EXPOSED | Dare to Be Seen: Where Visibility Meets Success

About EXPOSED | Dare to Be Seen: Where Visibility Meets Success

EXPOSED is your go-to podcast for uncovering the secrets to entrepreneurial success by mastering the art of being seen. Hosted by Identity Coach and Brand Photographer Ania Volovique, this podcast dives deep into the intersection of visibility, vulnerability, and sustainable success—from the inside out. Each episode brings you inspiring stories, actionable strategies, and expert insights on how to stand out in a crowded market, build a loyal audience of soulmate clients, and transform your visibility into tangible success. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your business to the next level, EXPOSED provides the guidance and motivation you need to shine brightly and achieve your entrepreneurial dreams. Join us as we explore the intersection of being seen and achieving success, and learn how to navigate the entrepreneurial journey with confidence and clarity. Tune in to EXPOSED and discover your pathway to success through visibility.

Publisher

Ania Volovique

Category

business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

30 Jun 2024

Latest episode

10 Sept 2024

Latest episodes

9 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   10 Sept 2024

   Ep. 9: Intimacy, Entrepreneurship, and the Masculine-Feminine Dynamic w/ Allan McGrath

   In this episode of the Exposed Podcast, Allan McGrath, a transformation and intimacy facilitator discusses his journey in entrepreneurship, emphasizing personal transformation and the importance of authenticity and depth in business. He explores the differences in how men and women build businesses and the challenges and rewards of navigating a relationship where both partners are entrepreneurs. Allan shares his views on polarity in relationships, the importance of balancing masculine and feminine energies, and the pitfalls of modern entrepreneurial expectations. He also provides insights on the necessity of men's initiation and training for deeper relational capabilities. The episode concludes with a discussion on the embodied experience of deeper connection and intimacy. TIMESTAMPS: 00:50 Allan's Journey in Entrepreneurship 01:56 The Importance of Authenticity in Business 05:10 Differences in Business Approaches: Men vs. Women 09:23 Challenges of Being Entrepreneurial Partners 13:01 Polarity in Relationships and Business 25:41 Allan's Polarity Workshops and Men's Training 31:10 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts GUEST BIO: Allan McGrath is an intimacy mentor who guides men and women to embody the teachings of sacred intimacy. For a decade, he has dedicated himself to facilitating the evolution of men through embodied masculinity, finding a higher purpose and unlocking sexual power. He also leads women through their journey of feminine embodiment, sexual yoga and the art of intimacy, and works with couples on deepening their connection through polarity and relational intimacy practices in his workshops, trainings & 1-1 coaching. IG: https://www.instagram.com/allanmcgrath_ (https://www.instagram.com/allanmcgrath_) Click here (https://tr.ee/NBIFX-eH_0)for the next co-ed Intimacy and Polarity Workshop: September 27-29 in Boulder, CO TRANSCRIPT: Welcome to Exposed Podcast. Today we have a special guest, Allan McGrath. And Alan, can you please share what kind of magic you create in the world? I create a deep embodied experience of transformation and love and intimacy with the magic I give to the world. Beautiful. And being that you're the first man on the podcast, it'd be so interesting to unpack from the man's perspective, what it takes to show up in the online space to build a business. And then at the same time, be partner of someone else who's also building a business. So I guess let's start there. How has been your journey in the entrepreneurial world? Well what I have prioritized over the last 10 years of being in, in this work has been my personal transformation, my personal depth of experience. And the thing that takes me the deepest, that's what I've prioritized. And. And I think because of that, I have created a successful business because people can trust that what I give them is authentic. It's an integrity. It's connected to something deep and true. It's not just something I'm like making up. And that's always been my way. Just like, focus on going deep in my own experience, and then trusting that that will translate through what I do with, with my clients and my groups and my, my intensives. And it's what I think is missing for a lot of people in the current entrepreneurship world, they see the low barrier to entry, they, hear how amazing it would be to make X amount of money. And they, they jump in, they put up their shingle they say I'm this, that, or the other thing. And I, I think they, people forget how important it is to train, study. Be immersed in your own experience, like go through your own growth process for a good amount of time and continue doing it even when you're holding people. So, yeah, that that's a bit of the window in. And it's so interesting how many people just show up and have expectations that all of a sudden everything will just work perfectly. Meanwhile, internally, they're not stable in their work, they're not stable in who they are. As a human being, and as a result, that energy is felt. So the gap and the void that they're experiencing is actually coming through like who you're being versus what you think you should be doing. Absolutely. I could not have said it better. You can't, you cannot hide who you really are, although the online world does put up quite a good facade. But at the end of the day, I, I always, I have seen that like the truth doesn't hide for long. So like somebody who's actually really putting themselves, their, their whole life through a kind of rigorous like, Not like their whole life is a workshop or like, you know, they're constantly trying to improve themselves, but like they're actually walking the talk that shows through business, that shows through people's ability to trust them and give them money to them, to give their, their transformation into their hands. And I guess I'm a product, I'm a walking example of that. I know some stuff about market. I give myself less credit that I think I actually deserve, but that's my business strategy is like to go as deep as I can personally, and then to Trust that transmission that I put into the world from it. And people feel it. They resonate with it. They can trust it. And that's, that's my strategy. That's what I do. And it, it works. Yeah, and being on the other side of it and being the recipient of your work, having gone to different events of yours and seeing and experiencing your facilitation, it is truly felt, and it's not just these, like, on the surface level facade or this is who you're going to be on the other end of it. No, this is deep work so anybody who's listening if you have the privilege to be in any of Alan's. Containers. I highly, highly encourage you and to really experience his magic, his gifts and the embodiment of his work. Thank you. So I'm curious to hear your perspective on the difference between How a man builds a business and how a woman builds a business, and especially from your perspective, your partner is also an entrepreneur, successful entrepreneur. So what have you noticed yourself as the difference between a man doing it and a woman doing it? It's a really good question. I think on certain levels, they're the same and then on certain levels, they're different. I think that let's start with the same, like to actually hold the business, you have to be like, there's a whole kind of movement around like feminine entrepreneurship. Right. And like all these women identifying as like, feminine entrepreneurs and they'll teach you how to, you know, be in your feminine energy while you're running a business. And to actually run a business, you need to be pretty fucking strong in your masculine energy. If you aren't, your business is not going to go very well. What's required for everybody is to have solid structure, which would be the masculine right and that would include how do you structure your time, how you structure your business like what do people come to when they come to your Instagram page or your. Website, like where are they going to go? Basically, where is the energy going to flow? And then there's the flow. There's like the thing that is felt through being on your Instagram page or your website or in person with you, right? Like there's a thing that comes through you. And if you're going to be an entrepreneur in this world, like the world of, I assume you're talking about like personal growth and transformation and not like selling bread. You need both really like strongly, you need both. And so I just want to start off by like thinking that you're going to be in like a all masculine business or all feminine business because you're a man or you're a woman, like it doesn't work that way. If you're in an all masculine business, you, you're devoid of magic, you're devoid of intuition and sensitivity and. spontaneity, right? You're all just like structure and plan and like just sticking to it and no matter what. And if you're devoid of structure and you're all flow and magic, it just, you're going to resent your, your, the business eventually because it's going to not let you just be in it. So I think both, both are required for, for men or women. And in that way it's very similar, but I do think that I think that for a man, you. You can rely a little bit more on the structure, like you can, you can I think if a man were to constantly just feel into his intuition and change things left and right, it wouldn't work as well as, as for, as it does for a woman, like my partner would just like, she'll just, All of a sudden feel like here's this inspiration to do this thing. And I'm like the next day it's like done. And whereas I'm like, okay, I'm going to sit with this thing for a while. And I'm going to like, let it work me and I'm going to chip away at it in this way, that way. And you know, that could just be our temperament. But, but I think that that is relatively true that. You know, men, the masculine likes to be like single focused on one thing and it doesn't it's kind of like it can be devoid of the ability to be open to inspiration and intuition. And so I think women get get to be more that they get to trust what's enlivening them right now. And let it move them. Let it inspire what wants to come through them because that's what the feminine is. It's like it. It's animating the body with what's true. And so I think there's some pitfalls to that, too, but I think that that would be a bit of the differences between men and women. Mm hmm. I'm also curious if It's so much easier to create a successful business while being the partner who's also an entrepreneur. So then the feminine and the masculine can dance together without necessarily like putting one or the other in the box. Do you find that that's been easier for you? I don't know. It depends, you know, when you have two entrepreneurs sometimes it can be like, There's, there's downsides to everything. There's no, and there's upsides to everything. There's no like perfect thing. So I think you have to find what works for you. Being entrepreneurs for us works really well, but it comes with its challenges, it comes with, okay. Like for one would be like boundaries. Like when my partner's in her entrepreneurship mode, it's not good for us to be around each other because I'm not, I'm not attracted to her entrepreneurship mode. I love it. I appreciate it. I think it's fucking incredible and it astounds me to no end, but it doesn't turn me on. It doesn't magnetize me towards her because part of it is like, It's, it's her being in some ways in the masculine. She's like in a direction. She's got a purpose. She's got a point. She's it's a very different experience being around her in that moment than when she's finished with her work for that day and she's taken a bath, right? She's a different human entirely. And so because she's an entrepreneur, her work could never end, right? She could continue being in that like zone from morning till night, right? So, and we, you know, we work from our home. And so having to navigate those, those dynamics is a challenge. It's a, it's a, it's a, not like it's. We're suffering all the time, but it's a challenge we have to overcome. We have to go, okay, what actually serves us and our relationship and what's actually important in our relationship. And how do we prioritize that? Or we're prioritizing the, maybe the work that needs to be done in certain moments. And so I don't think that's any easier per se than, than, you know, as just having regular, in some ways, having a regular job is kind of simple, it's like, You, you both, you leave the house, you're away from each other, there's no rubbing up against each other in the, you know, like in the hallway. There's no distracting just like okay like and then work is separate, it's isolated and then you come back okay now you can be together so there's a kind of cleanliness to that kind of simplicity. So you plan to get an antiphagia? Yeah. I'm strongly considering it. Okay. I'll see you in McDonald's. Yes. Yeah. Yeah. We'll do some deep work in McDonald's. But, but of course there's also the beauty of like being able to inspire each other and support each other in what might want to come through and be able to work together. You know, so there's all kinds of benefits as well, but, but I just don't want it to be like, oh, like, that's the ideal. And that's, that's the thing is that it, because there's such a low barrier to entry, as you were talking before, it becomes idealized. It becomes like, Oh, it's amazing. You just like do what you want when you want. It's like, yeah, good luck with that. No, like that's, that's not how it is at all. It's like, it's very demanding and you have to have initiative and you have to have boundaries with how you hold yourself to be your own boss. And it comes with all kinds of challenges. Yeah. And I think it's so helpful to hear this from the man's perspective and also just in general to shine light from someone who is in that couple dynamic where you're both entrepreneurs, where we're taking down from the pedestal, this idea of the power couple, and that all of a sudden the power couple, like it just does everything flawlessly and everything's perfect all the time. Yeah. Fuck that. That doesn't exist. That exists on Instagram. I can guarantee you, yeah, well, thank you for sharing that as you were talking this post of yours, probably from like a few months ago, came to mind it was a graphic you said if there were two women. And I'm paraphrasing and tell me if you remember the one that I'm talking about, if there's two women, one is working in like random regular job and another one is a boss, babe. Like you would be more attracted to the one who has a regular job. Can you share what that post is and unpack that? Yeah. Yeah. So the key, key part you missed, you got it pretty damn good. But I keep the, the, the kicker there was the one that, that I or a man would be attracted to would be the one with an open heart. Mm hmm. Yes, exactly. Right. And by open heart, I speak metaphorically. I mean, like, that is open, right? That has open heart, open body, open in their energy. And yeah, that, that woke up a lot of boss babes. I think I've heard from a number of them who were like, That's right, that's that I they felt uncomfortably seen. So, so the reason the reason that I are on to unpack that would be that the have to kind of explain polarity a little bit, which is to say that The let's just say the masculine in men is attracted most to its opposite, which would be the feminine, and that could be in a man but but let's just for simplicity's sake, say it's within a woman. So, the masculine in a man the part of him that wants to particularly, let's say relationally. Like, intimately, the part of him that wants, that is attracted to, to his woman is the part of her that is feminine, that is open, that is receptive. And it's, it has nothing to do with what she's doing. His attraction has absolutely nothing to do with what she's doing. Although he might appreciate those things. And I think what a lot of women didn't get this, that they, women are attracted to a man's doing. In many ways, like if he's sitting on the couch all day, eating Cheetos, like there is a low level of attraction there. But if he's like, yeah, yeah. If he's committed to something that's really important to him and he, and he sacrifices his, his time, his energy towards that thing, he's like, there's a deep level of attraction to that. Because it provide, I mean, evolutionarily, it means that he's. He's likely a good candidate to have your babies. That means he'll protect you. He'll provide for you. He'll, he'll sacrifice himself for you. That energy does not go both ways. A man does not necessarily, like I was saying before, like, he's not attracted by boss babe energy. Rather, the masculine part of him is not attracted to boss babe energy. The feminine part of him that maybe wants to be taken care of, that wants to, you know, feel secure, which a lot of men these days do which. is a problem is it could be attracted to that. The masculine part of them, which that their boss babe deep down really wants is like a masculine man, so to speak. And we can unpack what, what that means if you want. He doesn't give a shit about what she does ultimately. I mean, in, in the part of the part of him that like, wants to be with her, that wants to merge with her. It actually, that boss babe energy can be quite repellent because it's full of masculine energy. And that's just what occurs is, is like opposites attract. So the masculine energy that is filling the boss babe is beautiful and so good. And it's like, so important. Go make all the millions you want. But just know that that's not necessarily what your man is going to want to devour. That energy that has to occupy you to accomplish that is not going to be what he wants to dive into. What he wants to dive into is your open heart, your open body, your receptivity, the part of you that could actually receive him most of the time, most of the time. And so That could be that the quote I had in there was like, she could work at Starbucks, right, so that could, that could be the Starbucks barista. Doesn't matter that she works at Starbucks, she could be the most radiant woman in the world and that's like open woman in the world and that's what he would want. And that's confronting for, for a lot of women. It's so interesting how right now we live in a world where, and especially with like the feminism movement, where women can do everything and women took it to the extreme, that we have to do everything ourselves. And now we kind of like finding that balance in between. I would love to hear your perspective on Most of our listeners are women, female entrepreneurs specifically. So if this conversation is triggering to any of you, I would love for you to speak to them of how they can still live in their purpose and fulfill their deep mission and what fuels them, but at the same time, allow themselves to open their heart and to be in a receptive mode to call in that King. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Yeah, yeah. So what I'm what I'm saying, as you said before, it goes against, like, decades of conditioning, right, where basically women have become their own men, right? As you say, like, they have to do everything on their own. But if you want to create, if you want to create, as you say, like, a relationship with your king, which is like this, It's like what everybody's saying these days, but like very few actually want to receive what it would be required from them from, from that man. To do that requires like confronting the conditioning that we've, that we've taken in. And there's all kinds of like societal like we can trace this as a society but where we've come to really what I've seen is like women are starting to realize that they. They have to let go of certain habits and patterns within their body mind in order to make space for the men who are just really starting to wake up to their deep masculinity. And so, so to what letting go of those patterns means is like, yes. Go after your purpose, like do the thing that you're here to do, like make the impact you're here to make. But if you want to be in a deeply nourishing, polarized, intimate, open relationship. Also, and I want to be wary of like, giving you more, giving people more things to do, because that's such a. virus in our world. It was like, okay, if I just add 15 more things to my to do list, then I'll finally be enough. But, It would actually be more like less doing so prioritize things that prioritize just as equally as you are, as you are prioritizing like giving your gift and making money and you know, driving your business prioritize just as equally like opening your body with your. breath, letting feeling move through you laying in the grass and just melting into the earth, like, like allowing, allowing, creating rather pockets of your life where you're amplifying the feminine part of you just as much as you're amplifying the masculine part of you. And that's that is the ideal is that both man and woman have both capacities in them and online and able to play at any moment, so that at the correct moment, you can animate the the energy that is most ecstatic and most blissful and fun juicy. Right? And if you are a boss babe who's never like felt into the deep feeling of her heart and allowed it to move her body or allowed it to like crack open and cry or like really connected her womb to her heart and like all you've done for the last 10 years is like just work, work, work, work, work, work, work. You're not going to have in your body the capacity to meet a man who wants to ravish you. And like, take you to your depth, because your body has been practicing the opposite, which is like, giving, giving, giving, giving, giving, doing, doing, doing, doing, doing. And, and so it'd be very hard to receive, it'd be very challenging, you'll create all kinds of things in your life to not receive, because you'll have been avoiding those things for so long. And so, so that's, that's kind of where, what you would do is you would like start to make it a practice, make it a priority to to emphasize feeling and being in particular moments and really animate them in your body, just as much as you animate the party that is like purposeful and driven and, like giving to others through your business. And I think it's also so important to know that not all men are there either, or they're totally true. And that's why the work that you're doing is so important and so powerful, because yes, we can practice opening ourselves. ourselves up, but the conditioning will still be there. And then the dynamic of the man who's not in his masculine that can then trigger you going into your masculine. Oh yeah, but it's, but it's always it always starts with us. It always starts with us. We can never wait on the other person because it's a, it's a both and always. And so yes, you're absolutely right. And this is, this is a big reason why women believe that they have to do it all themselves is because. Like, where are the men who can provide for them, who can protect them, who can take them deep, emotionally, spiritually, financially, sexually, their Fucking hard to find. Well, you have a whole collection of them. So, let's just send them over. Well, we're creating them. We're training them. They require training. And that's what's beautiful about, about the time that we live in, is men are waking up to that. Like, oh, I didn't get the playbook. And what I, the playbook I've been using, the unconscious one that I received from culture is not working. And so, yeah, we, that's what we're doing. It's a big part of what I, what I'm alive to do is like to train men. so can you share more about your polarity workshops and what you're doing with men specifically? So all of the men in training can go and find you. Yeah, yeah. So, so I have a couple of different avenues. One, one is is a company I've created with, with three brothers and 13 pines. And we, we do exclusively men's work related programming and training. And that's really about you know, pretty much all men today didn't receive something crucial to their psychological development. That they would have received for thousands of years, and that's an initiation by other men with other men, and so we have men who are really that like a psychologically boyish age in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s because they never received a very crucial thing that they would have otherwise. And so that's a big thing that we do is like initiate men into really a deeper level of being that's, that's in them already. That's just dormant and we educate them on like what it means to be a modern man. And that actually requires a lot of. Uneducating like unlearning the patterns that they learn from culture and their parents and their schools and their relationships and reeducating them and what it, what it means to be a man to be someone who protects who's capable of providing capable of, as I said before, like, taking their partner deep. And all the areas that that is what that is the purpose of relationship is to take each other deeper than we can go on our own. And the sad fact is that most people just find someone that they're comfortable with, and then they just stay there for 50 years. And I think people in our generation, like a little above, a little below, are starting to feel like, what the fuck, isn't there something more? Shouldn't there be something more to this? And so that's what I do in the polarity work is, is show people how they can take each other deeper, literally through the physical body. The energetic body, the subtle body, and it's there that we really Like the, the, the men's work is a very good foundation to, to build to build like a stable place, like a stable, a stable foundation for their life, right? Like to address their personal work that needs to be done. And then once that's there, moving into a co-ed space allows for all kinds of. Beautiful healing to occur, all kinds of freedom to occur. Cause most men, they want to give women what they really want. They've just never been in an environment that really encouraged it in a safe way. They'd never been in an environment that gave them positive and constructive feedback that showed them how they could really be and vice versa for women. And so it's the same thing. And so With within the polarity work that I do, that's, that's what we're doing is we're learning how to relate. with the opposite sex in a way that through it's kind of like through embodying who we most know ourselves to be, like who we are at our essence, can take the opposite sex to some place far deeper than they could ever have gone on their own. It's something like that. Like the deeper we go into our personal liberation or freedom, the deeper we can go with, with another, with a partner. And then it also impacts all areas of your life because how you feel internally, even also in the context of business, how you relate to your clients and to everybody else, that's like a direct correlation there. Absolutely. Yeah. Like relationships are, if your relationship is causing you suffering, if your relationships, your ability to be in one or not being one, they're causing you suffering, it's going to show up everywhere. And so ideally our relationship and in particular, our intimacy, that's the center of the circle of the, of the series of circles that is our life. Right. And most people just kind of get, like I said, comfortable there and then just, settle there and that settledness, that kind of like flaccid lack of real fulfillment, just filters out through their years, their decades of life. And what's really possible is that their intimacy could, could have them experiencing God on a daily basis, experiencing bliss on a daily basis, experiencing real freedom and joy and truth the daily basis. if they knew how to use their intimacy for that. And that's just, that's it. Most people don't know how they don't, they haven't learned the techniques. They haven't been initiated to deeper parts of their, of their being. And so, yeah, that's, that's what we do. So if somebody wants to meet God, how can you help them? Well, I mean, the surefire way is to put them in front of another human being. and show them how to see them in the right way, how to see that person in the right way, and spend a little bit of time there with the correct instruction and you'll, you'll know God pretty quick. So where can people get in front of you so you can guide them? Well, a great way is coming to a retreat I'm doing in September in Boulder, 20, September 27th to the 29th. In Boulder, Colorado, that will be co ed, that is that's where, where we met, I believe was, that was back in January, correct? Yeah, so I've been to two of these retreats and each one of them has been so unique, so anybody who is even a little bit interested and curious, I highly encourage you to check it out and maybe you'll need that too. Yeah, yeah. Yeah, we make small promises at these. Right, no big deal, you'll just meet God. And maybe your soulmate too. Or realize that you are it. That's right, that's right. Yeah, that's, that's one of the most beautiful things that I've learned through this work, is that like, that knowingness of God, that ability to love in such a deep way, can be created with anybody, anybody. And it's quite a, Matters very little about your preferences. How they look or how old they are, young, they are good looking, not good. Like, like all, all that stuff is absolutely meaningless. Once we start to learn how to see in the correct way. So yeah, so September and the end of September, it's a great place to come. It's a great place to take what a lot of people just have ideas about and actually bring it to the body, like make it an actual embodied experience like polarity for example is such a people spend all day thinking about it and. They have all these ideas about what it, I talked to polarity coaches and I'm like, do you practice polarity? And they're like, what do you mean? Like, ah, okay. So most people, it's just an idea. It's like a, something that they do. But it's actually it's a practice a very deep one, just like any other kind of deep meditation or yoga. So it's a really good place to to come and we do all kinds of other things but yeah, it's a good place to come and make your, make your ideas real and get a real direct experience of what this can look like in your body, and then your life as you return home. And then, yeah, we have a handful of training for men coming up as well. So I have a a facilitator training for men who are maybe a little farther down the path who actually want to learn how to lead other men in a good way. And that starts in October. And then next year we'll have our, our training that's more oriented towards men leading their own life. And then we'll start in January of 2025. Yeah. I have a very important question. Bring it on. When are you going to do singles? What do you mean? Like single events. I don't know, like, you know, matching all of the men who finished the trainings and, you know, opening them up into the world of women. What am I going to do? Recovering boss babes. Yeah. That's a good question. I don't know if I want to be responsible for that amount of karma. But no, it is something that I, you know, as, as as these things grow and the, and the communities grow, I, I very much look forward to, there's been some crossover already, but I very much look forward to the days of the men who have been trained for a solid year, two years, three years coming into, and you see it already. Like I have men who I've worked with for years coming to these polarity events, which are relatively newer. And it's so fun to see them because they're like, Oh shit, like, I see the result of all the things that we've been doing these last years. And it's such a, I just love seeing that on those men because they. They, they their growth is obvious, like their depth is palpable. It's obvious. And it's good for them to experience that. So, so yeah, I, I don't know yet is the short answer. Just get me the database. Okay. Okay. Yeah. Totally. But I'm also leaning back and intercepting. You're surrendering. You're surrendering. I'm not attached. Okay. Bye. Well, thank you so much for sharing all of your wisdom. I have one last question and it is if you had a microphone and you could share a message exposing one truth that you want other people to believe and embody, what would that be? That something deeper really is possible. That there's so much more. To life and to love. And it's, it's like one heartbeat away. It really is. Like, I think most people go through life very much alone in their suffering and very much unmet in their depth. And. If I could remind them of one thing that like, it's right there when you know how to look for it, like that thing that you're so yearning for that would like quench the thirst of your soul. It's right there when you know how to look for it and you know how to find it in yourself and see it in another. Yes, let every single soul hear this and really embody it and live it. Well, thank you, Alan, so much. Where can everybody find you, love you, and follow all of your work? Instagram, for better or worse, is a great place. You can find me at Allan McGrath. That's Allan with two L's and two A's. Allan McGrath underscore, and you can find me at my website, allanmcgrathisbell.com, although I'm sure it is highly outdated. But those are great places to find out about the retreat, the trainings that I do. And then I do work with people one on one who want to actually like mentorship is another big thing that's, that's really important for this kind of work because everybody's so unique. And so. Yeah, nuanced. It's, it's one of my favorite things to do is, is to mentor people for, for six months or so and bring this to their life in a big way. Beautiful. Well, thank you so much for all of your wisdom and the work that you're doing in the world. Thank you Ania I appreciate you having me.

