Vikki Espinosa: Reinventing the Chase, Not the Goal
Season 3 · Episode 24
Thursday, April 17, 2025 • Duration 37:37
About Vikki Espinosa: Vikki Espinosa is a career strategist, educator, and cancer survivor dedicated to helping others navigate transformation with clarity and purpose. After a 30+ year career in corporate tech leadership, she now supports professionals in aligning their careers with their values—especially during moments of reinvention. Vikki brings a powerful blend of lived experience, coaching insight, and instructional design expertise to her work, making her an empathetic and practical guide for anyone facing life or career transitions. Whether she’s teaching at Portland State, writing her upcoming book “One in Eight”, or coaching clients through personal breakthroughs, Vikki shows that strength can be quiet, resilience is built daily, and purpose is always within reach.
In this episode, Lisa and Vikki discuss:
Shifted from a corporate tech career to purpose-driven entrepreneurship
Faced a breast cancer diagnosis weeks after retiring
Reclaimed identity and strength through illness and healing
Challenged toxic positivity with real, compassionate support strategies
Redefined success through aligned, meaningful career reinvention
Key Takeaways:
Rather than derailing her ambitions, cancer became a turning point that reshaped how Vikki approached her goals—with intention, adaptability, and grit.
Through a mosaic of small, consistent actions, resilience is revealed not as a single act of bravery, but as the discipline to keep choosing growth each day.
Vulnerability is reframed as a strength, with the power to foster connection and recovery when asking for help becomes part of the healing process.
The roadmap for showing up meaningfully—emphasizing clarity, respect for boundaries, and the rejection of performative positivity.
Vikki’s story redefines career legacy, highlighting the freedom to walk away from prestige in favor of doing purpose-driven work that reflects who you’ve become.
“Cancer did not take away my goals. It just changed how I chased them.”
Dr. Al Freedman: Turning Uncertainty Into Possibility
Season 3 · Episode 23
Thursday, April 3, 2025 • Duration 37:31
About Dr. Al Freedman: Al Freedman, PhD, is a psychologist, educator, and rare disease advocate with more than two decades of experience working with individuals and families affected by rare diseases and disabilities. Dr. Al is inspired by his personal journey as the father of Jack, who lived with spinal muscular atrophy for 26 years, as well as his professional training and experience as an educator to provide counseling and consultation. He works with families, advocacy organizations, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations, and schools to create meaningful support systems and impactful change within the rare disease and disability communities.
In this episode, Lisa and Dr. Al discuss:
Intersection of a psychologist’s career, passions, and parenting in rare disease advocacy
Challenges of navigating uncertainty and building resilience in rare disease communities
Strategies for supporting families and accommodating invisible illnesses
The paradox of isolation and connection in rare and misunderstood conditions
Life lessons from overcoming odds and promoting compassion through lived experience
Key Takeaways:
Rare diseases and disabilities introduce constant uncertainty, yet it's within this unpredictability that individuals learn to adapt, drawing strength from shared experiences and building resilience through community connection.
Supporting families facing rare diseases requires more than medical answers—it demands consistent empathy, thoughtful guidance, and the collective effort to create inclusive systems for invisible illnesses, often anchored in self-advocacy and patience.
Though invisible conditions often isolate, they simultaneously create deep bonds among those who understand, revealing that solidarity can bloom in the quiet spaces of misunderstood struggles.
Through Jack’s extraordinary life, we see how embracing limitations while celebrating small victories can inspire others to approach life with perspective, creativity, and inner strength despite overwhelming odds.
Blake Kuhre: The Evolution of Influence: Ethical Storytelling in Synthetic Media
Season 1 · Episode 16
Wednesday, May 29, 2024 • Duration 32:47
About Blake Kuhre: Blake Kuhre is the Co-Founder and CEO of Swim, a groundbreaking synthetic influencer company. With a background spanning tech and entertainment, Blake has excelled as a gamified monetization executive, achieving Top 10 rankings on Google Play & App Store across various categories. His expertise in communication, PR, and talent development, cultivated through leadership roles at Hulu and The Walt Disney Company, drives Swim's innovative approach at the intersection of technology and influence.
