THE POWER OF REINVENTION with Kathi Sharpe-Ross

In this enlightening episode of THE POWER OF RE:INVENTION podcast, Kathi Sharpe-Ross engages in a heartfelt conversation with the visionary Italian fashion designer and artist, Valentina Perissi. They delve into Valentina's early fascination with design, the intricate dance between passion and business, and the relentless pursuit of inspiration and self-assurance in the world of art.

Valentina opens up about her unique creative process, sharing insights into how she navigates the challenges that come with a career in design. This episode stands as a beacon for those yearning to live their best life while ardently following their passions. It's a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the unyielding power of dreaming big.

Key Takeaways:

• Embrace your passion and dare to dream, even when faced with risks and uncertainties

• Striking a harmony between artistic expression and the pragmatic aspects of your career is key

• Let pressure fuel your creativity and drive you towards innovation

• Venturing beyond your comfort zone is essential for growth and discovery

Links:

In this episode of THE POWER OF RE:INVENTION podcast, Kathi Sharpe-Ross sits down with her dear friend and the incredibly talented Judith Owen, a performer known for her versatility and soulful voice. Together, they explore the essence of Reinvention, the critical role of self-love and the profound impact of musical influences on Judith's career.

Judith opens up about her early inspirations drawn from jazz and blues legends, sharing how these powerful women shaped her musical journey. The conversation also touches on Judith's personal history, her path to discovering joy in music, and the exhilarating experience of live performances across various cities.

This episode is a tribute to the therapeutic power of music, the importance of sharing women's stories and the courage to be the captain of one's destiny. It's an invitation to listeners to embrace their uniqueness, pursue fulfillment, and celebrate the legacy of unapologetic women who have paved the way in music and beyond.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Reinvention as a pathway to personal and artistic growth.

• The pivotal role of self-love in embracing one's true self.

• Musical legacies inspire future generations of artists.

• Celebrating the resilience and influence of women in music.

• The unique creative energy of New Orleans as a muse.

• Laughter and authenticity as tools for healing and connection.

Links:

In this captivating episode of THE POWER OF RE:VENTION, Kathi Sharpe-Ross chats with fellow Aussie, Ros Ben-Moshe, author of the newly released book, "THE LAUGHTER EFFECT: How to Build Joy, Resilience and Positivity in Your Life." 

Her life's work champions LAUGHTER, wellbeing and positivity. Ros recounts her evolution from harboring childhood dreams of aiding others to her significant contributions in health promotion and mental health. Her narrative is a testament to finding one's calling and the serendipitous moments that guide us there.

Ros opens up about her personal health battles, including chronic fatigue syndrome and colon cancer and how these challenges led her to discover laughter's healing essence. She shares poignant stories of using laughter to maintain connections with her family and mitigate stress during her most trying periods, offering insights into the therapeutic power of humor.

The discussion explores Ros' academic pursuits in health promotion and mental health, highlighting laughter's role as a pivotal healing mechanism. Ros' journey of personal transformation sheds light on the future direction of her work, emphasizing laughter's place not just in recovery but as a foundational element of daily wellbeing.

Ros delves into her upcoming book tour and her mission to disseminate the joy and resilience cultivated through laughter. She introduces practical strategies for integrating positivity and gratitude into everyday life, underscoring the importance of choosing laughter in moments big and small.

Some Powerful Takeaways from the Episode:

• Childhood dreams reveal our deepest passions, leading us to careers that align with our values and bring fulfillment.

• Laughter and feel-good emotions are too important to be left to chance

• Laughter serves as a potent tool for healing, offering relief from stress and improving both mental and physical health.

• Laughter is not necessarily a panacea for all ills, but a companion resource to cultivate a daily dose of health and social benefits including stress reduction, immune system support, lowered blood pressure, improved mood, enhanced social bonds, resilience, and even pain relief.

• Cultivating a positive outlook and practicing gratitude can significantly shift our perspective, enhancing life satisfaction.

• Integrating laughter into our Reinvention journey fosters connections and helps us overcome life's obstacles with grace.

 Ros’ US book signing event dates in 2024:

April 7th - Denver - Tattered Cover Bookstore, 4-5pm 

April 9th - Los Angeles - Chevalier's Books, 6-7pm

Links:

In this insightful episode of the podcast, Kathi Sharpe-Ross engages in a deep dive with Scott Donaton, a trailblazer in brand marketing, production and storytelling. They explore Scott's journey from journalism to becoming a pivotal figure in the evolution of branded content. The discussion illuminates how the digital landscape has transformed storytelling, emphasizing the critical role of authenticity and technological innovation in engaging audiences.
Scott shares his experiences at Hulu and his pioneering work in brand-funded content, offering listeners a glimpse into the creative processes behind successful campaigns for major brands. The conversation also covers the exciting intersection of AI and creativity, discussing its potential to enhance storytelling while underscoring the indispensable value of human insight.

The dialogue further delves into the themes of Reinvention and adaptability, reflecting on the importance of continuous learning and the courage to embrace new challenges. Scott's perspective on building meaningful connections through stories and his approach to balancing work and life offer valuable lessons on navigating the complexities of the modern world.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Authentic storytelling is key to resonating with audiences

• Embrace technology to elevate narratives, but value human creativity

• Reinvention is a journey of discovery and embracing new skills

• AI offers exciting creative possibilities but requires human guidance

• Courage and continuous learning are essential for growth and impact

Links:

In “The Power of Re:Invention" podcast, Kathi Sharpe-Ross introduces guest Erin Levzow, CMO of Figure8 and Museum of Ice Cream, tracing her diverse career from marketing to executive roles in various companies. Erin's journey unfolds through Las Vegas, Dallas, Austin, and Wisconsin, showcasing her rise and strategic pivots. The conversation delves into Erin's experiences, emphasizing the importance of saying "yes" to opportunities and taking small steps for substantial progress. Erin's mentors, support system, and guiding principle of spreading joy are discussed, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of her insights. 

Erin shares the mission of the Museum of Ice Cream, its challenges, and her approach to work-life balance, rejecting the notion of perfection. The podcast highlights Erin's personal story of resilience, emphasizing the importance of self-care and mindfulness in the face of life's challenges. The discussion concludes with Erin's intentions for 2024 and a fun question about a hypothetical dinner party with Michelle Obama, Susan B. Anthony, and Sean Patrick Hayes.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Erin's rise from a humble start to leadership roles emphasizes the value of saying "yes" to opportunities, echoing Richard Branson.

• The podcast explores Erin's mentors, her guiding principle of spreading joy, and the transformative power of self-care and mindfulness.

• The Museum of Ice Cream aims to unite and inspire through imagination and connection, providing a space for adults to play and experience joy. 

• Balancing work and personal life requires prioritization and giving oneself grace.

• The conversation delves into the significance of finding people and companies that can provide support during difficult times, emphasizing the need to seek out positive moments and people amidst challenges.

Links:

Guest’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinlevzow/

Guest’s Company’s Website: https://www.museumoficecream.com/

In this episode, Kathi Sharpe-Ross interviews Lisa Sun, founder and CEO of Gravitas and author of 'Gravitas: The Eight Strengths That Redefine Confidence.' They delve into the concept of gravitas, which encompasses not just confidence but also influence, presence and the ability to inspire respect. Lisa shares her childhood experiences and early influences, revealing how they shaped her holistic view of this powerful quality and its impact on personal and professional development.

The conversation explores living life with self-assurance, addressing the challenges and fears of entrepreneurship and the importance of having a support system. Lisa emphasizes the relevance of her book for both men and women, highlighting the need for inclusive discussions on gender equality and the impact of promotability on gender pay gaps. They also touch on evaluation fairness for introverts.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Gravitas empowers you to cultivate unshakable self-belief and confidence, essential for personal and professional growth.

• Confidence is more than a feeling; it's a choice that shapes your mindset and behavior, influencing how you approach life's challenges.

• In entrepreneurship, facing challenges is inevitable, but with the right support and practical solutions, you can navigate these obstacles successfully.

• Gravitas isn't limited to a specific gender; it's a universal concept that fosters inclusive discussions and bridges gender gaps, promoting equality.