2. 

   16 Aug 2024

   Ep. 8: The Power of Systems in Business w/ Systems Daddy Ting

   In this episode of EXPOSED, hosted by identity coach and brand photographer Ania Volovique, guest Ting Yarrington, aka 'Systems Daddy,' shares her expertise on scaling businesses for high-achieving entrepreneurs. Ting discusses the importance of embracing one's true identity, leveraging business systems to maintain consistency, and the impact of daily choices on personal and professional growth. The conversation delves into actionable strategies to remain grounded during challenging times and the transformative power of visibility and authenticity in business. TIMESTAMPS: 00:36 Meet Ting: The Systems Daddy 01:41 Navigating Life's Challenges 04:54 Embracing Your True Identity 15:11 The Power of Systems in Business 21:27 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Ting GUEST BIO: Ting is your Systems Daddy, the powerhouse that turns 6-7 figure biz chaos into a seamless 5-star hotel experience for everyone involved. She’s a funnels, team, systems, backend master that makes sure your business takes just as good care of you as you do them. SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/tinliyarrington (https://www.instagram.com/tinliyarrington) TRANSCRIPT: Ting, can you please share what kind of magic you create in the world? First of all, hello, and thank you so much for having me here. So my name is Ting and I am Your system's daddy. I help incredibly powerful and super busy multi six, seven, eight figure queens scale their businesses like fucking crazy so that their businesses not only feel like a five star hotel experience, Where their business basically and systems take the bags off your hands and make you feel like you are at that luxury resort ready for your team. But the whole idea here is that your business needs to support you just as much as you pour into it. And that is my goal with making sure your back end is running as smoothly and as flexibly as possible. So. I am the dad for you. Everybody needs a systems daddy in their business. Alright, so, how do you show up for yourself, for your business, and for others, when life lifes? I love this question because there is no avoiding life. Life is life thing no matter what you do. So I think that's an amazing, like, it is the reason why I do a lot of what I do is because when life happens, usually it happens out of nowhere. Um, and it's so, it's so important to have a way to make sure that you are taking care of your nurturing yourself. And that, you know, things don't just fall apart when life, life. And so a lot of the times, especially when things happen, and I actually have several instances of this happening to me recently is coming back to me at my core and reminding myself who the fuck I am has been such a massive part of doing these things. Doing these up levels and really leaning into me being the daddy that I am in the space. So I'll give an example is I've had some, some interesting interactions in my business recently. We'll say, and a lot of them have led me to question who I am and how I show up in the space. Like, have I been really showing up at my maximum potential? Have I been the leader that I really desire to be in the space or have I still been playing a little bit small? Have I still been hiding in ways because I'm afraid of hurting people, offending people, or being too much? In a lot of ways, it's also like, am I afraid to be the villain in a lot of people's story? And a lot of this identity and work has been around, like, can I live with that? Can I, like, at the end of the day, at the end of the day, what we have is ourselves and our identities. That is something that we truly have control over in our, in our own beings. So at the end of the day, it's asking myself like, am I proud of who I desired, who I decided to be today? Am I proud of the way that I showed up? Did I do that with the best of intentions I could and led with my heart and who I wanted to be, and not just who I feel like I should play in this, this stage that is life that I decide to own up and be the main character of my own story. Because that is what I have control over. Like, I can't decide what other people say on stage. That's their role in life. But I have control over my own minds. And how I want to present myself. So who am I going to be today? And who do I want to be? So really owning a lot of that. Especially with life life. Can I come back to my root and my core? And decide I'm proud of who I am. The question that you just said, or the statement, the question in the statement, who do I get to be, that is the core of everything else that follows. I even have in my bathroom, I have a painting, a photo frame that says, um, I'm not who you decide I am. I am who I decide to be. And every single day, no matter what's happening in my world, that is the question that Keeps me grounded and keeps me on my own path without comparing, without trying to be someone else or thinking that I should be someone else or should be acting any, in any, any other way. So all of the shooting and really coming back to who do I get to be. And it's a choice. And every single morning we have a choice. We get the morning, we get a new day. It's a new day full of opportunities. And we get to choose who are we going to be within the challenges and within all of the shit that may be thrown away. So thank you for touching on that as well. I, first, I love that you have that like hung up. That's a great, like, just reminder to yourself. And it reminds me even of a conversation I had recently with some of my friends who, shocking or not, are all in corporate. None of them are actually in this online expansive space. But the question that I had asked them was, how does your image of yourself differ from the image that other people have? And how does that affect you? And a lot of them said, well, A lot of people do see me as maybe more shy or more timid or more, and so a lot of the times I end up just like playing that role, because what's the point in changing that? And I'm like, the hell are you saying to me right now? That doesn't make any goddamn sense. Right? Because I get it. And it's exactly the same. We have no control over other people's visions of us. And that's fine. At the end of the day, there will definitely be a differentiating factor between how you see yourself and how other people see you. And that's okay. The point is, are you happy with the image you have of yourself, the way you're holding yourself, the way you're choosing to show up? Are you proud of that? It doesn't mean a damn what other people think it really does it. And the other side of it is exactly as you said, every single day we have the choice. To show up how we are. An amazing example is we were talking before this, um, this uh, this set up here about being a cat person. And both of us have actually shifted that, um, being cat people. 'cause in the past we were just like, we're just not cat people. We're more dog people. I, we both said that before because like very much dog people. Mm-Hmm . And then I was like, but who decided that really? We did and as small as an, I don't, I don't know if anyone could see, but I'm doing quotation marks. Like as small as that seems, like that was still an identity we chose for ourselves. And we have the power to decide the other side of it. So. Both of us here being cat people now. Right. And that's such a beautiful and perfect example. Like, yes, it's so frivolous and maybe simple, but it is an example that if an identity could be shifted just like that, then what other identity that is not serving you. And that is the key. It doesn't mean that you have to change every single thing that you think you are. It's rather getting inquisitive and getting curious and looking within yourself and asking, is the label that I'm assigning to myself, this identity that follows the words I am, which are the most powerful words in the universe, because they're claiming who you are looking to be. So if that's not in alignment with who you actually want to be, Then start changing everything that follows the, I am statement. So anytime you say I am, and it's followed by any limitation or anything that is preventing you from actually being your fullest expression, then begin shifting it shift, shift, shift, shift. I mean, really it's. It takes a little bit of practice leaning into it for sure. But the more that you're able to internalize and realize you actually have the power to decide what follows that I am statement, because some of the most common ones are like, I'm just not that kind of person I am was at the beginning of that, like, wait, who decided you weren't that kind of person? You weren't the kind of person. And literally Anya has helped me with that too, because I also had the internal belief of like, who, like, who am I to step forward? Well, even like about, so for everybody listening, uh, ting is also my sole client. So we're planning this expansive VIP photo shoot in the next couple of weeks. And one of the things that I was inviting her into is shifting her relationship of color. So I'd love to hear from you ting, how has that experience been for you? And what do you feel has shifted? With the way that you see yourself once you actually embrace the fact that, hey, you might actually like to wear more color. Absolutely. So I think the funniest part here is. I wish, I think you've addressed before too, like I've said several times, 'cause I had this own identity in myself, was like, I don't really wanna stand out. I don't really want people to see me. Mm-Hmm. . And then I remember the first time I said it, I think Anya was like, you're wearing bright colors right now, like in this like crop top and like athletics. Like, what do you mean you don't wanna be seen? I'm like, oh, . And then as we're preparing for the shoot too, the first few photos I sent to Anya. Were the most pastelly muted colors you could find. They were soft purples. There was like a kind of brighter neon, but then there was like this really like muted beige dress. And he's just like, no. They were nice. She's like, no, it's gotta be bold colors. Because that's actually who I wanted to lean into. It's being bold, being brave, being out there. You don't want a passive daddy. You're going to step forward and dominate and be like, covered babe, like, that's what you want. Like, you're right. Cause that is actually who I want to be. And in a lot of ways that is who I am. But what I do is I play this 50, 50 thing where I'm like, sometimes daddy and sometimes like, Playing cute over here. So then literally a few days later, I go shopping again and I made sure to go to a store that only had bright colors. And I put, I had a hot pink, I had a neon green, I had a bright blue. And I put those on the woman that I was in those pictures is starkly different compared to the one where I wore the pastel one, starkly different, which also made me laugh because the outfit I chose that day for myself was a muted green, which didn't make me laugh. Cause when I put that back on, I was like. Damn, this ain't right. I gotta toss this right away. It was starkly different when I realized, like, that identity of, you know, I don't, I don't really want to stand out too much. But that was affecting literally even the clothes, the colors, what I actually know I really like. I love bright colors, but I was keeping that a little bit smaller because I didn't want to be seen, but I did. I love that example, and I want to just insert a bit of clarification for everybody listening that it doesn't mean that every single person is supposed to be wearing hot pink or bright colors every single day. It's rather. Coming back to your truth and what feels most expansive for you. So if bright, bright colors work with your skin tone, A, I mean, we want also the colors to be complimentary to how you actually look and B, they make you feel playful and expansive. That is the most important thing. So it doesn't even matter how it looks like if you feel like a million bucks, then clothes get to be the anchors that anchor you into the identity that you're looking to step into. So in a way clothes, yes, it could be frivolous and it could be superficial and like everything has the light and the shadow. So what if you're looking at clothes every single time you're getting dressed, you're looking like at it like a form of self expression where you're choosing intentionally. What are you going to put on based on how you want to feel? And then the clothes become these amazing expanders where you're walking out of the door. You feel like a million bucks, you become magnetic. People come to you. They comment on your clothes. And as a result, then it opens up more opportunities because of who you be. It's not the clothes, but how you feel wearing something that feels in alignment with your truth and with your expression. It's why they say a picture, a picture is worth a thousand words, right? Like it's, it is that same, I am statement, but just in that visual form. When you choose that, this is how you want to represent yourself today. And there are a lot of people who will look at certain clothes and be like, well, I'm not the kind of person that wears that, or this doesn't seem like me. And I'm like, Whose voice is that? Yeah, lovingly remind yourself that perhaps that's coming from not you, not your truest form. And if that means wearing, you know, pastel colors or statement jewelry or nothing. You know, you get to be the one that decides that as a part of your own expression of your identity. Exactly, and use it as an expression. And every single day could be different too. You don't have to put yourself in a box. So I'd love for you to expand on how important systems are for specifically for being able to show up no matter what happens. Yes, absolutely. So the beautiful thing with your systems is that they actually just, they are less affected by life lifing than you are. Yes. Basically not. Good point. They're in fact, you know, not going to need to take time off for their period coming. Yeah. You know, like things like that. So. The beautiful part about having your systems in place about, you know, and again, when I say systems, it's nothing, it could literally be you simplifying how you create content on social media. It could literally be having the most basic fill out form to join a challenge, like a show up live, like experience. It could just very simple, basic things where your business is doing a lot of that pushing for you. So the beauty of having in place when life is life and means that while you're taking care of life, your business is not on pause. Your business is still showing up for you and being able to support while you need to take time away or do life things, whatever's going on. And some of my favorite examples of these are when. My clients and I have examples of people randomly finding us randomly, heavy quotation marks, randomly finding us, coming into our spaces, paying us, and we're like, who are you? Yes, that is one of my affirmations. Clients find me from expected and unexpected ways, and I keep repeating it. Yes, my business works for me, even when I sleep. Exactly. That is exactly we all dream. And it's, it's true. Like we've all had this desire to be paid in our sleep where we don't have to constantly be involved. That's what the systems do is they hold that space for you to receive while you're not active. So that while you're active or not, that is your choice. Your business is still running and supporting you. That's what the systems do. So people will find us and they pay us and they're on boarded in. They get all the materials to join the first call. Did we lift a finger? No, we didn't have to, because we already had systems in place where they were receiving automated emails. They're being welcomed in the connection process from finding you to jumping in the nurturing. That's all built in. And it's, it's stuff that, you know, you've been, most of us have been in business for a good period of time. And we'd like to know that the effort we've put in has been has been basically scaling our momentum higher and the systems are basically an extension of the care and the love you have for your container. So that when you need to take because usually we're in the grind, we're doing things, we're committing to our businesses, we're committing to our people, we're showing up, caring, and we want our businesses to basically have this moment of damn. She really cares. I'm ready to support her, take care of her so that I want to be on this train too. I want to support her so that when the CEO decides I need a break, I need some time, like life is happening. I just got broken up with like, I, my kid is sick and we're going on vacation, something, you know, whatever happens, the business basically goes, I got you, I've seen what you've done. Like we've built this together and I got you covered, go do what you need to do. That's what we want our businesses to assist. That's what the systems do. They see, they absorb the care. They basically are a mirror of the care that you have and they take care of things. Yes, beautiful. So what is the simplest action that they can take? Or the simplest workflow that they can focus on that will create that forward momentum? Oh, I think my brain skipped many steps ahead, but I just want to dial it back a little bit. See, one thing I would invite you to do today. Is take an honest look at your business. I want you to sit down, candle light, like, you know, true, put your business in front of you. Usually that means opening up some tabs, some platforms you already have open, get a notebook, get a candle, maybe have a glass of wine or hot chocolate or tea. I don't drink. So it's going to be, it's going to be the team for me and look honestly at your business and how it's set up. Look honestly at it and have an honest conversation. Like who's doing a lot of the lifting. Is it you or is it me? And if the answer is you are doing most of the lifting, then this is a lovely invitation for your partner, which is your business to hold some of that responsibility with you. So that's really like simplest one is look honestly at your business and ask who's doing the major lifting here. I love that. And really the first step to any change and any transformation is awareness. So before you focus on any, like, or get distracted by, Oh, I need to have an email list and I need to have an email system and workflow here in this, this, this, this just pause for a second and dedicate a specific intentional time to really get present. And like any relationship, it requires quality time. So dedicate quality time and be with your partner, who does your business and connect to the awareness around what is working, what is not working and who is doing the heavy lifting. I love that. Beautiful. I'm excited to see what everybody comes up with. Yeah. Thank you so much. Yeah. So where can everybody find you? Love you and follow you everywhere. Love on me anyway. No, best place to find me is on Instagram. That is my platform. I love to hang out. I love making people laugh, sharing ridiculous things. Come hang out with me on there. My handle is Tinley Yarrington. And once you type in Tinley, you'll find me. It'll say systems daddy, right? When you search it, so you'll know it's me. So come hang out with me on there. Do you have gotten any questions? Want to ask more about. What I do, how I could support you, how you can support you, how your business can support you. Don't hesitate to reach out. I got your back. Awesome. Thank you so much thing. And until next time.