In this episode Lisa and Blake discuss:
Navigating Career Risks and Opportunities
Embracing Change in Content Distribution
Virtual Influencers: The Future of Marketing
The Rise of Synthetic Influencers
Storytelling and Responsible Technology
Key Takeaways:
Transition from a senior executive role to the startup world and understand the importance of taking risks
Adapt to changes in content distribution and recognize the benefits of diverse roles in startups
Explore how virtual influencers and generative AI are changing the landscape of influencer marketing
Observe synthetic influencers gaining traction in the fashion, cosmetics, and music industries
Appreciate the power of storytelling in connecting people and acknowledge the importance of responsible technology in live-streaming
“Content will more or less stay the same. It's the distribution side that's going to change, affecting how you're going to consume it.”
Blake Kuhre
Connect with Blake Kuhre:
Website:
Firdaus Kharas: Creativity Driving Global Impact and Change
Season 1 · Episode 15
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 • Duration 37:14
About Firdaus Kharas: Firdaus Kharas is the Founder of Chocolate Moose Media, he is a world-renowned creator of mass communications, speaker, consultant and thought leader on creativity and communications. He is a global leader and pioneer in using animation for social change. He is the author of Creativity: The Key to a Remarkable Life.
His work focuses on creating innovative solutions for some of the world's toughest issues by affecting societal and individual behavioral change through human-centered communications across many cultures and countries to better the human condition. He also consults to companies and organizations on applying creative thinking and on communications.
In this episode Lisa and Firdaus discuss:
Pioneering Animation for Social Change
Applying Creativity to Drive Global Change
Cultivating Creativity in Life and Work
Unleashing Creativity: Passion, Innovation, and Respect
Leaving a Legacy of Positive Change
Key Takeaways:
Discover the power of animated videos in addressing social issues and bettering the human condition
Understand how early experiences influenced Firdaus to apply a human rights perspective in creating media that informs and empowers people globally
Explore the mental process of creativity and how exposing oneself to new experiences and perspectives can expand creative thinking
Recognize the importance of creativity in various fields, from art to science and engineering, for innovation and problem-solving
Learn the key elements needed to be highly creative: passion, focus on innovation, respect, and the ability to fail
“You can train your mind to expand your creativity. That's really what I've been telling people: no matter what you do, where you live, what language you speak, or your gender, you can expand your creative thinking if you put your mind to it.”
Joelle Casteix: Unsilenced - Confronting Child Abuse and Transforming Lives
Season 1 · Episode 14
Wednesday, May 15, 2024 • Duration 39:13
About Joelle Casteix: Joelle Casteix is an author, journalist and speaker and one of the leading global advocates and spokespeople for survivors of child sexual assault and cover-up. An on-the-ground expert in crisis communications, she helps companies and individuals navigate the murky and rapidly changing waters of perception, using transparency, messaging, and up-front response tactics to mitigate damage and rebuild clients' reputations.
As a founding member of the board of directors of the Zero Abuse Project, Joelle has presented to numerous United Nations member agencies across Europe. She has become a leading expert on digital accountability and safety, speaking at The Hague and to international audiences focusing on AI and digital integrity.
Joelle is the award-winning author of the bestsellers The Well-Armored Child: A Parent’s Guide to Preventing Child Sexual Abuse and The Power of Responsibility. Her TEDx talk is being used by therapists in the clinic setting to help survivors of abuse and assault.
In this episode, Lisa and Joelle discuss:
From Volunteer to Career in Advocacy
Empowering and Protecting Children Against Sexual Abuse
The Disturbing Reality of Child Predators
Leaving a Legacy of Positive Impact
Supporting Survivors of Abuse
Key Takeaways:
Discover how Joelle transitioned from a career in public relations to becoming an advocate for abuse survivors
Understand the importance of teaching children proper names for body parts and recognizing signs of grooming to prevent sexual abuse and learn the most supportive and validating things to say to a survivor of abuse
Realize the challenges faced by those who speak out against visible organizations and the lack of legal consequences for many predators
Paul Spiers: Unveiling the New P&L Principles for Purpose-Driven Leadership
Season 1 · Episode 13
Wednesday, May 8, 2024 • Duration 27:46
About Paul Spiers: Paul Spiers is the founder of The New P&L Brand Purpose Institute and host of the internationally respected business podcast, The New P&L– Principles & Leadership in Business, he is focused on helping leaders to solve one of today’s big business challenges: how to rediscover and re-engage their Purpose, then use it to underpin and drive their organization’s commercial, strategic and operational arteries - the critical cornerstones of any successful business.
