Explore every episode of the podcast Stories We Haven't Shared®
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| From Hidden to Seen: Jules and Brian Heron Reflect on Jules’ Experience as a Trans Human, Before and After Transition | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:47:20 | |
Jules (they/them), founder of Hair for Humans, and their father, Brian (he/him), a pastor, reflect on Jules’ experience growing up as a transgender person, before and after transitioning. Brian recalls early moments, like strong resistance to wearing dresses, and a persistent feeling that something about Jules wasn’t fully visible. Jules also shares the in-between years – marked by anxiety, disconnection, and charting unknown territory – before finding a way to reconnect with their body and feel at home in themselves, a shift that ultimately changed everything. Brian reflects on how his work in the ministry mirrors Jules’ work behind the chair as a hairstylist, both centered on listening deeply and creating safe spaces for people to discover how to show up in the world authentically. Together, they explore how support – through the coming out journey and beyond – wasn’t about having all the answers, but about showing up with trust, curiosity, and a willingness to grow alongside each other. Jules Heron is the founder of Hair for Humans, providing hair services to people who struggle to feel seen or heard in the hair industry. They are passionate about creating transformational short haircuts and teaching their craft to others via group and individual classes. Brian Heron is a minister, author, pilgrimager, and proud father of a trans human. In his semi-retirement, he blogs and is working on a book that explores the intersection of religion and culture – both lessons and thoughts on what’s ahead. He joyfully plays guitar and writes music. 👉 Try Shanti’s Thriving Assessment here to get clarity on where you’re excelling, and where you can increase fulfillment, joy, and impact. Other stories shared by Jules, Brian, and Shanti:
Thanks for listening — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and review! Check out all episodes at storieswehaventshared.com. CONNECT WITH JULES HERON CONNECT WITH BRIAN HERON CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Sue Wicks on Coming Out in the WNBA, LGBTQ+ Progress, and the Power of the Outsider Experience | 19 Mar 2026 | 00:46:12 | |
Sue Wicks (she/her) is a New York Liberty WNBA All-Star from the league’s inaugural season and a member of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. She is also a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ visibility in sports who became the first active WNBA player to come out publicly in 2002 and was recently inducted into the LGBTQ+ Hall of Fame. In this conversation, she reflects on building a career in women’s basketball before professional opportunities truly existed, playing for years overseas before the formation of the WNBA created a path to return home and compete in the United States. Sue also shares what it meant to come out publicly — an opportunity she welcomed — at a time when visibility carried real personal and professional risk. Along the way, she reflects on growing up feeling like an outsider and how that perspective shaped her views on leadership, gender, and representation in sports. Today, she sees that outsider lens as a strength — one that allows people to see, build, and sustain things others might miss. Sue Wicks is the all-time leading scorer and rebounder in Rutgers women’s basketball history, a former New York Liberty WNBA All-Star who played in the league’s inaugural season, and a Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame inductee. Today, she farms oysters and kelp on Long Island as the founder of Violet Cove Oyster Company, a sustainable aquaculture venture. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior, and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. 👉 Try Shanti’s free Thriving Assessment here to get clarity on where you’re excelling — and where you can increase fulfillment, joy, and impact. Other stories shared by Sue and Shanti at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes for stories and insights on navigating your career as an outsider — and on the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review! Learn more about the podcast at storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH SUE WICKS CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| More Wisdom from Rondavid Gold (aka Shanti’s Dad): A Grateful Ad Man’s Journey and How Vietnam Changed Everything | 29 May 2025 | 00:45:28 | |
In this episode, Shanti welcomes back her Dad, Rondavid Gold (he/him), as her first repeat guest. The conversation delves into new stories and layers, including the chaotic promotional advertising event that could have derailed his career (but didn’t), the engagement he walked away from (and the draft notice that followed), his struggles as a new Army recruit - and how near-death experiences in Vietnam shifted his entire worldview. These stories highlight Rondavid’s evolution from a self-centered, hotshot, young ad guy/musician to a fatalist with a deep appreciation for life. He discusses the impact of gratitude, how fatalism helped him live with less stress (but also led to some missed opportunities early on) - and his realization that trusting yourself and taking chances leads to the greatest happiness. Expect laughter, warm father-daughter moments, wisdom - and a roadmap to limiting “I should’ve” moments. Rondavid Gold is a retired ad guy who spent 50 years as a copywriter, partner and CEO providing advertising, marketing, branding and PR for clients. He’s a Veteran, published author and active musician. Due to his many interests, a dedicated exercise routine (initiated by his wife) and multiple philanthropic/volunteer efforts, he’s one heck of a busy retired guy. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Other stories shared by Rondavid and Shanti at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH RONDAVID CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Queering Leadership with Liz Cruz: Accessing Our Humanity and Disrupting the Status Quo | 15 May 2025 | 00:45:03 | |
