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TitreDateDurée
Crafting a Portfolio Career and Feeling Free with Maggie Blackburn14 Apr 202600:43:55

In this episode, EYP Host Megan Flanagan interviews Maggie Blackburn, a former tech product marketer who quit her job in November 2024 after 10 years of climbing the corporate ladder. Now, her work isn’t just one thing anymore, and she finally gets the freedom to choose what she wants to do. She is a Corporate Events Freelancer, Retreat Planner, Community Builder, Airbnb Superhost, Coach, Pilates Teacher, and Writer of the Feel Free Newsletter.

Maggie was born in Shanghai, China and adopted at three months old. She grew up in the Bay Area, went to school at Cal Poly, and has been living in Brooklyn, NY for the last 4 years.

Key topics we discuss include:

  • Definition of a portfolio career
  • Experimentation and testing new opportunities
  • Building self-trust and overcoming fear
  • Community and networking in career development

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Portfolio Careers

07:57 Navigating Career Changes During COVID

13:41 The Experimentation Phase of a Portfolio Career

19:02 Coaching Multi-Passionate Women

24:52 Finding Community and Inspiration

43:03 Introduction to Evolve Your Path Podcast

43:28 Transitioning and Resources for Growth

Connect with Maggie:

Website: www.maggie-blackburn.com

Instagram: @maggieblackburn

Newsletter: https://maggieblackburn.beehiiv.com/

Bonus: See Megan's feature on Maggie's Beehiiv!

Follow Evolve Your Path:

@evolve.your.path (IG)

Substack

From French Studies to Fractional COO with Stephanie Reese06 Apr 202600:32:49

In this episode, Megan Flanagan interviews Stephanie Reese about her diverse career journey, from French studies to startup leadership, and her insights on fractional work, leadership, and work-life balance. They explore challenges, soft skills, and lessons learned from living abroad and working in startups.

Key topics we cover include:

  • Career transitions from software engineering to COO
  • Fractional work and entrepreneurship
  • Soft skills for leadership and challenging conversations
  • Lessons from living abroad in Germany and France
  • Building systems, processes, and guardrails in startups

Chapters:

00:00 The Unplanned Journey: Embracing Opportunities

07:50 Finding Interest in Challenges: Career Evolution

10:42 Integrity and Values in Startups

13:23 Transitioning from Software Engineer to COO

15:51 Work-Life Balance: A Personal Perspective

18:51 Cultural Insights from Living in Europe

21:20 The Art of Knitting: Lessons in Patience

24:02 Navigating the Fractional Path: Challenges and Insights

26:38 Creating Systems: The Operations Mindset

29:19 Revenue and Relationships: Key Metrics for Success

31:56 Introduction to Evolve Your Path Podcast

32:22 Transitioning and Resources for Growth

Connect with Stephanie:

LinkedIn

Connect with Evolve Your Path:

Instagram: @evolve.your.path

Join our Beyond the Surface group for women in Denver.

Build a Life and Career On Your Terms with Tomide Awe03 Feb 202600:46:58

In this episode, we interview Tomide Awe, who shares her journey from a corporate career in management consulting and tech to building a portfolio career on her own terms. Tomide discusses the importance of education, the value of an MBA, and the necessity of questioning traditional career paths. She emphasizes the significance of mental health, the need for ruthless prioritization in managing multiple ventures, and the power of community support. Tomide's mission is to empower women to take control of their lives and live authentically, challenging societal expectations along the way.

Keywords:

career, entrepreneurship, personal growth, work-life balance, education, coaching, consulting, women empowerment, mental health, portfolio career

Takeaways:

Tomide's journey reflects the importance of taking things one step at a time.

Education can be a tool for personal branding and career shifts.

An MBA can be valuable for industry changes but not always necessary.

Pushing back against societal expectations is crucial for personal happiness.

Mental health should be prioritized over corporate success.

Ruthless prioritization is key when managing multiple ventures.

Living life on your own terms requires questioning existing beliefs.

Discomfort can lead to significant personal growth and change.

Building a supportive community is essential for navigating career transitions.

Creating a platform for women to take control of their lives is a powerful mission.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Tomide Awe's Journey

03:01 Education and Career Path Insights

05:45 Questioning Traditional Paths and Personal Growth

09:02 Navigating Personal and Professional Life Changes

12:04 Rethinking Work and Life Balance

14:55 Challenging Assumptions and Beliefs

17:54 Building a Portfolio Career on Your Own Terms

20:48 Managing Multiple Ventures and Prioritization

23:49 Vision for 'On Your Terms' and Future Aspirations

26:55 Living Life on Your Own Terms Responsibly

Connect with Tomide:

LinkedIn

Amplio

Substack: On Your Terms

Connect with EYP:

Apply to join the Slack community

Read the latest blog/podcast post

Stop Chasing Titles: Reverse Engineer a Career That Actually Fits with Rachel Spekman21 Jan 202600:38:28

High achievers often do everything “right”—yet still feel unfulfilled at work. In this episode of Evolve Your Path, Megan Flanagan talks with career strategist Rachel Spekman about navigating nonlinear careers, reclaiming agency, and reverse engineering your career around what genuinely lights you up. They explore why external success markers often fall short, how to identify your unique strengths, and the power of building a personal “board of advisors” to support career transitions.

