Welcome to "Progress to Pro": a podcast where we dive deep into the real stories of big dreamers and leaders. As two-time Harvard graduate (MBA '24; College '18) and a certified life and career coach, I bring you candid interviews and monologues that cut through the fluff and get to the heart of what it takes to make your dream life a reality.
Join me as we explore the unfiltered truths of success—no sugar-coating, just raw insights from those who have been there. From industry game-changers to relentless entrepreneurs, each episode uncovers the practical keys to success.
How Do I Get Unstuck? With Danielle Robinson, Harvard Business School '25; Founder of Beyond Ambition
Danielle Robinson, founder of Beyond Ambition, discusses strategies for listeners to gain clarity and build confidence to take bold steps forward in their careers, in an interview with Janae Bell.
3 May 2025
How Do I Stop Overthinking and Start Building? With Milton Dorceus, Co-Founder of Plantaizin' and Stellar Bedtime Stories
Join us for a fun episode with a man who does it all! From Harvard to startups, snacks to storytelling, Milton is the definition of a multi-hyphenate. In this conversation, we talk about what it really takes to move from idea to execution, why learning by doing beats perfectionism, and how he’s built across industries while staying grounded in purpose and faith. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What’s my first step?” — this one’s for you.
More Milton Dorceus:
LinkedIn: Milton D. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkdpf/)
Instagram:
Stellar Bedtime Stories (https://www.instagram.com/stellarbedtimestories/)
Plantaizin’ (https://www.instagram.com/plantaizin/)
More Progress to Pro:
LinkedIn: Janae Bell, MBA (https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/)
Instagram: Owness Coaching | ICF Certified Life Coach (https://www.instagram.com/ownesscoaching/#)
19 Mar 2025
Why is being hard on myself NOT helping me make progress? *Solo Episode*
Progress to Pro - First Solo Episode! We’re talking about why being hard on yourself might not be working for you and how shifting your mindset can actually lead to more sustainable progress. If you’ve ever pushed yourself to the limit, only to find that motivation fizzles out, this episode is for you. I’ll be diving into how love, self-belief, and a little less pressure might be the key to unlocking the consistency and growth you’ve been craving. Tune in to hear why showing up for yourself with compassion is the game-changer you didn’t know you needed.
26 Jan 2025
Am I ready to take a leap of faith? With Arianna Francis, Strategist at Netflix and Founder of A Jeweled Experience
In this episode of Progress to Pro, I’m joined by Arianna Francis, a Content Strategist at Netflix and curator of unique experiences. Arianna shares how she took a bold leap in both her career and personal life by moving to Seoul for six months. After attending a workshop I hosted at Harvard Business School called, "Authentic Decision-Making", Arianna found the clarity and confidence she needed to make this temporary, life-changing move. In this conversation, she walks us through her decision-making process, how she turned her time in Seoul into a transformative experience, and the invaluable lessons she’s carrying forward. If you’re contemplating taking a leap of faith, this episode is full of inspiration and practical insights to help you bet on yourself.
Coaching School mentioned:
https://www.ipeccoaching.com (https://www.ipeccoaching.com/)
More Arianna Francis:
Arianna Francis | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianna-francis-72b9a599/)
More Progress to Pro:
Janae Bell, MBA | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/)
27 Sept 2024
Should I seek out a therapist? With Jordan Madison, LCMFT, Founder of Therapy Is My J.A.M.
In this episode of Progress to Pro, we sit down with Jordan A. Madison, LCMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified yoga instructor. Owner of Therapy Is My J.A.M., Jordan specializes in helping individuals and couples heal and thrive through her unique approach, including her innovative “J.A.M. Method.” Join us as she shares tactical tools for overcoming challenges, reducing mental health stigma, and prioritizing self-care. Discover how her journey, insights, and community initiatives can empower you to be your best self, even in tough times. Tune in for inspiration and practical strategies to elevate your mental health and relationships as you journey through life.
More Jordan Madison:
www.instagram.com/therapyismyjam
More Progress to Pro:
www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell
11 Aug 2024
Should I hire a coach? With Bridgette Simmonds, Founder of Bridgette Simmonds International
Join us in this empowering episode as we sit down with Bridgette Simmonds, a renowned coach and leader who has spent over a decade inspiring and guiding thousands of leaders and coaches worldwide.
In this conversation, Bridgette explains what coaching is, why it's important, and how she's developed both personally and professionally to build a life she loves.
More Bridgette Simmonds:
Website: https://www.bridgette.co/ (https://www.bridgette.co/)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgettesimmonds/ (https://www.instagram.com/bridgettesimmonds/)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgettesimmonds/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgettesimmonds/)
More Progress to Pro:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/
11 Aug 2024
When is it time to make a career move? With Keisha Ebbesen, Community Development Leader
Join us for an insightful episode with Keisha Ebbesen, a seasoned Senior Business Program Manager and visionary community development leader with over 15 years of experience.
In this conversation, Keisha shares her career journey and how intentionally balances her professional life with her personal one.
More Keisha Ebbesen:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/keishae/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/keishae/)
More Progress to Pro:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/
22 Jun 2024
Introduction Episode: Welcome to Progress to Pro!