3. 

   7 Aug 2024

   Ep. 7: Behind the Scenes of My Healing Journey with Dr. Joe Dispenza

   In this episode of EXPOSED, host Ania Volovique shares her transformative experience at Dr. Joe Dispenza's meditation retreats. Ania discusses how Dr. Joe's teachings helped her heal from a brain tumor without chemotherapy or radiation, emphasizing the importance of staying present and connecting to one's inner world. She also introduces 'Rebirth,' her upcoming group program for female entrepreneurs, aiming to help participants overcome limiting beliefs and align their businesses with their soul's purpose. Join Ania as she shares personal insights, strategies, and inspiration for entrepreneurial success and personal healing. 00:36 Personal Journey with Dr. Joe Dispenza 02:29 Healing from Brain Cancer 04:39 The Power of Meditation and Somatic Work 06:31 Invitation to Transformative Journey 07:30 Rebirth Program Announcement 09:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts RESOURCES: 2022 Cancun, MX week-long retreat testimonial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOUyvkx-b2c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOUyvkx-b2c) TRANSCRIPT: I just finished my second week long retreat with Dr. Joe Dispenza, a renowned author, speaker, and researcher in neuroscience, epigenetics, and quantum physics. Say that 10 times faster. So while I had some expectations, I walked in as a blank slate. So much has changed in the last four years. The retreat honestly couldn't have come at a better time. I was feeling like my entire world is falling apart, not knowing what's next, and questioning literally everything. I was ready to be no one, nowhere, Dr. Joe's prime teachings. Of course, everyone's experience is unique. In this episode, I'll share my personal journey, how Dr. Joe's work supported my healing from brain cancer, and some ideas on how you can get the most from his retreats. Or even just meditations in general. So first notice Dr. Joe's retreats are like any other meditation retreat. His specific specific methodology disconnects you from who you think you are and connects you to the unified field. The process focuses on releasing predispositions, opinions, and ideas about your life. The more you can disconnect from the known. And embrace the unknown, the more you open up to the abundance of possibilities that life has in store for you. His teachings aren't for everyone. A lot of my clients actually low key complain about his voice, and so many people have opinions about that. But really, what I think is I look at the evidence. And for me, his work has been life changing, literally. I first came across him about five years ago. And shortly after, I really got to practice his teachings. On August 8th, 2019, also known as Lion's gate, I had a seizure and fell on my face. The doctors found a 5 cm brain tumor, later identified as glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive brain tumors, with a typical survival time of 12 to 15 months with standard treatment, and only 5 to 10 percent of patients surviving 5 years or more. This was five years ago. Not only am I alive, I healed myself without any chemo or radiation. Interestingly, I didn't even know I was following his protocol at the time. At my first advanced retreat in Cancun a leg later, I understood what supported my healing. Instead of taking on the identity of a cancer patient, I fully surrendered to the experience. So much so, I even shaved my head, wanting to be ahead of chemo. The joke was on me. So instead of feeling like a victim, I focused on love and gratitude. Instead of preparing for the worst case scenario, I saw myself as healthy, whole, and healed. The healing formula was heightened emotion, love and gratitude, plus a clear goal, Being healthy and healed, this combined with full trust and surrender created a miracle. Despite the odds, statistics, and doctor's predictions, all my scans came back clear. I no longer needed any chemo or radiation. When people asked me how I did it, I didn't have a clear answer until that first retreat. Where the dots connected. If you'd like more details about my healing journey, I'm including my testimonial from that first retreat in the show notes. The mind and body are intimately interconnected. The subconscious doesn't know what is true or imagined. So if your current reality doesn't match what you desire, I invite you to trick your mind by imbibing the emotions your future self would have. My healing journey didn't stop at the scans. I knew there was more at the root cause. So for the next three years, I continued deep somatic and healing work to transmute past trauma and alchemize it into medicine. And the journey continues. Staying in my body and being present has been my greatest lesson. While disassociating was my go to protective mechanism for literally my entire life, being here with what is, continues to be my daily devotion. These pockets of time disconnecting intentionally from the outer world to connect to my inner world are the greatest gifts I can give myself. That also ripples out to everyone in my life. I meditate, not just for myself, but for my impact on others, combined with somatic work, it's the ultimate path to true freedom, freedom from within, without needing anything from anyone, without distractions, without craving, scrolling or chasing for bigger, better, more, and feeding the hungry ghost, ultimately arriving at satisfaction. Feeling satisfied with who I am, what I have, and where I am without being attached to any of it. Truly becoming no one, nowhere, in no time. If this sounds expansive, I invite you to sign up for your next retreat and go in with no agenda. The more you can disconnect from your current reality, the more you'll open yourself up for all of the surprises life has in store for you. May my story serve all who listen. May it be a gentle invitation, or a loving slap on the butt, to move. If you're not satisfied with any area of your life, it's not too late to become who you want to be. Shed the straitjacket of societal conditioning, external expectations, and the illusion that it's not the right time. Another day is not promised to any of us. Everything can change in a second. The story you tell yourself dictates how your life unfolds. Change your story, change your life. In honor of my five year bonus living anniversary, this Lion's Gate, I'm opening the wait list for my signature group program, Rebirth. This three month transformative journey is designed for female entrepreneurs who want to break free from limiting beliefs that stop you from truly showing up and sharing your truth. Embrace your true soul gifts and create the life and business you desire. Based on satisfaction, not chasing external validation. So you can share your message with confidence, clarity, and magnetism. This round will be the most powerful yet. So many new nuggets of wisdom got channeled through during the retreat. 40 hours of meditation is the greatest drug there is. Too many women hide their gifts, dim their light and shrink their power. It's time to rebirth yourself and your identity as an entrepreneur. If you want to overcome limiting beliefs, holding you back, embrace and amplify your unique gifts, build the business that truly aligns with your soul's purpose. Cultivate unshakable confidence and clarity. Share your message with magnetic impact. I would absolutely love to support you. Message me to get on the waitlist and be the first to receive all the details and early bird pricing. Sending you so much love. Till next time. CONTACT: To learn more about the REBIRTH Group Program and get on the waitlist, please email Ania@volovique.com or message on https://www.instagram.com/ania_volovique/

4. 

   16 Jul 2024

   Ep. 6: Life Force Energy: The Secret to Vibrant Living and Business Success w/ Yerlin Ramirez

   In this episode, Yerlin Ramirez shares her journey of embracing life's dualities and living authentically. Emphasizing the importance of consistent showing up, Yerlin discusses the role of communication, integrity, and devotion in personal and professional success. She highlights practices for staying connected to one's life force and the significance of reframing negative self-talk. This episode offers profound insights into aligning one’s daily actions with holistic well-being and authentic success. TIMESTAMPS: 00:36 Meet Yerlin the Merlin 01:52 The Art of Showing Up 09:26 Living the Practice 14:37 Shifting Energy and Mindset 20:03 The Power of Language 25:40 Conclusion and Contact Information GUEST BIO: Yerlin is a mystique alchemist that integrates Science- Spirituality and Business in an Unconventional way with wisdom that moves beyond the realm of what is predictable. Logic and reason live in the realm of what is predictable- her aim is to walk with you the path to the real of possibility and probability- the place where miracles and magic live- outside time and space. She has helped thousands of people around the world to create a life that is RICH OF MORE, More Freedom, More Time, More happiness, More Connection and More Money. She is here to help you squeeze the juice of life everyday and live beyond average, beyond normal and deeply connected to the home of your Soul. SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/yerlinramirezt) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/yerlinramirezcoach) TRANSCRIPT: Yerlin, can you introduce yourself and share what kind of magic you create in the world? Thank you, Ania. And thank you everybody that is here listening now. I hope you guys are having an amazing magical day. How I would introduce myself. When people heard my name and it's Yerlin, they usually call me Merlin, like the magician. And they always say that I'm usually Yerlin the Merlin, like I'm a magician of life. My thing is to really bring back life and to squeeze the juice of life. My own life history has really brought me to my knees in awe of life and what the gift is in every single moment that we're alive. So for me is to really bring people back to their hearts, back home to their own, to their own self, to their own soul and to help them live an amazing and unconventional life. You know, a life that is beyond average, beyond normal, but a life that they can really wake up in love every day too. And from there, everything else gets to be a cherry on top money, love. success, fame, all of these things get to be just a cherry on top of the most amazing life that they're living. So that's kind of like what my work is. Yeah, a little glimpse, but what you do is so much deeper. And, I'm just so grateful to have you be part of this series. So can you go deeper into how do you show up for yourself, for your business and for others when life lifes? Do I show up? I think that that is like one of the most important questions because I think this is what This is really what embodiment is. Embodiment is how you show up for life every single day. So for me, there are many different things in how I show up, you know. I have these, all these compartments of my life and each one of them has a different way of showing up. Like, I show up for my daughters, I show up for my husband, I show up for my business, for my clients, for myself, for my spiritual practices, for my health. So each one of them, has a very different, specific things, but all of them, What they have in common is, the constancy, you know, like constantly showing up for them, the compounding, the compounding interest, I say, like, you know, like the compounding effect of every single thing that I do for my health, for my children, for my friends, for the people around me, for my marriage, the compounding, the consistency in it and the, the appreciation for duality. So I don't expect every single day to be a walk in the park of just roses and rainbows. Like, I know energy. I know that there are waves of energy and I am in to ride them, whatever they are. You know, I ride the good waves and I ride the not so good waves. I ride the waves of laugh and the waves of tears, the waves of joy and the waves of fear. So for me is the love of duality and the acceptance of duality is big part of showing up. Showing up even for. the duality part where it's not all magical and beautiful. So that is a part of it, like the big duality in, in to the showing up. And then, another part of it is just like expressing and opening my voice in every single one of them. Communication. Communication is a big part of my showing up and how I show up. So when I am not feeling You know, good about something. I speak, I talk, I give feedback. I talk to my husband, to my children, to my friends. Communication, like my voice. I let my voice be heard. And in that way I show up for myself. I show up for others, and I show up for my little girl too that needs, you know, all the different things that our little girl needs too. That sometimes we just silence that voice. So that is a part of like showing up. And this is just general what is in common. To all of them, you know, like showing up in there and a big part of showing up in all these different areas also is this deep devotion to mastering my craft. Every day, the only person that I am, you know aiming to, to exceed and to be better at and to win over is the, you know, the one that I was yesterday. So devotion, devotion to my craft. Every day I want to be a little bit better about what I was doing and who I was being and how I was showing up as a friend, as a mother, as a wife, as a person, as a mentor, you know, as a business owner. I'm always in that devotion, devotion to my craft. How can I do it better? How can I be better? How can I be a little more kind? How can I be, you know, a little nicer? How can I be a little softer? How can I show a different presence? So, that devotion to my craft is something that is very deep in my soul. showing up and in part of this showing up is the big integrity too. And integrity is just like who am I being when no one is seeing me? When no one is seeing me, who am I being? If I could have a camera looking at me 24 seven, how I am and who I am with my daughters, with my partner, with the waitress, with the person, you know, at the store, with everybody. What would be, what would they like filming about me? How, what would they show? How would they show that I am when no one is seeing? So for me, that's a big part of the showing up is how you show up when no one is watching and when no one is seeing, that's a big part of how I live my life, you know, and And yeah, even like the other day I was in a VIP immersion with one client and we were going into this hike and I had a realization as we were talking and every day I have this membership where I broadcast messages and then I said, oh, one moment, let me stop here to send this. And then I sent the message and she was like, what, is this how you do it? This is how you make your transmissions. And I was like, why, what's going on? And she's like, So you don't have them like a structure and create it and done. And this is what we're going to talk about every day. You literally just have a realization and then you transmit it. And I'm like, yeah, that's how I do it. I literally live life and whatever life gives me something might stop for a moment. I process, I transmit it and I integrate that part. So this is how it is. So for me, That's a big part of it is how do we do life when no one is seeing so that's kind of what I can right now. I love that and it's so interesting. I love how synchronicity show up in the most random ways, because just before you, my interview was with Christine Michelle, and That's how we ended our conversation. How do you show up when no one's watching? And that's the most common denominator between people who succeed in whatever ways success means to them. And those who do not is exactly that. Like, how do you show up when no one's watching? So I love the fact that you are really anchoring in this point and how that's the thing that allows you to show up for yourself. When shit hits the pan or whatever happens that you don't desire. Which I think that is also the most important part because I had a client from Argentina, literally, she's very famous. She grew up very, uh, she, um, grew so fast in her audience, in her fame, in, you know, uh, TV shows, magazine, books, everything. And she told me when the camera is off, my life is miserable. Like, and I am suffering so much. And then she literally said, I am coming to you in an airplane. I'm like crawling to get into it, you know, and then she came in here and that always stay with me because I was like, how can a person look so happy when she's on cameras and in book and make us and everything, but then cameras off and you're like, I hate my life. How is it really worth it? Right? Like, is it really worth it for you to feel miserable? But on the outside, everybody feels like you, you're on top of the world. Then what's the point? What's the point? Exactly. Because to me, it's like, everything gets to be a cherry on top. To me, honestly, Ania, it's like, I'm alive. As I said, the big boss, God, the universe gave me another 24 hours to live. So many amazing people didn't wake up today to this day. They left, you know, even though they were millionaires, billionaires, amazing, more famous people than me, all of them, but they weren't granted another 24 hours. Like I was, I was like, I matter. I am here. I matter. I am important to this earth, to this planet. And that's the gift. And from there, everything else gets to be just more amazing, like cherry on top, like more amazing. Every single thing. But my biggest gift is like, I'm alive and I get to do whatever I want with the next 24 hours. And that's our superpower. Do you have any practices that are non negotiable for you to really stay in that space of gratitude? When I was less devoted to my craft of being, I had a lot of practices, you know, I had to, I had an hour meditation that I did, I had an hour journaling, like I had all the morning routines, things. Now I feel that my life has just become the practice. Every single thing I do is my practice. I'm like, I have, I'm hosting a friend of mine that came to from California here to them. You know, to the, um, my jungle place. And I'm like, I'm making coffee for her. I am in my practice. I am in deep gratitude. I am in service. I am in devotion. I'm happy. I'm cooking like breakfast or lunch for my kids. I am in deep devotion. I'm with my husband. I'm listening and I'm pressing and I'm deep devotion. I am here with you. And I'm like here with you. I am present in this moment. This is my medicine. This is my meditation. The gratitude is like flowing through me. So I feel that as I have become more. In the embodiment of what I feel in every part of my life, I need less and less and less of the structured times when I remember to be that, and instead I just have become it. Like everything I do is a practice, you know, even when I am like dealing with something, I am like dealing with a mean person on the phone, you know, and I am constantly being aware. This is a human being, they are doing their work, you know, breathe, manage your emotions, like don't let anyone take away your kindness or your power or your time. Like, this is like me. I'm looking at myself. I am looking at the waves moving through my body. Oh, I'm feeling the sadness. Okay. Early. Look at them sadness passing through your body. This is not you. This is not your identity. This is not who you are. This is just a way passing through your body. How can you help support this way? Pass through your body in a more kind way, in a more present way. So I have become so present with my body and with me in what I, you know, how I am through my day. That I feel that that has become my practice. And from that, like breathing, I do breathe through the day a lot. Like I take pauses to just like breathe a lot and stay present and feel the air. I drink a lot of water, which helped me also like, you know, being that presence in there. And I just. Take like glimpses. I take pictures. I take mental notes. I take snapshots of the of my life through the day. And that is like a big practice for me. That's beautiful. One of my favorite quotes is life as a practice. So, yes, we can have all of these to do lists and it feels like we're checking off the boxes. But ultimately, if you do all of the practices, if you have the most extensive morning practice, and then you go outside and somebody cuts you off in traffic and you start yelling and flipping people off, or you just get triggered every single time things don't go your way, then really, are you in the practice? versus tuning into how can I bring presence to the present moment and how can I bring awareness to what is already here right here right now. Yeah, I think that, um, and it's okay. It's beautiful that people can have an hour meditation, 30 minute meditation every day. That's really good. It reminds them to start and to do it and to be it. But honestly, as I have become more and more in the practice of living, so I'm conscious. Every day I find that I just need that less because it just becomes my life, my state of being. I, you know, I'm here in my jungle house and sometimes I go to the hammock and I just look at the toucans and the monkeys and the light coming through the trees and that's my practice right there. I am present in that moment. Sometimes I'm just so in awe, listening to my kids and thinking like, Oh my God, these are the kids that I raised. They came from me. Wow. You know, like I have friends right now, like sleeping in my cabin in my, you know, in my jungle cabin, I'm like, I'm so happy they came to visit me all the way from California here in Costa Rica to be here, you know, uh, like healing. I'm so happy I can have this place and, and have it being of use for my friends and the people that I love. So, uh, the practice is good. Until you become the practice. That's a quotable right there. Well, thank you so much for sharing your way of looking at the world. And of course, it's also helpful to see that externally you have achieved the level of success that a lot of people are striving for. So you don't necessarily have to be a monk, you know, on top of a mountain. You can be living in this 3d reality and still create tangible success. While also feeling connected to life, feeling to source and feeling alive. Are there any moments when you don't feel connected to your life force energy? And if so, what do you do to shift yourself back into that? Well, yeah, sure. I mean, I would be dead or not human if I didn't have those moments because we all do like it's normal, especially if anyone listening is a woman, we have hormones and we have cycles and we're, you know, we're cyclical beings. We, we live through the seasons of the moon every single month. So our energy goes up in peaks and down in peaks. And even through Um, through the day I have this sleep, uh, cycle, uh, cycle app in the tracks and it literally predicts my peak of energies in the day. I'm like, when I'm dipping down and I'm like, Oh my God, this is so accurate because we have, we are beings, we, we, we don't live in a straight line. Everything in nature is waves. So waves go up and down, up and down. So that's, you know, that's what we do. Now, when I feel sad, or when I feel like frustrated, or when I feel like down, and when I don't have much life force energy, first, I recognize I don't have that more like energy right now. I don't say I am depressed. I don't give myself a label. I don't say like I'm a frustrated or angry person. I don't say any of that. I just say I am not having much energy right now for this part. So I separate myself from the, from the behavior or from the situation in the moment. That's like very important for me. The other thing that I do is, um, I just ask my body what it's needing right now. Like what, what are you needing? Sometimes it's like go sleep more. Go sleep more like you're in sleep that you need to go and sleep more. Oh, okay. I'll go and take a nap and I sleep sometimes like, Hey, you need touch. You need a hug. You need like, you know, like, you know, go and get touch. And sometimes it's like, Hey, you had really, you know, like not so good food. And then go and eat something healthy. Go and have a green juice. Go and have something, you know, what are you craving? I am very. I'm good at listening to my body and asking my body, what do you need right now? What do you need right now? And this is a practice that my husband has taught me because even like he noticed that every time I will get cranky or like complaining or whining or wanted to pick a fight, he would just come right, cut through all the bullshit and just say, what do you need right now, my love? And I would be like, I just need you to hug me. I just need, you know, you hug me. And I was like, I was surprised all the time because I was like, I, we create all these like stories and drama around something and cut to the bottom. What do you need right now? Mm-Hmm, . They need expression. Do you need love? Do you need some words of appreciation? Like, what do you need? Do you need some rest? Do you need to take a shower? Sometimes showers are, have magical powers. Take a shower, a cold shower, or take a hot bath. hot and cold, you know, rest and movement. Sometimes your body is needing movement, sometimes your body is needing rest. Sometimes your body is needing, cold, sometimes your body is needing warm, you know, so like, what do you need? And this is the part, sometimes your body needs like noise. Sometimes your body needs stillness, and silence and the medicine of silence. Sometimes your body needs the medicine of noise and life happening around. So Tuning into what is my body needing is the thing that helps me to move faster through whatever wave I am caught in, in the moment. And then you're not in your head because it's your head that usually creates all of the stories. So if you go from your head and to drop into your body and ask your body, then you get the most true requests versus like continuously being in the loop of like, Oh, and creating more and more stories around that. Yeah, like release the narratives, releasing the narratives of the mind. This is what my mind is telling me right now. This is not true. Most of the time, the things that our mind tells us are not true. The mind Don't believe everything you think. No, like the mind is created to keep us safe. It's not to make us happy, you know, it's to keep us going and safe. And it actually takes a lot of neurological effort to create new neural pathways. The brain tried to go to what like in autopilot, that's why we live 95 percent of the time in our unconscious programs that we have. That's why the 5 percent that we have every day, we need to every day try to stretch it a little more and a little more so that that 5 becomes more and more. And it's taking more of the 95 percent that is unconscious, you know, it's like we then can stretch it and make it bigger and make it bigger, but that has to be a conscious. effort of, oh, what would my mind do? What would the normal me do? And then go and do the opposite, create that new neuropathway, you know, like, it's, um, it's like you have to go and destroy the old highways and you have to start putting the energy, the energy building blocks in the new highway that you want to have. So every time you see it's like, Oh, I'm in the old highway. Turn around, go to the one you want to drive through, you know. Oh, I went in the wrong way. Let me turn around. I'm going to go back to the highway that I want to be on. So that's what I do. What is the simplest step that they can take in order to begin shifting their pathways? Well, I would say two things. One, do not use I am statements just for something that is true. Something that is your biggest rule, your soul's true, like something that God itself will give you, you know, like I am love, I am magic, I am like beautiful, I'm kind, and like all of these I am, but do not use I am statements for something that is a skill that you haven't learned yet. Like I am lazy. You haven't learned the skill to use your time in a good way. Like I am like, I am a mess. No, you haven't learned the skill of being organized. So do not, and also use like, I am becoming more organized. I am becoming this, you know, instead of using I am for something that is negative and creating an identity with that, create the identities and lock in and anchor in the identities just of the one that are True, like are sold through. The other ones are just distortions that are not pure or complete yet. So do not use those. So be mindful of the language of the I am and which one, when not to use I want and I am. And then the other part is if you do go and say something in your language, because language are spells literally that we're doing, getting the practice of saying, I take that back. Let me say that differently. Just that, you know, like, oh my God, I just like be aware and mindful in the moment. Oh, I just said something. Oh, I take that back. One moment. Let me take that back. Let me say this in the way that I really mean it. And now you are shifting, you are training, you are neuropaths. I do this a lot. Even when my husband, when I'm so not nice, uh, replying to something, I say, let me take that back. This is what I meant to say. Or you are with a person, you say, hey, I'm actually, let me take that back. This is what I want to say. And then we train ourselves to use our language to cast good spells and to train our mind to not go into the old avenue to build this new one. And it's okay. And that is like, just even people get, you know, get to be more. present, and we allow them into our vulnerability, you know, even if we say something that is something with scarcity or something that is not so good, we can just say, I am learning to become more positive, so let me take that back, let me tell you this in that way, and that makes us human, and that makes us vulnerable, and the people are relatable, and people can connect even better with us. And it can be like, Oh, yeah, me too. Oh, yeah. Yeah. I know how that is. Oh, that's a good job. You are like retraining yourself. So people, we also give them an opportunity to connect with us as humans. Like, hey, I'm also retraining myself. I'm also like becoming this. I'm also like still learning to use my language better for myself and for my brain and for my energy field. So, yeah. That's what I would say the I am statements, and how to use them and when not to use them. And then they let me take that back and say the thing that you want to say, and retrain your mind to move to the neuropaths that you want those are like, really. the, the shortest form of consciousness and awareness that have worked for me and for my clients is in that moment. Yeah. I love that. Everything that we put after I am, we are declaring it as an identity. So if you do not want to identify as whatever you're saying, then stop saying those words. And. The fastest ways to shift anything is through a language. So one of my favorite books is called, it's not your money by Tosha silver. And in it, one of the main points that she's making is that whenever you're saying my. So we're identifying it with it, then we are also are taking responsibility for being the one to solve the problem. So for example, if I say I am sick, then I'm also responsible for getting better versus saying there's sickness within me. So then I'm disassociated and I'm allowing I have power to take care of it. Well, if I say I have that, then I feel like I'm responsible for getting rid of the debt. So really paying attention to the way that you use words. And every single time you say I am or my, then really pay attention to, is that the reality that you want to give more power and energy to? Yeah. And also I was in, in Columbia, I met with this chairman and he came to me and he said, ya, you know what my grandmother say is the fastest way to kill someone without ever touching it. And I'm like, what is that? And he said, stop naming it. Stop naming. Don't name the person, don't name the thing. The fastest way to kill something or someone without even like touching the thing is like, stop giving it energy. Do not like, do not give energy to that. Like done, just done. And you know, and the more that you move into that, The more that you start feeling the power, you know, back to you, because you're not letting that energy leave your body, you're actually having a different relationship with that and whatever doesn't have energy is like an iPhone, you know, it's like a phone. If you don't connect it and give it electricity and give it the energy the thing dies and it's good not for nothing. It's the same if we allow something to not have our energy, it will eventually die. And it won't bother us anymore. So we have to get in the practice of that, like bringing our energy back, bringing our energy back. Yeah. Thank you so much for sharing so many nuggets of wisdom. Where can everybody find you? Well, I'm in my social media, um, and Instagram, you're in Ramirez T or in Facebook, uh, my website, you're in ramirez. com and yeah, I just love people to come connect and hang out and be in there and grow together, expand together and create the most beautiful unconventional life because, you know, that's like my thing. I don't do normal. I don't like normal. I'm not a normal person. To me, life is to be lived beyond average and being young, normal, and that's, I'm into that. Yes. Thank you so much.