A respected thought leader and advocate for ‘The New P&L’ in Business one that is focused as much on ‘Principles & Leadership’ as it is on Profit & Loss’, Paul is on a global mission to rid businesses of their ‘vinyl values’ – empty slogans, propositions and statements that are as thin as the office walls they so often reside on, and replace them with an intentional commitment to authentic Purpose – one that helps to inspire leaders, engage employees and ignite innovation and growth.
A naturally creative storyteller, Paul is a highly engaging, thoughtful and inspiring speaker. His keynotes are filled with insightful and thought-provoking observations and offer practical examples of how to apply the true power of purpose, principles and leadership in business.
In this episode Lisa and Paul discuss:
Principled Leadership for Better Business
Finding Hope in Entrepreneurial Challenges
Curating Ideas and Purposeful Leadership
The Reality of Pursuing Your Passion
Empowering Leaders to Embrace Purposeful Change
Key Takeaways:
Learn how principled leadership and purpose-led culture can strengthen traditional P&L
Explore the intersection of curiosity and knowledge acquisition in finding one's true calling
Find hope and belief in the face of business challenges and collapse
Joy Wilder Lybeer: Thriving Beyond Titles-Nurturing Connections and Embracing Change
Season 1 · Episode 12
Wednesday, May 1, 2024 • Duration 23:50
About Joy Wilder Lybeer: Joy Wilder Lybeer is a former Chief Revenue Officer at Equifax, recognized for her strategic leadership and operational prowess. During her tenure at Equifax, she managed a $1.3B portfolio across various sectors such as Automotive, Financial Services, Insurance, Telecommunications, Energy, Big Tech, Payments, Global Partnerships, and Inside Enterprise Sales.
Motivated by a passion for revenue transformation, she excelled in devising winning strategies, cultivating high-performing teams, and executing successful business turnarounds and acquisitions. Prior to her role at Equifax, she spearheaded Enterprise Alliances, expanding the company's US Alliance business globally.
With prior experience overseeing SunTrust's retail branch banking franchise and serving as Chief Strategy Officer, Joy brings a unique blend of performance accountability and authentic generosity, empowering individuals and businesses to thrive.
In this episode, Lisa and Joy discuss:
Beyond Titles and Accolades
Empowering Others to Achieve Their Best
Aligning with Your True Calling
Leaving a Legacy of Impact
Navigating Unwanted Change and Embracing Growth
Key Takeaways:
Explore how to reboot your life by reconnecting with your network and driving value
Understand the significance of creating an environment of accountability to help others achieve their best
Identify activities that resonate with your true calling by focusing on the why rather than the what
Discover how embracing change and adopting a learner's mindset can help advance your career
Learn the importance of finding a balance between thriving in business and making time for other aspects of life
Kelly Resendez: Conquering Self-Sabotage and Mastering the Art of Prioritization
Season 1 · Episode 11
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 • Duration 40:54
About Kelly Resendez: Kelly Resendez, the Executive Vice President of Talent and Growth at Good Leap, brings over 13 years of experience in the financial technology industry. As the founder of the GoBundance Women and a best-selling author, Kelly has demonstrated a commitment to empowering professionals to align their careers with their core values. Her journey of personal growth and overcoming burnout has equipped her with valuable insights into defeating self-sabotage and achieving career fulfillment. With a focus on cultivating success in life, Kelly's expertise and dedication to supporting women in their professional and personal growth make her a valuable thought leader in the field.
In this episode, Lisa and Kelly discuss:
Impact of Burnout and Strategies for Overcoming It
Overcoming Trauma, Emotional Triggers, and Asking for Help
Embracing Worthiness, Confidence, and Defeating Self-Sabotage
The Power of Giving and Receiving
Ruthless Prioritization
Key Takeaways:
Discover how to conquer self-sabotaging behaviors and unlock your full potential
Learn the power of seeking support and guidance to propel your career forward
Uncover the key to finding fulfillment by aligning your professional path with your core values
Master the strategies to rejuvenate your career and personal well-being in the midst of midlife challenges
Explore the advantages of connecting with like-minded professionals to enhance your career and personal growth
“The more we share our purpose, the more likely we're just going to attract whatever life has in store for us.”
Kelly Resendez
Sheryl Tullis: A Legacy of Adventure
Season 1 · Episode 10
Wednesday, April 17, 2024 • Duration 35:07
About Sheryl Tullis: Sheryl Tullis, a former CMO and seasoned executive, shares her profound insights on embracing new adventures and overcoming adversity. From transitioning from military life into civilian life with grace to co-founding an outdoor adventure company, Sheryl's expertise lies in her ability to champion mental well-being through outdoor activities. Her commitment to creating inclusive outdoor experiences, particularly for diverse groups, reflects her passion for promoting mental health and personal growth. Sheryl's unique journey from a non-athlete to a sporty outdoor enthusiast offers a compelling narrative that resonates with individuals seeking fulfillment and purpose through outdoor activities.