In this episode, Shanti interviews Liz Cruz (they/them/she/her), a genderqueer, femme, healer, witch, white anti-racist and critic of capitalism. Liz talks about factors that played into her career, including her relentless work ethic - rooted in growing up in an entrepreneurial family - as well as the divide between her vibrant queer community life and the more constrained corporate spaces, where she never felt fully seen. She then confronts a tumultuous period that pushes her to her limits and leads her to step away from corporate and toward her dream of being a queer leadership coach. As she takes this leap, she learns important lessons about grief and letting go - and emerges with a sense of freedom, strength and alignment. Liz shares that “the time is always right to center our own humanity,” reminding us that the path to thriving can be found in reconnecting to our unique needs and values - and disrupting status quo narratives. Liz Cruz is a queer leadership coach, facilitator and consultant. She’s been in leadership development for over 15 years - and works across the corporate, nonprofit and public sectors. In addition to 1:1 coaching, she co-founded the Queer Leadership Lab with other amazing practitioners, offering a dedicated space for queer folks to work on leadership development. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Other stories shared by Liz and Shanti at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH LIZ CRUZ CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Sharon Hurley Hall: a Black Citizen of the World Shares Insights on Anti-Racism and Honoring the Humanity in Others | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:40:30 | |
In this episode, Sharon Hurley Hall (she/her) - a Black, British-born, Caribbean-Raised woman - shares stories about her own experiences with racism living in different parts of the world. She discusses her journey over time to unpack the hurt and find the words to speak about it with power and impact. Sharon chooses to not allow anger and pain to define her - and refuses to inflict the same pain on others. Instead, she journeys towards purpose-driven work, empowering others through learning experiences anchored in awareness and action. The conversation highlights examples of workplace discrimination, as Sharon offers important takeaways on how to sensitively and effectively support those who face it. Sharon ultimately offers a hopeful outlook on the power of community and collective action and “a world where everyone's humanity is valued.” Sharon Hurley Hall is an author, educator and anti-racism activist who is on a mission to help create a world where everyone can thrive. Her work includes Sharon's Anti-Racism Newsletter, the SHHARE anti-racism community, support for introverts - and various courses based on over three decades of experience with writing and educating. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Other stories shared by Sharon and Shanti:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast & find me to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH SHARON HURLEY HALL | |||
| Filmmaker / Activist Nick Beaulieu Finds Hope and Beauty in the Difficult Search for Racial and Political Common Ground | 03 Apr 2025 | 00:40:40 | |
In this conversation, filmmaker Nick Beaulieu (he/him) discusses his documentary “My Omaha,” and his decade-plus journey to understand the “tale of two cities” - the clear racial inequity he sees in Omaha versus a city presenting itself as a great place to live. The discussion centers around mounting frictions in Nick’s relationship with his father - with his Dad’s pro-Trump conservatism standing in direct opposition to Nick’s ever-deepening racial justice work. Nick’s Dad’s cancer diagnosis brings them back together to have difficult, honest, face-to-face conversations - ultimately allowing them to access empathy and find some common ground. Nick discusses his anti-racism journey, with a focus on time spent in Omaha’s Black community and lessons learned. He speaks about complicated and potentially-divisive topics with openness and thoughtfulness, offering a hopeful bridge to reconnecting to each other’s humanity in today’s often-divided world. Nick Beaulieu is an independent filmmaker who serves in the roles of writer, director, producer and cinematographer. He also works in advertising sales. His film, “My Omaha” is set against the backdrop of Omaha's deep racial divide and growing Black Lives Matter movement - as Nick navigates the complexities of family conflict, political and racial discord - and the difficult search for common ground. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Nick and I also talk about:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH NICK BEAULIEU | |||
| An Asian Immigrant’s Journey: Sandy Kusano Joyfully Reclaims Her Story, Trading Her Dream Job For Her Dream Life | 20 Mar 2025 | 00:42:32 | |
In this conversation, Sandy Kusano (she/her) shares her journey as an Asian immigrant and third-culture kid. Sandy discusses the challenges of assimilation and navigating conflicting East/West cultural expectations. She shares how her efforts to fit and feel safe in various contexts - whether at home, work, or in social settings - lead her to unconsciously downplay her Japanese/Korean identity. As an outsider, she is taught to keep her head down and work extra hard in order to prove her worth. She reflects on how this constant striving and balancing of two identities ultimately leads to exhaustion and an internal sense of living a lie. Sandy transforms her burnout into inspiration, using it as fuel to rewrite her story, trust the wisdom in her heart, reclaim her authenticity and joy - and inspire others to do the same. Sandy Kusano is a human potential coach dedicated to cultivating joy as a superpower - empowering individuals to become conscious leaders who inspire positive change. She co-hosts the Spilling Our Tea podcast, where she explores the diversity of Asian female experiences, amplifying stories that challenge traditional career narratives. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Sandy and I also discuss:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH SANDY KUSANO | |||
| Indigo Avisov’s Roadmap to Impact: Building Self-Trust, Celebrating Small Steps and Creating Courageously | 06 Mar 2025 | 00:37:01 | |