If you’re questioning what’s next and craving more meaning in your work, this episode will help you take aligned, intentional steps forward—without needing all the answers first.

Key concepts:

career transformation, coaching, fulfillment, high performance, community support, reverse engineering, personal growth, professional mission, mental health, career change

Takeaways:

You can and very likely should reverse engineer your career.

Identifying what lights you up is crucial for career satisfaction.

Community support is essential during career transitions.

Childhood experiences can shape your professional path.

Finding your calling often involves deep personal reflection.

Building a board of advisors can provide valuable support.

Curiosity is a key driver in discovering your passions.

High-performing professionals often feel isolated in their struggles.

Progress is progress, no matter how small.

It's important to articulate what a great day looks like for you.

Memorable quotes:

"What lights you up is connection."

"What sparks you is curiosity."

"Progress is progress, better is better."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Career Transformation

03:02 Reverse Engineering Your Career

05:51 Identifying What Lights You Up

08:50 Childhood Influences on Career Choices

11:34 Navigating Career Transitions

14:32 The Moana Moment: Finding Your Calling

17:23 Building a Board of Advisors

20:15 The Importance of Community Support

22:59 Understanding Your Special Sauce

25:53 The Journey of Becoming a Therapist

28:57 Scaling Coaching Practices

31:36 Patterns in High-Performing Professionals

34:29 The Role of Curiosity in Career Development

37:17 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Connect with Rachel:

https://www.rachelspekman.com (website)

Follow us @evolve.your.path on Instagram for the latest.

Apply to join the Evolve Your Path Slack Community:

https://forms.gle/cJyA1kMgHSEGNFtP6

Own Your Big Transitions & Learnings From My Own15 Jan 202600:32:41

Whew! It's been quite a past few months of transitions over here in my world. I'm sharing very candidly about my recent job and life transitions, including the direction I'm headed and 5 tips you can apply into your own world to make intentional shifts about the direction you want to move forward.

Ready to make a Big Bet on yourself this year? View my template here and/or create your own.

Feeling called to connect? Reach out and let's have a conversation. I'm actively booking and interviewing guests for our Portfolio Career Season, so stay tuned for more episodes soon.

Connect:

Instagram: @evolve.your.path

Website: www.evolvedpotential.co

Layoffs & Career Shifts Turned Into Personal Growth with Melanie D'Andrea22 Dec 202500:52:36

In this episode, Megan dives in with Melanie, a healthcare leader navigating her career transitions and personal growth after experiencing layoffs. They discuss the importance of self-grace during difficult times, the value of creativity and side hustles, and how personal style can be a reflection of one's journey. Melanie shares her insights on redefining success beyond titles, the significance of relationships in career development, and her financial philosophy that emphasizes multiple income streams for security and freedom.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Melanie's Journey

01:27 Navigating Career Transitions

05:36 Experiencing Layoffs and Personal Growth

10:48 Finding Grounding Practices

15:18 Exploring Creativity and New Passions

22:28 Reflecting on Professional Experiences and Lessons Learned

28:44 Navigating Career Transitions

31:13 The Importance of Authentic Relationships

33:17 Mentorship and Leadership Influence

35:41 Defining Success in a New Light

39:00 Creating a Supportive Work Environment

40:38 Financial Independence and Philosophy

43:21 Balancing Experiences and Financial Security

47:16 Embracing New Beginnings and Personal Growth

51:38 New Chapters

Quotes from Melanie:

"Show yourself some grace."

"It's important to strike a balance in life."

"You can be a lot of things, not just one."

Connect with Melanie:

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

Experiencing a layoff, building a business, or plotting a career transition?

You're not alone.

Download this Momentum Map toolkit to plot your next move.

Building a Multi-faceted Career: From Corporate to Creative Community with Emily Holland01 Dec 202500:50:53

In this episode of the Evolve Your Path podcast, Megan Flanagan interviews Emily Holland, a multi-passionate entrepreneur who transitioned from corporate life to self-employment.

Emily shares her journey of embracing various roles, from media strategist to community manager, and discusses the importance of community building, outdoor activities, and personal growth.

The conversation delves into Emily's experiences with running and rock climbing, her approach to goal setting, and the value of maintaining a balanced life.