5. 

   10 Jul 2024

   Ep. 5: Going 'Both Cheeks In': The Power of Wholehearted Commitment w/ Emily Cassel

   In this episode, Emily Cassel, founder of Woman Up, shares her decade-long journey of helping women entrepreneurs rise and thrive. She discusses her approach as a business strategist and leadership consultant, emphasizing the importance of building scalable and profitable businesses. Emily elaborates on the concept of 'falling to the level of our systems,' explaining how both business systems and personal habits create resilience and support in challenging times. She stresses the importance of aligning daily practices with the identity of a successful entrepreneur and staying prepared for life's inevitable ups and downs. The conversation also touches on the role of social media, and Emily introduces the playful yet powerful mantra 'going both cheeks in' to encourage full commitment and presence in one's pursuits. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction to Emily Cassel 01:04 Empowering Women Entrepreneurs 02:30 Navigating Life's Challenges 04:34 Building Resilient Systems 06:17 Daily Practices for Success 12:30 Consistency and Identity 19:14 Engaging with Social Media 25:39 Going All In: Two Cheeks In 30:33 Where to Find Emily Cassel GUEST BIO: Emily Cassel is the Founder of WMNûp: a vibrant ecosystem of mission-driven change-makers, trail-blazers, multidimensional risk-takers and business-starters seeking intimacy and intentional support to cultivate long term, compounding success. As a business strategist and leadership consultant, Emily’s work draws from her background in Positive Psychology, Sustainability, Women’s Leadership, Business + Entrepreneurship, and her uniquely impactful experience attending an all-women’s college. Emily is the host of the podcast Like Nobody’s Business, author of two journals: the 52-week Motivational Journal and the 90-Day Goals Journal with Rockridge Press, and has been featured on Off the Vine with Kaitlyn Bristowe, With Whit with Whitney Port, and The Priestess Podcast with Julie Parker. Her work has also been featured in The Huffington Post, The Atlantic, and Skirt Charleston. She lives in Charleston, South Carolina with her fiance (Jeff), Mini Australian Shepherd (Kai), + goofy Golden Doodle (Wilson). You can find her stress-baking delicious DF + GF treats, performing a full Broadway revue in her convertible with the top down, or swimming in the ocean after soaking up sun on the beach. SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram | @emilycasselofficial (https://www.instagram.com/emilycasselofficial/) + @wmnup (https://www.instagram.com/wmnup/) LinkedIn | Emily Cassel (https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilycassel/) TRANSCRIPT: Today we have Emily Cassel. Emily, what kind of magic do you create in the world? Ooh, hi, good to be with you. The magic I create in the world is really helping women rise. And my company is called woman up and everything that we do for daily coaching inside my community is For this month, for example, is ease up and we've done level up and, and speak up and all these different ups. So this is kind of perfect. Um, and so what I really do, I've been working with women entrepreneurs for 10 years now, supporting them as a business strategist and leadership consultant to really support women to find their unique genius, to find their, Build businesses that are regeneratively scalable, that are sustainably profitable, that really bring their mission to life and specifically for women who are multidimensional and mission driven that don't necessarily have. an MBA. I have this calling and I have this moment where I've been called to something greater. I've been called to woman up. Right. And I like to call those like our woman up moments where we're actually called to something beyond what we know how to do. And so then there's this gap between My reality and this big, big vision, this, this innovative, intentional business that I want to create. And so I help women fill that with the right strategies, skills, systems, and support to bridge that gap and really create an infinite upward spiral of evolution every step of the way. So. I could go into much more detail about that, but of course, you know, I have my different offers and different ways that I serve and support women at all different stages of the journey of entrepreneurship and what I like to call evolutionary leadership. Yes, to all of that. Well, I am so glad that you're here and I'm excited for our conversation. So the main theme and topic that we're discussing as part of this challenge is around how do you For yourself, for your business and for others run lifelike. Okay. So the first thing that comes up for me, when you ask the question, how do you show up when life lives is this idea that we don't rise to the level of our vision. We fall to the level of our systems. And this has to do with both the systems in our businesses, right? Like the things set up that are automatic. automated on the back end and the things that we've created from a lens of like a long term time horizon and long term perspective. So that in the moments where shit hits the fan, where it's hard, where life, life, We are supported by what we've created thus far. And then also on a personal level, not rising to the level of our vision, but falling to the level of our systems that has to do with like habits and daily practices and the things that we do to like buoy ourselves in the midst of chaos and stay regulated and resourced while we rise. Right. And so there's never thing that I like to talk about often is like, Let's set the expectation of what business actually is and what entrepreneurship actually is. It's like this microcosm of the macrocosm of every natural cycle and process in nature that like life is going to life. No matter what, there's never going to be this moment where it's like, Oh my God, I have no more problems. I'm just free of any challenge. And it's like, if that's the case, you're probably not actually leaning into the growth edge and evolving in the way that it is. You're here to evolve and grow, right? You've probably then leaned into stagnancy, which is also challenging in its own way. It's just a different form of challenge that can feel really icky. So what I like to think about is, you know, we don't rise to the level of our vision. We fall to the level of our systems. And so how do I set myself up knowing that inevitably there are going to be Inevitabilities of evolution, I like to call them, which are basically things that are going to happen that are going to be hard initiations tests from the universe, you know, hard life things, death, birth, rebirth, new ideas, things that stop working that once worked really well. Just all of the things, right? And so in those moments, instead of being so rocked by it, can we build the resiliency both from like an internal place of being able to hold composure, being able to feel resourced and regulated in our nervous systems as we continue to rise up that infinite upward spiral of evolution? That's the visual that I love for a woman up and all the work that I do. And, um, how do we also set ourselves up on a strategic level with systems in our life and in our work that can help hold us and expand our capacity in those moments where we feel the crunch, the contraction, the challenge set in. And so for me, that looks like. Doing that work in my business behind the scenes before it needs to happen, but anticipating like, Hmm, how do I expand capacity before I need to, or how do I set something up so that it can function without me? How do I work myself out of the, the business a little bit more and really hone my zone of genius that only I can do, which usually is like three to five things, really, it's very short list. And. How do I then also hold myself through the challenging times through practices like for me right now I'm looking at as we're having this conversation. I set up this little tea area so I do like a daily tea ritual with myself I try to wake up at the same time every day go to bed at the same time every day journal, and do just a little bit of meditation, every single morning and that And then get outside, do my walk, you know, with my dogs and just like those little foundational things. They're so simple. It's nothing revolutionary, but what's revolutionary and radical about that is I think I was just talking with a client yesterday of like, actually how revolutionary it is for you as a woman today, for all of us as women today to show up in our business in a way that is. regulated, calm, you know, actually resourced instead of frazzled and stressed out and like dysregulated all the time. And so I think those are the best gifts we can give ourselves. And usually they're way simpler than we think, right? Like they're way simpler than we think to just steady ourselves and anchor into. Filling our cup to the point of overflow so that we're never actually depleted or exhausted by life lifing. Right. So simple and yet incredibly profound to do those things consistently with intention that really work for you and help set the, like raise the floor so you can shatter the ceiling. Right. And that requires resourcing from the inside out, both in your business and in your body. You just said so many beautiful nuggets of wisdom, like just dropped bombs everywhere. So one of the things that I love that you just said is around expecting things like expecting life to life, right? So we're looking at everything like, Oh, things are supposed to be perfect. So when they're not, then we think that something is wrong versus shifting into the mindset that Oh, I just expect that life has its ebbs and flows, there's negatives and positives. And there's just fluidity of like, sometimes I feel good. Sometimes I don't feel good. And sometimes I feel like shit. And how can I actually resource myself, as you said, from the inside out and prepare. So it's really the way that I'm seeing it is the preparation for no matter what. So yes, how can I take care of myself internally. So that way I do have the capacity and the energy Transcribed And the focus when it's required of me. So that way, no matter what happens, I am prepared not counting on it, but at the same time I'm ready. So then it doesn't come by surprise. Yes. Oh my gosh, exactly. I just, I did like a mini training in my community the other day about this. And, instead of focusing on always getting ready or getting prepared, can we instead shift the lens and the intention? Into staying ready, right? So can I feel like I'm always ready for anything? And I'm agile and resilient and just like prepared and unshakable because of that, right? It's like how you become truly unfuckwithable. It's like you, you really, you just stay ready, you know, like, can I. Take on that mindset and that perspective of like a peak athlete, right? It's like, I'm not going to, let's take a marathon for example, right? It would be so unsustainable to not train, not prepare and not stay ready by running incrementally, you know, bumping up your mileage and continue. And I'm not a runner at all. I never will be probably just like, don't love that for me. And that's fine. Okay. But, you know, that same kind of principle, right. Or even yoga or something. It's like, you, the more you practice, the better you perform with anything. And so like, of course, if we are constantly as entrepreneurs, as leaders, as women, if we're staying prepared, if we're staying ready and thinking ahead, that requires a lot of forethought as well to like, stay ready and truly feel prepared. And it also means that we have to look at the things like, we have to be thinking almost like, what could go wrong here? And then prepare for that and not be so head in the clouds that we're not being realistic with ourselves of like, what would I do if the worst case scenario did arise? And how do I build my own confidence and trust in myself to know that no matter what comes, I can walk myself through it and I will be okay? Because then we're not, we're free, right? We're actually free. We're free of the fear of the, Oh my God, I've attached my whole self worth and everything to this one outcome. And if my whole Okayness hinges on this thing happening exactly in this way, then I am doomed, right? Because like the chances of it happening that way only every single time are pretty slim. And we want to be prepared for like any and everything to happen. So knowing that we have ourselves set up with the tools and the systems and the support and the skill sets, no matter what, that's what builds that true, like, Unshakeable foundation that deep self trust and that ability to just go for it and know that you're going to land on your feet every single time and you're ready and you're staying ready by thinking ahead and really looking at like, what could go wrong? Like, what if I do get sick or what if I do get pregnant or what if I do, you know, what if I experienced a death, would my business be. solid still, or would it take it out? You know? So I think about those things often for myself and my clients too. Like, how do we actually create this in a way that it's, it you're building a leadership skill set in yourself that bends instead of breaking when life lifes. The way that I'm seeing it is it's a lifestyle. So instead of seeing it like the example that you gave, like training for a marathon, it's such a great example, like, or like any athlete, they don't necessarily just do it for a short period of time. And then the rest of the time they're just on the beach, sipping margaritas. They're actually training consistently. And the reason why they're as good as they are on the field. Or in the competition, whatever they're doing is because of all of the training hours. So instead of thinking like, Oh, let me do this one thing for this short period of time, how can we shift our identity into the lifestyle changes that become our lifestyle versus this temporary thing? Like I'm going to drink water today and then forget about it. You still need to consistently drink water in order to stay hydrated. Yeah, and it's like those things that we do consistently move the needle so much more than the things we do, you know, a couple times, right? And then it becomes easier too because it's part of your practice. Right. And it's inevitable, right? It's just like, Oh yeah, I'm just the person who does this. Like, of course, it's like, most of us, it's like, I drink coffee every day. I'm a coffee drinker. It's like, yeah, well, you could also be someone who, you know, the identity side. Right. Like a big, big part of my work is the identity work and how can, in order to create any type of change or any even ability or capacity to hold the vision that you have, no matter what happens. Right. One life, one shift at the end, whatever you call it. It's how do you see yourself and what is the identity that you're stepping into? And then how are your practices and your lifestyle actually supporting that or not? Right. Right. Like affirming that identity. Absolutely. Yes. And that's really, as you know, that's like the tap root of the whole thing. And then if we just get there and we shift that the behaviors and the. skills and the strategy, all of that stuff, then can kind of click in with a lot more ease because we're already orienting ourselves to, I am a person who values this, or I am a person who does this. And it takes a lot of that, like, start, stop, where we lose momentum out of the equation entirely and lets us really create that. I, this is where my mind goes, but that infinite upward spiral of evolution that we continue moving through the process of like resistance. And then we take bold and brave action, and then that becomes momentum. And then that compounds and becomes ease through continued and sustained action. That sometimes is like boring and unsexy, but necessary to really move to that space of ease. And then we expand our capacity. To hold more because things that were once challenging or that we were resistant to are now really easy. And so now we have space for more, right? And that's how we continue to expand and expand and expand and evolve over time versus just stay stuck in the same loops with the same problems over and over and over again, because we're not really truly learning and applying and evolving through that whole cycle and process. So what would you say are your non negotiable practices? I like to call these my conditions for thriving CFTs. I love it. So for me right now, it's like in bed at nine, wake up at five, like maybe five 30. If I'm feeling a little sleepier, you're still eight hours. I know crazy. And then, um, Journey. I feed my dogs. I like do my little morning routine that I explained and I light a candle and then give myself some time that could be a little bit longer. Some days a little bit shorter. Some days I go outside, try to see the sunrise, um, go for a walk, move my body. Sweat. Get that in. And then from there, everything else is like way easier. And then also, the thing that used to be hard for me that's no longer hard for me, that I really prioritize, is eating three really nourishing meals every day. And I think for women, this, for some, you know, for many reasons, can be hard for us. I don't know if you struggle with this, but I used to like work through lunch and then be like, why am I so angry at 3 p. m. and like annoyed at everyone? Because you are having a blood sugar drop and you need to actually feed yourself. Actual food. Um, and so that also is a non negotiable for me that has become such a top priority and it used to be something that it was not, it was like, eh, I'll get to that or if I don't, whatever, but the, you know, outcome is not worth the struggle that comes along with it. Do you take any like supportive supplements or adaptogens to support your energy and your focus? Um, not really. I try to do that all through like the actual food that I'm eating and then I'm very selective with any, you know, additional supplements that I might add in if there's something going on, but I have an awesome, like functional medicine person who I work with, who's amazing. So I only, I take advice from her. And then other than that, I'm like, okay, she thinks I'm doing, I'm doing the things that I need to be doing. Well, whatever you're doing, it's working. You're glowing and I love your energy. Yes. And then of course, like in the business, there are non negotiables as well. It's like, I'm always going to show up in stories. I'm always going to, you know, email my list once a week, put out a podcast once a week. And like, sometimes those things don't happen quite Perfectly in the way that, you know, I intended them to because life lifes and gets in the way or whatever, but I don't make that mean I suck or I don't beat myself up about it. It's just like, okay, great. Tomorrow is another day and I'll just be like, You know, now I get to bring all of that energy and I new ideas from yesterday into this thing that I'm going to create today and make it even more powerful. So there is that practice as well of like showing up through my content and my business for my clients, things like that, that are a little bit more systemized now than they used to be. That makes it really easy to just like, Know that I've done it and that I've done it with intention and that it doesn't just feel like I'm going through the motions, but that it's something that I'm actually really excited to show up for. So do you feel like it has become just part of your routine, much like other things, specifically showing up on social media, like showing up on stories, or do you still sometimes feel any resistance? No, I think it has really become part of the routine. And the only thing that feels challenging sometimes is like, what goes where? Because I have, you know, my, my more like personal account, that's actually my business brand account. And then I have my like. Actual business account under woman up, which is so like, there's a lot of overlap and the only resistance I feel right now around showing up is just like, does this, is this better suited here or on the other page, you know, things like that, but those are little silly things that it kind of doesn't matter really to anyone but me, probably, especially if it's, you know, quality content. Yeah, totally. So as long as it's getting out there, that's the important part. And like, sometimes I think we launch in our heads or we, you know, think we've, we've said it in our heads a million times. So we think we've said it. Too many times online. Actually, I know it's like, actually, no one even picked that up yet. They need to hear it like 16 more times from you to get that. Oh, this is happening. Okay, cool. Oh, I'm interested. So I think that repetition, do you have any suggestions for someone who's not yet? In that state of like, this is just part of my lifestyle and this is part of the thing that I do for my business. Like, how did you get there? Yeah, I'm trying to think. This is something I've been working with a lot of clients on recently because it's, it was, there are so many women that I've worked with recently who have been like, I will never, Do Instagram, like consistently, no, like showing my face on the camera. No. And then one just sent me a message the other day in Voxer. And she's like, I think I nailed it. I'm doing it. Isn't this so good? Look at my real, I'm like, I'm so proud of you. That's amazing. And she's, I think the, the real thing that I'm noticing across those experiences is like be intentional, but also have fun. You know, like let it be fun because that's where ease happens. That's where you get that positive feedback loop that makes you want to keep doing it is like you're actually genuinely enjoying it, right? Versus like, Oh, I have to do this. Oh my God. And then we create all this pressure around it versus like, Oh, I just like, this is something I'm doing every day. And it's going to be so fun. And like, It'll spark connection and conversations and things that are really nice to hear back and, you know, I'm just gonna like experiment. I think it's, it's really like be experimental and enjoy the process versus feel attached to the result. Because when we feel attached to the results, just like we were talking about before, it's just sets us up for not great feelings. And it sets us up to like, have our action and our showing up contingent upon what comes back. And that's really not the point. And you have to be able to go first and like, be willing to have it not work a million times before it hits. And you're like, Oh, I learned this thing. This really works for me. Yeah. So I think it's just a practice of, like, if you can think of it as like a playful, joyful practice of showing up and being visible and allowing for connection and pathways to open for the opportunities that you want, or the opportunities that you desire to call in or create for yourself or in your life or in your business, like, I think you just gotta have fun. And I know that sounds. I don't know. Maybe that doesn't sound super strategic, but it's like the strategy that works is the strategy you love, like that you actually enjoy doing. So have fun with it. Find ways to play and let that be the fuel that keeps you consistent. And what I'm hearing in that is don't take it so seriously. Yeah. Don't let it become this like heavy pressure thing that like you then want to rebel against and not do and let it feel so you're overthinking it. And, you know, as soon as we get into that space, it's like. We're not going to do the thing, you know, like once we get into the mental gymnastics around, like, is this right? And is it good enough? And is it perfect? And, oh, it should be better. And it's like, just do it messy. That's like how you overcome that resistance and move into momentum and then ease in eventually is you do the. Messy, imperfect, bold, brave stuff, and it's like just putting it out there. I often talk about how social media can just be a form of self expression. So if we take it from the pedestal that it has to be perfect, that you have to show up in a specific way or a specific number of times a week and so forth, then it doesn't have to be so heavy. And it could just be like, how can I show up and express myself and not be a catch to the results. Totally. And just, you know, noticing your relationship to it, right? Like it's a tool. It's a neutral thing. Whatever we are projecting onto it is how we're going to feel about it, right? So taking radical self responsibility for your relationship to social media and knowing that, you know, there are ways to use that tool that are really maladaptive. And there are other ways to use that tool that are really freeing and fun and joyful and connective. And, you know, when I'm Laying and having fun with like a real and I think it's really fun to create it, or, you know, I'm just like, I think it's really funny and I made myself laugh when I put it together like that's. That's awesome. That feeds me whether like 300 people see it or 3000 people see it or 30, 000 people see it, like, you know, it's irrelevant because I enjoyed that process and it was for me and it felt nourishing and resourcing for me. And then I learned something in the process, whether it's like, Oh, that really hit well, that resonated with people or that didn't. So let me adjust the strategy and tweak it. And then that becomes a game and is fun too. I love it. Yeah. So my last question is, I'd love for you to riff a little on the concept of going both cheeks in. Oh, Did I tell you this? No, I heard it on your podcast. Oh my god! So instead of like, for anyone who is not familiar with the term, I think Emily and her community developed it. But instead of going half assing it, and going half ass in, or one foot in, one foot out, You go both cheeks in. Both cheeks in! Oh my gosh, I love that you picked that up and that you listened to the podcast and pulled that out. That was like, it's such a good reminder. Every time I hear it, it like brings this levity and joy. It's like, yes, like we can put so much pressure on ourselves to like be all in and work really hard and do the damn thing. And then it's like, and make it happen. And it's like, No, we're just like, go two cheeks in, like do this with your whole ass. I think it's like, people feel the difference when you're dipping a toe in versus when you're fully all there. And I think when it comes to showing up, whether it's on social media or in your life in general, or in your business in general, I always remember this phrase that my, I don't even know where I heard this. I maybe read it in college or something, but it was like, Put your ass where your heart wants to be. And I was just like, yes, that's the thing. Um, and so I would just show up, like, I'd still do this. It's just become a practice. It's become part of my identity. It's just like, follow the pool of curiosity, follow the breadcrumbs and show up to anything and everything that feels interesting, but like be all there. Soak up as much as you can and learn. as much as you can and give and contribute whatever is of value to that space as much as you can. And that I think is like the recipe for Enjoying it, but also like going two cheeks in, right? It's like, if I'm going to be somewhere, I'm going to be part of something, or I'm going to commit to something I'm going to be all in. There's no thing that I'm going to do that. I'm going to be halfway in and get any results that are like that exciting. Right. And so it is this sort of. This energetic shift as well where when we are truly all in when we're all full commit when we're fully committed to whatever it is that we're doing when we're fully present and engaged with the process and we're committed to it we're devoted to it. We tend to see better results because we're actually all the way in versus like dipping a toe and hanging out on. In the background or something we're like on the field playing the game, learning, growing, evolving, experimenting and serving most likely when it comes to business, right? We're also contributing something of value. We're showing up and being seen and creating a positive impact in the world. And. You never know like what might land with someone one day, you know, like that. Oh my gosh. We like started as a joke on our first mastermind call. I was like, we're not half assing this. You guys like, hello, we're here. We're all the way in. We are both do not do this with a half of your ass. Do it with your whole ass. Like, that's what we're doing this year. We're all in, we're together. We're in this together. And like, let's go. And they were like, two cheeks in. I'm two cheeks in. And then it became a thing. And so I love that. It's like a rally cry for our people. But yeah, I think that's what it takes to like truly woman up to your potential, to your, to your mission, to your vision. Right. Like it actually, it, When you are fully all the way in, two cheeks in, however you want to say it, it's like you're fully committed and you're fully present and engaged in the process. And that's really where the magic happens. That's where the fulfillment is. And Really, I think there are so many ways to make money in the world. And it's like, we don't have to be entrepreneurs. We choose to be entrepreneurs. And if you are choosing that path, like be all in on it so that you give yourself like the best odds of success and fulfillment and best results possible, because I mean, I find it way more painful to think like, what would have happened if. I had tried harder or I had gone in all the way in, right? Because we know when we're halfway or when we're 75 percent and not all the way. And it's true in relationships as well, right? Like you can, you feel the difference and the intimacy and the depth and the results that happen when you're like kind of halfway there, but you've got one foot out the door. Like, I don't really know if this is right. And like, Of course, you're going to deepen whatever you're doing, you're going to expand it, you're going to, you know, you're going to get so much more back when you're all the way in and fully present there. So that's, that's two cheeks in. Two cheeks in. I love it. Yes. So Emily, where can people find you and get their cheeks in your world? Yeah. Get both cheeks in my world. I love it. Oh my gosh. Thank you. Thank you for having me. And thank you everyone for tuning in. And you can find me in a couple of different places. One would be our website, which is womanup. co spelled W M N U P dot C O. You can also find me on Instagram at both at woman up spelled w m n u p again so like no vowels except the u and then um also on instagram at emilycastleofficial and spelled c a s s e l but you'll find me somehow If you're on woman up, you'll find my personal. Um, and you can also find my podcast, which is called like nobody's business. Anywhere that you listen to podcasts, we're on all streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple podcasts, everywhere like that. So yeah, I think those are the places. Yeah. And we're going to have all of the links ready. So amazing June, get there. Yeah, I love it. Thank you. Thank you so much, Emily. This was beautiful. And I love their conversation. Thank you. Me too. Thanks again for having me.