In this episode, Shanti sits down with Indigo Avisov (they/them) - a white, trans, non-binary, first-generation college student of Slavic lineage whose family came to the US after being in POW camps during WWII. Indigo shares personal stories about the ways in which the cross-section of influences in their life shape their deep spirituality and understanding of self. They highlight the powerful role of kindness, joy, and love as exemplified by their grandmother - even in the face of deep hardships. Indigo shares takeaways about the importance of self-trust, taking baby steps and leaning into creativity to support success in all areas of life. To illustrate the power of these tools, they share examples from their successful career in tech leadership, where they build cultures of trust, risk-taking, and collaboration - allowing innovation to thrive and enabling everyone’s unique contributions to be celebrated. Indigo is a DEI Practitioner and a Purpose Coach/Guide who has spent the last 18 years in the tech sector. With a commitment to “all things people,” they are dedicated to empowering others to align their work with their core values and contribute their unique perspectives and skills - so that we can fuel innovation and a better world. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Indigo and I also discuss:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Rondavid Gold (aka Shanti’s Dad) Returns from Vietnam With an Unshakable Belief in Fate - A Story of Optimism, Presence and Gratitude | 20 Feb 2025 | 00:44:25 | |
In this episode, Shanti gratefully chats with her Dad, Rondavid Gold (he/him). Their conversation centers around multiple stories during his time on active duty in the Vietnam War that took unexpected twists - and ultimately saved his life. These experiences shaped Rondavid’s understanding that fate plays a powerful role and determines our path. This fatalism - coupled with optimism - freed him to accept what life had in store, let go of control of outcomes, take risks, be present in the moment, do his best - and enjoy the ride. He shares tales and lessons from his career in advertising, including the wisdom that allowed him to remain grounded as he successfully navigated career lows and highs. Shanti and her Dad, as per usual, share philosophical musings, laughter, love, warm memories of times spent together - and an appreciation of the importance of humor and gratitude. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Rondavid (aka Dad) and I also discuss:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH RONDAVID GOLD | |||
| Natalia Sandor Steps Up to the Mic: A Gen Z Perspective on Coming Out, Connection and Impact | 06 Feb 2025 | 00:38:40 | |
In this episode, Shanti welcomes her friend Natalia Sandor (she/her) - a white, cisgender woman and the first Gen Z podcast guest. Natalia speaks candidly about her coming out story and the reasons she is ready to share it more publicly now. Shanti and Natalia explore their generational differences and the ways in which they impacted - and didn’t impact - their coming out experiences. The discussion highlights the challenges many marginalized individuals face at work, including the pressure to conceal aspects of their identity for fear of judgment or rejection. Natalia explores the difficulty of separating her sexuality from her professional self, emphasizing that queerness is not just about who you love but an integral part of how you engage with the world. She encourages others to share more of their unfiltered selves at work, creating the opportunity for more connection, satisfaction and impact. Natalia Sandor works in/with startups with a focus on innovation, ideation and supporting impact-driven social entrepreneurship. She founded Sand Bars Handcrafted at age 18, selling to over 30 locations throughout Long Island. She is currently lending her gifts to a VC-backed technology startup, Arbor, and an innovation/entrepreneurship ideaHUb at Hofstra University. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Natalia and I also discuss:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH NATALIA SANDOR CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Bill Carmody Shines Light on Being the Proud Father of a Trans Kid, Fierce Ally and Believer in Enoughness | 23 Jan 2025 | 00:41:16 | |
In this episode, Shanti interviews Bill Carmody (he/him), a cisgender, heterosexual, white man of privilege and proud father of trans daughter, Violet. Bill discusses the story of Violet coming out as transgender, sharing tender moments and highlighting the importance of unconditional love, patience and grace for everyone involved. Bill explains the powerful impact of Positive Intelligence® / mental fitness - and the access it offers to clear-headedness, calm, curiosity and empathy even in the face of stressful situations. He speaks about his allyship journey, including recognizing his own privilege, amplifying marginalized voices and doing the work it takes to continuously learn how to advocate for those who are underrepresented. He also shares the opportunity to “acknowledge the enoughness in each one of us” as a doorway to showing up fully - and fully accepting others. Bill Carmody's purpose is to eradicate scarcity and help every person tap into their infinite abundance. He accomplishes his mission through public speaking, training and executive coaching. He additionally offers VIP Days for those who wish to go deep in a single day. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, helps underrepresented people confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Bill and I also discuss:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! CONNECT WITH BILL CARMODY CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| What it Feels Like to Hide and Discovering Strength in Vulnerability with Shanti Joy Gold and Mary Tess Rooney | 09 Jan 2025 | 00:43:20 | |
