Growth & Failure

In this episode, we dive into:How Shilpa transitioned her computer science degree and experience in the tech world to creating a pioneering fashion brand that reshaped the e-commerce and retail landscape. Co-Founding CUYANA and the importance of "Fewer, Better"Transformative work with Robin BreckenridgeDifferences between boundaries and grudgesThe importance of self-workHer incredible philanthropic and humanitarian work: Please enjoy this conversation with the incomparable, Shilpa Shah. For more on Shilpa, you can connect with her on Instagram: Shilpa Shah - Instagram

In this episode - we dive into: Transitioning from a history major to medical schoolThe opportunity to build Ohana, Montage Health's child and adolescent mental health program.How to build mental fitness, for children and adults Building her own OhanaPlease enjoy this interview with the incredible, Dr. Susan Swick. For more information and content from Susan, please visit:Talkaboutable with Dr. Susan Swick (her fantastic new podcast!)Ohana Montage HealthBooks mentioned: MindsetThe Blessing of a Skinned Knee: Raising Self-Reliant ChildrenMan's Search for Meaning The Choice: Embrace the Possible

In this episode, we discuss:How hot tub sessions with her best friends helped bring kombucha into the mainstreamBuilding Health-Ade from farmers markets to over 50K stores nationwideThe identity shift when you take a step back from the company you builtWhy it's important to treat and trust your gut (I had to do it!)Please enjoy this interview with the bubbly and fabulous, Vanessa Dew.For more content from Vanessa, check out her newsletter:The Slow Brew

In this episode - we cover: How Western Kentucky University shaped her love for economicsThrough Covid comes content creationHer best-selling book, In This EconomyBread, her media company, and the expansion goalsRethinking how we talk about economics education As she autographed her book for my kids, I’ll leave you with the same words she wrote to them: Enjoy! The world of economics is amazing! Please enjoy this interview with the fantastic, Kyla Scanlon. To find more on Kyla, please visit:Kyla Scanlon OFFICIALKyla's SubstackKyla's Instagram

In this episode, we dive into:Her family's journey from Chile to CanadaThe moment she fell in love with music videosHow Wendy broke into the world of directing unforgettable music videos and narrative filmsThe story behind directing one of the greatest music videos of all timeWendy Morgan inspires me in so many ways — her graceful presence both on and off set, through her creative vision, and her extraordinary ability to evoke deep emotion through her work.Enjoy this conversation with the bold, visionary director: Wendy Morgan. For more information on Wendy, please visit her website:Wendy Morgan - OFFICIAL

In this episode, we discuss:Her family's immigration story after the HolocaustHow the death of her sister impacted the familyLeading the San Francisco Suicide Prevention for 30+ yearsManaging 65K calls each year in the oldest US suicide hotline Using humor as therapyPlease enjoy this episode with the legendary, Eve Meyer.

In this episode, we discuss: Rosanne's journey from wealth management to entrepreneurshipHow a groundbreaking medical device got on her radarTaking on the CEO role of the startup, CorofloTheir groundbreaking technology that helps new mothers and newbornsHow connection drives her and Coroflo's work Please enjoy this interview with the delightful - Roseanne Longmore. For more information on Coroflow, please visit: https://www.coroflo.com/

In this episode - we cover: Dr. Simon's pioneering work as a corporate anthropologist How humans hate to change, have to change, and need a hand Turning observations into innovation AI vs AI: Artificial Intelligence vs Anthropological IntelligencePlease enjoy this interview with the changemaker, Dr. Andi Simon. To learn more about her research, you can visit: https://www.andisimon.com/

In this episode - we cover: Helaine's professional journey from tech & marketing to founding CITYROW When she got bit by the rowing bugHow she built the company from one studio in NYC into a national fitness brand with over 65 franchisesHer exit and selling the business to WaterRowerFrom her thrilling memoir, Making Waves, we discuss how "the beauty is, always has been, and always will be, not in the preparation or the dreaming but in the rebuild, the pivots, and the rising from the ashes".Please enjoy this episode with the incredible Helaine. To learn more, you can visit: https://www.helaineknapp.com/