About Today's Guest:

Emily Holland (she/her/hers) is a self-employed media, partnerships, and community consultant and manager. She helps values-driven businesses and creators hone and increase their impact. When she’s not working, Emily spends her time trail running, hiking, rock climbing, skiing, or enjoying the outdoors with her partner and her rescue dog, Kayda. Based in Lyons, Colorado, and originally from upstate New York, Emily is passionate about connection, creativity, and embracing life’s adventures.

Connect with Emily:

Website: https://emilyholland.co/

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

The Magic Within - Embracing Earth's Echoes with Traci Mitchell24 Nov 202500:47:32

In this conversation, Traci Mitchell joins me to discuss the concept of 'Echoes of the Earth,' emphasizing the connection between our physical existence and our soul. She highlights the importance of recognizing our purpose and living with intention, reminding listeners that life is temporary and we should strive to be of service to others.

Takeaways and quotes from Traci:

  • I call it [the retreat] "Echoes of the Earth" just because I feel like when you hear your echo, it's almost like the Earth reminding you that you're here.
  • We're not just our bodies, though. We're not just our minds. We are a soul.
  • The echo is like the Earth's crying out to us telling us to remember who we are.
  • We need to live our life with intention and purpose.
  • I always look at my hands and say, like, how can I be of service?
  • This is a temporary stay here. .. We're bigger than just our thoughts... Remember who we are.

Join us at the Echoes of the Earth Retreat in January 2026!

Flash sale: $500 off for podcast listeners with code BUZZBUZZ - register by 12/1: https://www.echoesoftheearthretreat.com).

Connect with Traci:

www.aboomlife.com (website)

Instagram: @thetracimitchell

IG: @echoesoftheearthretreat (Echoes of the Earth retreat)

Returning to Your True Self with Corrie Van Horne, LPC, of Reverie17 Nov 202500:40:53

This week on the Evolve Your Path podcast, we’re stepping into the luminous world of Corrie Van Horne (she/her)—LPC, EMDR-trained therapist, Reiki master, queer healer, and founder of Reverie, a radical therapy practice rooted in liberation, embodiment, and deep remembering.

Corrie believes therapy is a kind of alchemy—a sacred, sovereign space where pain transforms into power, where disconnection softens into embodiment, and where joy, magic, and wholeness are reclaimed. In our conversation, we explore what it means to heal not through “fixing,” but through remembering who we’ve always been.

Together, we walk through:

Corrie’s path to Reverie - The moments that cracked something open, the healing that reshaped her work, and the vision behind the name “Reverie” — a space where possibility is alive.

Radical healing, community, and attunement - How therapy becomes a portal for authenticity, connection, and liberation… especially for LGBTQ+ folks navigating identity and belonging.

Corrie’s three-phase model: Soul Healing, Self Attunement & Aligned Action - A powerful framework for moving from trauma to truth, from remembering to embodiment, and from clarity to courageous action.

Liberation, identity & justice-oriented healing - How holding multiple identities informs Corrie’s lens — and how we can all begin releasing internalized shame to reclaim our most liberated selves.

Embodiment, ritual & daily practices that anchor us - including joy and rituals that sustain Corrie beyond the therapy room — from slow mornings to alpine lakes, skates, and her beloved dog Roxy.

None of us are meant to navigate healing alone. Corrie reminds us that when we soften, attune, and step into relationship—with ourselves and with each other—we access a deeper magic. A remembering. A return.

If you’re craving clarity, courage, or a way back home to yourself… this conversation is a portal.

Learn more about Corrie and Reverie:https://www.reverie-co.com/

Listen now and step into your wholeness—one breath, one truth, one moment of reverie at a time.

Create a Strengths Based Career with Jennifer Vancil27 Oct 202500:42:53

What if the key to career fulfillment isn’t about climbing higher — but aligning deeper?

In this episode of Evolve Your Path, I sit down with Jennifer Vancil, a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach and career development expert who helps people find or create jobs they actually like — and are good at.

With over 20 years of experience in higher education, leadership coaching, and career transitions, Jennifer shares how to build a strengths-based career rooted in purpose, self-awareness, and authenticity.

We talk about:
✨ How to uncover your natural talents and use them as your career compass
💬 The power of communicating your strengths effectively to the right people
🌿 Why meaningful work isn’t about doing more — it’s about becoming more
💡 The mindset shifts that help you move from stuck to aligned in your professional journey

Whether you’re exploring your next career chapter or redefining success on your own terms, this conversation will help you reconnect with what you’re naturally meant to do — and give you tools to move toward it with confidence.