Links:

In this podcast episode, Kathi Sharpe-Ross interviewed Will Lee, CEO of ADWEEK, about his career journey and the evolving landscape of the advertising and marketing industry. Will shared his experiences of reinventing himself and recognizing his strengths through various stages of his life. He discussed the shift in media companies towards focusing more on individual human brands and the growing importance of engagement in advertising.

The episode also delved into the role of AI in business and the necessity for companies to embrace and harness its potential. The conversation underscored the need for resilience, adaptability, and creativity in the rapidly changing business environment.

Will emphasized the significance of new technologies in revolutionizing industries, particularly in advertising and marketing. He spoke about the reinvention of ADWEEK events, aiming to make them more meaningful and valuable for attendees, and highlighted the role of these technologies in informing and educating the industry.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Align career paths with strengths and pivot as needed.

• Human brands and engagement are reshaping the advertising industry.

• Utilize AI for enhanced productivity and informed decision-making.

• Focus on outcomes and integrate content for impactful experiences.

• Build and showcase your personal brand for growth and success.

Links:

In this week’s episode I had a beautiful conversation with Best-Selling Author, Award Winning Researcher, and International Keynote Speaker Mona Patel who is an expert in reframing the way people think and operate in their companies. For over 23 years, Mona has been a thought-leader on innovation, customer experience and creativity; helping brands like Nike, Facebook, Capital One, First Republic Bank and Pfizer. She founded and built a series of 7-figure companies and her latest company, Gray Zones, produces content that inspires leaders to have more empathy, awareness and understanding in the workplace.

Since early childhood, Mona stood out with her constant drive and passion for achievement and success. However, later she realized that her addiction to accomplishments was more about external validation than inner fulfillment. Defining who she was, what she really wanted and why, was fundamental to shift from having a life that was “good on paper” to one that genuinely felt good. Even though it was a long  journey that required courage, curiosity and consistent progress, Mona paved a path for real fulfillment and happiness both in her personal and professional life.

In her book “Reframe” Mona shared her techniques to find and spark your creativity and “superpower” by removing mental, cultural and organizational barriers. This can also be crucial for the corporations that are tackling to bring their ideas into reality by shifting how people see and perceive things. Tune in for an inspiring conversation!

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• It is important to differentiate what feels good and what will really make you happy in the long-run

• Reflecting can be more powerful than merely advising

• Take one small step towards your desired direction day by day 

• Your ego will obey when you start asking the right questions 

• Doing something different every day can stimulate you to see things differently 

Links:

Tune into this week’s inspirational episode with Gabrielle Garofalo, a seasoned Business Consultant turned coach and the visionary Founder of the "Pause for Pleasure" process. Gabrielle shares her captivating transition from a 25-year career in events and marketing to coaching, weaving in elements of body positivity, yoga, NIDRA, and emotional intelligence. The conversation delves into her childhood dreams, corporate experiences, and pivotal moments that guided her towards coaching.

Discover the profound importance of embracing pleasure as a cornerstone of a fulfilling life, as Gabrielle openly discusses her challenges in self-discovery, including navigating personal growth during a divorce. We unravel societal expectations, emphasizing the significance of acknowledging personal greatness and the power of trusting oneself in the journey of Reinvention. Gabrielle's groundbreaking work on pleasure challenges stereotypes and expands the concept to include various dimensions such as sensuality and presence.

This episode also addresses practical aspects, including the challenge of finding personal time, prioritizing connections and the importance of accessible personal growth. Gabrielle shares innovative business practices, from free LinkedIn sessions to one-on-one coaching and immersive workshops. Join this thought-provoking discussion that combines personal narratives, practical insights, and a vision for a more joyful, authentic life.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Pleasure is a universal language transcending gender, race, and societal boundaries, impacting various aspects of wellness.

• Embrace pleasure as a tool for personal Reinvention and well-being.

• Gabrielle highlights her unique approach to coaching, blending various modalities like body positivity, yoga, NIDRA and emotional intelligence.

• It’s important to reconnect with childhood joy and passion as a source of inspiration and resilience.

Links:

Gabrielle Garofalo’s  LinkedIn: 

Join me and one of Forbes’ Top 50 Entrepreneurial CMOs, Business Insider’s CMO to Watch, and Brand Innovators’ Industry Innovator, Krystal Hauserman, who creates iconic brands by rooting them in pop culture, purpose and cutting-edge innovation. 

Krystal has held senior executive roles at WarnerMedia, Paris Hilton's 11:11 Media, creator startup Fullscreen and more, having created breakthrough campaigns for global consumer brands such as HBO, Hilton Hotels, Taco Bell, Klarna, NBCU, the NBA, and L’Oreal’s Urban Decay.  Her work has been featured in Vogue, Vanity Fair, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, Forbes, Ad Age and Adweek. 

Her deepest appreciation for creativity, storytelling, beauty and design was the reason she switched from her successful law career to the entertainment business, crafting a path that better resonated with her character and values. 

Being a mentor to so many people, Krystal always emphasizes the importance of curiosity and flexibility and in trusting opportunities that come their way.

She serves on the Advisory Board of POSSIBLE and is an executive mentor to early-career marketers across multiple organizations, including Adweek, Monday Night Mentorship, and The Marketing Academy. 

Some great takeaways from today’s episode:

• Ones’ potential and character is more important than the credentials they possess

• You can teach people how to do something, but you can’t teach them to care

• Marketers solve the world’s problems, they don’t do it for themselves

• Take your time and experiment - be open to possibilities

Links:

Today I had the pleasure of hosting an Emmy-nominated leading voice and pioneer in the realm of digital culture and emerging trends, Shira Lazar, who took the internet by storm in 2011 with her groundbreaking web-first news platform, 'What's Trending.' 

For over two decades, Shira has been a prominent figure in the creator economy and social media trends, gracing the stages of prestigious conferences like SXSW, VeeCon, NFTNYC and NFTLA.  She was also recognized by Fast Company, which named her one of the Most Influential Women in Technology, and NFTNow, including  her on the NFT100 Most Influential list. Shira's impact also extends beyond her media ventures. She co-founded Peace Inside Live, a digital wellness agency and collective that designs customized well-being programs for innovative companies, teams and communities.

Shira is a forward-thinking visionary with a knack for identifying and capitalizing on emerging trends. Her insatiable curiosity and ability to navigate uncertainty empowers her to be innovative and bold in her endeavors. Her new book, The JOMO Journal, where Shira and her co-author Jordana Reim disrupt traditional journaling methods by introducing a more engaging and innovative approach and helping support the Joy of Missing Out. 

In the episode, she emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort and approaching uncertainty with an open mind. However, learning to be comfortable with discomfort requires a shift in perspective. Thus, instead of viewing it as an obstacle, we can reframe it as a catalyst for change and growth which itself is a valuable asset in today’s rapidly changing world. 

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Approach risk with acceptance 

• You don’t have to act instantly towards your goals, but at least have a roadmap 

• Spend less time being interesting and more time being interested 

• If you want something done, give it to a busy person

• If you know what you want and are passionate about, you will always find ways to realize your dreams

Links:

In today’s episode I had the privilege of hosting an award-winning innovator, curator, professional business journalist turned unbiased thought leader, trend-tracker and visionary, Jenny Rooney who is currently a Chief Experience Officer at Adweek.

During her impressive career, she successfully launched numerous initiatives, platforms, series and events for CMOs and other C-suite executives contributing to the advertising and marketing community.

Jenny spent 10 years at Forbes as Communities Director, Assistant Managing Editor and Editor and Chair of the CMO Network, and managed content and events critical to executive-level marketing decision-makers. She brings a community-first lens to everything Adweek does by constantly creating new initiatives, resources and experiential offerings to better connect with and serve marketing decision-makers and the overall marketing ecosystem. 

Having a human-centric approach, Jenny always focused more on the people who comprised the industry rather than the industry itself. This is because she realized that it is the power of authentic and well-thought communication that can bring people together, create fundamental relationships and a more welcoming environment. Perhaps, being good communicators makes marketers the most caring, thoughtful and collaborative visionaries who look and push their companies towards the future. 

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• See change as an adventure 

• Never underestimate the power of baby steps towards your goal

• Solid relationships as a result of effective communication

• Focus more on the people than on the tactics 

• The ability to respond and adapt to change is fundamental for a successful marketer 

Links:

This week I had the pleasure of sitting down with friend and colleague, Warren Schorr, Senior Vice President of Business Development and Global Licensing & Experiences at Crayola, to hear more about how he not only Reinvented his career path, but is currently Reinventing one of the world’s most well-known and beloved brands. 