In this episode - we cover: Amy's journey from a career in tech and product marketing to building a cookie kingdom. How her cookie crumbled...why she left her 9am-5pm only to work 6am-3amChanging lives one oatmeal raisin cookie at a timeWhat happens when she follows (and feeds) her gutPlease enjoy this episode with the fantastic Amy Wong. To learn more, you can visit: https://batch22bakery.com/

In this episode - we cover: Jeanna's journey from MIT alum to Wall St Banker to EntrepreneurHow she came up with the idea to create a self-watering technology and focus on taking the stress out of plant careWhere she came up with the name Cowbell (Hi Will Ferrell!)What happens when you put aside the "should" mindset and pursue what you're curious aboutPleaes enjoy this episode with Jeanna and a fun dose of Cowbell. To learn more about Jeanna and Cowbell Plant Co. you can visit: https://cowbellplant.com/

In this episode, we cover:Sonia's failed attempt at MatLabHow seeing an Operation Smile flyer changed her lifeWhy she takes one mission a yearBecoming an entrepreneur and founding AlohaBriteHow much sugar we really should consumePlease enjoy this dose of pure Aloha!To learn more about Sonia and AlohaBrite, you can visit: https://alohabrite.com

In this episode, we cover:How a dream with purple pants changed her lifeCreating the Born This Way Foundation with Lady GagaBuilding a kinder, braver world for young peopleWays to strengthen your kindness musclePlease enjoy this conversation with the kind, the brave, the incomparable - Maya Enista Smith.To learn more about Maya, you can visit:twitter.com/MEnistahttps://bornthisway.foundation/author/maya/

In this episode, we cover:- Growing up in the south side of Chicago- Early lessons in economic mobility- Working at Teach for America for 13+ years- Founding Braven- Wage gaps in high vs low income graduates- How preparation leads to confidencePlease enjoy this conversation with the incredible, Aimée Eubanks DavisTo learn more about Braven, please visit: https://braven.org/

This is the story of Anne Nguyen Oliver, Founder of House of M Beauty.In this episode, we cover:- Anne's journey from Vietnam to California- Losing her parents at a young age and being left homeless- How she discovered the magical properties of medicinal saffron- Building House of M into a successful business in a highly competitive industry- Luck and miraclesPlease enjoy this interview with the inspiring, Anne Nguyen Oliver.For more information on Anne and her House of M Beauty products, please visit:https://houseofmbeauty.com/

In this episode, we cover:- Goonies Never Say Die!...how the movie changed her life- How being a bartender got her a job at Nick Jr- Producing the award-winning Peg+Cat on PBS Kids- What it was like winning her first Emmy- Her unwavering commitment to think creatively and collaborativelyPlease enjoy this conversation with the delightful Jaclynn Demas.

This is the story of Rachel Klein, CEO of Fire Starter Studios, a video production company producing a wide range of content from animation to award winning documentaries.In this episode - we cover Rachel's journey:- Producing content at HBO, UFC Prime Time, Showtime and Xbox Studios- The hiccups in starting her own company, Fire Starter Studios- A mission to create unique content in documentary films and animation- What it's like to be the only independent studio to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy in the documentary category (twice)- Why she doesn't make cheap shit!Please enjoy this interview with the vibrant, Rachel Klein.To learn more about Rachel and Fire Starter Studios, please visit:https://firestarter-studios.com/

This is the story of Laurie Wayburn, Co-Founder and President of Pacific Forest Trust.In this episode, we discuss:- Laurie's journey to Africa and back to California- The origins and her passion for forestry management- Beyond the Trees, a beautiful documentary showcasing why forests are critical to the planet's survival- The overstory and beyondPlease enjoy this conversation with the inspiring, Laurie Wayburn.Want to read more about Laurie and her work? Please visit:Pacific Forest Trust: https://www.pacificforest.org/Beyond the Trees: https://www.beyondthetrees.org/

This is the story of Allison Bishop, an incredible polymath.In this episode, we discuss:- How a failure in creative writing led her down the path to computer science- Real applications of cryptology- Combinatorics (LMGTFY: A branch of math)- Launching Proof Trading- Controlling how you set people's expectations (emotionally and physically)Please enjoy this interview with the delightful, multi-hyphenate: Allison Bishop.Want to read more about Allison? Check out her website: https://www.thecomputersciencecomedian.com/To learn more about Proof Trading, please visit: https://prooftrading.com/