Connect with Jennifer:

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

Website: https://www.communicatingstrengths.com/

Purchase her book: https://www.communicatingstrengths.com/book

Conscious Creativity and Storytelling with Molly Davis13 Oct 202500:49:06

In this episode of Evolve Your Path, Megan chats with Molly Davis, founder of Wonsupona, a storytelling and naming studio helping brands like 23andMe and MyFitnessPal bring their identities to life through words that awaken.

Molly shares how conscious creativity—creating with intention and authenticity—can transform not only brands, but also how we see ourselves. Together, they explore the art of naming, the power of “positive friction,” and how mindful storytelling can rewire our perceptions and deepen our purpose.

If you’ve ever felt called to align your creative work with your truest self, this conversation will inspire you to name your next chapter with meaning and clarity.

🔗 Connect with Molly: LinkedIn | Wonsupona

You Na Kheir, MD, on Redefining Mental Health & Vulnerability06 Oct 202500:55:17

In this deeply personal and inspiring conversation, we sit down with You Na Kheir, MD, a former psychiatrist turned nonprofit leader and Development Officer at Valeo, to explore what it really means to evolve your path—both professionally and personally.

From leaving clinical practice to embracing a mission of global mental health advocacy, You Na opens up about the courage it takes to redefine success, rediscover identity beyond professional titles, and find purpose in service and storytelling.

Together, we unpack:
🌿 The transition from psychiatry to nonprofit leadership—and what it revealed about identity and calling
💬 The power of vulnerability in breaking mental health stigma and building connection
🌎 The unseen emotional and cultural challenges faced by global workers and their families
🙏 The nuanced intersection of faith, healing, and mental health
👩‍👧‍👦 Lessons in leadership, surrender, and resilience from motherhood and partnership

This conversation is an invitation to pause, reflect, and remember that your worth isn’t defined by your title, productivity, or pace—but by your willingness to grow, heal, and live authentically.

🎧 Tune in to Evolve Your Path and join us for this meaningful dialogue on rediscovery, purpose, and the evolving journey toward wholeness.

The Art of Reaching Out with Carly Valancy 02 Apr 202600:55:07

We're back for Season Two with new guest, Carly Valancy!

Carly Valancy is the founder of Reach Out Party and TETHER, and co-founder of Momentum Growth. She helps creative people find their people through intentional networking, community building, and connection. A former Head of Brand & Marketing at Primer, Carly is known for her "100 Days of Reaching Out" challenge and her Anti-Networking events that prioritize depth over volume. She's been featured in CNBC and teaches at Harvard and Boston College on the power of human connection.

Join the Reach Out Party:

https://carlyvalancy.com/reach-out-party

Connect with Carly on LinkedIn:

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

Did you like find this episode valuable?

Leave us a 5-star review and/or share with someone who might enjoy listening!

Rachel Salzberg on Creating Your ReSoul Revolution25 Sep 202500:44:07

Rachel Salzberg believes that every human being has the opportunity to develop their own level of consciousness to actualize their potential and inspire others. As CEO and Founder of Facets Coaching, Rachel helps leaders and teams align brain and soul, identify belief systems that hold them back, and create new ones that drive authentic success. Through her coaching, workshops, retreats, and purposeful travel experiences, she empowers people to live soulfully, lead consciously, and take aligned action.

In this episode, Rachel shares how she overcame self-doubt, the neuroscience behind belief systems, and practical steps for living in alignment — whether you’re a CEO or simply ready for your own ReSoul Revolution.

Purchase the ReSoul Revolution: https://www.amazon.com/ReSoul-Revolution-Align-Transform-Inside/dp/1917667000

Learn more about Rachel and her work: https://facetscoaching.com/

The Power of Quiet Rebellion with Nicholas Whitaker22 Sep 202500:46:46

Nicholas Whitaker is a former Googler turned Human BE-ing Coach and co-founder of Changing Work. He helps rebellious leaders reclaim clarity, capacity, and sovereignty in times of transition. Through coaching, writing, and nature-based retreats, he supports high performers in breaking free from burnout and building lives rooted in meaning, presence, and alignment.

⁠Follow Nicholas⁠ and ⁠Join the Quiet Rebellion⁠.

Getting & Staying Grounded Through It All17 Sep 202500:18:16

In this Mindfulness with Megan series (my first video episode -- yikes!), I dive into practical tips, tools, and techniques to get grounded and stay grounded in our daily lives. No matter how much stress you might be facing (aren't we all these days?), this episode is sure to provide you with some helpful ideas and questions to reflect on for your own groundeding practice. I also provide a bit of a glimpse of the amazing retreat I went to this weekend (The Challenge: Season 2, hosted by Emily Schromm).