Warren has previously held positions as Executive Director of Worldwide Marketing and Retail Development at MGM, Director of Licensing Sales at 20th Century Fox, and Senior Account Executive at Warner Bros.

Warren's inherent creativity and non-linear thinking, which have been evident since his early childhood, shines through in every capacity of his work. Creative individuals are often drawn to fields that allow them to express their unique perspectives and ideas, and Warren's wide imagination suggests that he is no exception. While working at Warner Bros. Stores, Warren quickly learned the importance of Licensing and the vast opportunities that were available within the industry. This was a turning point for him to find his way to Crayola. In his position, he aims to keep the company fresh, relevant and authentically aligned with the company’s mission and vision - to help parents and educators raise creatively alive kids and ask the question, “what if?”

Warren has been a pivotal contributor on projects such as the “Crayola Experience,” “Colors of the World,” “Colors of Kindness” and many more, that are the physical manifestations of the company’s mission and one of the reasons that make Warren to be excited about his beloved work each and every day. Tune in for a colorful and thought-provoking conversation! 

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• A company’s mission / a personal mission should be at the forefront of everything that is done.

• Keeping the consumer at the center of attention while creating new programs is fundamental for success.

• Collaborations will either open up a marketplace or a whole new category for you.

• Licensing is about constant growth and innovation.

• Fun fact: Crayola Scent is the 18th most recognized scent in the whole world.

Links:

Warren Schorr Links and Information:

In today’s eye-opening episode I hosted Richard Greene, a renowned Communication Strategist, who has earned the title "The Master of Charisma" from The Sunday Times of London, and is often referred to as the “The Best Idea Guy in America."

Following his collaboration with Tony Robbins to launch the latter's career in the mid-80s, Richard made a significant pivot by leaving his law practice. His mission: to redefine what is often considered humanity's greatest fear—Public Speaking. Over the course of the past 36 years, he has pursued this mission through the publication of his renowned coffee table book, "Words That Shook The World," as well as through an extensive series of lecture tours spanning 53 countries on 6 continents. Throughout these tours, he has delivered Keynote Addresses on "The 7 Secrets of Public Speaking.” Notably, in 2023, The BBC extended an invitation to Richard to impart his expertise to the world and craft a course on Public Speaking & Communication as part of their "BBC Maestro" Series.

Cherishing the idea that “Life happens FOR you not TO you,” Richard strongly believes that if we truly acknowledge the uniqueness of our existence and the opportunities of challenges, we will open up ourselves to the much bigger universe where everything and anything is possible. This will be the redefining moment where we can tap into our authentic passions and turn them into projects by aligning what we love with what we do. However, to arrive at this point, we must question who we are, why we are here and how we can contribute our existential uniqueness to the greater good. 

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Challenges help us understand our purpose

• Realizing you’re one-of-a-kind will allow you to recognize your value and motivate you to share your uniqueness with others 

• People Reinvent their life after something huge happens

• View life and its challenges as a learning opportunity

• Your true passion and purpose is the currency that will lead you to fulfillment

Links:

Richard Green Links and Information:

Join us today to hear this beautiful and empowering dialogue with Suzana Pires, an Award-Winning Brazilian Actress, Writer, Executive Producer and Women’s Rights Activist.  Suzana is one of the most celebrated and respected actresses and writers in Brazil who in fact, was the first lead actress to also serve as a showrunner.

Currently she is developing TV and film for a broader, international market including Avallon Studios, Mermaid Studios and Amazon US.  Her book “UNLEASHED,” which focuses on women’s empowerment, was launched in 2023 in the US market.

When discussing which aspect of work she loves the most, Suzana shares that nothing can be compared with the primary energy and force of nature that being an actress represents; although this is a power that needs to be handled very delicately.

Suzana’s endless passion is omnipresent. Her drive is captivating and inspires her audiences to pursue their own passions as well. Although her road to fame was not always easy, Suzana transformed her challenges into a source of motivation to create a platform to share all aspects of her story - the good and bad. 

Suzana uses her voice to address Women’s Empowerment through her platform “DONADESI'' which also incorporates aspects from her new book, “UNLEASHED.”

Her team is doing a tremendous job by finding, educating and providing women with practical and relevant skills that will support them to start a new life worth living!

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Find your courage to be silly, authentic and true to yourself 

• Lose yourself in the character you portray

• The three main pains that women face in their professional field: exhaustion, oppression and loneliness.

• Empowering others is a great way to empower yourself

Links:

This week I was delighted to have an empowering conversation about the importance of storytelling with Shannon Pruitt, the Global Chief Content & Partnership Innovation Officer at Stagwell Global. She also currently sits on the board of Versus Systems and is Chief Member at Chief, a private network built to drive more women into positions of power and keep them there.

During her impressive career she was the founder and CEO of SMPI Marketing Group; Managing Partner, EVP at Horizon: Walt Disney Television Network’s portfolio; CMO at The Honest Company; Chief Content Officer at Carat USA  and so much more. 

From early on in life, Shannon was able to capture her imagination and unveil the power of storytelling by writing a series of stories and turning them into plays. Realizing how impactful storytelling could be if deployed for good, Shannon used it as a major tool to bring people together around ideas and initiatives. This is the reason that she chose to join the team at Story Lab and became president and CEO of the company. She then went on to create her podcast “Diversity and Disruption with Shannon Pruitt” which is a platform that brings together various industry players to share, learn, inspire and get inspired. 

Furthermore, Shannon has always had the courage to be an outlier - someone who is not afraid to think not only outside of the box, but as if there is no box at all! Thanks to her curiosity and the desire to be unique she has created a career and a life where she is her own narrator. 

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Finding out the “secret sauce” of who you are and what you can do differently should never be taken for granted.

• If you know your customers and are able to package your data and information with the story relevant to your audience, then you can always get the desired outcome. 

• Creating your own success story may not happen overnight, but always remember that progress is progress, so take it one step at a time.

• Showing up with good energy and curiosity will always be seen and appreciated by people, ultimately attracting new opportunities to your life. 

Links:

This week THE POWER OF RE:INVENTION podcast featured David Dancer, the Founder and CEO of D2 Marketing Strategies and a Founder and Host of Clout for Good, a bi-weekly podcast that showcases personal and powerful conversations with prominent LGBTQ+ identified executives who are OUT in the workplace. He is also the CEO of Future Method and the Global Chief Marketing Officer of NGDATA.  

Even while he is juggling several different roles, David has been committed to the fight for LGBTQ+ workplace equality following the main values and principles that always push himself to keep going, trying new things, being open to challenges and seeing opportunities even in the hardest of the times.

Being connected and connecting people is another core value of David’s, starting from his early childhood - which also explains his endless passion for team sports that he masters until this day. He firmly believes that being open to new challenges and accepting them as new opportunities is essential for living a life without regrets. 

Allowing yourself to be a constant learner is advice that David gives to people who are struggling to start over or keep pushing further and further. 

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Transforming the butterflies of fear to the joy of excitement will guarantee constant learning and progress.

• Once in a while you should sit back and contemplate your life, questioning whether what you do and where you go aligns with your values and morals.

• Surrounding yourself with the right people who will encourage you to take challenges and move forward is vital for a successful and healthy life.

• Taking risks and enjoying the process of handling hardships is the most effective shortcut to new opportunities and experiences.

• Being present in your network, showing up in your job and being open to conversations is the widest door to success. 

Links:

In this inspiring episode, Jonathan Bogner, a successful independent film producer turned entrepreneur and motivational speaker, shares his struggle with life-changing health conditions which ultimately lead him down a road to Reinvention.

Even after undergoing a heart transplant, Jonathan has been living proof that optimism and hope along with a well-defined set of objectives are the key elements of his formula to success. 

According to Jonathan everything starts from the little, thus very fundamental steps like stopping a moment to breathe and focus. Taking a walk and rewarding your body and mind is crucial to finding clarity in everyday life. These little steps are the secret to the road to success, even in the most traumatic situations that he personally had to face and overcome. Being able to curate his life by categorizing his priorities and predetermined set of objectives is what makes him excited about a new rising day each and every morning. 

