepPodcast
• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-next-step-podcast/

In this conversation, Stephanie and I dive deep into the messy, magical journey of growth, both personal and professional. Stephanie talks about what it really feels like to back yourself, to step away from the safety of a corporate job, and to build something that feels true to who you are.

We explore the courage it takes to choose authenticity over expectation, the fear that comes with being seen, and the power of having the right people in your corner. We unpack what it means to trust your downloads, move through judgment, and work with a coach who can activate parts of you that you didn’t even know were waiting to come alive.

At its core, this episode is a reminder that emotional connection fuels success, and every single experience - even the uncomfortable ones - is shaping you for what’s next.

Takeaways

• Stephanie quitting her full-time job was one of the scariest, yet most aligned  decisions she’s ever made.
• If you get a download, it’s not random. You got it for a reason.
• Your path is unique. Do what works for you, not what works for everyone else.
• Never let someone’s limited perception stop you from taking your next step.
• Mindset isn’t optional, it’s the foundation.
• Conviction starts within. You have to believe in yourself first.
• Everything is happening for you, even when it doesn’t feel like it.

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Support

03:02 Activating Potential and Challenging Limits

05:54 The Leap into Entrepreneurship

08:49 Navigating the Transition from Corporate to Business

11:42 Exploring the Path to Fulfillment

14:36 Overcoming Fear of Judgment

17:45 The Journey of Self-Discovery

20:48 Lessons from Adversity and Growth

27:10 Empowerment Through Self-Development

28:28 The Power of Mindset

29:50 Evolving Environments and Relationships

33:11 Planting Seeds of Change

36:31 Unlearning the Pressure of Achievement

42:02 Operating from Abundance

49:01 Emotional Connection in Coaching

52:02 Every Experience Matters

CONNECT WITH STEPHANIE: 

• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/stephanienguyenofficial/
• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanienguyenofficial/

FOLLOW MAHDIEH - https://www.instagram.com/mahdieh.rassafiani/ 

FOLLOW YOUR NEXT STEP PODCAST SOCIALS

• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/yournextstep.pod/ 
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@yournextstep.pod
• YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@YourNextStepPodcast
• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-next-step-podcast/

In this debut episode of Your Next Step, Mahdieh Rassafiani opens up with honesty, vulnerability, and intention. She shares the story behind the podcast - a space built for founders, dreamers, and anyone navigating the messy middle of their journey.

Mahdieh reflects on her upbringing in Iran, migrating to Australia, the cultural and educational challenges she overcame, and how each chapter shaped her identity and purpose. This episode lays the foundation for what Your Next Step will become: a platform dedicated to amplifying raw stories of entrepreneurship, resilience, and the power of community.

This isn’t just a podcast; it’s a shared journey. One that invites listeners to grow, reflect, and step into the next chapter of their own lives with courage.

TAKEAWAYS

• Personal stories hold the power to transform us.
• Every journey is unique and worth telling.
• Resilience is built in the moments no one sees.
• Community is a catalyst for growth.
• Imperfection is where authenticity lives.
• Reflection unlocks gratitude and clarity.
• Entrepreneurship is a blend of risk, reinvention, and courage.

CHAPTERS

00:00 - Welcome: Why This Podcast Exists
02:48 - The Power of Personal Storytelling
06:09 - From Iran to Australia: Cultural Transitions
09:01 - Education, Adversity & Resilience
11:55 - Lessons That Shaped My Identity
14:47 - A Look Ahead: Community, Connection & What’s Next

FOLLOW MAHDIEH - https://www.instagram.com/mahdieh.rassafiani/ 

FOLLOW YOUR NEXT STEP PODCAST SOCIALS

• INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/yournextstep.pod/ 
• TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@yournextstep.pod
• YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@YourNextStepPodcast
• LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-next-step-podcast/