Being Relatable: Real Connections in Work, Life & Love

Ever seen something that clearly needs to change but worried about rocking the boat? If you've hesitated to speak up about broken systems, avoided challenging the status quo because you don't want to be labeled a troublemaker, or wondered how to create change without alienating everyone around you... This episode will show you how to become a productive disruptor. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner chats with Mary Kate O'Connell, a serial entrepreneur and brand coach who's mastered the art of creating positive disruption in toxic environments and outdated systems. MEET OUR GUEST: Mary Kate O'Connell - Serial Entrepreneur, Brand Coach at Two Market Media (NYC branding company) WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: Why demanding what you need (office, team, doubled rate) can lead to bigger opportunities How one successful disruption became the blueprint for a $20M business The power of "micro disruptions" to build confidence and skills How to challenge systems while maintaining respect and relationships The difference between productive disruption and just stirring the pot KEY TIMESTAMPS: 8:58 - How Mary Kate disrupted agency systems for an $8M account 16:09 - "Don't bring me a monkey without a banana" - bringing solutions, not just problems 17:39 - Transforming toxic culture by humanizing the workplace experience 23:05 - Mary Kate's "backdoor disruption" strategy with her current boss 24:06 - How her father trained her to challenge authority starting at age 6 26:01 - Why you can start building disruption skills today through practice 29:07 - Shifting from rigid client processes to human conversations 32:36 - Balancing change agent energy with being a team player 36:08 - The importance of finding allies who will support your disruption efforts 40:49 - HYPE SESSION: Celebrating Jessica McCabe of How to ADHD for keeping her values intact QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "If you're going to shine a light on the problem, please come with a solution. Otherwise, you are a troublemaker." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Identify one system or process that needs changing in your workplace Start having more human conversations instead of following rigid processes WOMAN WE'RE HYPING UP: Jessica McCabe - New York Times bestselling author and founder of How to ADHD, who kept her values intact by refusing to charge for resources, ensuring accessibility for everyone regardless of ability to pay. CONNECT WITH MARY KATE: LinkedIn RATE + REVIEW If this episode gave you the courage to be a productive disruptor in your own environment, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find the confidence to create positive change. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop worrying about rocking the boat? Remember: if your heart's in the right place and you're doing it for the right reasons, you might walk through a little fire, but it will be worth it. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever been told you're too much, too intense, or too passionate, and started wondering if you should tone it down? If you've been dimming your light to make others comfortable, apologizing for your energy, or shrinking yourself to fit into spaces that weren't made for you... This episode will remind you that you're not food, you weren't made to be digestible. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner chats with two powerhouse businesswomen, Rossana Baez and Sylvia Dorisme, who've learned to own their intensity unapologetically and create boundaries that protect their energy. MEET OUR PANELISTS: Rossana Baez - Founder & CEO of Baez Cleaning (10+ years in Florida), certified minority woman-owned business, mother, and entrepreneur who's learned to filter energy strategically Sylvia Dorisme - Founder of Zeal Technical Institute (private technical school in North Fort Myers) and IZVOR Wellness, business leader with 20 years of experience in boundary-setting WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: The importance of protecting your peace by not adjusting to everyone else's agenda Why dimming your light for others is a disrespect to yourself How to communicate clearly and set firm boundaries without apologizing The power of being intentional about the environment you want for yourself KEY TIMESTAMPS: 6:24 - Rosanna discusses being called "too passionate" and learning to filter her energy 11:54 - Sylvia's powerful college story about dimming her light and getting the lowest grade 16:45 - Rosanna's journey to owning her intensity in business leadership without apologizing 22:51 - Sylvia introduces the concept of "intentional unavailability" and healthy boundaries 28:48 - The cultural challenges women face when learning to say no 33:10 - Rosanna's experience of outgrowing a 10-year relationship that couldn't handle her growth 38:39 - Sylvia's advice: "We were not made to be digestible, we're not food." 45:08 - HYPE SESSION: Celebrating Sam (Rosanna's daughter) and Claudette Pierre (Sylvia's cousin) QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "I made a promise to myself that dimming my light for others is a disrespect to myself. I will never shrink in any room to make others comfortable. Their comfort is not my responsibility." "When you own your presence without apologizing, you don't lose space. You claim it." "I call it intentional unavailability. You're not intentionally being a mean girl by not supporting, you're being intentional about the environment that you want for yourself." "We were not made to be digestible, we're not food. They're not your people. Our goal in this life is not to be small. Our goal is to be whole." "In a relationship where that love interest told me that I was too much. And my response was, go find less." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Start filtering your energy - redirect it toward people who genuinely appreciate your intensity Practice "intentional unavailability" by saying no to one request without over-explaining Identify one relationship where you've been dimming your light and decide if it's worth maintaining WOMEN WE'RE HYPING UP: Sam - Rossana's 30-year-old daughter, who serves as her teacher and inspiration, constantly lifts her mother with purpose and intention. Claudette Pierre - Owner of FabBar Med Spa in Fort Lauderdale, Sylvia's cousin, who's making waves in the aesthetic medicine industry. CONNECT WITH OUR PANELISTS: Rossana Baez - BaezCleaning.com | Instagram | Facebook Sylvia Dorisme - Facebook & LinkedIn | ZealTechnicalInstitute.com | IzvorWellness.com RATE + REVIEW If this episode gave you permission to stop apologizing for being "too much," leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find the courage to own their intensity. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop apologizing for your intensity? Remember: when someone can only love a smaller version of yourself, that's not your person. Go find your people who celebrate the fullness of who you are. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever felt like you have to choose between climbing the career ladder and staying true to yourself? If you've been compromising your values, hiding parts of your personality, or feeling like success requires sacrificing who you really are... this episode will show you there's another way. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner chats with Kristie Scott, a former attorney who built and sold a million-dollar law firm, then chose to pivot into work that aligns with her faith, family, and true calling. MEET OUR GUEST: Kristie Scott - Former Attorney and Law Firm Owner, Current Business Coach and Author helping Christian business owners build profitable, sustainable companies at SuccessQuire.com WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: Why being good at something doesn't mean you should do it 24/7 How hiding your authentic self creates internal struggle and limits your impact Why temporary gains aren't worth sacrificing who you are The importance of keeping a written list of life priorities to guide decisions The power of surrounding yourself with people who are doing what you aspire to do KEY TIMESTAMPS: 4:16 - Kristie's decision to leave the legal profession to focus on family, ministry, and writing 7:03 - The burnout moment when she realized being good at something doesn't mean doing it forever 10:12 - How she couldn't express her faith authentically while working for someone else's firm 14:02 - Why she stopped working for other people and started keeping a priority list 18:10 - Learning from Dr. Shadreka McIntosh about balancing pharmacy ownership with motherhood 21:38 - Her advice for anyone wondering if they have to sacrifice who they are to succeed 24:18 - HYPE SESSION: Celebrating Tabbatha Carter, first Black female captain at Charlotte County Sheriff's Office QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "Just because you're good at something doesn't mean that that's how you should spend all of your time." "I don't think that we should compromise who we are, even if it will help us for some type of temporary gain." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Create a written list of your life priorities - what's truly important to you? Start surrounding yourself with people who share your values and priorities WOMAN WE'RE HYPING UP: Tabbatha Carter - Captain at Charlotte County Sheriff's Office, first Black female captain in the department's history, pursuing her doctorate while raising her children and supporting their talents in music and theater CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Kristie Scott - SuccessQuire.com (helping Christian business owners grow profitable, sustainable companies) RATE + REVIEW If this episode encouraged you to choose authenticity over advancement, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find the courage to build careers that honor their values. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop compromising who you are for career success? Remember: you're unique and special, with your own fingerprint, heartbeat, and experiences. Don't sacrifice that to be someone else. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever get tired of waiting for invitations to tables that you just know deep down inside you're probably never gonna get? If you've been waiting for someone else to recognize your value, invite you to the important meetings, or hand you the opportunities you deserve... this episode will show you how to stop waiting and start creating. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner chats with Cheyenne Jordan, an Austin-based realtor and HOA/condo association manager who's mastered the art of building her own table instead of fighting for someone else's seat. MEET OUR GUEST: Cheyenne Jordan - Realtor and HOA/Condo Association Manager (10+ years in Austin, Texas), expert in building intentional professional communities and networks WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: The importance of asking "Where do you see my value?" to key decision makers How to choose relationships carefully instead of accidentally The energy difference between forcing your way in versus natural alignment Why intentional relationships require years of careful cultivation, not quick transactions KEY TIMESTAMPS: 4:56 - Cheyenne's realization that being overlooked was about power dynamics, not personal worth 8:25 - The moment she asked leadership, "Where do you see my value?" and got striking feedback 13:47 - How she started building intentional community through shared values and service 19:52 - The difference between creating an open table versus fighting for a closed door 26:01 - Why relationships built on titles are transactional versus those built on values 31:27 - Her advice for anyone exhausted from waiting for recognition and ready to build autonomy 33:46 - HYPE SESSION: Celebrating Rena Munoz's success in the male-dominated construction world QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "If a door is closed, you have to keep banging on it, it's probably not where you're meant to be. Do you really want to be there if you have to fight so hard?" "The people who showed up for me weren't impressed by titles. They were aligned with my values." "If I don't make a change, I would still be in the same position a year from now, and that motivated me to make a plan, use my network, and build my own autonomy." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Identify your core values and look for community through shared service and causes Start building your personal "board of directors" through intentional relationship building WOMAN WE'RE HYPING UP: Rena Munoz - Owner of OP Contracting in Austin, Texas, fun-loving Latina mom making her mark in the male-dominated construction world while serving on Cheyenne's personal board of directors. CONNECT WITH Cheyenne: LinkedIn: Cheyenne Jordan (Austin, Texas) - loves connecting professionally and hearing how she can help you grow RATE + REVIEW If this episode inspired you to stop waiting and start creating your own opportunities, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find the courage to build their own tables. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop waiting to be chosen? Remember: if you have to fight that hard for a seat, maybe it's time to build your own table where you belong. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever catch yourself saying sorry for things that don't need an apology? Like having an opinion, asking questions, or just existing in a room? If you've been apologizing for your presence, shrinking yourself to make others comfortable, or making yourself smaller when you should be taking up more space... this episode will help you break those patterns for good. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner chats with Kelly Thawley and Erica Simpson, two accomplished leaders who've learned to own their space unapologetically and stop diminishing themselves in professional settings. MEET OUR PANELISTS: Kelly Thawley - Micro-credential and Workforce Programs Coordinator at Florida Gulf Coast University (10+ years in workforce development) Erica Simpson - College Professor (20+ years), Marketing/Business Communication expert, and founder of fashion blog "Try Hard to Be Pretty." WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: How to catch yourself apologizing for things that don't require apologies The mindset shift from "I don't belong here" to "I own this room." Why persistence and consistency eventually earn respect How to choose the right tables and find your people KEY TIMESTAMPS: 3:20 - Kelly's awareness moment about apologizing unnecessarily instead of saying "excuse me." 8:15 - Erica's beer festival story: from shrinking in the first meeting to owning the second 15:42 - Kelly discusses taking up space and speaking up when "this is how we've always done it." 20:30 - Erica's strategy for overcoming the habit of being inconspicuous in professional settings 25:18 - Kelly's approach to handling criticism about her blue hair and being "too much." 29:45 - Erica's advice on why we apologize for our success and how to stop 35:22 - HYPE SESSION: Celebrating Kristen Vancello and Joy Hambrick for lifting others up QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "Those who matter don't mind, and those who mind don't matter. You get to choose what table you want to sit at." "Act like you deserve to be in that room... those actions can come before the beliefs. Eventually, if you keep acting like that, you're going to believe it." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Identify one area where you've been shrinking yourself and commit to taking up more space Stop deflecting credit for your work and start saying "thank you" instead of "it was a team effort" WOMEN WE'RE HYPING UP: Kristen Vanselow - Assistant Vice President at FGCU for Innovative Education and Partnerships, leading change in higher education and making it accessible to adult learners (nominated by Kelly) Joy Hambrick - Dean of the School of Business and Professional Studies, an economist building an empire by making economics relatable and helping women with finances (nominated by Erica) CONNECT WITH OUR PANELISTS: Kelly Thawley - LinkedIn Erica Simpson - Instagram RATE + REVIEW If this episode helped you stop apologizing for taking up space, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find the courage to own their presence. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop apologizing for existing? Remember: you have the right to be here, to have ideas, to experience success. Own who you are and take up the space you deserve. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever been in a room where everyone's thinking the same thing, but no one's brave enough to say it out loud? If you've found yourself staying quiet when you knew something needed to be said, or wondered how to speak up without creating drama or being labeled as "difficult," this episode will give you the roadmap for finding your voice. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner chats with Lennise Germany, CEO and founder of Livy O's Catering, who has mastered the art of speaking truth with authority while maintaining respect and relationships. MEET OUR GUEST: Lennise Germany - CEO & Founder, Livy O's Catering (11+ years), Author of upcoming memoir cookbook "(Eat)Motional Intelligence," and founder of Culture Kitchen restaurant opening fall 2026 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: Why leadership means protecting authenticity and calling out toxic behavior When being the "outsider" permits you to say what insiders can't How to approach difficult conversations from a place of care, not judgment The value of surrounding yourself with people who challenge your comfort zone KEY TIMESTAMPS: 10:11 - Lennise shares how she confronted isolation tactics in her women's organization 19:27 - The Puerto Rico girls' trip moment that made everyone stop and stare 23:34 - How she learned to give difficult feedback to her former supervisor 28:22 - Her approach to delivering hard truths to team members and family 35:30 - Learning from friends who speak with authority in male-dominated spaces 42:07 - The importance of reciprocity in professional and personal relationships 47:34 - HYPE SESSION: Celebrating Ryan Halo's consistent excellence and ambition QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "If I come to you calm, I expect, and 9 chances out of 10, it's going to be reciprocated. But if I come in rage or anger, that's also what you're gonna get in return." "Leaders train leaders. And for me to develop a good or a great leader, I must give them the hard truth." "Every healthy relationship requires reciprocity. You cannot be in a healthy relationship with anyone without giving and receiving." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: This Week: Identify one situation where you've been staying silent when something needs to be said Practice reciprocity in your professional relationships, giving and receiving equally WOMAN WE'RE HYPING UP: Ryann Halo - Owner of Halo Salons and Halo Consulting, recently launched a jewelry line, is a serial entrepreneur in the Tampa Bay area, known for treating everyone with consistency and having a philanthropic heart. CONNECT WITH LENNISE Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn RATE + REVIEW If this episode gave you the courage to speak up when it matters most, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find their voice in difficult situations. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop staying silent when your voice is needed most? Remember: sometimes the hard truth, delivered with care and authority, is exactly what creates positive change. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever feel like the more professional you become, the less you feel like yourself? If you've been watering yourself down to fit into professional boxes, hiding your personality to seem more "acceptable," or wondering how to stand out without breaking unwritten workplace rules... this episode will give you permission to be authentically you. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner sits down with Janda Concepcion, a photographer and AI consultant who's mastered the art of blending luxury with authenticity, and explains why being colorful beats being neutral every time. MEET OUR GUEST: Janda Concepcion - Photographer & AI Consultant, Visual Branding House (helping business owners integrate AI into their visual strategy while maintaining authentic brand presence) WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: Why the tension you feel in networking might be coming from your own doubts How to position complexity as comprehensive expertise rather than confusion When to give professional advice even if it contradicts what clients want The power of refusing to sand down your edges for acceptability KEY TIMESTAMPS: 4:08 - Janda shares how she realized she was projecting her own insecurity onto networking situations 8:47 - The moment she understood that "being professional" was code for erasing parts of herself 12:38 - Standing up to a client's brand direction and why that changed everything 17:23 - Why she refuses to hide being multi-talented and how it improved her positioning 19:42 - The worst advice she followed: "be neutral" and why colorful beats beige 23:13 - Her advice for women who've lost themselves trying to fit professional molds 27:03 - HYPE SESSION: Celebrating the woman in the mirror who keeps showing up QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "I'm not here to sell bullshit to people just to look good for one week. I'm here to protect outcomes, and I'm here for results." "When you're neutral, you attract neutral clients. They negotiate, they hesitate, they don't fully trust bold direction." "Authenticity isn't reckless, it's anchored, and becoming yourself again, that's not a one-time glow-up. It's a lifelong practice." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Identify one way you've been "staying in your lane" when you could offer more comprehensive value Choose one area where you'll be more colorful instead of neutral in your professional presence WOMAN WE'RE HYPING UP: Every Woman Looking in the Mirror - The one questioning herself, wondering if she's behind or too much, but still showing up and doing the uncomfortable work of staying authentic CONNECT WITH JANDA: VisualBrandingHouse.ai RATE + REVIEW If this episode gave you permission to stop hiding your personality in professional settings, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find the courage to show up authentically. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to break professional norms and build an authentic personal brand? Remember: when you're neutral, you attract neutral clients. Be colorful, be authentic, be unforgettable. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever feel like putting yourself first makes you an evil, nasty, bad person, even when you're running on fumes? If you've been struggling with the guilt of saying no, setting boundaries, or making decisions that prioritize your wellbeing over others' expectations... this episode will change how you think about choosing yourself. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner sits down with two incredible women who've learned that choosing yourself isn't selfish; it's essential for showing up as your best self for everyone else. MEET OUR PANELISTS: Karina Borgia Lacroix - Owner, American Real Title & Borgia Consulting Corporation (17 years in business, 26 years in real estate law) Lori Willinski - Certified Integrative Nutrition Coach & Founder, Plant Powered Collective (helping women in midlife feel better through nutrition and lifestyle medicine) WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: How to move forward when others label your choices as "selfish." Why prioritizing your long-term happiness benefits everyone involved How to say no to last-minute demands without feeling guilty The difference between good customer service and being a pushover KEY TIMESTAMPS: 6:52 - Karina shares her decision to divorce her second husband when their son was 5 months old, despite family opposition 13:12 - Lori discusses quitting her job to start her nutrition coaching business after discovering her husband's double life 19:27 - Karina's car accident revelation: realizing she couldn't control everything was actually freeing 25:58 - Lori explains how her sister's death taught her not to wait and to be less scripted 38:38 - Karina's story about refusing a client's last-minute demand and getting a one-star review 41:40 - Lori's advice on how choosing yourself attracts the right people into your life 44:11 - HYPE SESSION: The incredible women our panelists are celebrating QUOTABLE MOMENT: "You teach people how to treat you. And if you're constantly bending over backwards and putting your own needs aside to please everybody else, that's never going to lead you anywhere." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Ask for help with something specific instead of saying "I've got it" Stop apologizing for choices that align with your values and long-term happiness WOMEN WE'RE HYPING UP: Kelly Sloan - New Board President of Little Bear Sanctuary, also saves sea turtles (nominated by Lori) Kathia Ogando Abba Gana - Single mom raising two boys after her husband's passing from ALS, keeping kids active in sports, and honoring her late husband's wishes (nominated by Karina) CONNECT WITH OUR PANELISTS: Karina Borgia Lacroix - Website | Instagram Lori Willinski - Facebook & Instagram RATE + REVIEW If this episode gave you permission to put yourself first without the guilt, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find the courage to choose themselves. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop feeling guilty about choosing yourself? Remember: you can't pour from an empty cup, and prioritizing your wellbeing isn't selfish, it's strategic. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever feel like you have to choose between speaking your truth and keeping the peace? If you've been biting your tongue in meetings, avoiding difficult conversations, or wondering how to disagree with someone without destroying the relationship... this episode is going to give you a roadmap. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner sits down with Megan Shields, a business strategist who's mastered the art of navigating conflict while maintaining strong work and life relationships. MEET OUR GUEST: Megan Shields - Business Strategist & Owner, Chimehouse Media (helping businesses scale through strategic planning and execution) WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: The importance of managing your emotional state before making decisions The 97% rule: identifying what you can let slide vs. your true deal-breakers How to recognize when relationships are no longer serving your growth Why changing your routine opens doors to new opportunities KEY TIMESTAMPS: 1:49 - Megan's strategy for thinking through all possible outcomes before difficult conversations 4:27 - How working with her husband taught her to navigate professional disagreements 6:33 - The 97% rule: knowing what you can let slide vs. your deal-breakers 9:02 - Megan's story of moving cities to align with her values and leave toxic relationships behind 16:22 - How changing routines naturally shifts the people in your life 18:47 - Why protecting your peace is more important than proving you're right 21:12 - HYPE SESSION: Megan celebrates Kristen Tierney's resilience and friendship QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "Sometimes we have to change a little bit to change what's around us, to change the people that come into our lives, and also make the space for those people to come into our lives." "If you do the same stuff all the time, you're gonna end up getting the same results, and that also includes the same people." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Before your next difficult conversation, write down all possible outcomes and how you'd handle each one Change one routine (coffee shop, lunch spot, networking event) to create space for new connections WOMEN WE'RE HYPING UP: Kristen Tierney - Owner of Tierney Development Group, nonprofit leader for 30+ years, recently navigated some big life changes while running her business and raising two sons (nominated by Megan) CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Megan Shields - Instagram: @ChimehouseMedia (business) or @HeyMeganShields (personal) | Always up for voice note conversations! RATE + REVIEW If this episode helped you think differently about handling conflict in your professional relationships, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find practical strategies for navigating workplace challenges. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop avoiding difficult conversations? Remember: you can disagree and still maintain respect, but first you need to know what's truly worth fighting for. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever feel like you've been performing a version of yourself for so long that you almost forgot who you really are underneath it all? If you've been dimming your personality to fit into professional boxes, hiding your emotions to seem more "logical," or following scripts that feel completely wrong... this episode is going to be a game-changer. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner sits down with two successful women who've learned that their biggest "weaknesses" are actually their greatest superpowers, and how authenticity became the key to their success. MEET OUR PANELISTS: Candace Sonne - Owner, JC Castle Tax & Accounting (national firm specializing in micro-businesses and solopreneurs) Miranda Martin - Life Insurance Leader & Author of "The Ultimate Sales Training Success Guide" WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: How trying to emulate others squashes creativity and intelligence Why "never too high, never too low" kills authentic connection The power of showing up messy, real, and unscripted How to get comfortable being uncomfortable on camera/in content KEY TIMESTAMPS: 1:42 - Candace shares how trying to emulate logical women in business squashed her creativity and intelligence 8:49 - Miranda discusses navigating judgment as a single mom working in a male-dominated industry 12:14 - Candace explains how her emotional nature and empathy became her sales superpower 17:02 - Miranda reveals the corporate conditioning that taught her to hide emotions and stay "level" 21:46 - Candace's breakthrough moment choosing authenticity over approval in video content 25:28 - Miranda's advice: "People need to hear from you" - your unique perspective matters 30:03 - HYPE SESSION: The women our panelists are celebrating right now QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "All the things that I've been criticized for have actually been my superpower." "When I try to put a hat on that's not me, it squashes everything about me." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Stop apologizing for your natural traits (emotion, empathy, passion) and start leveraging them as strengths Try creating content or having conversations in whatever setting feels most comfortable to you (even if it's imperfect) WOMEN WE'RE HYPING UP: Sarah Sonne - Candace's daughter, mother of four, who is walking daily and exploring her passion for therapy (nominated by Candace) Amy Falvey - Miranda's business partner, with 178% business growth and reaching the top of their organization (nominated by Miranda) CONNECT WITH OUR PANELISTS: Candace Sonne - JC Castle Tax & Accounting (tax and accounting services for micro-businesses and solopreneurs) Miranda Martin - Facebook: Miranda Martin (Sales Gym app launching 2026, life insurance training) RATE + REVIEW If this episode gave you permission to stop performing and start being authentically you in your professional life, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find the courage to show up as themselves. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop performing and start being yourself? Your authenticity isn't a weakness to hide; it's your greatest competitive advantage. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever feel like you're collecting business cards instead of actually connecting with people? If you've been to one too many networking events where everyone's working the room with elevator pitches and surface-level small talk... this episode is going to change how you think about professional relationships entirely. In this episode of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner sits down with two women who've mastered the art of building real, lasting professional connections. No scripts, no transactional exchanges, just authentic relationship-building that actually works. MEET OUR PANELISTS: Jackie Mosier - IT Consultant & Founder, Clear Mind Bold Moves (pioneering sober networking initiatives) Dr. Dawn Belamarich - President & CEO, Collaboratory Southwest Florida (regional community foundation leadership) WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: Why giving people a second chance often reveals unexpected connections How to regularly "detox" your network to protect your energy The difference between people who support you and people who champion you Why being fascinated beats being fascinating every time KEY TAKEAWAYS: Jackie shares how a networking connection became one of her closest friendships despite a rocky start Dawn discusses the importance of regularly "detoxing" your circle and only surrounding yourself with self-aware people Jackie's evolution from "fly on the wall" to authentic connector through genuine conversation Dawn describes building trust-based relationships with board leadership that became genuine friendships QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "My new jam for this year is I only want to be surrounded by people who are self-aware." "The more you just come from asking genuine questions, or just getting to know them on a personal level, they actually tell you more than asking them the survey questions that most networkers do." "It's so much better to be fascinated than fascinating. So many people want to be fascinating and don't take the time to listen to how fascinating others are." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Identify one professional relationship that started transactionally, and reach out to learn something personal about them Audit your current circle: Who energizes you vs. who drains you? Give someone a second chance. Reconnect with a professional contact you may have initially misjudged WOMEN WE'RE HYPING UP: Alejandra Lopez - Founder of Southwest Florida Women in Construction (nominated by Jackie) Gina Dengler - Philanthropy team member at Collaboratory & Executive Leadership Program participant (nominated by Dawn) RATE + REVIEW If this episode shifted your perspective on professional networking and inspired you to build more authentic connections, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other professionals discover the power of genuine relationship-building. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop collecting business cards and start building real relationships? Remember, the secret is being genuinely interested in others, not just interesting to them. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Ever feel like you've been waiting for someone else to hand you a permission slip when deep down, you already know you're ready? If you've been putting off that big career move, holding back your ideas in meetings, or waiting for the "perfect" moment to step up... this episode is going to change everything. In this special International Women's Month series of Being Relatable, host Erica Castner sits down with three accomplished women who've learned to stop waiting for permission and start writing their own rules. Whether you're navigating a career transition, building confidence, or finally ready to claim your seat at the table, this conversation will give you the push you've been looking for. MEET OUR PANELISTS: Kristen Manomat - Executive Director, Girls on the Run Southwest Florida (confidence-building programs for girls and their communities) LaShaun Middlebrooks Collier - Founder, Whole and Well (wellbeing resources and evidence-based practices) Toni Rozelle-Rosio - Director of Marketing, United Way of Lee Hendry Glades (community impact and organizational leadership) WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: Why overwhelming projects become manageable when you chunk them into smaller, actionable pieces Why servant leadership doesn't mean self-abandonment How stepping into spaces you don't feel "ready" for accelerates your growth The art of standing up for your vision when others don't get it yet KEY TIMESTAMPS: 14:58 - Kristen shares her transition from teaching to nonprofit leadership and how breaking down big, scary goals made them achievable 22:37 - LaShaun discusses learning to claim authorship of her ideas and the difference between humility and disappearing 27:50 - Toni talks about asking for promotion "too early" and proving her readiness through action 30:46 - The leadership program that changed Kristen's entire perspective on her own worth 34:19 - LaShaun's "crazy idea" that opened minds by refusing to conform to "how we do things." 40:48 - Toni's advice on permitting everyone to be themselves in their careers 43:17 - HYPE SESSION: The women our panelists are cheering on right now QUOTABLE MOMENTS: "The data is in the doing. Even if something falls apart, now you have more information that's going to guide your next step." "Being humble and having humility are not necessarily the same thing. Sometimes being humble can shrink into erasing your effort and your intellectual property." ACTION STEPS TO TAKE AFTER LISTENING: Identify one big goal you've been putting off and break it into 3-5 smaller, actionable steps Practice taking credit for one idea or contribution without over-explaining or diminishing it Apply for or say yes to one opportunity that feels slightly outside your comfort zone WOMEN WE'RE HYPING UP: Lisa Gallucci - Founder of Pelican Patrol Home Watch (nominated by Kristen) Sonya McCarter - Founder of Bridging the Gap Performing Arts (nominated by LaShaun) Jeannine Joy - President & CEO of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades (nominated by Toni) CONNECT WITH OUR PANELISTS: Kristen Manomat - LinkedIn | Girls on the Run SWFL LaShaun Middlebrooks Collier - Subscribe to the Whole and Well Blog Toni Rozelle-Rosio - United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades Facebook page RATE + REVIEW If this episode gave you the permission slip you needed to finally take action on something you've been putting off, leave a review wherever you listen to Being Relatable. Your review helps other women find the courage to stop waiting and start doing. STAY CONNECTED Follow host Erica Castner on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and more conversations about building authentic relationships in work, life, and leadership. Ready to stop waiting for someone else to tell you you're ready? Remember, the permission slip was always yours to write. Get Erica's Weekly "Pep Talks" directly to your inbox HERE!