Finding Your Purpose & Living It with Carole Anne Broad08 Sep 202500:29:42

Carole Anne Broad (she/her) is a practitioner of mindful awareness, a meditator, caregiver of nature, (especially her garden and dog), and a community-minded volunteer and leader.  She co-created a course for the Bakken Center for Spirituality and Healing at the University of Minnesota, entitled, Living on Purpose:  An Exploration of Self, Purpose and Community.  In addition to advising undergraduates at the U of M for nearly 20 years, Carole Anne co-taught the Living on Purpose course for more than 10 years to undergraduate students.  She lives with her partner and dog in south Minneapolis.

Resources mentioned:

Navigating Your Thirties & Career: Minisode with Miranda & Megan 03 Sep 202500:50:40

In this episode, Megan introduces special guest & co-host, Miranda. We dive into careers and finding your path, both personally and professionally in your thirties.

If you enjoyed this episode, sign up for the waitlist of our Root to Rise program, coming soon: https://roottorisecoaching.my.canva.site.

Follow @evolve.your.path on Instagram for more.

The [Re]Launch: 3 Keys to Evolving Your Path01 Sep 202500:25:02

We are back, this time with a new title! "Evolve Your Path" launches this week, with an episode where host, Megan covers a 3-step blueprint to getting the foundations in place to create your own path, personally and professionally and begin taking steps to move yourself forward. We also provide you with a preview of what you can expect and how you can play a role in the Evolve Your Path podcast.

Follow along on IG: @evolve.your.path

Apply for coaching with Megan / book an intro call HERE.

14: Liubov Lomonosova on Mindset to Break Barriers and Optimize our Mental Performance06 Sep 202301:00:22

Today, I welcome on a friend, athlete, mindset coach, and overall amazing human!

Liubov Lomonosova (she/her) is a mindset coach, accomplished athlete, and running coach who can teach you how to do hard things, developmental toughness, and empower you to elevate your performance. She is originally from Ukraine, now lives just outside of Boulder, CO, and shares more about her process of becoming a U.S. citizen, as well as the steps she took to start running and start her business as a mental performance and mindset coach.

Connect with Liubov on IG:

@lyutsik

@lifecoach.liubov

Book a complimentary consult call

13: Why do I run ultras? A look into ultramarathon running and the WHY behind it.06 Aug 202300:13:31

In this episode, I answer the often-asked question, "Why do you run ultras?" and share more about how I got into the sport of ultramarathon running, as well as what it means to me. If you're considering running your first ultra or you're simply curious about why people do such a thing, this episode is for you!

Are you looking for a trail or ultra running coach? I currently have a few spots open on my roster. Find me on IG @mountainmegcoaching and reach out if you're interested in exploring coaching!

12: Wellbeing on Purpose is BACK! Podcast 2.0, Life Updates, and More06 Aug 202300:13:16

Wow, it's been a while! I am BACK after two years from a podcast hiatus (about a year since taking a break from Strong Runner Chick Radio) and am full of life updates to share, as well as a preview of what is upcoming. I'm hopeful you'll tune into the upcoming episodes ahead and leave a review or share if you find this podcast helpful. There is much more in store...

In the meantime, let's connect!

Find me on Instagram @mountainmegcoaching (website, www.meginspire.com is currently under construction but set to return soon).

Meditation: Body Scan to Release Tension and Tightness13 Jul 202100:08:57

Bring awareness into your body in this brief total body scan. Allow yourself to release tension and tightness, as you become more present in your body.

Embracing Multi-Passionate Careers & Energy Alignment for Growth with Jenny Calvert10 Mar 202600:56:16

Unlock the secrets to living a fulfilling, multi-faceted professional life with Jenny Calvert. In this episode, we explore the significance of energy awareness, breaking free from societal constructs, and creating multiple income streams aligned with your passions.

In this episode:

  • Jenny shares her journey from corporate burnout to passion-driven work in coaching, facilitation, and community building
  • How to recognize and shift energetic states from destructive (catabolic) to constructive (anabolic) energy
  • The power of unlearning stories that limit your potential and recognizing "capital T" vs. "lower T" truths
  • Practical tips: starting an energy journal to identify patterns of engagement and energy drain
  • Navigating multiple identities without feeling confined by labels or expectations
  • Embracing "heavy" versus "light" mode: the importance of deep work and intentional growth
  • How to explore multiple income streams while honoring your values and avoiding burnout
  • Strategies for owning your narrative when balancing diverse professional roles

Resources:

Connect with Jenny:

Connect with Evolve Your Path:

Instagram

Substack

Slack Channel

Meditation: Intro to Guided Meditation05 Jul 202100:10:26

In today's episode, I introduce an introductory guided meditation, focusing on relaxing into your space, becoming aware of your surroundings, and sending gratitude to life and those around you. If you enjoyed this meditation, please feel free to reach out and stay tuned for more of these over at http://www.platformdaily.com.