6. 

   1 Jul 2024

   Ep. 4: Embracing Personal Power: Choosing Who I Want to Be and Trusting the Universe w/ Christine Michelle

   Christine Michelle shares her journey of helping women tap into their authentic selves, fostering fame, fortune, and fulfillment. They discuss the importance of showing up consistently, even when life presents challenges, and balancing spiritual and personal power. Christine emphasizes the significance of maintaining one's identity and moving in alignment with decisions, using social media as a tool for business success. She also shares strategies for navigating difficult times, including asking expansive questions and seeking joy in life. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction to EXPOSED 00:36 Meet Christine Michelle 01:29 Embracing Identity and Defying Age Norms 02:23 Balancing Woo and Do in Business 04:10 Overcoming Personal and Financial Challenges 07:34 Harnessing Social Media as a Tool 09:36 Trusting the Process and Spiritual Power 16:33 Living Life and Finding Inspiration 18:04 Expansive Questions and Shifting Perspectives 23:54 Identity and Showing Up in Adversity 25:48 Conclusion and Where to Find Christine GUEST BIO: Christine Michelle is the Founder and CEO of The AlignedSoul by Ana-Hob® International Transformation Brand & author of The Aligned Receiver. Christine is a mastermind of the Woo and the Do and helps QuantumQueens build empires, activate Fame, Fortune and be the Bad & Boujee leaders they were born to be & make Quantum Leaps #normal. SOCIAL MEDIA: IG: https://instagram.com/i.am.thealignedsoul (https://instagram.com/i.am.thealignedsoul) Podcast: https://alignedsoul.com/podcast (https://alignedsoul.com/podcast) TRANSCRIPT: Today we have a special guest, Christine, Michelle. Christine, welcome. Please tell us what kind of magic you create in the world. Oh, first, thank you for having me. I am so excited to be here. And for me, I'm Christine Michelle, and I am the CEO and founder of The Aligned Soul by Ana-Hob. I am a bestselling author. And what I do is I help women. I love to say I help the bad and quantum queens be more themselves, right, and really tap into fame. Fortune and fulfillment and that is by allowing themselves to fully express themselves and know that they get to have more money than Bezos, wear long hair, be sexy and amazing all the way until they're 90. Yes, yes, yes. You know, I, I, I'm 48 right at the time of this recording. And there's so many things that we're told that we're not supposed to do ways. We're not supposed to show up after you've reached a certain quote unquote age. And I just feel like it's all bull crap. Right. And I love when I think of Betsy Johnson and like all of these amazing icons that are, you know, well into their seventies, eighties, nineties, a hundreds, and they're living their lives wearing their heels, like Deep Vs, sexy clothes, long hair, and just being their full selves. And that's the energy of defying the odds that I'd love to bring into my brain. I love that. I'm all about that. So can you, one of the first questions I ask all of my guests is how do you show up for yourself, for your business and for others when life lies? Yeah, life, life's and life, life's all the time. I want my brand is really based on the woo and the do right. And so when we think about the woo, I think about the spiritual side and, and the part of the unseen, right, the unseen world. And then there's the action piece, right. And when you put both those together, it's like a spiritual power plus a personal power, it's a superpower. And. I think about right now. So right now in my life, my sister is going through a couple of health challenges. And so recently she had to have surgery. And we know that, you know, the initial tests were that it was benign, but, you know, we're still waiting on that, but, you know, still helping her, you know, through this whole process. And. Even during this time, right? It's easy to say, okay, I'm not going to show up, or I'm not going to do some things in my business. And, but for me, I decided that I have the identity of a woman who has a multi seven figure business. That's my identity. I 10 million me, you'll see it all where that's the way I describe myself. And 10 million me has one set up a business that supports her through the challenges, but also shows up during these times. And I don't have that as an option of not showing up. If that makes any sense to you. It's like for me, it's just natural and normal and this is just who I am. And the way I use like social media or the way I use some of these is that this is my masterpiece. This is my part that I'm putting out there and that there is someone who's praying for what I'm sharing on the other side. So who am I not to put that out there and show up for them even during times when it can be hard. I've had to, I filed for bankruptcy before. And so when I was in my like stressful financial moments and like, Oh my goodness, what's going to happen? There was never a thought in my mind of not showing up. It was just like, okay, what do we do during this? Right. So. My clients were having like 100, 000 days, honey. They were like thriving, but I was not. And so I said, well, clearly what I'm sharing, what I'm doing, it does work, but there's something that's going on for me that I need to look at it in a different standpoint. And so instead of saying, I'm not going to show up, I was like, okay, it's my job. It's my business. It's my career. It's something that I'm choosing to do. So this is a part of what I do. And then what else do I get to do to tap into. Feeling like, you know, the most expensive, most successful person. And so it was during this time where I decided, okay, I'm going to create my content. I'm going to do that, have that posted and scheduled or ready each and every early morning. And then I got in my car and I started driving Uber and I started delivering Postmates. And I started doing all of those things. Because I decided that I'm just I am the person who creates a masterpiece on social media. It is my tool. And who am I not to do that, like, if it's just who I am. I'm going to show up even when life is life, you know, bankruptcy, illness, all of those things, I'm going to show up. So the thing that I'm hearing from you in so many different words is around identity and Stepping into it's a choice and even the word decision. It's to it means to cut away So when we make a decision we're cutting away all other options and we're choosing something specifically So when you made a decision that you are Someone who creates amazing content who's supporting other people Then everything else just is falling away. And that is such an important thing Key point, because every single thing that is created in the outside reality begins with our own internal decisions. We get to decide who are we, and who are we not, and what are we not going to settle for. Yes, it's. Yes, that's exactly what it is, it starts from that decision. And when you make that decision is up to you to move in alignment with it. And so you'll hear all those people are like, I decide, decide, decide. And then you'll hear the other people on the other side is like, I decided and nothing happened. I decided that nothing happened. And the question is, did you decide and move in alignment with that decision? It's not just the decision. It's the movement in alignment with it. So I decided that I was going to do it. So guess what I needed to do show up. I decided that this is the kind of career that I want. So what do I do show up? Like I decided this. And so there's a. For lack of a better word, there's a work ethic kind of piece in there, and I don't want people to feel like, oh, that means I have to work all night and all that. No, it's me deciding to uphold my own commitments to myself. And so that's where I like to call work ethics. So I decided to be someone who has a business that the main places to promote the main places for me to be seen the main places for me to attract my audience is on social media. And so I know people, you know, talk about oh there's a toxic relationship that there's no relationship their social media is my tool. I use it. I, you know, put whatever I do need to put on it. I look at my client stuff like in, you know, share and do whatever I need to do for their things, and then I connect with, with people that I would love to be that are a part of my audience or connect with people that are that I love their work, and then I'm off. I'm done. Right. I and then I come back the next day. That's how I choose to use this tool that is a free tool that is oh my goodness now we have access to three billion plus plus plus people. Wow, for not having to pay a single dime. This is the most amazing tool. And this is the reason why we're having so many more millionaires and billionaires and grow and grow and grow because of these tools. And so I like to see it as a tool my tool. That I'm in control of versus like people are like, social media is taking over my life and all of this. Well, you are in circumstantial power and you have given your power away to social media instead of saying it works for me and I, it's my tool and I'm going to show up. I'm going to do what I committed to do to create this type of business. And then I'm going to walk away and do what else I need to do outside of that. You're using the social media, social media is not using you. And I think that's the distinction that a lot of people are falling into the rabbit hole of having social media use them. Yes. Yes. They, they use, it's like you give your power and we can give our power to many things, right? We give our priority to social media. We give our power away to money, right? Oh, well, this person didn't buy this, or I don't have enough clients, or I don't have enough money flowing in my account. So I get to be sad and I get to be upset and I get to not show up for my business. No, that is just you using that as an excuse. Money isn't, is your partner money is there to expand and support your desires because it's not there. Okay. So you're using That doesn't determine how you feel, right? And so we always get to come back and bring back our power. Remember that we have this personal power, and then there's the spiritual power, right? There's God, universe, sugar daddy, that bigger part of you, your soul that is in doing the unseen stuff. I always love to say manifestations and things that are unfolding in our life start 95 percent in the spiritual world. There's things that we can't see. We don't know all the people that are looking at our stuff that aren't scroll that aren't liking, but they're reading. We don't know who's about to DM us right now. We don't know the partner that is going to be around the corner. When you go to the Starbucks or something, we don't know any of that, but that stuff is happening and it doesn't mean it isn't happening. And what we're doing is we're not giving that spiritual power room to work. And we are allowing circumstances to determine how we feel instead of coming back into our own personal power to say, well, I know there's this 95 percent piece that's working for me. I'm going to see it as only working for me and working in my favor. And then I'm going to do my part. Take my steps, do what I need to do, and trust that that gets to be the avenue through which magic and miracle flow. And when we can put those two together and be in our own superpower, knowing that we've got spiritual, God, universe, sugar daddy, like I like to call it, working for us, and that I'm doing my part, there's no other way for it to happen. And so even when life is lifey. I know my part is to show up. I know my part is to post whatever I need to post on social media. I know my part is to connect with my audience and show her that I understand where she is. I know where she wants to go and I have the bridge for which she can cross over to get there. And so that's my job. That's what I'm here to do. And even when life is life, eat all I need to do. The easiest job in the world is a content creator or a coach and mentor is the easiest job in the world because all you need to do is write a piece of content that connects what you have as the solution. Speak to that person and then go back in the bed and cry and do whatever you need to do, sleep, you know, do whatever you need to do to heal your body, and then wake up the next day. Do it again, take that. 10 to 20 minutes, maybe 30 minutes to post on your story and then go back and then take care of your body. Like we have the easiest job ever. And I think a lot of people are focusing on the wrong things. And then they're feeling like it takes up so much time when the truth is it really takes a small percentage of your time to do what you need to do to keep businesses like we have going and keep yourself in the names of, you know, your, keep your name on the lips of everyone. It's really easy, but we, Yes, I love everything that you just said. And it also I feel like every listener who just heard your sermon right now, like their mind is just getting blown because It's so true and I've been there so many times as well. Like I've been an entrepreneur for the past decade and there were moments when it felt easy and then there were moments when I was making it really hard and challenging and I was giving my power away to outside sources aka social media and was, you know, My potential clients who are doing or not doing versus actually staying true to how can I provide value without expectation and then deepen my trust in the sugar daddy sky daddy, you know, all the sources and support systems that are available to us that are unseen. So how would you say. Do you specifically dance between the trust of your own power? Like how much do you put in you're supposed to do versus your spiritual team is doing for you? Oh, I love that. Okay. So What I love to say is I'm going to do my part and my part is what I know I get to do. So, there's as the boots on the ground human that's what I like to call it you're the boots on the ground so you're the person in this through reality and there are certain things that you get to do that are just just even make sense, right? They're logical in order for you to, you know, receive whatever you want to receive. Okay. So if we think about what are the logical things we need to do as people who have an online brand and online presence, maybe you have, you're an entrepreneur whatever it is, what are the things that, you know, only you can do in this physical world? Some of them is, you know, post on social media, sharing your offer, right? Create the offer, have the offer suite, create the content that promotes whatever that offer is, connect with your audience, nurture your audience and go live. Frickin life right those are the things that you need to do as the boots on the ground human. There are also things that you cannot do as far as do you know where the clients are coming from spit you know actually like we can think of all the millions of ways they can come but we don't know for sure. Where they're going to come from what source they're going to use, like how they're going to come. We just need to create the paths. So as long as you your part is to do the pack, create the pathways, create the avenues for which that the money the clients and all the things can flow, do your part to keep these pathways open. Post it on social media, sharing it with your audience, facilitating your program, serving your butt off. That's what we're here to do. Serve, serve, serve. You do that and then you get to lean into the trust that I've done my part. I've done my part. I've done my part. And I love to say, I've done my part for the day. Go universe. Sky daddy, sugar daddy, give me, you know, do the things, work your magic. I can't wait to see what's going to happen. I'm so excited for this. I'm so excited to see what's going to happen today. I'm so excited to see who's going to buy my program now. And that's where you get to play with the possibilities and all the ways, as long as you've done physically, physically. Your part, it's really simple to think about what are the things I can do right now with my own personal power with my own boots on the ground with my own steps that I get to take. And then as you're doing that and you're in the energy of this is, you know, it's working and Creating momentum. I like to say we're our own momentum. And so we get to say it's working. It's working and you look for all the ways that it's working and you point out all the ways that it's starting to unfold and create your own narratives that only work for you. Right. Delulu is a salulu. You create these delusional. scenarios. It's like, Oh, that person said no. Well, they said no. Cause they're making room for the four people that are about to say yes today and like, you know, creating those scenarios. And then you allow magic to unfold because you've created the pathways, the many, many pathways for it to flow. And so just think about what's my part. What are the things that I know that I can do? Right now to take the steps to create the avenues to show, you know, promote whatever I have coming or going or happening in my world and then walk away from it. So, and go live your life like go have some fun and go talk to friends go I love reality TV I you'd love to use it as like teaching things so go turn on some Netflix and get some new things that you're going to put into your content, whatever go live your life. And trust that it's unfolding. That's such a great plan. Go live your life because so often, especially a lot of my clients, when they first come to me, they're in the space of, they don't know what they should be doing. And a big part of it is I also tell them, well, what brings you joy? When was the last time you played? When was the last time you danced? Because if you're not living your life, of course you don't have inspiration. Inspiration comes from spirit, yes, but then it also comes from you actually being a human being in this human world, having a human experience. So if things feel, if you feel confused, if you feel blocked in any way, go live your life. Yes, go dance, go play in the water, go to the beach, like go to the mountains, I don't know, wherever you live. Go get outside, go do something, go shake up. I love to say if you feel like you don't know, go shake up the energy. There's two ways that I like to get out of the I don't know feeling. One is to go do something that's totally opposite of what I've been doing and like shake up the energy in the situation. And number two is I love to ask. So I'm going to talk about expansive questions. Expansive questions are questions that I'm not looking for the answer to, but I'm allowing God, universe, source to speak through my inner God voice is what I call it or your intuition to, to, to move me into direction that I get to go. And so expensive questions could be as simple as like how much more fun do I get to have today. What's the real, I mean what does my audience want to hear right now. What. What delightful surprises get to happen for me today, right? What is, how else does this get even better? Or what else is possible in this scenario that will blow my mind? Like things like that. I just ask those expensive questions because if I don't know, then I allow the bigger part of me and the wisdom that I'm connected to, the infinite wisdom to give me the answers. And instead of looking for the answers, I go play. And then I allow those answers to come to me through other sources, through other things, watching television. It's like, Oh my God, that's the answer. Oh my God, that'd be so cool. Or, Oh, that inspires me. And then moving with that. And so whenever people say, I don't know, I always say, you do know, you actually do know because you are connected to all that is infinite intelligence. It's always inside of you. It's always speaking to you. You're just not. Listening. And so to get to listen, either shake up the energy, go do something else that has nothing to do with what you're trying to work on a manifest or whatever, or go and ask some expansive questions take a walk and observe the environment observe the things around you be a part of the world and allow the answer to come through you. It also reminds me of there's very specific question that you ask an NLP, especially when somebody says, I don't know. And the question is, if you didn't know, what might that be? So it allows the subconscious mind to get on board and look for the answers because yes, it's your intuition, but then also intuition is directly related to your subconscious mind. So if you ask the questions, then you are telling you the subconscious mind to get to the answers. Yes. And it's kind of like, what do you know right now? Cause it's like, I don't know. It's like, what do you know? Cause you do know something. And then they're like, Oh, okay. Yeah. It's like being curious and searching for the little nuggets of wisdom and then collecting all of these crumbs, intuition and inspired action crumbs that are everywhere. Yes. And or, or, or like when people are like, it's not working, it say, Nope. How is it working? Mm-Hmm. How is this working for me? So even in bad situations when like Ask better questions. Yeah. Ask better questions. So I always say, what is right about this situation that I'm not seeing? Mm. Like what is working in that? Like how is this situation actually working for me and in my favor? Because one of my core beliefs is that everything is working for me and in my favor, that everyone goes out of their way to do nice things for me and that everything. Is. Just unfolding in a way that's going to be like, like it's taking me into the direction that I need to go. So that means I can never choose wrong. I can never take long steps. I get anything that I, everything that I do is always taking me in the direction that I meant to go. And when I believe that, when I trust that, then that means like, Oh, this is interesting. These are two things I would say, that's interesting. Or is that true? Because those two questions are like, Oh, interesting. Okay. Okay, now what? Like, what do I want now? Okay, that's a fact. That just happened. Interesting. What do I want now? And then just go forward in that instead of staying in the, the life y life y and all of that stuff. Say, okay. This has happened. This has changed my perspective on this. What will I like? How would I like to use this in my favor? What do I want now? Like, where do I want to go? Yeah. And really, even the whole notion of how do you show up when life likes, you show up and you choose whatever is in front of you. When I was going through my brain cancer experience, one of the mantras that came through is, I choose what chooses me. So it's so interesting how, like, and I'm just like putting these pieces together now, how actually, If you choose whatever should hits the storm or should hit the fan and life is liking, what if instead of judging it as bad or wrong, what if you choose it and lean into it and ask the bigger question of what is here for me? Yeah, that is so powerful. And, and also when you choose it, when you decide, okay, it's here, what now, like, what am I choosing now? It resists, resists. I mean, it diminishes all resistance. And so like when you're fighting against it fighting against no it's wrong and judging it and making it all like blah blah blah you're holding it in space like you're holding it in place. You're holding it in your life like you're keeping it there, but you release all of the resistance by saying okay, this is what happened. It is what it is. Now what? Now what am I going to choose now, what do I get to learn from this, how is this working for me, and it releases all resistance and you can see a path forward because you cannot create something in the same energy of what it was created. And so if it's something that's like. You're angry or you're upset and there's something that's going on, you getting more angry and more upset is only going to keep you in that scenario. You get to come back to a neutral space and say now what, then you can create and you can see a path forward, or a path in a different direction but if you stay in that anger, or you stay in that upset or you stay in the fight, then you're just staying in that situation and you're not allowing yourself to see all the solutions that are You know, going to help you move forward. Yeah. Another question that I love to ask is, who do I get to be through this? This is for me, but then again, like tying it to identity work, right? Who do I choose to be in this shitstorm? Yes. Well, the main thing, okay. I just did a post and I can't remember if it was yesterday or today. It all, it all, it all meshes together. But the biggest piece was, The difference between my clients that are like have the million dollar years and the difference between clients that don't is who they are being when no one's watching, like, or you when no one is watching, you know, life is life for you. I know life is life and for me, but if I want to bring that out into my social media and let everybody know the scenario or what's going on with my sister and what's been challenging I can. But I also, also know that what I'm creating and what I'm doing, there is an end result for clients and where it's going to take them. And so when I think about what I'm sharing and what I'm going to share and how I'm going to share it, it's also with the gaze of the, with the idea of like, how is this going to support and bring my clients forward or the people that I'm going to work with. Right. And so. I decide like who I get to be in the background because I know that if I tell this story or when I tell this story, I know it gets to be a masterpiece and I get to show how I walked myself through this using my tools, using the things that I'm teaching, right? And so I always look at who am I being when no one's watching, when there's no one to, to preem up for, when there's no one who is going to be able to say, Christine, you didn't da, da, da, da. Who am I being? And so who are you being through the storm? Who are you being when life is life? Are you being the person that you're being in front when everybody is watching? You need to be that same person when no one is watching. And that is what is going to help you through this. Yeah, thank you so much. This was such a beautiful conversation. Where can everybody find you? Yes. The easiest place to find me is on Instagram. I am I dot M dot the aligned soul. And from there you can find like anything that I've got going on. You can also, I post almost daily. I think it's basically daily and you'll see like. What the energy is behind it. If you have some challenges or you're just excited to have more on more on more, the Alliance Soul is the place for you. Beautiful. Thank you so much. We'll see you later.