In today’s episode, host Mary Tess Rooney (she/her) turns the tables and interviews Shanti Joy Gold (she/her). Shanti shares more about her journey, including the early days of her relationship working at the same company with her now-wife - before there were societal shifts in LGBTQ+ acceptance. She discusses the tightrope of balancing her personal and professional life while experiencing the exhaustion and isolation of hiding her relationship in order to maintain a sense of professional safety. Mary Tess and Shanti also reflect on the first 10 episodes of the podcast, discussing key moments from the wide-ranging and deeply-personal stories shared by underrepresented guests and allies. Mary Tess and Shanti express gratitude for the vulnerability with which the guests have shared in order to use their stories in service of others - transforming the systemic challenges that marginalized people often face into opportunities for hope, healing, evolution, connection and empowerment. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, helps underrepresented people confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. Mary and I also discuss:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Navigating Poverty, a Parent's Mental Illness, and Housing Insecurity: Caren Lissner on Creativity, Resilience, and Choosing to Share Her Story | 19 Feb 2026 | 00:41:45 | |
In this episode, Shanti Joy Gold (she/her) sits down with her freshman-year roommate, Caren Lissner (she/her) — a news editor, reporter, essayist, and published novelist. Caren recently began sharing how housing insecurity and financial instability shaped her upbringing, including periods of living out of her car during college summers without anyone knowing. Caren shares what it was like to grow up navigating poverty alongside a parent’s mental illness, and how hiding those realities became a necessary way to cope. The conversation explores themes of outsiderhood, resilience, creativity, and the pressure to hustle quietly in an effort to break the cycle of instability. Caren reflects on how she never let go of her dreams, leaning into creativity as a way to heal herself and support others — and how determination and persistence shaped a path that finally felt like her own. Caren Lissner is a news editor and reporter who currently writes for local news websites. Her humorous and serious essays have appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Atlantic. Her first novel, Carrie Pilby — an independent coming-of-age comedy-drama — was adapted into a feature film. She is currently working on a memoir, How We Became Homeless, which chronicles downward mobility from the 1980s to today. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior, and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. 👉 Try Shanti’s free Thriving Assessment here to get clarity on where you’re excelling — and where you can increase fulfillment, joy, and impact. Other stories shared by Caren and Shanti at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes for stories and insights on navigating your career as an outsider — and on the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review! Learn more about the podcast at storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH CAREN CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| A Veteran Comes Home - Brett D’Alessandro’s Recovery, Growth and Dedication to the Underserved | 26 Dec 2024 | 00:34:14 | |
In this episode, Brett D'Alessandro (he/him) shares his journey from active military service as a Marine in Afghanistan to founding Backpacks for Life - a nonprofit dedicated to supporting homeless and at-risk veterans. Drawing from his own difficult reintegration into civilian life after a tough deployment, Brett’s work with veterans is rooted in establishing trust and making them feel human again. He shares about his struggles with alcohol addiction - and how a chance encounter with a homeless veteran helped him find his purpose and open the door to recovery. He emphasizes that seeking help when struggling is a sign of strength, and shares a wide range of available therapeutic approaches. He expresses gratitude for the clarity, strength and resilience he gained from overcoming hardships, and how - while he’s still human - it has made him a better person in every aspect of his life. Brett D’Alessandro is the Founder of Backpacks for Life, a nonprofit that supports homeless and at-risk veterans. He also owns Golden Door Dispensary, where he focuses on innovation and exceptional service in the cannabis industry. His career is shaped by a commitment to giving back and creating meaningful solutions for underserved communities. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 1:1 CAREER COACHING WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD, BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL HERE Brett and I also discuss:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com | |||
| Ruth Rathblott Unhides Her Physical Disability, Opening a Path to Connection and Purpose | 12 Dec 2024 | 00:44:17 | |
In this episode, Ruth Rathblott (she/her) shares her story of finding the courage to reveal her limb difference after the exhaustion and loneliness of hiding it for 25 years. She reveals the deep relief that comes from vulnerably letting others in, embracing her true self - and experiencing the power of connection and community. She also emerges with a mission to help leaders transform cultures so their employees can unhide, thrive and belong. Ruth offers practical steps to catch the ways in which we each may be building walls in an attempt to fit in and avoid judgment - and the empowering choices we can make to emerge into our full truth and potential. Ruth Rathblott is a disability specialist and inclusion expert who empowers leaders to foster an inclusive and diverse culture of unhiding in order to unleash untapped potential and ignite innovation. She is a bestselling author who has published two books, including this year’s “Unhide and Seek: Live Your Best Life. Do Your Best Work.” She is also a TEDx and inspirational speaker. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, helps underrepresented people confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 1:1 CAREER COACHING WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD, BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL HERE Ruth and I also discuss:
Thank you for listening! Check out all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH RUTH RATHBLOTT CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Living Intentionally and Creating Safe Spaces: How Justin Ayars is Transforming Healthcare for the LGBTQ+ Community | 28 Nov 2024 | 00:34:56 | |