9: Living in Alignment (& a life/career update!)04 Jul 202100:11:58

In this episode, I share more about the brand new platform I'm joining called WEB (join me, too, over at www.platformdaily.com)! I also share a few recent life updates, including a move to Colorado! And lastly, we chat about living in alignment -- with your values, beliefs, career, people, and environment. Most of all, remember -- if it's not a heck yes, it's a no!

8: Kevin McAlister, Founder of Lift Your Wellbeing on Mental Health Through Movement and Bringing Employees Together08 Mar 202100:44:34

Kevin McAlister is the Founder of Lift Your Wellbeing and based in London, UK. He works with employers and organizations to deliver wellbeing programs, including movement-based classes (virtually and onsite) to improve physical and mental wellbeing. You can find out more at LiftYourWellbeing.com.

7: What are you bringing into the New Year?01 Jan 202100:13:15

Happy New Year! I'm kicking off 2021 with a conversation about intentions and letting go of others' expectations to focus on YOU. Let's make this your best year yet!

Mentioned in episode: Unravel Your Year Workbook - Susannah Conway:

https://www.susannahconway.com/unravel/

6: Stop Letting Others' Success Define You10 Dec 202000:10:10

Are you measuring your success based on others? Tune into this episode, where we have a #REALTALK chat about this.

Episode 5: Kelsey Varzeas, EdM, on Finding Your Identity and Living Out Your Values01 Dec 202000:47:43

Kelsey Varzeas, EdM, is a second-year PhD student pursuing a degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs at The Ohio State University. Her research focus is student-athlete development with an emphasis on the academic-athletic divide and identity development. Recently, Kelsey was a co-author for a paper titled, Compassionate Teaching During COVID-19: Key Approaches in a College Success Center and a contributor for an oral presentation titled, Realms of Stress Among Collegiate Student-Athletes. Kelsey is an instructor for the Dennis Learning Center’s flagship course Learning and Motivation Strategies for Success in College and an academic coach for graduate and professional students. In her role, she incorporates mental health strategies to help students determine what success means to them.

In 2017, Kelsey received her Master of Education in Counseling with a specialization in Sport and Performance Psychology. Kelsey will soon be a Certified Mental Performance Consultant, which demonstrates the highest standards of professional practice for sport and performance psychology consultants. Kelsey would refer to herself as an outdoor enthusiast. She finds great pleasure in endurance running, cycling, hiking, and backcountry skiing. You can often find her lying in her hammock reading a book.

Topics we cover include:

  1. Introduction to personal background and identity - exploring who you are, in and outside of work/academia
  2. Uncovering one’s career path -- how and when did Kelsey decide to pursue your career and/or academic field?
  3. When was a time Kelsey has felt a lack of purpose and/or well-being in her life, and what helped her
  4. Finding mentors and/or a support system
  5. As a coach/consultant working with athletes, where does Kelsey see gaps between identity, purpose, and one's well-being?
  6. What is making Kelsey thrive
  7. Where Kelsey notices the intersection of purpose and/or well-being woven within her work.
  8. What living a life well-lived looks like to Kelsey

Action items for listeners:

4: How's Your Wellness Wheel? Making Sense of Wellness Assessments26 Nov 202000:19:52

In this episode, I discuss a few wellbeing measurement tools, including two wellness wheel assessments. 

Wellbeing areas include physical, financial, spiritual, social, occupational/intellectual, environmental, and mental/emotional.

Links to wellbeing assessments:

Princeton UMatter Wellness Assessment (omits financial wellbeing)

https://studentwellness.uci.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Assessing-Your-Life-Balance.pdf

Financial wellbeing tool I use: 

Mint (free financial app!)

Wellness Coaching Strategy Session:

Would you like to schedule a wellness coaching session to work through your wellbeing assessment together and create a plan to reach your goals? Email me at meginspire@gmail.com or DM me @meginspire!

3: Five (5) Steps to Help Find Your Life Purpose24 Nov 202000:10:57

In this episode, I dive into 5 steps you can take to help find your life purpose:

1. Sit down and reflect on your identity, what lights you up, etc.

Start with daily journaling prompts. I've provided an example list of questions in the article below to help you get started.

2. Get to know yourself. Take a personality test, such as:

  1. Myers Briggs
  2. StrengthsFinder
  3. Career Inventory
  4. Enneagram Test

3. Try out new things. 

Try out volunteering, internships, part-time jobs, new clubs/organizations, etc.

4. Ask others who know you well. 

Reach out to your top five friends, family members, or support network and ask them what they see in you.

5. Continue to reflect and connect with your experiences.

Curious to learn more? Read the full article on my LinkedIn.

2: My Personal Journey with Purpose19 Nov 202000:13:27

In this episode, I share the story behind finding my purpose, designing my own major, and how I incorporate purpose into my everyday life.