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Focusing only on the present and future without looking back at the past is a powerful way to fully live and appreciate each and every moment of your life.

• The road to victory starts from shifting your mind from negative thoughts to optimistic, hopeful and positive ones.

• The only person that can change anything in your life is You. So, self-motivation and self-management is the key. 

• Stopping for a while to acknowledge and reward yourself for the progress that you have made is another form of self-care.

• You are in the driver’s seat of your own life and have full control to direct it to the best path possible. 

• Knowing your values and being connected with yourself are the first steps of Reinventing your life.

Links:

In this episode of THE POWER OF RE:INVENTION, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Matt Scheckner, the Chairman of Advertising Week—the world’s largest advertising / brand / content / marketing / media / tech industry summit. Matt's life journey is filled with unexpected twists and profound experiences that offer valuable lessons in the art of Reinvention.

Our conversation began by unraveling the layers of Matt's unique background, which defied predictability. He shared his childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian, a desire that took a fascinating detour. This journey commenced with a pivotal internship at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, sparking his passion for sports marketing and playing a crucial role in the establishment of the New York City Sports Commission.

We delved into the transformative power of early job experiences, shaping one's character and instilling a profound sense of responsibility in the ever-evolving work landscape. Matt shared invaluable insights into the importance of mentoring the younger generation, drawing from his own experiences.

Moreover, our discussion explored Matt's deep involvement in philanthropic initiatives, driving positive change in society. Heartwarming stories emerged as he recounted his support for schools in Africa, illuminating the incredible impact he has had on the lives of those he has touched.

Join us in this episode for an enriching conversation!

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Embrace the Unexpected - Matt Scheckner's journey from aspiring veterinarian to Chairman of Advertising Week teaches us that life's unexpected twists can lead to incredible opportunities.

• Early Experiences Matter - This episode highlights the profound impact of early job experiences in shaping our character and fostering a strong sense of responsibility.

• Mentorship is Essential - We learn the importance of mentoring and guiding the younger generation as they navigate the ever-changing landscape of the workforce.

• The Power of Philanthropy - Matt's philanthropic work, especially in supporting schools in Africa, reminds us of the transformative impact we can make on society through acts of kindness.

• Reinvention is a Lifelong Art - This episode inspires us to appreciate the art of Reinvention, both in our personal and professional lives.

• Positive Influence Through Storytelling - Matt Scheckner's experiences and insights offer a captivating exploration of career evolution, the value of early work experiences, and the influence one can have through philanthropy.

Links:

In this captivating episode with Joanne Lipman, we dive deep into the transformative power of Reinvention, both in life and work. Joanne's personal journey starts with her childhood interests, igniting her path in journalism – a journey that underscores the significance of reconnecting with our passions when embarking on a Reinvention quest. Together, we emphasize that Reinvention is a process of growth, building upon our past experiences and skills rather than discarding them.

Joanne introduces an invaluable four-step roadmap to Reinvention, urging us to confront our fear of change, visualize our future selves, and take deliberate steps towards our aspirations. Throughout our conversation, we underscore the pivotal role of a supportive network and the concept of an expert companion who provides valuable guidance along the way. Joanne's wisdom encourages us to prepare for Reinvention, challenging the myth of instant success.

Later in the interview, we explore the positive aspect of fear as a potent motivator and delve into the complexities of imposter syndrome. Joanne shares her book "Next" as a comprehensive guide for navigating life's changes, drawing from her rich experience as a pioneering journalist and bestselling author. Our conversation also underscores the importance of self-care, embracing moments of reprieve, and staying open to serendipitous opportunities. Join us on this enlightening journey of self-discovery and growth! 

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

1. Embrace Fear as Motivation: Fear, when framed correctly, can serve as a powerful motivator, driving personal and professional growth and inspiring action.

2. Visualize and Prepare for Change: Overcoming imposter syndrome and navigating Reinvention require envisioning yourself in your desired role and taking gradual, deliberate steps to prepare for it.

3. Cultivate a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with individuals who both support and challenge you, fostering an environment of encouragement and growth while avoiding those who discourage your aspirations.

4. Trust Gut Feelings and Aha Moments: Listening to your instincts and recognizing aha moments can lead to valuable insights and unexpected opportunities along your journey.

5. Prioritize Self-Care and Disconnect: Maintain your well-being, creativity, and life balance by practicing self-care, taking breaks, and disconnecting from work when necessary.

6. Embrace Past Experiences: The Reinvention process often builds upon past experiences and skills, utilizing them as valuable building blocks for crafting your new path in life and work.

Links:

In an enlightening dialogue between Kathi Sharpe-Ross and Jim Fielding, listeners are invited into Jim's captivating journey as explored in his book "All Pride, No Ego." Jim is the President of Archer Gray Co-Lab and a passionate advocate and philanthropist for the Queer Community, higher education, and diversity, equity and inclusion. Jim is committed to safe and authentic spaces for all individuals!

 The conversation traverses themes of courage, authenticity, and transformative leadership. Jim's pivotal career shifts, prompted by a desire for self-discovery, serve as a compelling backdrop to his insights on embracing change as a catalyst for growth.

Central to their discourse is the pandemic's impact on Jim's trajectory. The conversation unveils how this period of reflection pushed him to rethink his path and embrace his true self. His motivations for writing his book come to light as he shares how this period of uncertainty led him to a deeper understanding of the significance of authenticity in leadership. The narrative speaks to the power of adversity in sparking profound transformation.

Jim promotes creating work environments where every individual's story and identity are respected. The conversation celebrates the joy of dynamic career paths and the potential for multifaceted growth. Yet, beyond personal success, Jim's true passion lies in imparting positive change to others through his experiences and insights.

This episode encapsulates the essence of embracing change, leading with purpose, and the transformative power of sharing stories and lessons.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

1. Authentic leadership fosters safe and respectful environments where everyone's stories are acknowledged.

2. Embracing change and stepping out of comfort zones can lead to personal growth and authenticity.

3. Openness to new opportunities and passions can lead to a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

4. Major life events can prompt self-reflection and encourage new directions in life and career.

5. Authenticity is a universal principle, applicable to individuals from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

Links:

Embark on an inspiring podcast episode where Jennifer Prince, the visionary Chief Commercial Officer at the LA Rams, engages in a riveting dialogue with Kathi Sharpe-Ross. Discover Jennifer's exceptional career journey spanning renowned companies like Twitter, Google, American Greetings, Dow Jones, and Ziff Davis, driven by her passion for media and communication.  

Throughout the discussion, the themes of human connection, mentorship, and confronting challenges as a woman in male-dominated industries take center stage. Both Jennifer and Kathi underscore the significance of mentors and the reciprocal nature of mentorship. Jennifer shares enlightening stories of “Ah-Ha Moments,” pivotal decisions influenced by mentorship, personal values, and the quest to balance an accomplished career with family commitments. 

This conversation inspires a proactive embrace of change, viewing it as an avenue for personal growth. Key insights into work-life balance, the role of a supportive partner, and the empowerment of using one's voice are highlighted. The episode concludes with a vision for the future of mentorship efforts, encapsulating the essence of Reinvention and personal development.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

1. CHANGE can be an adventure and an opportunity so always seize it!

2. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, the power of human connection, mentorship, and using one’s voice are imperative to navigating challenges in the workplace.

3. Jennifer's “Ah-Ha Moments” during her career involve making pivotal decisions which were influenced by the guidance of mentors, personal values, and the desire to balance a successful career with family responsibilities.

4. When making career decisions, Jennifer commits to leaving a job only if there's something more to gain, whether it's a new responsibility, title, or skill set.

5. Managing work-life balance involves learning to say “no,” giving yourself permission to prioritize, and finding moments to be present with family.

6. Imposter syndrome can be a positive force, pushing individuals to embrace new challenges and learn along the way.

Links:

Join host Kathi Sharpe-Ross and guest Ann Rindone as they dive into Ann's inspiring story of growth and Reinvention. Ann's early aspirations of becoming a teacher were quickly derailed after a year in the classroom, so she went on to work in corporate America doing marketing at ConAgra. With time she decided that the corporate gig no longer aligned with her values so it was time to figure out how she would Reinvent her life. This is when she discovered Coaching.