This is the story of Molly Bloom.  If you haven't read her book, the fantastic memoir called Molly's Game, go read it immediately! And then watch the movie, Molly's Game, led by the brilliant Aaron Sorkin in his directorial debut. It is an injection of energy, intrigue and ultimately of inspiration.In this episode, we discuss:- Molly's childhood, chasing winters and becoming an incredible competitive skier- Having spinal fusion surgery at the age of 12- How a frozen pine bough forced her into retirement- Hosting high stakes poker games with the Who's Who of nearly every major industry around the world- Writing Molly's Game and turning that into a movie- When you have...enough.Please enjoy this interview with the extraordinary, Molly Bloom.

In this episode, we discuss:- Her determination at the age of 12 to get into St. Andrews- Working at McKinsey & Company for over two decades- Building the CEO Practice at McKinsey- What she has learned working with the top CEOs around the world- Six mindsets that distinguish the best leaders from the rest- Creating a "To BE" listPlease enjoy this interview with the fabulous, Carolyn Dewar.To learn more about her book, CEO Excellence, you can read more here: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/mckinsey-on-books/ceo-excellence

This is the story of Nicky Jackson, CEO and Founder of RangeMe.In this episode, we discuss:- Her career as a Marketing Executive at Kellogg's, Uncle Toby's, Goodman Fielder, Pepsico and Jim Beam- Developing a baby skincare product for her daughter's eczema- The frustration for creators/founders to connect with retailers- RangeMe's launch in 2013, allowing for suppliers and retailers to connect- What it was like building a platform celebrating it's 10th anniversary that has over 200K suppliers with 1 million products and works with the majority of retailersPlease enjoy this interview with the delightful, Nicky Jackson. To learn more about Nicky and her story, you can visit:www.rangeme.com and read more about her story here: http://bit.ly/2ays4IZ.

In this episode, we discuss:- Jessica’s journey from Kansas City, MO- Growing up (unbeknownst to her) as the worst dancer in her group- Creating content at the intersection of technology and live experiences- How the heartbeat of an audience can sync up during live Broadway performances- Recreating the connection and engagement for virtual audiences- Being ruthlessly (and recklessly) herselfPlease enjoy this conversation with the energizing Jessica Ryan.

This is the story of Lokelani Alabanza. In this sweet episode, we discuss:- What it was like growing up in a black household with her wide-ranging heritage: her Dad is half-Filipino, half-Mexican; her Step-Father is of Danish and Sicilian descent, and she was heavily influenced by her maternal grandmother.- How a trip to Denmark changed the course of her life and got her into the kitchen- The batch of ice cream she made that got a standing ovation from 250 people- Creating over 350 flavors of ice cream- The tears shed from eating her Magnolia ice cream- Constantly pushing herself to be comfortably uncomfortableToday, Lokelani creates beautiful flavors that spur the imagination while educating consumers about African American culinary history. She has been featured in Bon Appetit, Milk Street Radio, Wirecutter, Food52, CherryBombe Magazine, NPR, Oxford American, and The Sewanee Review. Lokelani is excited to share her view of the world through Saturated Ice Cream, her own brand of plant-based, hemp-derived CBD ice cream. Her first cookbook debuts in the Summer of 2023.Please enjoy this interview with the delightful founder, Lokelani Alabanza.

This is the story of Ellen Fondiler, Business and Career Strategist extraordinaire.In this episode, we discuss Ellen's career journey from:Death Penalty AttorneyBakery ownerDocumentary filmmakerNon-profit directorPodcasterCareer and business strategistI am inspired by Ellen's fearless approach to life. We talk about how her curiosity has led to several professional changes, with her values driving her decision-making. I love that Ellen isn't afraid to try new things which ultimately helps her collect more tools in her toolbox for building the life she wants.Please enjoy this interview with the ever-so-curious and incredible, Ellen Fondiler.