7. 

   1 Jul 2024

   Ep. 3: Adopting a Mindset of Abundance and Delusional Pursuit w/ Sam Altieri

   In this episode of EXPOSED, our guest is Sam Altieri - a transformational coach focusing on helping women unlock their fullest potential. We discuss the power of visibility, resilience, and stepping out of one's comfort zone to achieve complete life transformation. Sam shares personal stories from her experiences as a 'vanlifer' and entrepreneur, underscoring the importance of mindset, emotional intelligence, and self-belief in overcoming challenges. She also talks about her upcoming 22-mile race in the Tetons as a metaphor for expanding personal capacity and leadership abilities. The episode emphasizes authentic leadership, communication, and the daily practices that support holistic growth and success. 00:00 Introduction to EXPOSED 00:41 Meet Sam Altieri 02:08 The Van Life Experience 02:58 Building Resilience and Capacity 04:08 The Power of Commitment 12:27 Leadership and Communication 14:35 Manifestation Practices 19:42 Collapsing Timelines and Holding Faith 28:04 Conclusion and Where to Find Sam GUEST BIO: Sam Altieri is an Activator, Mentor, Content Creator, Psychic Channel and the Host of the Sam Altieri Show. Her mission is empowering high achieving women and entrepreneurs to come home to themselves, show up fully in their power, activate their authentic voice and own who they are and what they want. She is traveling the US in her converted van, has created a 7 figure personal brand, hosts a top podcast, speaks on stage and is in the process of writing her book to activate women worldwide into their fullest potential. SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/samaltieri/) Tiktok (https://www.tiktok.com/@samaltieri) Podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sam-altieri-show/id1418055260) Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-P_Cfn3fjaNP1A1RdK4-Ow) TRANSCRIPT: Today we have the one and only Sam Altieri. Welcome, Sam. Thank you, Queen. I am stoked to be here. It's such a fun question being asked. Like, what do you do? You know, what's your magic? Today, right? like, because magic is magic. you actually can't describe it. but what I will say is this, because I think everyone will understand this. There is A version of you that exists, that is completely on fire, unstoppable, is operating in her fullest power, potential, all of it. And she is fucking thriving in every area of her life. physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. In her business, in her relationships, everything. And that's what I do. It's deep ass transformational work, wealth activation, helping you see how fucking epic you are. and helping you remove anything that is holding you back from that highest timeline of you just holy shit what is my life this is insane oh my god pinch me every day just encouraging women to go bigger and bigger and bigger until they're like it can get this good okay and then they just explode into sparkles yeah they just become literal rainbow fairy dust yes I can attest to that. You can, you can. Absolutely. Life always be lifin I had a conversation with Kurt, my fiance, like maybe, maybe this was like two months ago. we're full time vanlifers and so it is a lifestyle that we both wanted to do. We chose, and it's also comes with a lot of challenges, right? Like you have to think about, oh, we have to fill up our water tank. You know, when you live in a house, you don't have to think about water. It just comes out of the faucet and you're good. And so there's a lot more just things, right? We're moving around. We're seeing these beautiful sights and we have complete freedom, but In a way, there's a lot of challenges and running a company from within is also a whole other challenge and living with your partner in that close proximity is also a whole nother challenge. And so we were chatting about how much we've evolved as a couple and been able to both do our own thing and. You know, actually do it. But I said to him, I'm like, damn, you know what van life has taught me the most and him too, is like how to be resilient as, and how to show up even when you don't want to, you don't feel like it and you just, you feel like you don't have the capacity, but you actually do. And so it was making me realize, like, I'm like, I don't know another CEO that's running a seven figure company out of a van. I got to get myself some more credit. Damn. Right. And so I think that's the first piece is actually giving yourself so much more credit than probably do, because first of all, starting a business and doing that is an initiation in and of itself. But then doing that while being a good friend, being a good partner, taking care of yourself, all this stuff, it's not easy. it requires you to just elevate your mindset, have emotional intelligence and be a completely different version of you. And so, I would say there's all of that wrapped up with capacity. The capacity is a huge piece. And the second piece, which is actually something I'm stretching myself. I don't want to do this, but I'm going to do it is I'm about to sign up for a 22 mile race in the Tetons, which is at And to be honest, there's no part of me that wants to do it. I don't, I'm like, it's going to be hard. there's going to be days where I don't want to train. There's going to be days where I'm going to have excuses, but I can't let that stop me from training or else I'm going to be fucked on that mountain. Right. And so I'm doing it. Not because I want to, but because of who I'm going to be after training for three months and running 22 miles, even when my knees feel like they're going to break out of my goddamn legs. Right. And I haven't done something like this in a while, but it's literally because of what you just asked. How do you show up in life? So when shit hits the fan, just do it. And it's the same with the business. The business right now is exploding in all the ways. And I'm like, there are a million balls. I gotta stay grounded and hold it all. And feel, wow, my body is literally expanding in real time. And I can feel the capacity of my body actually expanding. It's really wild. So, I would say all of that, right? It's like, first of all, telling yourself, I've got this. I can handle this. And I say this to myself all the time, like all day fucking every day. I got this. I can do this. I can handle this. And then also, I need to go to bed. You know, like, letting yourself rest. Like, it's not like, I'm not about like grinding and hustling, but I think people do not realize how capable they are. And that's why I'm going to go do this race. Cause I'm like, I've never run 22 miles. I don't know that I, I mean, I know in my mind, I can do it. My body doesn't yet know. So I get to get my body to expand its capacity Oh, it's raining. Show up, figure it out. what are you going to do? your exercises on the bed in the van, figure it out. Like I'm challenging myself to get. resourceful and be even more resilient in the face of either adversity or hardship or yeah, just literally being the leader that I know I need to be in order to scale the vision. I love that and I love the fact that you used exercise as an example because they go so hand in hand in order for the version of yourself That already has everything that you desire in order for you to step into that version. Your body is the fastest pathway. So if you put yourself in situations and scenarios where you're expanding your capacity and actually facing the fears or facing those crunchy moments of feeling uncomfortable or doing it anyways, even when you don't feel like it. if you don't, then you're also are subconsciously reprogramming your mind where you can do hard shit. Yeah. It's like Glennon Doyle. Like you can do hard things and yeah. I was literally, I was talking to a friend earlier and I'm like, I was asking myself, like, should I invest in this thing? But I think, as a high achiever, I'm like, what else am I capable of? What else can I create? And I think every high achiever, there's this gap where you're like, I know there's more. I know it. So let me squeeze the fucking juice out of each day, each moment, each month, because the story that I want to write, and the person who I want to be, and the stories I'm going to tell on stage, I don't want to tell the story of, well, I didn't sign up because I didn't really, meh. No! I signed up even though I didn't want to. But guess who I became on the other side? I'm going to be another motherfucking force after I run those 22 miles. Are you kidding? Not just in life, but in business. Like I can't even imagine that version of me. I'm so excited to meet her. I feel like today's challenge should be for everybody who's participating is what can you sign up for? Or what can you say yes to that feels out of your comfort zone and probably has nothing to do with business. Yeah, I love that. Cause for me also, like, there's the, you know, there's the commitment, right? Of actually showing up for the thing. I have to do the training plan. I got to show up. There's also like a group coaching call component. I got to go run the thing. I'm going to meet all these people. It's going to be amazing. I know it's going to be amazing. And also massive resistance, all the excuses. Oh, but like the investment's bigger than I thought it was And I'm like, it has nothing to do with money, time, it's just about me actually committing and showing up. It's 100 percent that. It's, shit, if I say yes, when I say yes, I gotta show up. Okay, Bring it on, baby. It doesn't mean there's not fear and resistance, cause I have that. There's hesitation. I'm like, ooh, do I really want it? You know, I like playing this game with myself. Do I really? And I think that's very human of us too. To have that experience. But then when I think about it, I'm like, I don't want to do it. So that's why I'm going to sign up. It scares me. So that's why I'm going to sign up instead of what most people do, which is, well, the investments scary and, is resistant and they don't do it, but that's not what makes freaking unstoppable force of a person, you know, Yeah, I feel like a big reason why people don't do it is because they don't fully trust themselves and it's all parallel, right? the way that you approach any situation and especially, you know, uncomfortable situation. So things that you've never done before, that will also, or that has the power to translate into your business. So when a similar feeling arises in your business, you have the capacity to hold it and to navigate it from a really grounded space versus have the circumstance overtake you. Yeah. I mean, what you said is like. It's so perfect. it's exactly that. Even if I think about it in the context of business, right? And say you've only gotten five or 10 people in your program and you want to go bigger, right? You're like, I want to have 20 people. I don't have 30 people. I don't have 50 people, or I've only had, X amount of, people download this podcast or whatever, just for metric sake, right? It's. Asking yourself the question. Well, do I actually feel like I can handle it? Do I? Because if not, if you don't feel like you can handle it, you won't be given it. But if you tell yourself, I can handle it or I will figure out how to handle it, or I will bring in supplemental resources in terms of people to help me handle it. Then you will handle it. But it is usually a support and capacity issue, which is like, if we're talking about scaling businesses right now, I'm in a very interesting middle space where I'm jumping to a whole new level and it requires a whole new level of support in every area of my life because I can't literally hold The next level without having more support, bigger team, more like a person teaching me, helping me with fitness and mindset, business strategy over here, team stuff over here. Like there's so many more things and it's Like you start going up and up and up and it goes wider and wider. And that means you need more hands to hold the vision and the mission. And my mission is very big. You know this, but the bigger your mission and the bigger your vision and the bigger you want to go. The more capacity you need to have, you can build your own internal capacity, but it's also allowing yourself to receive support from other people who are going to, you're going to basically disperse your capacity for other people to also hold. To fruition, you're going to have more and more people under the base of you holding you so that you can soar and rise and you guys are all going to go together. And so, yeah, I think there's also that element too, of kind of surrendering control and knowing that you can't do it alone. And also it's way more fun doing it with support and nobody is creating anything great in this world without support, whether it's in the form of coaches, mentors, or other ways of support too. Your capacity to hold your leadership because. Receiving support is one thing, but then being able to also navigate all of the different personalities and anything else that arises, like, yes, we have control of ourselves, but we do not have control of other people. So it also is asking us to step into a different level of leadership and be able to communicate in a way that actually holds the other person high and not diminishes whatever their experiences. Yeah. I mean, that's the word is like communication. I think communication is one of the most important skills and it's not always a skill I had. I grew up with, I think my mom probably has a lot of repressed anger. Like I love her to death, but I think like there was a lot of passive aggressive, like language or the whole generation over there. Yeah. Like let's be real. So many women. but that's how I communicated. I never said actually what it is or what I wanted very directly. Honestly, it wasn't until probably the past year that maybe two years that I really started realizing what I needed and who I needed to be in order to be in leadership, right? And have a team and have many people in one space and hold that, be able to, if someone has an issue, be able to see them, hear them. Love them, understand them, and also hold them in their power. And not gaslight, diminish, like you said, any of that. But actually hold space for that. And I do think there's a lot of skills we cannot talk about all today. But there's a lot of skills for leadership that are required that we should be taught in fucking school. You know? How to How to hold space. How to have two differing perspectives and hold the other person with love and in their power. And not judge them, shame them. Gaslight them, hold them and ask yourself and go inward and say, can I see this differently? Is there an opportunity? Is there any truth in what this person is saying? You know, I've had, I've had this happen where maybe a client has said something and I'm like, thank you for saying that I receive, I take full responsibility and I'm going to show up and do better. And I don't, I think there's a, a way to be a leader with soul and heart. And there's a way to be a leader with ego of I'm always right. You're wrong. I do my best always to show up with that love and to see people as also humans and hearts and all of that, and really hold space for that and not make people wrong. Cause that's never like, that's not the goal. It's not to make people wrong. It's to find that common ground. Yes. I love that. What would you say are some of your non negotiable practices that support you in having the capacity to hold yourself and then also your team? I love this. one of the main things that I'm doing right now, I've done this practice maybe for the last five years on and off, but it's really important for me to do it right now is kind of a twofold manifestation practice if you want to call it that. but one is scripting. So writing from the future in the present tense. So it's actually affirming to myself. the things that I want, but also the way that I'm showing up. So it could be as simple as writing down, I can handle this next jump in success. I am able to hold it. I can find the people and the resources and the time and the energy and the things to be able to hold it and be there. And I got it right. Just like constantly affirming to myself that I got it. And with that, the second piece is, I do a lot of like, I mean, we talk about this inside of the mastermind, but like future tripping and kind of like future self shit. and so I often, I think people talk about dissociation in a bad way. Cause it's like, could be like a trauma thing. Where if you're dissociating and you're leaving your body, it's not good. And you need to be in your body. I actually, I feel like. I dissociate on purpose to be that next level of me now and see what it feels like and then come back into my present self and be like, Oh, huh, how do I get those in congruence and be her now? And so I think it's constantly like throughout the day, even when I'm going for a walk, I go for a lot of walks. Acting, thinking, being, and feeling, the most important part, feeling, the next level of whatever it is. Success, money, wealth, capacity, client load, love, abundance, joy, in my physical body. I am anchoring those feelings into my body often as possible. So I wake up, I feel it. That's like my non negotiable. As often as I can throughout the day, especially on walks, because it's easy. you know how there's like the hot girl walk? But it's more like my future self walk, where I'm walking with each step. I'm like, I'm a walking boss. I love this. My leadership skills are top notch. Our clients are getting epic results. I'm getting epic results. Like, like everything is flowing. I'm so supportive. Like I will affirm things. I will feel it. I will see it. I'm on stage. I'm the number one podcast. Like I do these crazy things. is how Tony Robbins created Tony Robbins. Of course. Like he literally was priming himself first thing in the morning and then using incantations of exactly how he wanted to experience his life and who he gets to be in order to receive whatever he was desiring. And I'm I want to literally explode when I'm like, wait, guys. This can change everything. If you don't do anything else, literally you can go fuck off anywhere, but if you only do this, your life will transform. Literally. it's so wild how I feel like I spent the last eight years in extreme personal growth camp, basically, with investing in all the mentors and being in all the things, and I'm like, we should, this is it. It's feeling and being it now. This is it. This is it. be it now, and then you have the results. They do have. And I know you're about that as well, but the more you can embody on a cellular level, talk like her, walk like her, move like her, dress like her, And you'd be surprised at how she looks. I used to think I was gonna like, wear all these suits or some shit. And then I'm like, that's not me. I can wear them, they're fun. But actually, I'm kind of like, a beanie and like, whatever. Like, I like hats. How you look now. Yeah, exactly. I'm like, I can be wildly fucking successful and make massive impact in a sports bra and a beanie. You don't have to change what you look like unless you want to. But actually, it's just about being you, bully. You Full send, show up as her, right now, let that be enough, and then act like her, talk like her, walk like her, move like her. That's why I'm gonna go run 22 miles in the Tetons, cause when I think about me, on stage, in the capacity that I will be on stage, I'm gonna be unstoppable, and I'm gonna feel so fucking good in my body, and I ask myself, how would I get there? I'm not gonna have done that by myself, cause, I just can't push myself like that. so I'm gonna hire somebody to help me, you know, like, of course, that's what I did. I can't wait to witness the journey and who you become on the other side of it. I mean, you're already such a badass. Watch out world. I agree. Thank you. I appreciate, I know, yo, what is going to happen? I'm nervous, in the best way. Oh my God, the world. I don't know. I don't know what's going to go down, but I know it can only be up. You know, it's only up from here. Yeah. I'm curious to hear your perception in regards to. Collapsing the timeline between that version of yourself that you're stepping into while still navigating the 3d reality. So do you ever get those moments when you don't feel like doing it or when like literally everything is falling apart in your world and you just, you're not in the space to remember these practices. Yeah. I mean, I think there's a Malcolm Gladwell wrote a book called the tipping point. And I feel like whether we use the analogy of the tipping point or the line in the sand, I do feel like everyone as an entrepreneur has either a line in the sand or a tipping point moment where after a certain point, you have been doing this long enough to already be in the momentum of it. Where the beginning is the hardest part. You have no skills, you don't have the mindset and you don't have the character traits to scale, to go, to show up to full send when you're already in the act of it, it's much easier. It's also the hardest because you have no momentum. You're in straight up inertia. There's no evidence for what you're creating. You literally are operating on faith. And I have a very strong connection to source or whatever you want to call it, God. And I have always been of the belief that it is inevitable that your dreams, goals, all of that will come true. As long as you keep showing up and acting as if you take messy action and you have radical delusional amounts of self belief and trust, because there is a time. To plant the seeds and then there is a time to harvest. And a lot of people want harvest season without this planting the seed season. And so, I think humbling yourself to the process, because I'm impatient as fuck too, also. Like, I just have to say, I'm so impatient. I'm like, Why am I not making 5 million dollars in a day yet? And, you know, I'm so good. And also, being like, okay, patience. Can we enjoy the journey? There's no rush. But also, what the fuck, you know? Like, holding both. So to answer your question, yes, of course I have moments and I have so many practices that I don't forget to use them because this is literally the work I teach and I am the living embodiment of it and I do them every day. I am constantly anchoring myself back into abundance. I'm always looking for evidence. Of being supported. I'm always looking for evidence that it is working. And when you, Ben Hardy talks about this in his book, The Gap in the Game. when you focus, Abraham Hicks talks about this on what you focus on, you get, when you focus on what is going well, all the momentum you have created, how you have shown up for yourself, celebrating your wins, being like Sam and focusing on the good, you receive more good. And so that is the practice I'm continually in by constantly celebrating myself. writing down my wins, sharing them with my community, you guys in the mastermind, talking about it publicly, being in the energy of celebration and recognition and focusing on abundance, not lack, will be a snowball for more momentum, more abundance, more overflow. And so you have to hold the faith really fucking hard at the beginning, really hard, even when there's no evidence and trust and trust. And then there's going to be this one moment where it's like everything. It's like a fucking windfall. You're like, and it's because it's like, you're adding sand to the bucket and it doesn't feel like it's adding up. And then all of a sudden the bucket starts overflowing and you're like, Oh, it's because you've been adding sand the whole time, but it wasn't until it was overflowing that you got to see. And I just had a moment like this literally yesterday. So timely where. There was a lull, and this happens at every level in business, lull. Then, what happened? like, two ti two times, maybe even three, of what we made last month happened in one day. In a 24 hour span. that's the power of collapsing time and quantity, I had to hold the faith that it was working in all the days that I didn't see the evidence. that's going to happen at every level, whether you go from making zero dollars to all of a sudden, I went to my first client. Oh my fucking god. To, okay, you know, the business is doing good. Clients coming in. And then all of a sudden you're like, Oh my god. Holy shit. Like, like the tsunami is like, you're like, like preparing and you're like gathering the team. So just knowing that it is all adding up. There's no, there's no possible way you can go to the gym and work out five times a week and not see progress. And eat well, like do all the things you know you need to do and eat well and not have there be evidence. Now, some people need to know what to do, so, okay, cool, but most people just need to fucking chill out, trust, show up, and be in the energy of it working, because energy is so important. So important. One of my favorite quotes is, don't give up right before the miracle. I love that. Because literally, we never know when that moment happens. Yeah, I love that like it really it does speak to the magic of life of like you don't know and what if instead of letting that unknown piece be something that irritates you and makes you feel like shit to use existential kink to basically be in that mystery in the unknown and be like, okay. You know, like how to be fun, how to be playful be like, I wonder. What's going to happen today? I wonder what all the magic and miracles are going to happen today. Who am I going to meet today? What am I going to, and when you live life like that, which I feel like this is how I've created everything that I've created of like, Just being open to life surprising the shit out of you in the best way ever, and also taking action. it's not like you just sit back and do nothing. but you're open to it being magical. You're open to it being wildly beyond anything that you could ever put on a piece of paper. And just being like, what if? Today, I made 500, 000. some insane thing, right? And I think often we put limits on ourselves and boxes on ourselves and we don't allow ourselves to set these insane impossible goals because we don't want to be disappointed and we don't want to feel like shit when we don't reach it. But, what if you set that insane goal and then it happened? Or what if you actually hit half of that? It's like ten times bigger than you would have let yourself dream. So who cares? Nobody's looking at your goals and saying, You didn't reach it. Just go big. Always. Delulu. It's true. Be delusional about your life. Be delusional about what's possible. And say fuck you to the little voice that tells you otherwise. Yeah. And just tell that little voice. Because that little voice is just scared. Just be like, hey, look, I know you've been operating in the 3D. linear time but we about to get quantum up in this bitch we about to get delusional and so you gotta get on my back get in my backpack we're gonna zip it up i will strap you in but we're going Like the rocket ship emoji. do whatever you need to do. Grab a fucking sippy cup. Get in my backpack and let's go. Cause I'm taking over this ship and we're going. You know? Awesome. I can listen to you literally 24 7. dude, you know what's funny? Can I tell you something funny? this morning I had this like, huge download. And I'm like, yo, I'm gonna make. Besides the podcast, obviously I have my podcast, right? But I'm going to make a little, I don't even know what, where I just go on these riffs. It's going to be like kind of a membership, but like, where I'm just like, guys, Oh my God. Yeah. Just like little injection. Remember who the fuck you are injections. Yes. Like exactly. So stay tuned for that. Cause it's coming soon. Well, thank you so much for sharing all of you. And where can people find you? I would say, the podcast is a great place. Like, that's where people really flock to the Sam Altieri show. On Instagram is where I love connecting with you guys on DMs. I also started using Facebook. You just type in my name anywhere and you will find me. I would say podcast, Instagram, and Facebook are where I'm mostly at. And, yeah, excited to connect with everyone and come say hi, follow along, and let's fuck around and find out

8. 