In this episode, Justin Ayars (he/him), shares his journey to starting equalityMD, an LGBTQ+ telehealth platform that enables marginalized patients to enjoy affordable, affirming care in safe digital spaces - and become the superheroes of their own healthcare stories. Justin - a white, cisgender, gay man - has a story that starts in a showbiz family as the godson of Liberace...and gets more interesting from there. His eclectic professional journey brings him to an intersection of LGBTQ+ circles, where he consistently hears the question: “Where can I find a doctor who makes me feel safe?” Justin goes on to share a deeply-personal and shocking experience of discrimination he encountered in a medical setting - as well as statistics about the healthcare disparities that lead many people in the LGBTQ+ community to avoid health care altogether. Justin’s knowledge and experiences inspire him to mission-driven action, powerfully illustrating the impact of living deliberately and authentically. Justin Ayars is a former healthcare trial lawyer turned healthtech entrepreneur. As the Founder of equalityMD, he is working to transform how the LGBTQ+ community perceives and receives healthcare - offering a telehealth platform that affordably connects them with culturally competent providers for all of their mental, physical and prescription healthcare needs. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, helps underrepresented people confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 1:1 CAREER COACHING WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD, BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL HERE Justin and I also discuss:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH JUSTIN AYARS CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Amy Bobchek’s Road to Allyship, Deep Curiosity and Discovering Her Inner Rock Star | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:35:51 | |
In this episode, Amy Bobchek (she/her) joins the campfire in allyship with her friend, Shanti, and with “a whole bunch of people I've never met…I just want everybody to have a good [life]." Through the lens of a cisgender, white, heterosexual woman, Amy explores the meaning of allyship and its impact. She shares personal stories that illuminate the isolation some people face in the workplace due to their identity and the importance of proactively stepping in to support them when needed. She discusses how crucial it is to create environments where people can show up fully as themselves. Amy also shares a pivotal coaching experience that opened her up to approaching life through a deeply-curious lens, which transformed her career and directly contributed to her success. Amy Bobchek is a former media sales leader who is currently Senior VP of New Business for Blackbaud's Workplace Culture and Compliance Training Division. She co-founded and helps run the non-profit BENEFIT, a coalition of musicians and community leaders committed to raising funds and awareness for charities supporting children in need. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, helps underrepresented people confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 1:1 CAREER COACHING WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD, BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL HERE Amy and I also chat about the following:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH AMY BOBCHEK CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Breaking Down Walls and Welcoming the Sunshine with Farrah Hudson-Brown | 31 Oct 2024 | 00:33:35 | |
In this episode, Farrah Hudson-Brown (she/her) discusses her career as a Black, heterosexual, cisgender woman in the predominantly white, male-dominated sales industry. She recounts a time when she worked on a sales team led by Shanti - and a memorable 1:1 meeting during which Shanti challenged Farrah to examine an observed pattern of shifting from openness to defensiveness. Farrah’s introspection following this conversation uncovered an awareness of fears related to her racial identity and feeling “different” in corporate settings, which led her to adopt a likable, team-player persona in order to feel safe. Frustration and resentment followed. Farah ultimately found inspiration in her Faith and her mother's advice to express her true self - returning to work with renewed commitment to showing up authentically, openly and powerfully. Farrah Hudson-Brown has worked 20+ years in sales consulting in various industries, ranging from telecommunications, software and education. She is currently spending cherished time as the mom of two truly-adorable young sons. She is also focusing on early childhood development with a specific interest in Black male education. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 1:1 CAREER COACHING WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD, BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL HERE Farrah and I also chat about the following:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and more about allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Fearing Less: Eduardo Placer's Journey from Playing a Part to Repairing the World | 17 Oct 2024 | 00:41:37 | |
In today’s episode, Eduardo Placer (he/him), a cisgender gay/queer man who is the proud descendant of refugees/immigrants, shares his journey to becoming a Story Doula and international public speaking coach. Eduardo recounts personal stories from his childhood - including a pivotal 2nd grade story featuring Sammy the Seal - that highlight the impact of being misunderstood, feeling shame and living untruthfully. He talks about his path to coming out in the 1990s, the healing he experienced by embracing his own narrative - and how he now joyfully empowers others to do the same. As a professionally-trained actor who suffers from self-described showtune-itis, he also randomly breaks out into song. Eduardo Placer is the Founder of Fearless Communicators, helping game-changing leaders become more clear, connected and courageous communicators: “I think it's not about eliminating fear, but building a powerful relationship with it and allowing it to be our teacher….”