Ann has always been good at exuding confidence, but struggled with self-doubt internally. Her trust in people was shattered early on in life leaving her feeling vulnerable. This event fueled her determination and strong-willed nature. However, it wasn't until she got into coaching that she realized these walls built to protect her were doing more harm than good. She learned how her past influences are what drove her today and now helps many people figure out not only their passions in life but also where they fit in. Enjoy the whole episode and learn how to break down those walls that are blocking you from your Reinvention. What are you waiting for?

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

1. Your past defines a lot of your motivations and decisions today 

2. It is important to tackle your own personal challenges in order to help others with theirs

3. Find your purpose in life beyond making money 

4. Often times you need to be the one to believe in yourself, because it is easy to let corporate America beat you down 

5. It is easy to want to put up a wall when you get hurt, but sometimes the thing that you build to protect you is the thing that hurts you the most 

Links:

Welcome to Episode 100!

Join Kathi Sharpe-Ross for an engaging and insightful 100th podcast episode with a truly exceptional guest, Babs Rangaiah. Babs is the CEO of cc:babs, an esteemed executive coaching and marketing consulting firm. Throughout this milestone episode, Kathi delves deep into Babs' extraordinary career journey, which encompasses impressive roles as the Senior Vice President at Paramount, an Executive Partner at IBM, and the Vice President of Global Communications Planning for Unilever.

Prepare to be inspired as Babs candidly shares the story of how he ventured from establishing himself in the industry to creating a powerful network and personal brand. Learn firsthand from Babs about the pursuit of his long-term dream of building his own company and the pivotal moments, and timing, that made it all possible.

Babs discusses the critical role coaching has had in his life, illuminating how a leadership program uncovered his passion for inspiring others to achieve greatness. He and Kathi also explore the importance of keeping a Reinvention in your back pocket for when you will inevitably need it. 

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or get coaching to excel in your career 

2. Build your network and personal brand early on, it will help you later 

3. You can only lead someone in the direction to find their passion, you cannot find it for them 

4. It is important to know how you would Reinvent yourself if the day came, otherwise you may be pushed into it 

5. Timing is sometimes the most important part of a Reinvention - sometimes you can know what you want and know it is coming, but cannot achieve it right away

Links:

Instagram: @babs2627

Join host Kathi Sharpe-Ross as she delves into a captivating conversation with Viviane Paxinos, the dynamic CEO of AllBright, a trailblazing organization dedicated to empowering women. In this inspiring podcast episode, Viviane opens up about her remarkable journey, drawing on the influence of her hardworking parents, her vibrant Greek community, and her unwavering commitment to personal growth and diversity. Discover how Viviane's curiosity and determination have shaped her career and leadership style, and gain valuable insights into the transformative power of embracing failures as invaluable learning opportunities. 

Through candid discussions about the challenges faced during career transitions, Viviane sheds light on the realities of women in the workplace, highlighting alarming statistics from AllBright's eye-opening future work survey. From the gender pay gap to the struggles of middle management, she passionately advocates for addressing mental health and well-being to pave the way for professional success. Prepare to be captivated by this empowering episode, where Viviane Paxinos unveils the blueprint for success, empowering women, and fostering inclusive workplaces.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

1. Embrace failures as valuable learning opportunities and maintain curiosity for personal and professional growth.

2. Take risks and be willing to make bold career transitions to find fulfillment.

3. Support women at the middle management level and address challenges faced during life transitions.

4. Address the gender pay gap and provide support for women after they have children.

5. AllBright's programming pillars focus on supporting female founders, middle-level management, and women reentering the workforce.

6. Networking, building relationships, and being open to pivoting are crucial for career success.

7. Prioritize mental health and well-being in the workplace.

8. Foster a community that provides support, mentorship, and opportunities for women to thrive.

Links:

Instagram: @allbright

Facebook: AllBright (@weareAllBright) 

Twitter: @weareAllBright

Dave Zaboski's creative journey is nothing short of extraordinary. As the co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Laetro.com, he leads a tech-enabled community of the world's finest creatives, providing top-notch design services to enterprise customers. With a background as a classically trained painter and experience as an animator at renowned studios like Disney, Sony, and Warner Bros., Dave has played a significant role in the Second Golden Age of Animation. His artistic contributions grace films like "Beauty and the Beast," "The Lion King," "Pocahontas," and "Aladdin," capturing the imaginations of millions worldwide.

Beyond the realm of animation, Dave has showcased his talents in various domains. He has illustrated acclaimed children's books, collaborating with notable figures such as Dr. Ken Dychtwald, Dr. Deepak Chopra, finance guru Ric Edelman, and actor Paul Michael Glaser. His concept art has shaped the visual landscapes of film and television. He has even embarked on adventurous journeys as an expedition artist in search of a lost temple in the Andes and as a painter for the Dalai Lama.

Dave's expertise extends beyond creating art. He has shared his knowledge and insights as a workshop teacher at renowned retreat centers like the Esalen Institute, Summit, and Rancho La Puerta. He has also contributed as a faculty member at Singularity University and NextMed Health Conferences, imparting wisdom on creativity, leadership, innovation, and collaboration. Amidst his global endeavors, Dave finds solace on a ranchette in Southern California, where he resides with his wife, Robin, and a charming menagerie. It is from this idyllic setting that he continues to inspire entrepreneurs, makers, and organizations worldwide with his teachings on unleashing creativity and embracing the power of artistic expression. Dave Zaboski's story is a testament to the transformative potential of art, creativity, and reinvention.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Reinvention has the power to transform lives and unlock untapped potential.

• Passion and purpose are essential in pursuing a creative career and finding fulfillment.

• Embracing one's true calling can lead to a successful and fulfilling path.

• Discipline and commitment are vital ingredients for creativity and artistic growth.

Links:

Meet my dear friend Treva Brandon Scharf, a certified life/dating/relationship coach, fitness expert, and author of "Done Being Single: A Late Bloomer's Guide to Love." With over four decades in the fitness industry and extensive experience in the dating world, Treva is an expert in helping people reach their personal best in both life and love. She shares her insights and advice on navigating singledom and finding love later in life through her blog and has contributed to several publications, including Huffington Post, Newsweek, and Thrive Global. Together with her husband, Robby, Treva co-hosts the podcast "Done Being Single" and advocates for the empowerment of strong, independent women and the recognition of late bloomers. When she's not delivering tough love to her clients, Treva volunteers as a coach for Special Olympics and mentors at-risk kids through the Fulfillment Fund. She is passionate about politics, policy, and helping people of all ages and abilities achieve their dreams.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Embracing being single and detaching from the outcome can lead to positive shifts in energy and mindset.

• Making tough decisions and embracing change are essential for personal growth and fulfillment.

• Setting boundaries, practicing acceptance, and knowing when to quit are important in dating and life.

• Reinvention can be prompted by life events and realizations that challenge the status quo.

• Relationships can be catalysts for personal and professional growth, but one's story and completeness are not defined by a relationship.

• Surrendering and relaxing can improve performance and reduce anxiety in various aspects of life.

• Self-acceptance, self-improvement, and confidence in oneself are crucial for success in dating and other areas of life.

• Lessons learned in dating can be applied to different situations.

• Personal growth and self-work are essential in relationships.

• Finding fulfillment in one's own life and seeking happiness through various avenues is important, not relying solely on a partner.

Links:

Treva’s website:

Kari Warberg Block is the Founder & CEO of EarthKind®, a purpose-led company that offers plant-based pest control solutions. She invented poison-free rodent and insect repellents and has helped decrease consumer reliance on poison & kill-based methods by 10%. Kari has achieved nationwide product distribution, carbon neutrality, ingredient and supply-chain transparency, and has advised the SBA, Congress, and the White House on policy that impacts women in business. Kari Warberg Block shares her personal journey and the events that led her to start her current business, a non-toxic pest control company. Despite facing challenges with education and a life-changing accident, she eventually pursued her dream of becoming an entrepreneur and now runs her own business. She found inspiration for her current venture after experiencing a problem with rodents on her farm and not finding a non-toxic and humane solution. This led her to invent a patented product that is still in use today, and she now runs the number one brand in America in her industry.