Welcome to Progress to Pro. A podcast where we get very tactical about HOW we create our dream lives by learning from those who are creating theirs.
My name is Janae and have had the honor of going to Harvard University **twice!** I've been surrounded by those who inspire me greatly. I'm here to share some of those learnings with you.
Enjoy!
More Progress to Pro:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/
21 Jun 2024
How do you build your support network? With Jillian Woodard, Founder of Namaste by Jay (NBJ)
Join us in this inspiring episode as we sit down with Jillian Woodard, a Program Manager at Meta and the visionary
founder of Namaste By Jay (NBJ), a wellness collective dedicated to the healing of Black women through yoga, meditation, community building, and storytelling.
Jillian's journey is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the transformative power of holistic wellness.
In this conversation, Jillian shares her remarkable
story founding and scaling NBJ. Hear about the challenges she faced and the lessons learned firsthand.
More Jillian Woodard:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/namastebyjay
More Progress to Pro:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/
27 Apr 2024
Is it ok to step away and take a break? With Ana Cordera, Founder of Theory and Practice
In this episode of "Progress to Pro", we talk with Ana Cordera, the founder of Theory & Practice—a media platform empowering Gen Z women to reimagine personal development and wellness. Ana's philosophy centers on the belief that self-discovery precedes self-improvement, emphasizing understanding and theory as catalysts for profound personal growth.
In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked importance of stepping away and taking breaks. Ana shares her insights on how embracing moments of pause and reflection can fuel creativity, enhance well-being, and unlock new perspectives.
From practical strategies for incorporating breaks into our daily lives to the profound impact of self-reflection on mental health and productivity, Ana Cordera offers valuable insights for listeners of all ages. Whether you're a busy professional, a passionate creator, or someone seeking balance in a fast-paced world, this episode provides actionable advice and inspiration to prioritize self-care and embrace the art of stepping away.
Tune in to this engaging conversation explore and discover how intentional pauses can lead to meaningful growth and well-being.
More Ana Cordera:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/theoryxpractice_
More Progress to Pro:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/
27 Apr 2024
How do you find your purpose? With Austin Martin, Founder of Rhymes with Reason
In this episode of "Progress to Pro", we talk with
Austin Martin, the visionary founder of Rhymes with Reason (RwR). Austin's journey began in 2015 at Brown University, where he discovered a powerful connection between hip-hop lyrics and academic success—67 of the top 100 words on the SAT were detectable in recognizable hip-hop lyrics. This discovery led to the creation of Rhymes with Reason, an innovative educational platform that has since made a significant impact in over 300 schools and education programs across the United States.
In this episode, we delve into the profound question of finding one's purpose. Austin shares his insights and experiences on how he discovered his own. From Rhymes with Reason's collaborations with Chance the Rapper's SocialWorks, Joel Embiid, and the Detroit Pistons to being recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 in Education and receiving the prestigious Echoing Green Fellowship, Austin's journey is a testament to the transformative power of purpose-driven work.
Tune in to explore the journey of purpose with Austin Martin, and unlock the keys to finding fulfillment and making a difference in the world.
More Austin Martin:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/rhymeswithreason
More Progress to Pro:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/
25 Apr 2024
When is it time to pivot? With Chelsea Scott, Founder of Sunday Stories
In this episode of "Progress to Pro" with Chelsea Scott, a dynamic force blending business acumen with a passion for community and innovation. Chelsea, currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration at The Wharton School and a Master of Science in Education at The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, brings a wealth of experience and insights to our discussion.
In this episode, we delve into the topic of pivoting—how do you know when it's the right time to pivot in your career or ventures? Chelsea provides a unique perspective on navigating change and seizing new opportunities.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a career professional, or simply curious about navigating change effectively, this episode with Chelsea Scott promises valuable insights and actionable advice. Tune in to discover how to navigate the complexities of change and make informed decisions about when to pivot in your own journey.
More Chelsea Scott:
Personal website: www.chelseapscott.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/hersundaystory
More Progress to Pro:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/
25 Apr 2024
When is it time to go "all in"? With Ashley Jean, Founder of Blanche Creative Studio
In this episode of "Progress to Pro," we dive into the world of entrepreneurship with Ashley Jean, a leading figure in creative entrepreneurship and brand enhancement. As the CEO of Ashley Jean Creative Agency and the visionary behind Blanche Creative Studio, Ashley brings a wealth of experience in empowering creative entrepreneurs and shaping compelling brand narratives.
Join us as Ashley shares insights on the pivotal question: How do you know when to go all-in into entrepreneurship? With a track record of collaborations with major brands like Microsoft, Amazon, and the United States Black Chambers, Ashley's expertise is unmatched. Her passion for leveraging top-tier visuals and strategic brand guidance has earned her accolades such as the Black Entrepreneur of the Year Award and the 40 Under 40 Award from George Mason University.
Through engaging discussions and real-life examples, Ashley Jean imparts valuable advice on recognizing the signs, overcoming challenges, and seizing opportunities in the entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode promises inspiration and actionable insights to navigate the exciting yet challenging world of entrepreneurship.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of when and how to take the leap into entrepreneurship, with Ashley Jean as your guide.
More Ashley Jean:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/blanchecreativestudio
More Progress to Pro:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janaembell/
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 19 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
25
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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