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and more about allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH EDUARDO PLACER CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Breaking Barriers and Serving From the Overflow: US World Cup Captain Karameli Faaee’s Inspiring Journey | 03 Oct 2024 | 00:35:32 | |
In today’s episode, Karameli Faaee (she/they) shares her inspiring journey to becoming the 2017 US Women's Rugby World Cup captain and the first-ever woman to coach a professional US men's rugby team. Karameli vulnerably opens up about new layers of her story to honor her authenticity and empower others. She recounts how overcoming childhood adversity, along with being Indigenous / Polynesian and queer, have shaped her life and career. She discusses how she transformed self-doubt and limiting beliefs into joy and success. Karameli serves others from a place of abundance: “I feel my purpose in this world is to support people, highlight their superpower…and remind them that we're all born whole, perfect and complete.” Karameli Faaee is the Director of Operations for Rugby4All, using flag-rugby as a vehicle to teach leadership, self confidence and teamwork to middle schoolers in New York City. She also coaches the highly-competitive New York Athletic Club men’s rugby team - and she is training to be a transformational coach. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 1:1 CAREER COACHING WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD, BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL HERE Karameli and I also talk about the following:
Inspired by Karameli's story? Share this episode with someone who needs a dose of inspiration. Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and be an ally for others. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH KARAMELI FAAEE | |||
| Fearlessly Improvising and Redefining the Road to Happiness with Lilith Electra | 19 Sep 2024 | 00:43:31 | |
In today’s episode, Lilith Electra (she/her) shares her experience as a trans, white person who navigated her gender transition while working in academia. Whether she’s discussing her transition or passion for improvisational comedy, Lilith lives by example when she says, “When we're about to be our greatest…our fear gets the loudest.” In this episode, Lilith tells the story of emerging from a difficult period in her life by boldly redefining herself in support of her well-being and fulfillment. Her choices led her to a highly-successful career in sales, where she authentically challenges and empowers others to embrace their uniqueness - and fearlessly pivot in support of their own happiness. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 1:1 CAREER COACHING WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD, BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL HERE. Lilith and I also chat about the following:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and be an ally in the workplace. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH LILITH ELECTRA | |||
| The Power of Authentic Self-Expression and Claiming Your Narrative with Kelly L. Campbell | 19 Sep 2024 | 00:39:48 | |
In today’s episode, Kelly L. Campbell (they/she) shares their experiences as a queer, white, able-bodied person who is proudly gender fluid. They open up about their evolution with language around gender and the important role it plays in honoring and aligning who they are. Kelly shares an early-career story where they dressed differently in order to conform and win over a conservative potential client - who was also gay. Kelly was nonetheless confronted in the meeting about their appearance, leaving them feeling uncomfortable and diminished. They quickly pivoted, vowing never again to compromise their self-expression, realizing that authenticity was non-negotiable, regardless of the professional stakes. Kelly L. Campbell is a former CEO and trauma-informed leadership coach. In addition to Kelly’s work in cause marketing, consulting, coaching and the healing arts, they recently published a book, “Heal to Lead” and own a speakers’ agency offering a platform for underrepresented voices. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 1:1 CAREER COACHING WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD, BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL HERE. Kelly and I also talk about the following:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and be an ally in the workplace. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t Shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH KELLY L. CAMPBELL CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| From Corporate to Campfire: The Inspiration for Stories We Haven’t Shared with Shanti Joy Gold and Mary Tess Rooney | 19 Sep 2024 | 00:41:01 | |
In the debut episode of Stories We Haven't Shared, Shanti Joy Gold (she/her) is interviewed by Mary Tess Rooney (she/her) and introduces the podcast: a campfire-style interview series where underrepresented voices share their experiences navigating into the already-complicated career landscape. Whether you're seeking guidance in your career or you’re an ally looking to deepen your understanding, the podcast offers a space for learning and connection. Shanti openly shares her own personal and professional journey as a white, gay, cisgender woman and her transition from a career in corporate sales leadership to becoming a professional coach. She recounts two coming-out-at-work stories, both of which were clumsy (and humorous in retrospect) and ultimately led to acceptance. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders in their careers. Key takeaways from this episode include:
Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and be an ally in the workplace. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD CONNECT WITH MARY TESS ROONEY | |||
| Queer, Nonbinary, and Autistic: Felix Sutherland on Self-Discovery, Self-Trust, and Moving From Exhaustion to Freedom | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:42:09 | |