Throughout the interview, Kari highlights the importance of resilience, imagination, and determination in pursuing one's dreams. She also emphasizes the importance of focusing on what you don't know and asking questions, reaching out for help, and overcoming the fear of the unknown. Kari had to sell her possessions to fund her project and overcome her shyness and introversion. Despite facing numerous challenges in the early years of the business, including financial difficulties and leadership mistakes, Kari has found success by putting the business first and focusing on customer needs while crowdsourcing ideas from employees.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• A near-death experience can lead to a search for purpose, and it's important to focus on what you don't know that you need to know.

• Overcoming shyness and introversion is possible when you make it about your vision. Asking questions and reaching out for help can help to overcome the fear of the unknown.

• The internet has made starting a business more accessible, but starting a business can require personal sacrifices, such as selling possessions to fund projects.

• Finding solutions by crowdsourcing ideas from employees and focusing on customer needs can help overcome challenges in the early years of the business, including financial difficulties and leadership mistakes.

• Being a steward of the brand and driven by faith and the desire to bring joy to everything one does can help to create a successful and meaningful business.

Links:

EarthKind website:

The CEO of GK Digital Ventures, Greg Kahn, is a catalytic force in Technology, Media, and Entertainment industries, renown for connecting innovators with investors, growing brands, and driving billions of dollars in transactional deals. He is a 2020 recipient of the CEO World’s Business Role Model of the Year as well as a former award-winning executive at the Meredith Corporation and Publicist Group. Greg has worked with incredible companies advising, creating partnerships, and putting deals together for Verizon, Comcast,  T-Mobile, MasterCard, Disney, P&G, Bank of America, Nestle, ADT Security, LG Electronics, Cox, Whirlpool, and many more.

Greg is extremely passionate about creating a world of ethical connections between both humans and technology. He emphasizes how virtual and physical experiences are paired together in order to enhance the human experience. Rather than having either virtual or physical experiences, why not have both? Greg discusses how physical and virtual can work together to create connectivity, engagement, as well as a space to improve mental health. Although he acknowledges that even during the pandemic, technology facilitated conversations and connections that couldn’t be made in person, there still is an aspect of distraction that comes with our every day online interactions. He reminds us that the future of technology holds great possibilities for mobile devices, new emerging brands, as well as creating a world that we may not be able to comprehend yet.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• “It’s not either or, it’s and”: virtual experiences are now gearing towards enhancing physical experiences
• In some ways, Covid facilitated a lot of technology growth such as Zoom, however, it also hindered a lot of advancements in technology
• When a brand becomes a part of a cultural movement , all bets are off and it can disrupt an entire industry

Links:

Although Jennifer Justice was surrounded by women who chose a different life path, Jennifer always knew from a young age that she wanted to be a businesswoman. From being a first generation college student, to an Entrepreneur and former entertainment executive at Roc Nation, as well as being named to Billboard Women in Power list three times, she has truly embodied what it is to be a ‘lady boss.’ Jennifer is known for her expertise in building artists’ careers and business portfolios by marrying art and commerce as well as championing gender equality and diversity in the workplace and beyond.

Jennifer is passionate about advocating for women in the workplace and serves on several boards including Chair of the WIE Network Advisory Board and is a founding advisory board member of USC’s Annenberg Inclusion Initiative. Jennifer discusses how she wanted to create a platform for businesswomen to connect with one another and get valuable advice from someone who shares their experiences. She emphasizes that experiences in the workplace are vastly different when it comes to gender. Jennifer created her podcast “Lady Business” as a way to inspire other women to step into their careers as well as stand up for themselves in an industry that is male dominated. She also created “The Justice Dept,” a female focused advisory, consulting and law firm advocating for female founders, talent, execs and brands. Jennifer reminds us that with perseverance and community, we can make a difference for women in the workplace as well as in our own careers. Jennifer poses the question: what's taking so long?

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Although Jennifer was surrounded by women who chose to stay home and care for their families, she knew she wanted to be in the workforce from a young age
• The greatest lessons learned come from failing
• The industry continues to pay women less than men and at the current rate it will take 200 years for women and men to be paid equally
• People often get trapped when focusing on the benefits of working for a large company when making the leap to become their own boss
• What’s worse, regret? Or failing and learning from it?
• Men and women do not have the same experiences which is why Jennifer wanted to create a platform for women to get insight from other successful women in the workforce
• “You will fail, I fail every day”

Links:

Kim Strother is a celebrity trainer, health coach and yoga instructor. Her full-circle approach to wellness comes from an underlying belief in bio-individuality and a lifetime of being an athlete. She believes that each and every person has unique needs -- that personal differences in anatomy, metabolism, and body composition all influence overall health and what makes you feel your best.

Kim shares her story of how she found work that truly fulfills her simply by surrendering to her passions. From a young age, Kim knew she loved fitness and aspired to be a gym teacher. After years of trying acting, modeling, and other side projects, Kim realized that fitness deserved her full-time dedication. Kim reminds us to stop fighting what comes easy to us, and fight to live the life we are entitled to live.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Stop fighting what you’re good at and what you are excited about
• Work can be enjoyable and fulfilling when you’re doing something you’re passionate about
• When she stopped fighting what came easy to her, there was a rush of work, abundance, and income
• Kim always thought work had to be hard and you had to fight for it
• Every relationship that didn’t work out led her to a better place than she could’ve ever imagined

Links:

The day that Lauren Ruotolo made the choice to stand, was the day that would change her life forever. Lauren is an Author, Content Creator, Marketer and a DEI Advocate. Her previous accolades include senior positions at Johnson & Johnson, DanceOn, Hearst Magazines, and TV Guide. Lauren has dealt with many challenges in her life due to having a rare genetic disease called McCune Albright Syndrome. She explains that at 5 years old, she was faced with the choice of sitting or standing for the rest of her life. Lauren discusses how the promise she made to herself taught her to embrace challenges and allowed them to fuel her and her incredible life.

Lauren brings her experience and an inspirational voice to organizations globally to help them understand why they need to include the disabled community in their DEI and talent plans. After writing a first person essay that became the most read article that year, Lauren wrote a book which then taught her that “everyone’s story matters” and deserves to be told. This led her to become an inspirational speaker to help spread awareness and open up the conversation about disability. Lauren reminds us of the importance of keeping promises to yourself as well as becoming exactly who YOU want to be.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Make a choice to let challenges fuel you
• Every person’s story matters
• Keep your promises that you make to yourself
• Curiosity leads to education
• Nothing in life that is worth living, is easy

Links:

Although Carla never thought she would be where she is today, her childhood interest in accompanying her father at work and her fascination with being a boss foreshadowed her future success as the Chief Marketing Officer at JP Morgan Chase.  Her earlier business accolades include senior roles at CITI, TOYS ‘R’ US, PEPSICO and KELLOGG’s.

She learned early on from her father the importance of HOW you do the job, rather than the importance of what job you are doing. Leaning into the things she was good at and gravitating towards what is comfortable to her is what allowed Carla to find her passion and excel in her career.

Carla believes that if one has a moral compass and focuses on being good to those around them, then everything will fall into place. Regardless of her success, Carla admits that it has not always been as “up” as it seems. She speaks about utilizing your "toolbox" and past experiences as a way to solve your current battles, along with reminding yourself that everything can be a lesson learned.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• We are ENTITLED to be who we want to be
• Everything great sits on the other side of fear
• Stay true to yourself and the work will speak for itself
• Focus on how you do your job rather than what job you are doing

Links:

Although Tobi hadn’t planned on being a stay-at-home-mom; in retrospect, with two young children, being laid-off ended up being a blessing. Her decision to then create another chapter in her professional life was cemented when she thought about her kids.  She realized she’d raised them to believe their career options were limitless -- yet in her mind, they’d never known their mom as a “real” professional with a profound career in the Advertising industry. As her son went off to college, she went back to school herself, became Certified as a Life and Weight Loss Coach, and launched

Best Life Coach Tobi.