This is the story of Emily Damjanovic, Head of Investor Relations at Lead Edge Capital.In this episode, we discuss:- The impact of the Yugoslav Wars during her childhood- Emila's journey from Slovenia to New York City- The curious mindset- How her kind and thoughtful approach led to successful partnerships- What success means to herFor more information about Emila and Lead Edge, please visit: https://leadedge.com/Please enjoy this interview with the dazzling, Emila DamjanovicApple | Google | Spotify | Subscribe on Android | Stitcher | TuneIn | RSS Feed

This is the story of Carla Gray, Head of Safety and Security at Epic GamesIn this episode, we discuss:- Her 2nd grade announcement to work in the Secret Service.- Actually working in the Secret Service at the age of 22!- Leading safety and security at Epic Games- Carla's experience in building security and managing safety at Facebook and Uber- Private versus Public sector security- Why good security is invisiblePlease enjoy this interview with the wonderful, Carla Gray.

This is the story of Lan Pham, Founder and CEO of the food and beverage brand SANG.In this episode, we discuss:- Lan's incredible journey from Vietnam to Wichita, Kansas- How her single mother with 7 other siblings got separated in various refugee camps and how they reunited!- Genesis behind the Sang brand, starting with a delicious coffee product- The triple meaning behind Sang- Her growth from failure momentPlease enjoy this interview with the bright and elegant (sáng and sang), Lan Pham.

This is the story of Noha Sidhom, Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Viribus Capital, a firm focused on trading power products in the organized electricity markets.In this episode, we discuss:- Noha's journey from Cairo, Egypt to Omaha, Nebraska- Going from lawyer to electricity trading portfolio manager- The US Power Grid and how it works- Filtering the noise and negativity- The genesis of Viribus CapitalPlease enjoy the interview with the viribus herself, Noha Sidhom.

This is the story of Sarah Solemani, Creator, Actor, Writer, and Activist.In this episode, we discuss:- Sarah's creative journey to acting, writing, producing, and directing- Being in service of the audience- Unsung heroes that she champions- The Joy of the Drop- What success means to her nowPlease enjoy this interview with the multi-talented Sarah Solemani.

This is the story of Clara Brenner, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of the Urban Innovation Fund.In this episode, we discuss:- Clara's journey from real estate development to venture capitalist- Her mission-led focus on solving interesting community challenges- How she co-founded the Urban Innovation fund to invest in startups that are shaping the future of cities, providing capital and support to startups tackling some of the toughest urban challenges- Working with her best friend- Connection not PerfectionPlease enjoy this interview with the exceptional, Clara Brenner.Thanks for listening,

This is the story of Ali Carrigan, Senior Analyst at US Government Accountability Office with a Nuclear War Studies PhD.In this episode, we discuss:- Ali's journey from journalism camp to nuclear energy research- Why she obtained a PhD in War Studies - focusing specifically on nuclear non-proliferation- Her research on how states recruit and train nuclear human capital for building a nuclear weapons programme- How international policy might be adapted to slow the spread of weapons knowledge- Auditing nuclear weapons programs- Leaving the world a better placePlease enjoy this interview with the wonderful, Ali Carrigan. Thanks for listening - Yinh

This is the story of Cheryl Francis, Co-Chairman and Co-Founder, Corporate Leadership CenterIn this episode, we discuss:- Cheryl's journey from HS Valedictorian to corporate CFO- The difficult decision to leave the corporate world and prioritize family- How she got to be an adjunct professor at the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business- Lessons learned from being a CFO and sitting on multiple corporate boards- Founding the Corporate Leadership Center (CLC)- How the CLC taught "how to be happy"To learn more about Cheryl and the Corporate Leadership Center, please visit:https://corporateleadership.org/leadership-team-and-board/Please enjoy this interview with the courageous, capable and caring, Cheryl Francis.

In this episode, we discuss:- Kate's journey from Ski Instructor to Entrepreneur- Her experience at ClifBar for nearly 20 years, working closely with the founders Gary and Kit Crawford- How the idea of Milk Stork developed- Humanity vs Operations- Business is in service of humanity, not the other way aroundTo learn more about Kate and Milk Stork, you can visit:https://www.instagram.com/milkstorkmamahttps://www.milkstork.com/Please enjoy this interview with the incredible, Kate Torgersen.