Today's pep talk is for the Chick who's been feeling a little unsupported lately… and might be making it harder for people to actually show up for her. Welcome back to Being Relatable. This is part of my Weekly Pep Talk Series, where I'm helping you show up with more courage, clarity, and connection in all areas of your life. Here's what I see all the time with strong, capable women...You're not asking for too much. You're barely asking at all. You tell people you're "fine." You keep it vague. You give the watered-down version of what you're carrying. And then you feel hurt when no one shows up the way you hoped. But people can't support what they can't see. And most people would rather do nothing than guess wrong. On the surface, vagueness feels mature. Underneath, it's a sneaky way of staying alone in it. So, here's the one move you can do today to get more support: Stop hinting. Start naming. A hint is: "I'm stressed." Naming it looks like: "Can you check in with me tomorrow afternoon? I could use a steady voice." A hint is: "We should get together sometime." Naming it looks like: "Can we lock in a coffee this week? I miss you." A hint is: "This is a lot." Naming it looks like: "Can I talk for five minutes? I don't need advice, I just need you to listen." Question to ponder: Where have you been vague about what you need… and then quietly disappointed when people didn't magically know? Tiny action: Pick one person you trust. Send one clear sentence today: "Do you have ten minutes? I need to say something out loud." "Can you check in with me on Friday? I could use a steady voice." "Can I borrow your brain on this decision? I'm stuck." "I don't need a solution — I just need you close." Remember: You're not being "too much." You're being clear. And clarity is kindness to the people who want to show up for you. Want more short pep talks like this delivered every Monday? Sign up for the Weekly Pep Talk Series at https://ericacastner.com/peptalk, and if you ever decide it's not for you, you can unsubscribe anytime.

Today's pep talk is for the Chick who keeps telling herself "maybe next time" about the things she actually wants. Welcome back to Being Relatable. This is part of my Hype Yourself Up Pep Talk Series, where I'm helping you let go of what you are not taking into 2026 and step into a HYPE worthy year. You see something and your whole body lights up for a second: A workshop. A networking event. A program. A trip. A conversation you've been wanting to have. For a moment, you think, "This is it. This is exactly what I need." Then your brain kicks in and says things like: "This month is too busy." "Money is tight." "I wouldn't be able to show up the way I should." "I'll catch it next time… when things calm down." On the surface, it sounds responsible. Underneath, it's a very sneaky way of keeping yourself in the same place. "Maybe next time" feels gentle. But stack enough "next times" together and what you really have is: "Not this year." "Not for me." "Not now… again." Here's the truth: The things you say "maybe next time" to are often the very things that would help you become the woman you keep saying you want to be. You are not flaky. You are not incapable. You're just used to giving firm yeses to everyone else's needs… and soft maybes to your own. Question to ponder: What is one thing you've been saying "maybe next time" to that you would genuinely regret not doing a year from now? Tiny action: Name that thing. Then, today...not next week, take one concrete step toward it: Pay the deposit. RSVP yes. Send the message. Block the time on your calendar. Fill out the form. Don't overhaul your life. Just move it out of "maybe someday" and into "I've already started." Take this a step further: If one of the things you've been quietly putting in the "maybe next time" pile is getting clear on what you want your next year to look like, that's exactly what we're doing inside HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp. We'll map out a simple, honest plan for your next 12 months so it's easier to give yourself a real yes instead of another "later." Head on over to ericacastner.com/hypeyear for more details. You owe it to yourself to have a life, career, and relationships that hype you up, and I'm here to cheer you on.

Today's pep talk is for the Chick who's mad at others, at herself, or just at how things have gone...and doesn't know what to do with it. Welcome back to Being Relatable. This is part of my Hype Yourself Up Pep Talk Series, where I'm helping you let go of what you are not taking into 2026 and step into a HYPE worthy year. Anger is not a character flaw; it is information. And, it is your body's way of saying, "Something here does not line up with my values, my needs, or what I was promised." The problem is not that you feel anger. The problem is what you do when you either stuff it down or let it explode. Both of those leave you feeling out of control. What if anger were simply a spotlight, showing you where a boundary, a change, or a conversation is needed? Question to ponder: If your anger could talk calmly, what boundary would it ask you to create or protect right now? Tiny action: Write one sentence that starts with, "My anger is trying to protect me from…" and finish the sentence honestly. You do not have to send it to anyone. Just get it out of your head and onto paper. If you're tired of swallowing your anger or exploding with it, and you want to turn it into clear boundaries instead, join us for HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp. We'll use simple reflection questions to turn that anger into decisions about what changes next year. Check out the link in the show notes or head on over to ericacastner.com/hypeyear for more details. You owe it to yourself to have a life, career, and relationships that hype you up, and I'm here to cheer you on.

Today's pep talk is for the Chick who keeps waiting to "feel confident" before she moves. Welcome back to Being Relatable. This is part of my Hype Yourself Up Pep Talk Series, where I'm helping you let go of what you are not taking into 2026 and step into a HYPE worthy year. You do not actually have a "confidence problem." You have a "receipts problem." Confidence is not a personality trait you either have or do not. It is built by taking actions, collecting evidence, and realizing, "Oh. I can do this." Right now, you may be looking at every place you fell short and treating it as proof that you are not ready. But for every moment you doubted yourself, there is also a moment you showed up, figured it out, or tried again. Question to ponder: If you only judged yourself by the times you got back up, what would you see in yourself? Tiny action: Make a short list of three moments you did something hard or uncomfortable and got through it. Keep that list in your phone. That is your confidence evidence file. Look at it before you take your next brave step. Take this a step further: If you're done waiting to "feel confident" before you move, come join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp. We'll break your goals into small, brave steps so you can start collecting real evidence that you can do hard things. Join us by registering here! You owe it to yourself to have a life, career, and relationships that hype you up, and I'm here to cheer you on every step of the way. Join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp.