In this episode Lisa and Sheryl discuss:
Sheryl's Passion for Outdoors and Overcoming Adversity
Balancing Physical and Mental Wellbeing
Making Mountain Biking Accessible
Tips for Initiating Positive Changes & Impact of Making Life Pivots
Prioritizing Adventure and Nurturing
Key Takeaways:
Uncover the key strategies for a successful transition, empowering individuals to thrive in their new civilian roles
Discover the secrets to overcoming physical barriers, unlocking the potential for peak athletic performance and personal growth
Maximize career potential through expert guidance, paving the way for professional advancement and fulfillment
Unlock effective strategies for achieving harmony between professional success and family life, fostering overall well-being
Explore the profound impact of outdoor pursuits on mental well-being, unlocking pathways to inner peace and vitality
“Helping others adventure and having people I love around me to experience all the wonders that are out there is what's most important to me.”
Emily Sanders- Rebuilding Lives: Empowering Survivors of Abuse and Trauma
Season 1 · Episode 9
Wednesday, April 10, 2024 • Duration 33:02
About Emily Sanders: Emily Sanders is the Founder and Executive Director of Connect 2 Change, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting human trafficking victims in reclaiming their dignity and power. With a background in entrepreneurship and a resilient journey of personal adversity, Emily's leadership and determination have driven her to create meaningful connections and provide support to those in need. Her dedication to advocating for survivors and her commitment to enhancing the lives of others make her a valuable voice in the entrepreneurship community. Emily's story and passion for making a difference exemplify the transformative power of perseverance and resilience.
In this episode Lisa and Emily discuss:
Patterns of Toxic Relationships, Manipulation and Deception
Overcoming Trauma and Inspiring Change
Finding Purpose, Strength and Courage
Connect 2 Change Mission
Importance of Continuous Support for Women
Key Takeaways:
Gain insights on overcoming human trafficking experiences to empower personal growth and resilience
Develop strategies for personal development as a trauma survivor, fostering strength and healing
Learn how to start a nonprofit for social change, creating a meaningful impact in the community
Discover effective ways to connect victims to immediate shelter resources, providing crucial support in times of need
Explore the entrepreneurship journey after personal adversity, gaining valuable lessons and inspiration for your own path
“A leader touches a heart before they ask for a hand. In leadership, three crucial questions arise: 'Do you care about me? Can you help me? Can I trust you?' These are the three pillars that we emphasize in Connect 2 Change when connecting with others.”
True fulfillment lies not just in overcoming hardship but in sharing the wisdom gained—by spreading compassion, witnessing scientific breakthroughs, and choosing kindness, we leave behind a legacy greater than ourselves.
“And what I learned from my son and what I learned from following his lead and I learned from being his dad, was that I needed to turn my attention to what was possible. The doctors never told us that we would have any good days. They see kids when they're sick. We had to discover that we could have good days, too. And would. We had many more good days than bad days. Never in my wildest imagination could I have imagined back then all that would be possible.”
Gain insights on redefining success, focusing on strong relationships, fulfilling work, and self-care
Explore the strength and wisdom of menopausal women and embracing life's challenges as opportunities for growth
“Fear never saves the child from abuse. So, if you come from a place of fear, you're just going to instill fear in your child. And so, I always tell parents, take a deep breath. Don't be scared. You can empower your child against sexual abuse, and you don't have to say a single word about sex.”
Reevaluate personal definitions of success and discover true purpose through challenging situations
Understand the dedication required when pursuing passion and the importance of celebrating wins
“Success has actually been happy within myself and being pleased and excited about the work I'm doing and maybe whether it's one person or ten people or whatever, making a small impact in someone else's life and in some way by what I'm doing, giving the essences rather than just taking money or whatever it happens to be giving back. Serving now that's for me. I think the older I've got, the more I've succeeded in serving, not in taking.”
“Honestly, I think my legacy will be the impact that I've made on people. I've made companies, a lot of money, the ones I've worked for, my customers. And that's a good thing, that's a good thing for our economy and for the well-being of consumers and small businesses. And yet, I really think my legacy is helping people achieve their best, the impact that I'm able to make on their professional and personal lives.”
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