In this episode, Shanti Joy Gold (she/her) sits down with Felix Sutherland (they/them), a white, queer, nonbinary, autistic coach whose work is shaped by their lived experience. Felix shares their stories of self-recognition around identity and neurodivergence - along with the relief, grief, and clarity that surfaced as they began to understand and share themselves more fully. The conversation explores allyship, including the advice to stay present and engaged when discomfort arises. Felix discusses themes of masking, workplace safety, and the emotional labor required to navigate systems not designed with neurodivergent or nonbinary people in mind. They also reflect on how overcompensating through perfectionism and overachievement leads to deep exhaustion, and how cultivating self-trust supports a shift toward work that is aligned, joyful, and sustainable. Felix Sutherland helps high-masking and late-/un-diagnosed autistic and ADHD folks sort through the identity crises that come with understanding your brain for the first time in adulthood. They offer coworking sessions, 1:1 coaching - and more - to help people build more joyful relationships with themselves and others. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. 👉 Try Shanti’s free Thriving Assessment here to get clarity on where you’re excelling - and where you can increase fulfillment, joy, and impact. Other stories shared by Felix and Shanti at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes for stories and insights on navigating your career as an outsider — and on the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review! Learn more about the Stories We Haven’t Shared podcast at storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH FELIX | |||
| Welcome to Stories We Haven't Shared | 29 Aug 2024 | 00:02:12 | |
Stories We Haven't Shared, hosted by Shanti Joy Gold, helps underrepresented / minority individuals navigate the extra layers of complexity they encounter within the career landscape. Whether you're seeking guidance in your career or you’re an ally looking to deepen your understanding, this podcast offers a space for learning and connection. As a professional coach, 25-year-corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Shanti Joy Gold understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders in their careers. Every other week, you'll hear stories from individuals who have navigated their careers from the margins, sharing their experiences and insights on the intersectionality of race, ethnicity, gender, love, neurodiversity, disability and military veteran status. Learn more about Shanti Joy Gold and Stories We Haven't Shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com/. | |||
| Ally Sunberg Embraces the Messiness: An LGBTQ+ Leader on Coming Out, Authenticity, and Allyship | 18 Dec 2025 | 00:37:05 | |
In this episode, Shanti (she/her) welcomes Ally Sunberg (she/her), a marketing leader and long-time LGBTQ+ workplace advocate. Ally shares her journey of embracing her bisexual identity and navigating what it means to show up authentically in her career. She unpacks the tension between how she naturally presents, her discomfort with traditional “femme” business attire norms, and the assumptions that often lead her into repeated coming-out moments - whether about her sexuality or the significant age difference with her wife. She reflects on formative career experiences - from early conversations about her identity to leading her company’s Pride Employee Resource Group (ERG) - that shaped her confidence and her commitment to creating safer spaces for others. She explores how identity, family, and resilience intersect, and how embracing the dynamic “messy middle” has helped her grow as a leader and a person. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. 👉 Try Shanti’s free Thriving Assessment here to get clarity on where you’re excelling - and where you can increase fulfillment, joy, and impact. Other stories shared by Ally and Shanti at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes for stories and insights on navigating your career as an outsider — and on the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review! Learn more about the Stories We Haven’t Shared poscast at storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH ALLY | |||
| From Hiding to Impact: Chris Ruden on Disability, Ableism, and Building a World Without Limits Through Curiosity | 20 Nov 2025 | 00:45:20 | |
In this episode, Shanti Joy Gold (she/her) sits down with Chris Ruden (he/him) - keynote speaker, powerlifter, disability advocate, and competitor on The Rock’s Titan Games. Born with a limb difference and later diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, Chris shares how he spent years perfecting the art of hiding - keeping his hand in his pocket, wearing a glove, and meticulously planning ways to blend in. He talks about the weight of ableism, both external and internal, and how unlearning it required facing layers of shame and self-protection he didn’t know he carried. What followed wasn’t a sudden transformation, but a steady reclamation - and the belief that difference itself can be a source of power. Chris also shares how curiosity - his own and others’ - opens the door to inclusion, connection, innovation, and unlocking the best version of ourselves. Shanti Joy Gold is a professional coach, 30-year corporate warrior and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She understands the unique challenges faced by those who feel like outsiders and, as an executive coach, guides underrepresented people to confidently thrive in their careers by being fully themselves. 👉 Try Shanti’s free Thriving Assessment here to get clarity on where you’re excelling - and where you can increase fulfillment, joy, and impact. Other stories shared by Shanti and Chris at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes for stories and insights on navigating your career as an outsider — and on the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t Shared at storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH CHRIS | |||
| Breaking Bread with Chef Anita Lo: Resisting Definition, Embracing Intersectionality, and Finding Belonging in the Heat of the Kitchen | 16 Oct 2025 | 00:28:36 | |
In this episode, Shanti Joy Gold (she/her) sits down with chef Anita Lo (she/her), a gay, Asian, gender-nonconforming woman, Michelin-starred culinary innovator, Food Network competitor, and pioneer in contemporary-American cuisine. Anita reflects on growing up as a person of color and outsider in the Midwest: the taunts she endured, the resilience they fueled, and what it means to succeed on her own terms in an industry eager to define her. She shares how kitchens became a place of belonging despite their relentless pace and demands, and how her intersectional identity shaped her approach to her culinary journey. The conversation closes with the Thrive Takeaway: be tenacious, believe in yourself, and keep moving toward what makes you happy. Anita Lo is a multiple-award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author - and the first female chef to collaborate on a White House State Dinner. She is currently the Culinary Director of Stylus, a private club on the Lower East Side dedicated to the ephemeral arts (opening early 2026). She also hosts culinary tours around the world with Tour De Forks, a luxury travel company specializing in custom-designed epicurean adventures. 👉 Try Shanti’s free Thriving Assessment to get instant clarity on where you’re excelling - and where you can increase fulfillment, joy, and impact: shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment Other stories shared by Anita and Shanti at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes for real stories and practical insights on navigating your career as an outsider - and on the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast! Learn more about the Stories We Haven’t Shared podcast at storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH ANITA | |||