Tobi took being an ‘empty nester” and saw the positives and opportunities in it. She was stuck looking back at the past and what she had accomplished, but then decided to look to the future because her career is nowhere near done. Tobi rediscovered her “why” after putting her kids first and changing her mindset. She understands that any career and life comes with pressures and disruptions, even coaches need coaching, but she has learned to value the progress along the way and never forgot the bigger picture.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Being an empty nester can be extremely opportunistic
• As we get older we’re more likely to think backwards - we see our future based on the experiences that we’ve already had
• No matter what you do remember that being an entrepreneur means being a CEO of your own company
• Your mindset determines your confidence in your career and affects your work
• The “why” - so many people are concerned about taking care of others and we forget to take care of ourselves
• Give yourself some grace when trying to figure out something new
• Acknowledge the progress along the way, not when you’re at the end

Links:

The Himalayan guides who lead guests to the top of Mount Everest is what inspired the highly accomplished Lee Nadler to found Sherpa Marketing; and in-turn inspire his clients to reach their own personal Summit of Success.

Lee is a creator of game-changing ideas, who leads by example and galvanizes teams across organizations. Lee has built and transformed businesses as a leader across all disciplines within the marketing industry for B2B and D2C companies. He started his career at leading agencies, launching Snapple at KBS&P into a global phenomenon and as President & CEO of Digital Pulp, which he built into a top 50 Digital Agency.

Dorie Clark helps individuals and companies get their best ideas heard in a crowded, noisy world. She was honored as the #1 Communication Coach in the world by the Marshall Goldsmith Leading Global Coaches Awards. She is also a keynote speaker and teaches executive education for Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business and Columbia Business School. She is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Long Game, Entrepreneurial You, Reinventing You, and Stand Out, which was named the #1 Leadership Book of the Year by Inc. magazine.

Dorie may have had a lot of doors closed before opening some for herself by building up her own network and leaning into what she loves. She kept an eye on the change in the PR industry and to adapt to the fast-growing social media world. She now has worked for herself for the past 16 years and has written four books. Dorie observes that a lot has changed in the corporate world post-COVID. Employees will leave companies if they want to and it is up to the employers to proactively provide the tools and room for their people to thrive.

For the past six years Dorie has given herself some time to pursue other interests and passions, 20% of her time to be exact. She has been following a new passion and has learned how to write for musical theater and just finished her first project.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Lean into what you love and figure out how to make the money later
• Learn how to build your network for the long run
• Make people notice you and then appreciate you - empower yourself to access the opportunities you want
• Use the “what have you been up to?” question to your benefit
• Employers should give people the tools they need to learn and expand their fields if wanted - far more likely to stay
• Reinvention can be pro-corporate
• Understand that we are entitled to live the life that we want
• Feeling so busy - being busy is a form of social status

Links:

“Reinvention has nothing to do with becoming someone else and everything to do with becoming who you really are!” - Roger Osorio

Roger Osorio is an author, adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania, and founder of The School of Reinvention, a community-based coaching platform empowering people to launch and succeed in personal and career reinvention.

After graduating from Penn State University, Roger worked for a Fortune 500 company in marketing and sales. In 2008, after falling in love with a part-time job tutoring math, he quit his day job to reinvent his career. Along his journey to reinvention, Roger has worked with clients that include: Google, LVMH, JP Morgan Chase, Citibank and The World Bank.

Roger grew up always wanting to climb to the top of the corporate ladder, but that dream got flipped upside down. He got into a “relationship” as he likes to call it, with a passion he discovered and decided to follow it down a path of Reinvention.

Many people may come across the question “What am I doing?” but finding the answer sometimes sounds too hard to even try. Roger says, “You don’t have to know what to do in order to start but you do have to start in order to figure out what you have to do. So Start Now!”

Roger is full of advice and inspiring stories that you can check out on the newest episode of my podcast!

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• The “What am I doing?” question
• Finding your passion is like getting into a relationship
• The moment you start to connect with something, find a way to get up close and personal with it instead of watching from a distance
• Give your interests a chance and even a second one
• Connect with new people on a regular basis
• Mix new ideas in with the old
• Invite others to ask you new questions - could be anyone
• There is such a joy in having knowledge and expertise and getting to pay that forward
• Asking for help and advice will take you much farther than only depending on yourself
• Some values are going to become a little less important and some are going to be added throughout all aspects of life

Links:

Rob Master is an experienced global marketer and media leader with 30 years of brand building and P&L experience with leading Packaged Goods and Retail Marketers. Most recently, Rob served as Vice President of Media and Integrated Marketing for Unilever and sat on the board of Unilever’s U.S. Business. After more than 20 years with Unilever, Rob is now an Adjunct Professor and advisor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Rob doesn't call it like it is, but calls it like he sees it. His 30+ year-long career has shown him the change over the generations and the adventure that comes with it. He believes that it is perfectly alright to take a view based on the context of today, but adapt to the change in shifts in the years to come after that. Rob also believes that giving the younger generation the tools to feel confident and adapt to the future is the key for them to thrive in their careers. To find out more about Rob’s adventures and journey, listen to the newest episode of my podcast!

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• An entrepreneurial spirit is embedded in the young people of today - it’s not all about the corporate world for them
• Community involvement and engagement was not the norm years ago
• Borrowing from other industries - applying creativity to business
• The ability to bring an Ah-Ha moment to life takes hard work and consistency
• The obsession with the consumer and the people who service the consumer - front line employees represent much more of the brand
• Be constantly observant and curious

Links:

Seth Matlins is an award-winning marketer who has spent his career both in and advising the C-suite of some of the world’s biggest global brands. He is currently the Managing Director of the Forbes CMO Network, having joined Forbes in February of 2022. Prior to Forbes, he was EVP of Cultural Strategy and Insights at Hollywood powerhouse Endeavor’s full-service cultural marketing agency 160/90 and was the Global CMO of Live Nation.

Seth has been in the business industry long enough to know that it has changed drastically, especially over the last three years. His perspective is that the expression of humanity and shared value has become intertwined with the industry. The world is changing and we’re all playing at a different level now. Seth also thinks a lot about how “fear” has creeped in throughout his journey and how it is rarely a productive feeling, but it can be a productive motivator. Fear has forced him to confront the challenges of living his best life and question what that “best life” entails. As a father, Seth keeps in mind that he is a role model for his children and cares deeply about leaving the right legacy and priorities behind. You can listen to all the deep sentiments and interesting insights that Seth shares in this compelling conversation!

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• How are we going to Reinvent the way we live?
• “Better” is a subjective judgment
• Human identity and expression are morphing and showing up in ways that have never been given before.
• “The business of business is business”
• The expression of humanity and shared value is now business
• The absence of safety can keep a lot of good people from doing good and new things.
• Fear is rarely a productive feeling, but it can be a productive motivator
• Speaking the fear out loud, to yourself, is much healthier than keeping it in
• “The only thing harder than speaking your truth is not”
• “There is no try, just do” -Yoda

Links:

Tony Wells is the Senior Vice President, Marketing for Verizon. With more than 30 years of experience working with innovative, high-growth brands, he has deep expertise leading marketing, business development and strategic partnerships. Tony joined Verizon from USAA where he served as Chief Brand Officer. His corporate marketing career has been diverse and rich with senior roles at ADT, 24 Hour Fitness, Visa, General Motors and Nissan.  Tony is a member of the Board of Directors for Yelp, the Association of National Advertisers (ANA’s) and the New York Ad Club. He proudly served as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps.

Tony grew up cherishing the friendships he made, had a drive for success, and loved working in a team environment. He speaks about how the marketing industry can change rapidly and embraces the challenges that come with that. Throughout his career, he felt that if he worked hard, there was no limit to what he could do and applied himself accordingly. He acknowledges that there’s a long way to go with D&I in corporate America and shares that within these companies he worked for he was very aware that people who looked like him were not in C-Suite positions. Tony has leaned into this issue and is impacting change in the industry, but it still has a long way to go. As a mentor, father and grandfather, Tony has much advice to give and, as he says, even he still has a lot to learn in the industry.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• The science of it all, and the data are much more important in the marketing world today
• The profession and industry are constantly changing
• Marketing is life-long learning, dynamic and ever-changing
• Some changes are forced, some you make, some take a leap of faith
• It’s ok if your work-life balance is a work in progress
• Going into a new industry could also come with a personal Reinvention
• “Leave it better than when you got there”

Links:

Marisa Thalberg is a well-established pioneering CMO who has over 30 years across a variety of industries. Marisa has worked as a marketing executive for leading brands such as Revlon Inc., The Estee Lauder Companies, Taco Bell and most recently Lowe’s, while also forming and running her own organization called Executive Moms which is a peer support and networking tool for women who are mothers and professionals such as herself.