   1 Jul 2024

   Ep. 2: Embracing Authentic Self-Expression w/ Shoshanna Raven

   Today's guest is Shoshanna Raven, founder of the 'Living Brave' community. Ania and Shoshanna discuss the importance of showing up authentically in the entrepreneurial journey. Shoshanna shares insights from her experience leading the Living Brave community, discusses overcoming challenges like self-censorship and playing small, and offers advice on how to maintain visibility and connection even during tough times. The conversation touches on balancing mission-driven work with personal struggles and the importance of genuine relationships and emotional intimacy within a community. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction to Exposed Podcast 00:36 Meet Shoshana Raven: The Shameslayer 00:53 The Mission of Living Brave 05:10 Navigating Challenges and Showing Up 11:56 Balancing Life and Mission 20:00 Connecting with Your Community 24:47 Conclusion and Social Media Handles GUEST BIO: Shoshanna Raven is a multi-7 figure business coach and founder of the women's empowerment brand Living Brave, for anything-goes, shame-slaying, taboo-breaking conversations around wealth, influence, leadership, power, and feminine lifestyle. SOCIAL MEDIA: https://shoshannaraven.com/ (https://shoshannaraven.com/email-optin/) https://shoshannaraven.com/podcast/ (https://shoshannaraven.com/podcast/) https://www.instagram.com/shoshanna_raven/ (https://www.instagram.com/shoshanna_raven/) TRANSCRIPT: Today we have a special guest. The Shameslayer herself miss ShoshaNna Raven. Welcome, Shosh. How are you? Oh, I'm so happy to be here. We were just saying, you know, seeing this from the idea to the actual execution is such a special thing. And this topic of showing up, like how we show up, you know, how we present ourselves to the world is really like the backbone of Living Brave and its mission of dissolving the distance between who we know ourselves to be and who we Can be in the truth of our heart and soul and how we present to the world. Right. And that like deep level of embodiment and integration of self saying what's alive and true and real. So this makes me really happy. And I feel like this would solve a lot of problems for people over complicating stuff of just like, Wow. Where am I hiding? Where am I performing? Where am I pretending? Where do I feel like I can't just fully meet the moment exactly as I am now? And that kind of dissonance, I think is, is a huge problem for female entrepreneurs. And I honestly think it holds us back in so many different areas of our life because life has built off relationships and that's what business is. So I'm really glad to be here having conversation around showing up and how we show up as. authentically ourselves. So for anyone who doesn't know who you are, can you please share what kind of magic you create in the world? Yeah. What kind of magic we create in the world. So I founded living brave, which is this amazing community of shame, slang, visionary women, and some conscious men all around the world. And really the foundation of the movement that is a coaching business. And, you know, we have in person events and retreats. It's just so far beyond a business. It feels like a heartbeat for me is helping people really free themselves from the shackles of shame and honestly, self censoring and playing small and allowing ourselves to be just fully seen. And to really. Yes, be brave. Just do it scared. But to understand how we do that and what I found is that it's so easy to say, just do it and just be brave. A lot of us are like, well, how? Because I'm terrified. And so living brave is really all about walking with our fear, using the power of vulnerability, using the power of collaboration, of connection, of Of self exploration of understanding our own energetic body and emotional bodies in order to tap into the truth of our heart and soul and create unique pathways and strategies to help us. You know, achieve what was otherwise impossible. And so I always speak about how it's so much more important to really focus on how we're showing up in the moment to moment in the day to day, because especially in the world of business, which is where I focus with a lot of my clients, there's a lot of in, there's a lot of. Conversation around knowing where you want to go and reverse engineering where you want to go and having the plan and being so focused on what you want. But the truth is, you know, one of your questions on what do you do in life is lifing like life will life. And what I find is that. You know, our mind is so limited in its capacity to, to dream. And what I believe is possible today is limited by what I've done in the past. And so if I just continue to focus on how I'm meeting every single moment, no matter how beautiful or chaotic or expected or magical it is, that's going to take me so far beyond my mind's capacity to dream, On a vision board. Like how am I to know how good life can get? How am I to know? Cause life has surprised me so much. I'm not even going to try to reverse engineer the process. How can I be the highest level match to this moment? And that's tough. You know, that's tough in a world that it's easy to fall to the lowest common denominator of. You know, the, the reactions in our lives and to really just lead ourselves. So that's what living brave is all about. And yeah, I just love it so much. And I'm so happy that you've been able to be a part of it. It's been so expansive and so many different ways. So I'm grateful to be part of the community and the mission and everything else that we're co creating together. Yeah. So. One of the things that really is inspiring about the way that you show up, not just for yourself, but also for your community, for our community is this unwavering dedication and devotion to something bigger than yourself. And you just coming out of this experience of experience yourself, which is the first trimester and the way that you've been able to show up And consistently show up on social media. Specifically, while leading a movement has just been so mind blown. Like, I don't even have words to describe how it's been witnessing you sharing how deep and raw your experience has been and challenging physically challenging. And yet you continue to show up. So can you just give a little bit of a glimpse into your Working the how you're managed to show up despite not feeling great despite throwing up despite everything else that came up that you probably didn't even share publicly. Yeah. Yeah. Thank you for saying that because man, that was like really, I mean, when do we expect it to be so hard, but it was so hard and I just was so, um, You know, of course life has its plan for us, but Christian and I, my partner, we laugh like we just had no idea. We're like, yeah, we're pregnant. And then everyone's different, you know, and for me, it ended up being at least eight or nine weeks of just like every single day, really getting to that edge. And I think we're afraid of that. That edge where you really ask yourself, like, can I do this? Like, can I do this? Am I dying? Like, I can't even tell me the amount of times like, am I dying? I can't do this. Can I do this? I can't do this. I'm dying. And it really felt like this, that was my truth. Like I'm at the absolute edge of what's possible for me right now as a human being, and I feel like what gets me through, it's almost like the flip side of that question. Is what gets me through hard times is my mission and is my work. And so a lot of people ask like, well, how do you continue to show up in your mission, your work when you're going through a hard time? But if you ask me the question of how do I get through a hard time, it's like having a bigger context for going through something tough. Like what got me through my breakup was knowing that although. I didn't like to hear it in the moment. I knew it was so on brand. I was like, this is living brave. This is my moment. Like the worst thing can be the best thing. Like HSV is the best thing that ever happened to me. I thought it was a death sentence. I thought it was going to ruin my love life. It's brought me everything. Beauty, beautiful in my life, like good or bad. Who's to say, you know, just everything that I teach. Those are the moments that really matters. I teach. That leadership is easy when it's going well, but we need leaders who are willing to walk into the unknown, the darkness when it's not necessarily easy, because that's when we need a guide. And so if I can be that for myself and I can know that I'm walking through something hard, not just for me, but for other people and to be a representation, just like other mentors and guides have been for me. Then it gives me a strong sense of purpose and it gives me a sense of strength and courage and energy that I didn't have before. So even when I show up to like the vortex calls, my mind is like, really, are you going to feel better when you get on this call? Cause that doesn't make sense because you feel really bad. Like I felt really not good before even today's vortex call, but I just knew I went upstairs. I saw Christian and he, I was just like, Oh, I'm really struggling. I think, I think I said to him, I'm going to throw up all over the vortex. And I was like, but I think maybe I was like, but I, I bet I'm going to feel so good. And I'm telling you being on that call, being in my purpose, being sometimes you could say distracted by a pocket, an area of your life where you feel like I know what I'm doing and I've got this, and I feel very convicted in this when life is in chaos, turmoil, family issues, relationship, health, whatever feels like, Ooh, I'm in a really big unknown. Um, I know a lot of people who are committed to the path of master, like, Oh, throughout my whole life, commit to the path of mastery, their whole life, their mission, their purpose, no matter what shape they're in. It takes, cause it can look like one business here. And, you know, shame slang doesn't necessarily mean the coaching business. It could be being an author. It could be speaking on stages. It could be the way that I show up in my family, just that context for my life smooth is out those edges. So I would say that while physically having less energy, not wanting to look at screens, um, I didn't necessarily have the cadence that I have when I'm like, yeah, we're on fire, you know, new programs and new experiences. In fact, it's June and we're going to run the first new live experience of the year, you know, this month. But I would say sharing my truth and my heart. I don't know what I would have done without the community, because when I'm going through something challenging, I've built this house, I've built this community, I've built this business so I can live in it. You know, like I've, I. It was hard for me not to share with people that I was pregnant, even though I have a high risk pregnancy, even though it was only six weeks, because I wanted to be able to ask the community and the people that I love. And I've built relationships with, Hey, what did you do? What was helpful for you? I wanted to be able to really share a piece of my life that was special to me. And that's really beautiful when you feel like you've built genuine relationships with the people in your community and your audience. And it's not just, how do I get people to join my offers? It's like. No, this is a relationship and I genuinely like to share, you know, like back when social media was just for your friends and family. And of course there's always a shadow side to wanting the likes and the validation. We're human beings, but ultimately it can be about connection and self expression, you know, detached from a business. I I'm really grateful sometimes for the fact that I had my social media. I love to share my writing. And I had a podcast before monetizing with any offers just to share for the sake of sharing. So to not share kind of hurts my soul because it's a way that I. It's a way that I integrate. It's a way that I self express. It's a way that I self actualize. And so when I cut that off, it almost feels like sometimes my internal process is stuck. I love the distinction between like, not necessarily focusing on work life balance, which so many people talk about, but actually looking at it as this is my life. And my mission is what pulls me forward. So we're not putting it in a little box and putting a bow in it. You're saying this is all of me. And how can I express myself fully with my community? And I'm not just looking at these people as numbers that they're my clients. They're also part of my family, even though they're my clients, which is like so refreshing and kind of breaks apart that whole structure that it has to be one way or another way, but that it's black and white, it's like, no, how can I just. Show up unapologetically and share what's on my heart. What's real and true right now. Yeah, absolutely. I love that distinction of, I never wanted a balance. I never wanted something I had to balance. I always wanted something that could support my life and that my life could support. And so I want my work to make me better as a person, make my life better. And I want my to feel my passion. You know, I want, I want them to feel like. They're supporting each other and that not one is taking away from the other and that I can trust that there's seasonality in life. So it doesn't mean that we're going to be okay posting every single day on social media. It can be, Hey, there's some days where I've got so many ideas. I just want to post three times today. And there's some weeks where. I know there's not so much creativity flowing, but I might give a little gift to my future self, which is the gift of consistency and say, okay, I'm going to take a little bit of time, maybe repurpose something, or maybe give myself a little more focus because I know that. Showing up and being visible really helps me. It helps my people. It helps my future self. So not going through these drastic swings. Um, but I, I ultimately feel that one of my core principles is to really think less, to think less, just go, just to go, just do think less. And so whenever I would really get in my head, around any of this pregnancy, which wasn't a lot because I was so in my body, which was one of the gifts, I think, of being so s Um, I know I've become a better person through this process and that's, that's always my philosophy is like everything is happening to refine you into being, you know, a more fuller, a more compassionate, more embodied, enriched part of yourself. And sometimes it can be a process that feels kind of. Ugly, you know, it can extract parts of yourself that you get to let go of. And sometimes it can be really beautiful because it reveals parts of yourself that you didn't know that you had and you get to strengthen. But ultimately, if I did get in my head, it would be around like, oh, shoot, am I able to do this? It would be very like, let me think about a future that hasn't existed yet. Or it would be very heady of like, is the way that I'm showing up the way I'm supposed to, is this sharing too much, too little, it was too vulnerable. And it it's all head. And so I often feel that when someone's going through a hard time, it's not actually too challenging or too time consuming to show up. And it doesn't mean they need to share everything about what they're going through. In fact, maybe it could be a time to say, I'm really kind of confused in this part of my life. So what do I know? Like, what am I truly embodied in? How can this anchor me through this time? If I can't make content and art out of what's actually happening in my life right now. Um, a lot of, I think what makes it hard is overthinking around like, am I going to be able to show up? Am I going to be able to do that? Am I going to have to cancel this? Like what's going to happen then? And then am I going to do the, and it's none of it's really necessary. Yeah. None of it's really necessary. Cause I would find myself wanting to go there and I'd be like, well, I'll just show up for my calls today. Um, see what happens tomorrow, you know, like, well, there's literally no reason for me to think about that right now, but that's so draining and, um, stress filled that I think that's honestly what gets in the way, uh, for most people of continuing to follow through on their commitments or grow and life is lifing is the overthinking and just come at it every single day. Cause there's a lot happening. Just, if all you can do is like, you know what, I'm just going to show up to my commitments. Here's what I'm going to do today. Here's what I'm going to do this week for my future self. Here are my daily things that are going to set me up for success in the future. So I don't let this one part of my life or something unexpected is happening, really disrupt all the other parts. How can I continue to pour into these parts that matter to me as I do shift energy and focus into this part of my life, whether it's health or relationship or, well, their family, um, of course it might be taking more time, but how can I. Okay. Continue to feed these parts of myself to be kind to my future. I love the connection to your future self and acting from the present self for the future self because every single thing is compounds. So again, if we're acting from obligation, if we're showing up because we feel pressured to show up, then that's also not serving. So I'm curious to hear how that distinction is for you. Do you ever feel pressured? And in that moment, how do you drop back into your body and connect to coming from inspiration versus obligation? Yeah, I think a lot of the times when I share, it's very inspired and it's like, like, this is what we all want, right? Like on the best days, it's like inspired. It feels good. It feels like, ah, I've got something to share. This is exciting. This is, I just got off a call and here's a cool idea and this is fun. And, but there are days where it might take a little extra umph. It might take a little more time. It might take, what do I want to share today? I haven't shared in a while and I'm in promotion of an offer that I am going to put a lot of energy into. And I know that being visible around this is important. So I want to create something for that today. Right. And nothing's really coming through that. I would say the distinction between, okay, I feel obligated. Cause I've got to show up every day. Cause I said I would. Um, it's more of that devotion, right? And it's, it could be a devotion to your community. It could be in service and devotion to this offer. You know, like say you were like, I don't feel like coming to this, to showing up to this call of shows, but you might be like, well, This offer, like the, this experience that I have, like it deserves my presence, you know, and, and in reverence to the idea that I had or for sh and her time, or the people who are supposed to listen, I'm, I'm gonna devote to those relationships and those things that really matter to me. But I think when you can shift it to, I feel obligated because I have to make sales and it can be like I feel, um, in service and in love. To my future. Like this