| SEASON 2 PREMIERE: Shanti and Her Dad Revisit When She Came Out to Him - Plus Family Stories, Career Lessons in Authenticity, and Other Reminiscences | 18 Sep 2025 | 00:42:47 | |
In the Season 2 premiere, host Shanti Joy Gold (she/her) sits down with her dad, Rondavid Gold (he/him), to revisit the moment she nervously came out to him. They reflect on how Rondavid met the news by prioritizing Shanti’s happiness, a response that quickly replaced fear with unconditional love and modeled true allyship. The conversation also acknowledges that while Rondavid's acceptance was immediate, many loved ones need time to adjust to reframed expectations - and that patience and grace are part of the journey. Shanti shares how years of secrecy shaped her leadership style, and how bringing her full self to work transformed her career, her teams, and their results. The episode closes with the inaugural Thrive Takeaway, revealing why ‘be yourself; everyone else is already taken’ is a powerful way of operating in work and life. Rondavid Gold is a retired ad guy who spent 50 years as a copywriter, partner and CEO providing advertising, marketing, branding and PR for clients. He’s a Veteran, published author and active musician. Due to his many interests, a dedicated exercise routine (initiated by his wife) and multiple philanthropic/volunteer efforts, he’s one heck of a busy retired guy. 👉 Try Shanti’s free Thriving Assessment to get instant clarity on where you’re excelling - and where you can increase fulfillment, joy, and impact: shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment Other stories shared by Shanti and her Dad at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes for real stories and practical insights on navigating your career as an outsider - and on the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast! Learn more at storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH RONDAVID GOLD | |||
| Season 1 Wrap-Up with Mary Tess Rooney: The Human Side of Working While Marginalized, the Power of Allyship - and 4 Takeaways to Show Up Fully in Your Success | 10 Jul 2025 | 00:43:09 | |
In this Season One wrap-up, Shanti Joy Gold (she/her) is joined once again by co-host Mary Tess Rooney (she/her). Together, we revisit the podcast’s founding intention: to create a campfire space and community where underrepresented people feel seen and more powerful as we navigate layered career paths - and invite allies to learn, listen and lead alongside us. We reflect on the stories that took our breath away - including moments of shocking injustice, quiet fear and powerful transformation. We explore the strategies we use to stay safe, the toll of hiding - and the eventual reckoning that leads to purpose-driven change. Tune in to hear more about four key takeaways for reclaiming fulfillment and success: taking small steps toward healing, the grounding power of presence and gratitude, the importance of joy, love, and kindness - and the strength we access through empathy for others. Season One closes with an enduring truth: shared experiences can change the world. Season Two, and a growing circle around the campfire, returns September 18. Mary Tess Rooney is a teacher, healer, professional coach, retreat leader, speaker and perpetual student. As a 25-year corporate warrior, her executive presence combined with her coaching and Shamanic Reiki healing gifts, uniquely qualifies her to empower others to share their Heart Value and align with what lights them up. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Other stories shared by Mary Tess and Shanti at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me below to share your key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH MARY TESS ROONEY CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||
| Lisa Hurley Creates Spaces to Exhale: A Black, Neurodivergent Woman’s Path from Burnout to Breakthrough | 12 Jun 2025 | 00:45:00 | |
In this episode, Shanti welcomes Lisa Hurley (she/her), a Black, Caribbean-born woman in her mid-50s with autism and ADHD — who shares her journey as an award-winning activist, writer, podcaster and community builder. Lisa powerfully describes a shocking discriminatory incident on a bus that reveals not only the harm of overt racism, but also the quieter betrayals of silence, gaslighting and complicity. She offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in workplaces that are rarely designed with them in mind, leaving them feeling uncomfortable and isolated. Lisa shares how the compounded stresses of racism, neurodivergence and overwork led her to extreme burnout — and how that moment created a calling to create spaces for deep rest and healing. She offers an inspiring dialogue on reclaiming humanity and kindness, challenging hustle culture, practicing self-care and choosing a gentler way of living. Lisa Hurley is a 3x Anthem Award-winning activist, writer, and podcaster. She is the author of Space To Exhale, host of Space To Exhale: the Podcast, and the Founder of The Great Exhale: the Community. A powerful voice, she has been recognized as one of the Top 10 anti-discrimination activists worldwide. Her words have been quoted in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Adweek and more. ACCESS SHANTI’S FREE THRIVING ASSESSMENT TO GET BIG-PICTURE CLARITY ON FOCUS AREAS FOR INCREASED FULFILLMENT, JOY AND IMPACT - https://shantijoygold.com/take-the-thriving-assessment/ Other stories shared by Lisa and Shanti at the campfire:
Thank you for listening! Tune in to all episodes to receive insights about how to navigate your career as an outsider - and learn more about the impact of allyship. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and find me to share key takeaways! Learn more about Stories We Haven’t shared at https://storieswehaventshared.com CONNECT WITH LISA HURLEY CONNECT WITH SHANTI JOY GOLD | |||