This is the story of Penny Goldberg, Elihu Professor of Economics at Yale University, Former Chief Economist of the World Bank.In this episode, we discuss:- Penny's journey from Athens to academia and her path from Greece to Yale University- Her work in trade, globalization, labor markets and discrimination against women in developing countries- Being the Chief Economist of the World Bank Group- Not understating the value of happiness in life and what that costsTo learn more about Penny's research and background, you can visit:https://economics.yale.edu/people/faculty/pinelopi-goldberghttps://campuspress.yale.edu/pennygoldberg/Please enjoy this interview with the wonderful, Penny Goldberg.

This is the story of Dr. Lint Barrage, Chair of Energy and Climate Economics and Associate Professor, ETH ZurichIn this episode, we discuss:- Lint's journey in academia at the intersection of economics and climate impact- Research and mentors at the University of Chicago and Yale University- How environmental processes and policies affect macroeconomic outcomes and human welfare- The Climate "Emergency" and reconciling pertinent data and perception- Luck in lifeTo learn more about Lint's research and background, you can visit:https://www.lintbarrage.com/Please enjoy this interview with the wonderful, Lint Barrage.

This is the story of Tandice Urban, Co-Founder of The Lanby.In this episode, we discuss:- Tandice's journey from law to film to hospitality and ultimately healthcare- Her battle with an autoimmune issue- Combining superb hospitality and healthcare to create The Lanby- How she is creating an elevated experience in primary careTo learn more about Tandice, you can visit:The Lanby: https://www.thelanby.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.lanbyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelanby/community/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tandice-urban-168368156/Please enjoy this interview with the fantastic, Tandice Urban

This is the story of Marty Willis, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at TIAA and Cancer Thriver.In this episode, we discuss:Marty’s journey from marketing brochures in milk crates to Chief Marketing OfficerShaping the education, awareness and planning for future retireesHow approximately 40% of retirees run out of moneyWhy it’s important to take risksHer diagnosis with Stage 3 breast cancerCycling 200 miles to raise money for breast cancer research DURING her cancer treatmentThe importance of being big, bold and braveTo learn more about Marty, you can visit:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marty-willis-063ba613/Please enjoy this interview with the incredible Marty Willis.

This is the story of Nina Cranstoun, the Black Widow of Boxing.In this episode, we discuss:- Ice cream sales at Wimbledon- Being diagnosed with epilepsy and how she lives with this 'roommate'- How domestic violence hurt and helped her- Becoming the Black Widow of boxing- Who can turn your life around- The power behind the name: Nina CranstounTo learn more about Nina and her boxing events, you can visit:Website: www.ninacranstoun.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ninacranstoun1/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ninaccranstounYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAbPx2yCFwEPlease enjoy!Yinh

This is the story of Serena Roberts Houlihan, CEO and Co-Founder of Le Wren.In this episode, we discuss:- Serena's journey from retail executive to entrepreneur- Her Mom's battle with cancer- How her second exposure to Glioblastoma launched the idea for Le Wren- Compassionate capitalism- Finding beauty in the momentTo learn more about Serena and Le Wren, you can visit:Le Wren: https://lewrencare.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lewrencare/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/lewrencare

In this episode, we discuss:- Perth's first exposure to censorship- Moving from China to the US- Delaying law school to move to Hong Kong- How she became interested in finance and investments- Creating the Freedom ETF- Her "Grand Design"To learn more about Perth, the Freedom ETF or Life and Liberty Indexes, you can visit:https://twitter.com/Perth_Tollehttps://freedometfs.com/https://www.lifeandlibertyindexes.com/Please enjoy this interview with the unique Perth Tolle.

This is the story of Felicia Alexander, an energetic force with a mission to bring the benefits of fitness boxing to consumers anytime, anywhere.  In this episode, we discuss:- Why she transitioned from the tech world to entrepreneurship- How the loss of her father shaped her drive and passion- When the passion for boxing entered her life- The importance of mental health- Connection not perfectionTo learn more about Felicia, Title Boxing Club and/or Box Union, you can visit:Felicia's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feeslalalandTitle Boxing Club: https://titleboxingclub.com/Box Union: https://www.boxunion.com/Please enjoy this interview with the mighty, Felicia Alexander.