Today's pep talk is for the Chick who's exhausted from carrying everyone else's problems like they're her own. Welcome back to Being Relatable. This is part of my Hype Yourself Up Pep Talk Series, where I'm helping you let go of what you are not taking into 2026 and step into a HYPE worthy year. Here is a hard truth: Not everything people hand you belongs to you. Sometimes their criticism is about their fears. Their lack of support is about their own limitations. Their drama is about their unhealed stuff, not your worth. When someone projects their insecurity onto you, it can feel tempting to fix, smooth, explain, or carry it. But you are allowed to mentally say, "This is not mine," and put it down. Question to ponder: Whose story have you been carrying as if it were your own truth? Tiny action: Visualize writing that person's name and "their issue" on a sticky note and placing it outside of your front door. You are not responsible for solving it. Notice how your body feels when you imagine stepping back inside without it. Take this a step further: If your goal is to let go of other people's problems and projections, join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp. We'll map out the environments and relationships that fuel you and identify the ones you need more distance from in the year ahead. Join us by registering here! You owe it to yourself to have a life, career, and relationships that hype you up, and I'm here to cheer you on every step of the way. Join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp.

Today's pep talk is for the Chick who edits herself in real time based on what she imagines other people might think. Welcome back to Being Relatable. This is part of my Hype Yourself Up Pep Talk Series, where I'm helping you let go of what you are not taking into 2026 and step into a HYPE worthy year. If you have ever edited yourself in real time because you imagined what someone might think, you are not alone. Caring what others think is human. You are wired for connection and belonging. The goal is not to stop caring altogether; the goal is to stop letting imagined opinions pilot your life. Someone will always have an opinion. About your clothes. Your business. Your relationship. Your ambitions. But at the end of the day, the only person who has to live with the consequences of your choices is you. Their opinions are commentary. Your decisions are your legacy. Question to ponder: If you trusted your own opinion of yourself more than anyone else's, what would you do differently in the next 30 days? Tiny action: Choose one small thing today that feels authentic to you, even if you imagine someone may raise an eyebrow. Wear the outfit, share the post, ask the question, pitch the idea. Then notice: did the world actually end, or did you get a little freer? Take this a step further: If you're tired of letting other people's opinions drive your decisions, join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp. You'll get space to define what you want your year to be about, so you're not building your life around their commentary. Join us by registering here! You owe it to yourself to have a life, career, and relationships that hype you up, and I'm here to cheer you on every step of the way. Join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp.

Today's pep talk is for the Chick who says yes before she even has time to think. Welcome back to Being Relatable. This is part of my Hype Yourself Up Pep Talk Series, where I'm helping you let go of what you are not taking into 2026 and step into a HYPE worthy year. You have built a life on being dependable. You say yes because you care. You say yes because you can. You say yes because you do not want to disappoint anyone. But every time you say yes to something that is not aligned, you automatically say no to something that is. Your time, your energy, your attention...sadly, they are not unlimited. And, a powerful life is not built on perfect yeses! It is built on honest ones. Question to ponder before you say "yes" to someone else: If your yes really meant something sacred this year, what would you need to start saying no to? One tiny action step to take: Practice one simple sentence this week: "I need to think about that, and I will get back to you." Give yourself at least a few hours before committing. Even that tiny pause is you reclaiming your power to choose. Take this a step further: If you want your yes to actually mean something and not come from guilt or pressure, join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp. We'll create a "no more" list together so your calendar reflects what really matters to you. Join us by registering here! You owe it to yourself to have a life, career, and relationships that hype you up, and I'm here to cheer you on every step of the way. Join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp.

Today's pep talk is for the Chick who feels wiped out after every interaction with certain people. Welcome back to the Being Relatable Podcast. This is part of my Hype Yourself Up Pep Talk Series, where I'm helping you let go of what you are not taking into 2026 and step into a HYPE worthy year. Some people walk into a room and dim the lights. Their words, their mood, their constant complaining, and it all feels heavy. You may have been trained to absorb that negativity, to be the buffer, the fixer, the one who keeps the peace. But you are allowed to protect your energy without having to tolerate other people's negativity. You can be kind and still have limits. And, you absolutely can be compassionate and still choose distance. Question to ponder to protect your energy from other people's negativity: Which relationships or environments consistently leave you feeling drained instead of energized? One tiny action step to take: Create one small boundary with negativity this week. It might sound like, "I care about you, but I cannot talk about this in this way right now," or it might look like leaving a conversation earlier, or taking longer to respond to a chronic complainer. Take this a step further: If your goal is to protect your energy from other people's constant negativity, join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp. We'll map out the environments and relationships that fuel you and identify the ones you need more distance from in the year ahead. Join us by registering here! You owe it to yourself to have a life, career, and relationships that hype you up, and I'm here to cheer you on every step of the way. Join us for the HYPE Worthy Year Bootcamp.