Stay tuned for more episodes, and be sure to reach out to connect!

Join me @meginspire on Instagram and www.meginspire.com.

1: Welcome to Wellbeing on Purpose!16 Nov 202000:06:03

In this episode, I share a bit more about what this podcast is all about, topics you can expect, and more, including how to support the show.

Stay tuned for more episodes, and be sure to reach out to connect!

Join me @meginspire on Instagram and www.meginspire.com.

Riding the Waves of Freelance with Emily Hollender03 Mar 202600:54:29

In this episode, Megan hosts Emily Hollender, a marketing and community-building expert, to explore how passions like surfing influence personal well-being and professional success. They dive into strategies for transitioning to freelance work, building authentic client relationships, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship with confidence.

About Emily:

Emily Hollender is a brand marketing and community-building leader with over a decade of experience driving growth at category-defining startups, including Rent the Runway, The Wing, and Tia. She's best known for building and scaling RTR's Campus Ambassador Program, launching The Wing's Digital Membership, and driving Tia's Go-to-Market expansion. Currently, through her fractional marketing practice, Next Wave Marketing, Emily partners with early-stage consumer brands to unlock sustainable, community-led growth. She also teaches the popular Maven course From Full-Time to Fractional: A Step-by-Step Launch Playbook for Senior Leaders, equipping experienced operators with the tools to launch successful independent practices.

In this episode:

  • Emily shares her journey from corporate startups to freelance community strategist
  • How surfing fosters grounding, resilience, and community connection
  • Common misconceptions about marketing and how to define your niche
  • Strategies for acquiring first clients through authentic networking
  • Managing imposter syndrome and self-doubt as a fractional professional
  • The importance of clear scope, outcome alignment, and setting boundaries
  • Insights into creating impactful messaging and evolving your personal brand
  • How to test new markets and opportunities without overcomplicating branding
  • Practical tips for overcoming mindset blocks and taking small, actionable steps
  • The value of community and relationships in business growth and fulfillment

Links:

About Emily: www.emilyhollender.com / https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-hollender/

Fractional Practice: www.nextwave.marketing

Sign up for Emily's Maven Course:

https://maven.com/emily-hollender/full-time-to-fractional?promoCode=EVOLVE25

Promo Code: EVOLVE25

Resources:

This episode offers actionable insights for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in blending personal passions with professional pursuits to craft a fulfilling, resilient career.

Self-Reflecting in Your Career Transitions with Julia Cohen24 Feb 202600:28:56

In this episode of the Evolve Your Path podcast, host Megan Flanagan speaks with career coach Julia Cohen about navigating career transitions, identifying personal values, and the challenges of the current job market. Julia shares her non-linear career journey, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's work with personal passions and values. They discuss the significance of self-reflection in career choices, the role of coaching in personal development, and practical strategies for job seekers, including interview preparation and creative approaches to job searching. The conversation highlights the need for patience and kindness during the job search process, as well as the importance of being proactive and resourceful in finding opportunities.

Guest Bio:

Julia Cohen is a certified career coach with 12 years of experience in operations and product management before transitioning into coaching. She now works with professionals across industries who are navigating what’s next — whether they’re exploring a career pivot, seeking work that better aligns with their values, returning to the workforce after a break, or stepping into a new leadership role. Her goal is to help you gain clarity, rebuild confidence, and take practical steps toward a career that feels fulfilling and sustainable.

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Career Journeys

03:20 Defining Personal Success

06:18 Identifying Values and Interests

09:15 Career Coaching Insights

11:46 Long-Term Career Planning

14:31 Current Job Market Challenges

17:20 Interview Preparation Strategies

20:06 Cutting Through the Noise

22:57 Creative Job Search Strategies

25:33 Final Thoughts and Advice

28:25 Introduction to Evolve Your Path Podcast

28:50 Transitioning and Resources for Growth

Connect with Julia:

LinkedIn

Follow Evolve Your Path:

Substack

Instagram

Apply to join our Slack Community!

Find Your Poetic State with Bryan Collins 20 Feb 202600:45:17

Join coach Bryan Collins of Poetic State to discover how embracing your unique identity, cultivating vulnerability, and visualizing future success can transform your personal and professional life. In this episode, we explore the power of authenticity, the importance of meaningful connection, and practical frameworks for unsticking yourself in a world full of possibilities.