Throughout her professional life Marisa has not only had to Reinvent her industry expertise, but due to her career pivots, she and her family also had to commit to Reinventing their way of life by moving to several different cities. During our conversation, Marisa shared that she has faced challenges throughout her journey and career but having access to a wonderful network of people keeps her grounded in the moments of adversity.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Sometimes you’re the one that jumps off the pier, so to speak, and other times you get pushed
• The singular characteristic that defines all successful people is not socio-economic background or education level, it’s their resilience
• Don’t think of Reinvention as becoming someone totally different than who you are, it’s about adapting to change and growing by doing new things
• You are not alone in your journey and experiences - just talk to your peers and others and you'll find you're in good company
• The secret to leaning into the twists and turns of life is to believe that they have a purpose in your journey

Links:

Nina Spears, aka “The Baby Chick” and Brian Spears are the Co-Founders of Baby Chick. Baby Chick is a media and digital company that should be your go-to for anything in the pregnancy, birth and baby world. Nina herself is certified and trained in baby planning, birth doula care, postpartum doula care, massage therapy, newborn care education, infant massage instruction and so much more. Brian has almost 20 years of business experience and expertise in sales and business development.

As parents of two children themselves, Nina and Brian are extremely passionate about the brand they have created. Growing up neither of them thought they would be where they are today. They both realized the hard way that climbing the corporate ladder in business was not what they wanted. Giving in to the voice in their heads, telling them to go for what they want, has set the two of them on an amazing journey. COVID was a challenge, but the two of them were not afraid to do a deep-dive and evaluate themselves and their company. Baby Chick has come out the other side bigger and better and Nina and Brian have come out smarter and working even harder.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• It’s not easy and that’s okay
• Making yourself accessible to your entire audience is key
• See change as a challenge to overcome and become better for it
• Be honest with yourself
• Remember to ask yourself - “How can I be better?” Don’t fear the answer
• Invest in yourself
• You can always gain more knowledge - don’t be afraid to seek it from others
• You don’t start out being the smartest in the room - you learn and grow and it is a process
• Start the building blocks now - no need to hesitate
• Just because you can’t start now, it doesn’t mean never
• Don’t be afraid to learn the “why” from others - this journey is yours, but that doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help
• Own your entrepreneurship

Links:

Jeff Wagner, owner of the Jeff Wagner Agency, is a long-time friend and business colleague. Jeff has over 30 years of experience in various industries - Hospitality, Tourism, Entertainment, Properties and was the Former VP of Worldwide Marketing for The Hard Rock Café and Casino.

After several big jumps in his career, Jeff Reinvented his life and has learned that being an entrepreneur can be both wonderful and a grind. Today Jeff has further defined his north star and discovered his love for the outdoors - finding “his Everest.” From hiking in Iceland to climbing his own “Everest,” the advice and wisdom that he shares in our conversation is a must-listen. He’s learned so much about himself in this journey and can pivot and apply this focus and dedication to all parts of his life.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Every day is a challenge and a victory
• Sometimes you have to dig in and start doing the work before you have a plan
• You are your own brand
• You need to nurture yourself - personally and professionally
• “I did not climb Everest. I climbed’ my Everest’.”
  • Let yourself try new things
  • One mountain at a time
• Have to let the strategy go, grow and change
• Figure out how to make what you are doing even better
  • Put your passions first
• The “Yes” person in you can take a backseat sometimes

Links:

Summary of Episode:

Brad Rothenberg and I go way back - we’re talking about the 90’s people!  We had the great fortune of working on the World Cup ‘94 together! Brad is now the EVP of For Soccer Ventures. Following in his father’s footsteps, Allen Rothenberg who was the President of USA Soccer and the World Cup ‘94, Brad also grew to love and have a career in soccer. However, Brad has taken a different approach and has helped For Soccer Ventures create a “different universe of soccer.” Kids and adults in underprivileged communities can now have access to all of the same resources and opportunities that USA Soccer provides, but without the cost. This is what Brad loves. He loves “the part where we get to shed tears,” as he calls it, and is excited that he gets to change lives every day.

Brad’s Reinvention journey was not intended, but after his dear wife passed of cancer he had to become “two parents” to his sons. They picked up and moved to the other side of the world – how they picked the spot is an interesting story!  However, overcoming hardship is a powerful thing and with it came a new energy and excitement. These feelings have motivated him to do so much that even COVID-19 couldn’t stop him. It was opportunity to lean in and give back to the community in new and different ways.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Sometimes your perspective has to change
• If you can engage with trauma and find a way through it, a new wave of life comes when you figured it out
• There is an excitement and new energy that comes with Reinventing
• A lot of people don’t get to recognize what their passions are but if you try, they're there
  • It takes going into the quiet so try to listen to your inner voice
  • You can't calculate change, but it can be exciting if you have the right attitude and outlook

Links:

Richard Adler is an Entrepreneur, Advisor and Investor with a colored and diverse background that spans industries. His accolades include Feld Entertainment (Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus; The Walt Disney World on Ice Shows), Florida Panthers, and most recently advising the new artists platform with the "largest digital tip jar" PickleJar, among his many interests.

Richard grew up in Canada and developed his entrepreneurial mindset from a very young age. His passion to hustle and take great leaps of faith have led him on an amazing journey and career path. From working for the Greatest Show on Earth to following his love for hockey, there is no set path for Richard and that’s how he likes it. Every day is an adventure!

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Don’t stop until someone tells you “no” seven times
• Leap with faith
• Not every decision has to last forever
• Live life and have a career without a rearview mirror
• Know how to make it happen, not why it can’t
• If you’re not doing what you want in life, tune into your passions and Reinvent
• Working for yourself: We’re not in the good business. We’re in the great business!

Links:

Cindy Gallop is the Founder & CEO of MakeLoveNotPorn, a company that is “Pro-Sex, Pro-Porn, Pro-Knowing the difference.” Cindy decided to Reinvent her life when she turned 45; she had worked at Bartle Bogle Hegarty for 16 years and decided that was no longer the path that fulfilled her. Cindy resigned with no jobs in sight, but she happily says that everything in her life has been an accident and she is a big believer in serendipity.

Through these happy accidents, Cindy discovered that she loves working for herself and highly recommends everyone do the same. She advises people, especially women, in the corporate world to never forget what they want out of their lives. The best thing one can do is take a look around and see what is missing.

Cindy has been able to create a company around her values with MakeLoveNotPorn and is in love with the company’s mission and accomplishments. She realized that if we are not teaching about sex in the real world, porn becomes people’s only sex education. She is changing that through MakeLoveNotPorn’s mission to show real people, real bodies and to end rape culture one step at a time.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• “Do interesting things and interesting things will happen to you”
• Start something that you love, not what is expected
• People are always looking for something new, so why not be the creator?
• Work for YOURSELF - create your own ecosystem with your own values and you will find your people
• Future of business: Do good things, while making money

Loved this episode where I chat with former CMO of the Los Angeles Rams, Ronalee Zarate-Bayani who is now the Chief Brand Officer of Who Gives a Crap. Ronalee is a passionate innovator and inspirational leader. Both an intrapreneur and entrepreneur, she has re-imagined her roles in many companies.

Ronalee has had an entrepreneurial mindset since she was young and her love for brands has propelled her into a dynamic career. She “owns [her] authenticity” and it has led her to many diverse experiences and adventures with her family. From working at The Hershey Company, to the Los Angeles Rams, to Who Gives a Crap, she has always embraced change and enjoys pushing people to do what they love and follow their passions.

Some powerful takeaways from today’s episode:

• Finding the balance between the entrepreneurial mindset and an organization’s mindset is “where the magic happens.”
• Thinking ahead about what you want and looking back at what you have achieved, in all aspects of life, can help you feel more prepared to take a chance and change your life.
• Sometimes you have to accept the unplanned.
• Thinking about how much a company or career aligns with your personal values and priorities can help you navigate where you want to be.
• Being true to yourself and following your passions is the best way to do what you love - and you deserve it.

Links:

Today I had the pleasure of interviewing serial technology entrepreneur, Sue Fennessey, to learn more about her company, WeAre8, and the impact it’s having on brands and consumers. Sue creates disruptive business in the digital economy while empowering millions of creators and advertisers.