isn't like, I feel obligated because I need to make money today. It's like, I know that I bow to my past self for the brave things that I've done for the times I've shown up when I really don't want to show up. Like, I love that woman, you know, and I want to be that woman for my future. That really matters. So that's shifting from that like obligation to like, okay, I love you. You know, I'm going to do this for you because like this, this matters to us. And again, this is about having your mission pull you forward versus your current reality or the circumstances that you think are bad or wrong or whatever else undesirable there. Yeah, that's beautiful. Well, I'd love to hear from you. What would you invite the audience? What kind of challenge can you give them like one tangible step that they can take in order for them to reconnect with their mission, with their purpose? And show up for themselves, their business and others. Yeah, to reconnect to themselves and reconnect to their, their mission and their why and their community, one step that they could take, if they could imagine for a moment that there's no business and that there is nothing to sell and that these are just like people who love following them and think that they're cool and I think sometimes we, we forget that like most people who are in your world and watching your stuff, like they're super inspired by you. They, they like you as a person, you know, and that's a really cool privilege to be someone on their list, like the list of people that they, they spend their time with to really look at before this was a business. Um, just to simply connect, just like you would go to a friend's house to connect or a new party to connect. You have this opportunity to connect with these people who, whether you met on a trip or whether you met, you know, last week at a gathering, or whether, um, you, it's an old friend from high school, college, like, what would you kind of want to share with them? Maybe it's a life update. Maybe it's just like. Hey, here's what's going on. Here's something I've recently gone through that might be supportive for anyone. Here's like the real truth of my heart, you know, not trying to get anyone to do something, but really just acting as if. This is like a family. These are your friends. Like what would you genuinely want to share? And I really like to do that from time to time. Like, Oh my God, guys, there was this big milestone. Like I just hit this milestone. Here's the photos of this new house that I bought. And like, gosh, I'm so happy. And like, this is so cool. Or I'm in my first trimester and holy shit, this is really hard. Like I want, I would love to hear from you guys, like the answer to two questions. Like it would mean so much to me, you know, like one. Do you, do you really forget with your second kids and to like, you know, what really helped you or, you know, like I would genuinely share that with, with people. It has nothing to do with my business and I really don't need someone to be gotten there. So how can you just make like one post as if you had no business and you were just sharing with family and friends and update vulnerable, share something funny or quirky, um, and strip it. Really reread it and go, am I trying to get someone to do something? And can I just play with like, just for one post, like, don't try to get someone to do anything and just like truly seek to connect and just share something that matters to you. I'm going to do that tomorrow too. Stretching into the playful and the weird energy of myself and like not to take myself too seriously and just share for the sake of sharing and to bring A smile on somebody else's face. Yeah. We need more of that. Yeah. People take themselves way too seriously. Uh huh. Yeah, absolutely. And there's, I mean, even starting to write a book, which is so exciting, I'm like, Oh, I want to go back and like look up some of my social media posts. I've basically written everything already, you know, like all these concepts, but it's interesting because. You know, some of them do have an invitation or they're so short. Sometimes you can't really like say all that you want to say, like, maybe I do have more writing than I think, you know, because it's like, it's, it's just different just to, just to share. And I think it's so important from time to time, especially if you have a personal brand connected to your business, um, or you genuinely want to feel like in those times, like you're like, Oh, I wish I felt like that. Like in those times where you're just like. Throwing up, feeling horrible, or like you're just going through a time. You're like, I do not want to be on social media to, to actually have that field. I'm like, no, like I want, I want to get support from my people. I want to share with my people. This is going to be like a relief, you know, to actually feel that it comes from like having those relationships and relationships take emotional intimacy and time, you know, and trust. And so that's how you start to build it. Yeah. Beautiful. Love that. Um, so for anybody who doesn't already follow you. Where can people find you and find more of your magic? Yeah. At Shoshana underscore Raven is my Instagram and it would be amazing. I would love to see the, the shares in the posts that you create, maybe inspired from this conversation. That would be awesome. Yeah. Tag Shosh and let's see what else gets created from that. Thank you so much. And we'll see you online.

9. 

   30 Jun 2024

   Ep. 1: Origin Story: Brain Cancer, Divorce, and Entrepreneurship w/ Ania Volovique

   In this premiere episode of 'EXPOSED', host Ania Volovique takes listeners on an introspective journey through her entrepreneurial and personal life transformations. Ania recounts significant milestones—from her early entrepreneurial experiences and a life-changing conference in 2013, to her daring move to Paris, and surviving a brain cancer diagnosis. She shares her dedication to personal growth and the stories of everyday heroes she met around the world. Ania’s authentic narrative offers inspiration for entrepreneurs to forge their unique paths and embrace their vulnerabilities. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction to EXPOSED 00:24 Ania's Early Entrepreneurial Journey 00:41 Life-Changing Conference and Personal Transformation 01:24 Ending a Marriage and Embracing Change 02:53 Discovering Wings: A Journey Across America 03:54 A Leap to Paris 04:33 Documenting Inspiring Stories Around the World 06:08 Finding Home in San Diego 07:24 A Life-Altering Accident and Diagnosis 09:20 Embracing the Cancer Experience 12:46 Healing and Personal Growth 13:07 Reuniting and Parting with Love 14:53 Launching the Show Up Challenge 16:11 Conclusion and Podcast Invitation TRANSCRIPT: Welcome to Exposed. Think of this podcast as eavesdropping on powerful conversations that take you behind the scenes of the entrepreneurial journey, exposing what's raw, real, and true, not hiding behind filters or highlight reels and breaking the norm of putting others on a pedestal and extending a chair for you to join us. I'm your host Ania Volovique. My entrepreneurial journey started 11 years ago, but my mind was always operating as one since I was a child. I remember negotiating a sandwich exchange for two pastries in third grade. I knew what I liked and what I didn't, and I was willing to do something about it. But it was February 2013 that forever altered the direction of my life. I went to a conference called What If, five days away from life as I knew it, surrounded by big thinkers exploring the question, what if you live the life you dream of? It was then that I realized I wasn't living my life. I was so busy checking off the boxes of what society told me success was, I forgot to ask what I actually wanted, or check in how I was feeling, which was empty. So I began making some changes, or rather changing every aspect of my life, which felt incongruent. The first big decision was ending my marriage. What was even scarier was doing so only after three months since the wedding. Cutting through the ego's noise, what would people think? Yet deep in my soul, I knew it was the right decision. I was denying the truth for way too long, pretending the toxic patterns would suddenly change after saying I do. They didn't, and I could no longer look the other way. It was hard, but so needed for both of us. I then enrolled in my first personal development course, Momentum Education, a four month journey into unpacking all the conditioning, releasing old stories of limitation, and realizing that I get to create my own reality. So I quit my temporary job, which a year later I was still there, and finally turned my passion into a business. Stepping fully into the identity of a professional photographer after years of dreaming about it, learning about it, being the unofficial photographer at every event, assisting, volunteering at studios, and even managing other photographers when I worked as a talent manager. At 25, I thought it was too late to start something new. At 30, I chose to take a leap of faith because life is too short not to. Combining my love for photography and travel, I created a project called Discovering Wings. Traveling from New York to California and back by public transportation only, because I'm a New Yorker at heart, I was photographing mothers as a way to give back. After two months on the road and meeting so many inspiring souls, I knew this was just the beginning. It was time to take a bigger leap. Since I was six years old, I was fascinated by the Eiffel Tower. Somehow in Soviet Russia, I found a photo and was mesmerized by the glimmering lights and what life might be like in this far away place. I don't think I ever knew where the Eiffel Tower was, honestly. But in that moment, I declared that one day I'll live in Paris. By the time I came back to New York, I knew discovering Wings was not complete. I decided that my one day dream is up to me. One day can be today. So naturally, I bought a one way ticket to Paris with just 300 to my name, barely speaking French and not knowing anyone there. It was illogical and irresponsible, but a deeper inner knowing was guiding me. I boarded the plane with just a prayer and a dream. Naive? Probably, but sometimes that's what's required to chase that big audacious goal. Not only did everything work out, it worked out better than if my mind had an elaborate plan or a bank account to match. Over the course of the next two years, I traveled throughout 14 countries, photographing and interviewing over a hundred inspiring everyday heroes that chose to live life on their terms. From a writer in Edinburgh who chose to pursue his passion at 50 years old, despite having Asperger's, to a recovering addict in Phoenix who found meditation that saved his life, to an actress in Paris who found a creative outlet for her abusive upbringing...to a coffee enthusiast in Tulum starting his business while facing every block possible and navigating politics. And so many more stories that just left me speechless and in awe of the human spirit. In short, I was documenting Steve Jobs famous quote. Here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes, the ones who see things differently. They're not fond of rules. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can't do is ignore them, because they change things. They push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world are the ones who do. I thought the project ended during my final photo exhibit in 2015, but now it feels like this podcast is a new form of it. I initially flew to Paris searching for a home. After two years living out of a suitcase, I realized home is wherever I am. It was time to unpack that suitcase and land in one place. I made a list of everything I wanted in a physical location, and San Diego, California came on top. I've never been there before, but it looked great on Google. I flew there for a week to get a feel for it, and as soon as I walked out of the plane smelling the ocean air and feeling the relaxed vibe of the west coast, I knew this was it. And just like that, I sold most of my belongings, packed two suitcases this time, and flew across the country again, with no plan, following my intuition. Pretty quickly, my life transformed into what I've always dreamed of. I was living my what if. My business was growing. I was working with the most incredible clients, friends with so many inspiring people, and feeling on top of the world, until I didn't. Ah, let's take a breath here. Okay. Summer of 2019 will forever remain a pivotal point in my life. And I want to give a little trigger warning for anybody who needs a bit of a breath. Listen with an open mind. and trust that you'll receive whatever you need to receive from what I'm going to share next. In July, I lost control of my body as I was driving, causing me to speed up into a concrete wall, car flipping over. It was a miracle I survived. Not only that, I just got a tiny scratch on my collarbone from the seatbelt that held me in place. But apparently that wasn't a big enough sign. On August 8th, just Lionsgate, I had a seizure and fell on my face. Literally. After just getting a facial. God has a sense of humor. The doctors discovered a 5 cm brain tumor and immediately began preparing me for surgery. I was diagnosed with glioblastoma. Based on statistics, it has a survival time of 12 to 18 months, with only 25 percent of patients surviving more than 1 year, and only 5 percent of patients survive more than 5 years. I did not read the statistics. If I did, I probably wouldn't be here today. This August, which is next month at the time of the recording, will mark five years since the diagnosis. I also have like chills right now realizing of how divinely timed this podcast is. So thank you for listening and for being here. This means so much more than you will ever know. Okay, back to the story. Um, I also didn't take on the identity of a cancer patient. I used to say, I'm having a cancer experience. I don't have cancer. And a mantra came through me during that time. If it's in front of me, it's for me. So I fully surrendered to the experience in front of me. I was not in fear. I was grateful. I finally felt what I was seeking my entire life, a sense of belonging. I finally felt seen, heard, and loved. The stories in my head were just that, stories. Every day, friends and even strangers would come to visit me. I saw this experience as medicine for the collective. I was sharing my insights on social media almost daily, encouraging others to enjoy life to the fullest. To soak up the simple things. To do all the things I only wished I could because after the brain surgery, I couldn't walk. I just laid there in the bed. All I wanted was to put my feet in the grass, watch the sunset, and play with puppies. People from all over the world began sending me photos of them enjoying all these things and bringing joy back into their lives. The brain cancer experience created a micro movement across the world. Two weeks post surgery, I learned to walk again. It was the single most powerful moment of my life. I felt alive again. I felt human. I felt unstoppable. As the doctors were preparing the treatment plan for chemo and radiation, I decided to be a step ahead. I asked my friend to shave my hair before it falls out. Surrounded by 20 soul sisters in my hospital room, and in the IRIS, I am light, playing in the background. My hair was falling on the floor, and each woman began speaking out loud everything she is ready to release. One by one, these powerhouse women declared what they're no longer willing to carry forward. Emotions flowed, hearts cracking open. The sight was breathtaking. With bold red lips, bold head, and a scar ear to ear, still black eyes and stitches, love was pouring through me. Naturally, I then planned the photoshoot on the beach at sunset. These photos are a gift that keeps on giving, proving that beauty can look a lot of different ways, and we can create our own reality, no matter the circumstances. The joke was on me when I didn't need any treatment. Two weeks after getting discharged from the hospital, all my scans came back clear. I healed myself without any traditional treatment. Sometimes you need to breathe. While my scans were clear, I knew that work was just beginning. I was committing to looking deeper at the root cause of the brain tumor. For the next three years, I dove deep into somatics, healing generational trauma, and energy work, while guided by powerful healer, Melissa Battali. Another surprise of the cancer experience was reuniting with my former husband. Exactly seven years since our separation, we met new versions of ourselves after walking on all needed paths and coming back together as the world seemed to fall apart. On the outside, everything looked great. Yet four years later, I found myself in a familiar state of living someone else's life, forgetting who I was in the process. I was completely dismissing my own needs and desires and afraid to speak my truth, until I could no longer pretend everything is okay. It was the hardest decision I've ever had to make. How do you break the heart of someone you love? How do you say the life you're building is no longer here? How do you admit the truth while knowing it hurts someone else? Yet holding it in was no longer an option. It wasn't fair for me or to him. The most loving thing I could do is leave. Leave with love, still loving, still honoring, and still being grateful for a connection, memories, and the life we've built. Saying goodbye to what was and what could have been, with no regrets. It was beautiful. And now the love story takes on a different shape. Around the same time, I was in the process of launching a visibility challenge called Show Up. Interesting how art imitates life or life imitates art. Life was asking me to show up no matter what. Through grief, moving, allergies, sickness, travel, I recorded interviews with top leaders in the coaching industry, exploring the question, how do you show up for yourself, your business, and others when life flex? The first 16 episodes of this podcast are those recordings. May they be the healing balm when you need it most. Each speaker offers her unique take on navigating entrepreneurship in a female body through all the ups, downs, and sideways surprises. We're pulling back the curtains of what it takes to create success on your terms with many different ideas, tips, and strategies. There's no one way to live, and there's certainly not one way to do business. Take what resonates, ditch the rest. Get curious, test it out for yourself, play. It would be my greatest pleasure to hear how they land for you. This podcast is a declaration of facing my fear of public speaking. To break that narrative, I'm using my voice, even if it shakes. And even if I cry. I'm letting the emotions flow because that is life. Thank you so much for listening. Please subscribe and leave a review. I would absolutely love to hear from you.

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

Contact EXPOSED | Dare to Be Seen: Where Visibility Meets Success

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