Key topics:

  • The role of authentic branding and messaging in building trust and connection
  • How embracing your 'weird' or unconventional qualities fosters greatness
  • The metaphor of life as a "space in a hole in the wall" practice for unique identity
  • The significance of “moon boarding” and visual mood-boarding for envisioning goals
  • Strategies for identifying when you’re truly stuck and how coaching maintains momentum
  • The impact of future visualization: acting like your successful self
  • The importance of humility, vulnerability, and self-awareness in creative reinvention
  • How creatives process decision-making amid abundant possibilities
  • Overcoming scarcity mindset to attract the right clients and opportunities
  • The benefits of ongoing maintenance and routine in personal development

Resources:

Connect with Bryan:

LinkedIn

Poetic State - coaching & website

Connect with Evolve Your Path:

Substack

Instagram

Slack Channel

The Future of Work & Going Fractional 101 with Natalie Hoop17 Feb 202600:41:29

In this episode, Megan Flanagan interviews Natalie Hoop, a leader in the fractional consulting space. They discuss the journey into fractional work, the changing landscape of careers, and the importance of community and networking. Natalie shares her insights on the misconceptions surrounding fractional roles, the reality of finding clients, and the need for individuals to take ownership of their careers. The conversation also touches on the future of work, emphasizing the rise of freelance and fractional opportunities, and the importance of work-life balance.

Notable quotes:

"Career paths are not linear; embrace change."

"You are the CEO of your own career."

"Job stability is a myth in today's market."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Fractional Leadership

02:52 The Journey into Fractional Work

05:43 Career Evolution and the Changing Job Market

08:59 Redefining Job Stability and Career Ownership

11:58 The Reality of Starting a Fractional Business

14:46 Misconceptions About Fractional Work

18:03 Finding Clients and Building Relationships

20:51 What's Broken in Job Hunting

23:50 The Future of Work: Freelance and Fractional Roles

26:37 Navigating the Shift to Fractional Work

29:52 Personal Growth and Work-Life Balance

32:43 Conclusion and Resources

Connect with Natalie:

LinkedIn

https://www.nataliehoop.com

Connect with the Evolve Your Path community:

Apply to join the EYP slack community

Join our Women in Transition cohort in March

Find the podcast blog posts

Get Past "Stuck" and Say Yes to a Job You Love with Liz Cohen10 Feb 202600:47:36

In this episode of Evolve Your Path, we welcome Liz Cohen, founder of Lizco Studio, a product design consultancy based in Golden, Colorado. Liz shares her journey from a coffee shop worker in Boston to a UX designer and product manager, revealing the challenges she faced in her early career. Despite her passion for design, Liz often felt misaligned with her roles, leading her to explore various paths until she found her niche in the startup scene. The conversation delves into her decision to leave a stable job and embrace entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of networking and saying yes to opportunities that arise.

As Liz recounts her experiences, she emphasizes the significance of trusting oneself and the value of community support. She discusses the challenges of starting her own business, including the struggle for work-life balance and the need to set boundaries with clients. Liz's story serves as an inspiration for those contemplating a career shift or entrepreneurial venture, encouraging listeners to embrace uncertainty and pursue their passions with confidence.

Keywords:

entrepreneurship, UX design, product management, career change, startup culture, design consultancy, networking, work-life balance, personal growth

Notable quotes:

"I always wanted a seat at the table."

"I was at the lowest point of my career when I just sort of got pulled out of the trenches by just saying yes to things."

"You might think you want a seat at a certain table and then you get to that table and it's not what you thought it was."

"Trust yourself; you’ve made it this far, you can keep going."

"Say yes to things that you're scared of or that you don't know if you can do."

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

02:08 Early Career and Misalignment

10:56 The Decision to Leave

14:42 Moving to Colorado and New Opportunities

15:52 The Reality of Entrepreneurship

26:16 Building Lizco Studio

31:24 Challenges of Running a Business

40:57 Advice for Those in Transition

46:38 Introduction to Evolving Your Path

47:06 Coaching and Community Engagement

Connect with Liz:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizcohen1/

Join our Women in Transition Cohort, launching in March:

https://forms.gle/8FJGyqDn2wA7YosD6

Read the latest podcast post:

https://www.evolvedpotential.co/blog

Career Security over Job Security and Adapting to AI with Logan Currie05 Feb 202601:04:01

In this episode, we interview Logan Currie, Founder of CareerSpan, who believes in career security > job security.
Logan is a part researcher, part marketer, part career-cartographer studying how people grow, adapt, and negotiate their worth in an AI-shaped world. Her DMs are open if you're thinking about talent, AI, or what's next.


Harvard Ed.M. '25 in Learning Design and Technology: focused on AI + adult learning, metacognition, intrinsic motivation.
Founding Member of Women Applying AI. 15 years across 5 countries → startups, education, future of work.
When not geeking out about skills, you'll find Logan:
- hunting for the best 面条 in Boston (suggestions welcome!)
- exploring Cambridge playgrounds with my kids
- reading many books... highbrow and lowbrow

Connect with Logan:

LinkedIn

CareerSpan

Connect with Evolve Your Path:

Join our EYP slack community

Blog on episodes

@evolve.your.path (IG)

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