This is the story of Mahya Salehi. In this episode, we discuss:- Growing up in Northeast Iran- Her passion in design and decor- Launching her own architectural firm- Expanding her business during a pandemic- Developing an elevated experience with and for clients- Learning from her "Stupid Brave" phase and creating the opportunityTo learn more and connect with Mahya, you can visitWebsitte: https://www.mahyasalehistudio.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mahyasalehistudioPlease enjoy this interview with the creative and courageous Mahya Salehi.

In this episode, we discuss:- Growing up in Malaysia- Discovering, developing and cultivating one's voice- Why taking Facebook public changed her investment banking career- How she started an organization that helps the underprivileged to discover their talents- Writing a book during the pandemic- Why she wrote The Altruistic Capitalist and the three core themes:  collaboration, mindfulness and curiosityPlease enjoy this interview with the delightful, Lynn Yap.  To learn more and connect with Lynn, you can visit:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/altruisticcapitalist/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAltruisticCapitalist/Twitter: https://twitter.com/lynnlyyap

This is the story of Akilah Releford. In this episode, we discuss:- Starting a company in her dorm room at Howard University- Her love of DIY skincare recipes and routines- Creating a clean beauty company- Early setbacks in growing the business, completing orders and marketing the brand- The power of manifestingPlease enjoy this interview with the dynamic Akilah Releford. To learn more about Akilah or Mary Louise Cosmetics, visit:www.mymarylouise.com

In this episode, we discuss: - Aoife’s journey to becoming a physician scientist and drug developer - Synthetic biology applications - Her role as CEO of Synlogic (Nasdaq: SYBX)- Intersection of biology and engineering - Remaining sustainably uncomfortable Please enjoy this interview with the extraordinary Dr. Aoife Brennan.

In this episode, we discuss:- Allison’s journey in pediatric physical therapy- Catalyst to creating MyKidBlooms- Importance of providing support for the entire family ecosystem- Growth and healing from traumaPlease enjoy this interview with Dr. Allison Hall. For more information on Allison and MyKidBlooms, please go to::https://www.mykidblooms.com/://signalfire.com/See how My Kid Blooms works in a quick videoLinked In: Dr. Allison Hall, PT, MPT, DPTFacebook: My Kid BloomsInstagram: @mykidblooms

This is the story of Elaine Zelby, the spectacular investor, advisor, entrepreneur, podcaster and writer who infuses so much energy into every project she works on. In this episode, we discuss: - Elaine's Shiny Object Syndrome- Why she left Slack and what it's like to be a VC Partner at SignalFire- The (Un)Sexy Podcast- Her 7-week solo journey in China- Growth in giving away your timePlease enjoy this interview with the fantastic, Elaine Zelby. For more information on Elaine, please go to:https://zelby.substack.com/https://signalfire.com/profiles/elaine-zelby/https://redcircle.com/shows/unsexy

This is the story of Michelle Meow, host of the eponymous radio and tv show and also a leading voice for the LGBTQ community.In this episode, we discuss:- Michelle's rise in broadcasting and her own show, the incredible Michelle Meow show. How a $250 check from a bail bondsmen changed the course of her professional career. Self-acceptance and reflections on love - Various IdentitiesI hope you love this interview as much as I did with the spectacular Michelle Meow. Enjoy - YinhFor more information on Michelle:https://www.michellemeow.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-meow-a690b2a3/

This is the story of Eva Shang, a Harvard dropout, Peter Thiel fellow, an entrepreneur who co-founded a software and data analytics program and is now CEO of Legalist, an asset management firm focused on litigation finance.In this episode, we discuss:- Eva's Beginner's Mindset- Why she dropped out of Harvard in her junior year- Opportunities in litigation finance- Getting off 'the path' and building a unique asset management firm- The Destination Vs The Tunnel mindset  Please enjoy this conversation with the marvelous Eva Shang. For more information on Eva and/or Legalist, please visit:https://www.legalist.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/eshang/