Rules to Thrive with Olga Lykova

About Rules to Thrive with Olga Lykova

Rules To Thrive gives you a personalized blueprint, ungated information from other leaders to guide you to build the career and life you’ve always wanted. The only permission you need is your own.

Publisher

Olga Lykova

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

3 Mar 2025

Latest episode

25 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   25 Jun 2026

   Trusting the Leap with Anna Szpunar

   In this episode, we sit down with Anna Szpunar, an executive and leadership coach whose journey is a powerful example of trusting your intuition and embracing change. Originally from London, Anna shares how a visit to New York sparked a dream she couldn't ignore—one that ultimately led her to leave behind the familiar and build a new life in the United States. After more than 20 years in media sales and magazine publishing, Anna transitioned into coaching, helping leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and expats navigate major life and career transitions with greater confidence and clarity. Drawing from her own experiences of relocation, reinvention, and personal growth, she offers valuable insights on overcoming self-doubt, building meaningful connections, and creating a life that feels aligned with your values. Throughout the conversation, we explore intuition, manifestation, career pivots, emotional intelligence, and the importance of community during times of change. This episode is an inspiring conversation about courage, reinvention, and trusting yourself enough to pursue the life you truly want.

2. 

   22 May 2026

   The Courage to Reinvent Yourself with Crystelle Desnoyer

   In this episode, we sit down with Crystelle, a multicultural creative and partnerships leader whose journey spans continents, industries, and constant reinvention. Raised in France with roots across multiple cultures, Crystelle shares how growing up between identities shaped the way she approaches ambition, relationships, and building a meaningful life. From internships in stem cell therapy and public speaking in Japan, to working in partnerships, becoming a Chief of Staff, and navigating corporate America, her story is one of curiosity, resilience, and learning how to create opportunity from uncertainty. Along the way, she opens up about burnout, depression, immigration struggles, PTSD, and the difficult process of rebuilding after major life transitions. Throughout the conversation, Crystelle reflects on the importance of structure, community, and self-awareness in creating long-term fulfillment. She shares her perspective on balancing career growth with authenticity, building side businesses while working full-time, navigating modern dating as a third culture individual, and redefining success on her own terms. This episode is an honest look at what it means to keep evolving without losing yourself in the process. A conversation about identity, ambition, freedom, and the courage to continue building a life that feels aligned from the inside out.

3. 

   16 Apr 2026

   From $100 to the C-Suite: Suki Toguchi on Grit & Leadership

   In this episode, we sit down with Suki Toguchi, Chief of Staff at Gilead Sciences, whose journey is defined by resilience, discipline, and a relentless commitment to growth. Born in China during the one-child policy, Suki immigrated to New York at just six years old with her family, arriving with only $100 and the determination to build something more. Growing up as a first-generation immigrant, she learned early how to navigate pressure, adapt quickly, and compete at the highest level. From academics to competitive sports, Suki developed the mindset and work ethic that would later carry her into leadership roles in one of the most demanding industries—biopharma. Now operating at the executive level, she reflects on the environments, mentors, and pivotal moments that shaped her path. She shares how community, discipline, and grit became her foundation, and how those same principles continue to guide how she leads, makes decisions, and creates impact. This conversation is a grounded look at what it actually takes to rise—without shortcuts. A story of resilience meeting opportunity, and a reminder that where you start doesn’t define how far you can go.

4. 

   25 Feb 2026

   The Rule That Built a $100M Company with Marie-Michèle Caron

   In this episode, we sit down with Marie-Michèle Caron, Chief Revenue Officer at Tempo, whose career has been shaped by one powerful piece of advice: “Work yourself out of a job.” Born and raised in Quebec, Canada, Marie took a leap of faith when her company relocated her to San Francisco to build a strategic partnership with Salesforce, an opportunity that helped propel Coveo from $2M to $100M in ARR and ultimately through a successful IPO. Arriving in the United States as an immigrant executive, Marie had to build credibility, relationships, and influence from the ground up. She went on to architect a channel ecosystem that drove 75% of new revenue, proving that scalable systems, not individual heroics, are what create lasting growth. Her leadership journey later led her to Thryv, where she focused on empowering small businesses, and now to her role as CRO at Tempo, where she continues to redefine modern revenue leadership. Grounded, strategic, and deeply self-aware, Marie reflects on the realities of scaling companies, navigating cross-border ambition, and leading with empathy in high-performance environments. She speaks candidly about balancing executive leadership with motherhood, the evolving definition of success, and why support systems matter more than titles. This conversation is a thoughtful exploration of ownership, resilience, and building something bigger than yourself while staying anchored in your values. A masterclass in ambition with heart, and a reminder that the real rule to thrive is creating systems that outlast you.

5. 

   9 Feb 2026

   The Power of the Ask with Cassandra Rodriguez

   In this episode, we sit down with Cassandra Rodriguez, a global marketing leader whose career spans nearly two decades at the intersection of technology, leadership, and transformation. From her early days growing up in a modest apartment in Mumbai to becoming a Senior Vice President at one of the world’s largest communications groups, Cassandra’s journey is a powerful study in resilience, ambition, and self-advocacy. Raised in India, Cassandra navigated long commutes on Mumbai’s local trains and the realities of limited resources—experiences that quietly shaped her work ethic and worldview. A chance interview with Google became a pivotal turning point, launching an 18-year journey across roles, teams, and geographies, ultimately positioning her at the forefront of AI-driven change in the marketing industry. Grounded, candid, and deeply reflective, Cassandra shares the lessons she’s learned along the way: the value of failing fast, the importance of asking for what you want, and the necessity of knowing your worth in an ever-shifting job market. She speaks openly about growth, authenticity, and why seeking help is not a weakness but a skill. This conversation is an honest exploration of what it takes to build a meaningful career across cultures, industries, and eras of change—and how clarity, courage, and self-belief become essential rules to thrive.

6. 

   7 Jan 2026

   Navigating Between Two Worlds with Jo Madani

   Jo Madani, marketing leader, discusses her upcoming book, *The Immigrant Journey*, and how her cross-continental life shapes personal and professional narratives, in an interview with Olga Lykova.

7. 

   10 Nov 2025

   It’s Never Too Late to Dream Big: Regina’s Story of Courage, Reinvention, and Possibility

   Regina Viadro shares her journey from immigrant beginnings to business growth leader, discussing resilience and redefining success, in an interview with Olga Lykova.

8. 

   7 Oct 2025

   Be Your Own Advocate: Katherine Heisler Chance on Thriving Through Uncertainty

   Katherine Heisler Chance discusses advocating for oneself, embracing uncertainty, and finding joy in challenges to accelerate career growth and build impactful partnerships in this interview.

9. 

   24 Jun 2025

   Victoria Pelletier on Bold Moves, Fearless Leadership & Personal Growth

   Victoria Pelletier discusses her career, bold leadership, and resilience with Olga Lykova in an interview, revealing insights on building an impactful career.

10. 

    26 May 2025

    Alissa Abdullah on Purpose, Pressure & Paving Her Own Way

    Alissa "Jay" Abdullah discusses her unique career journey as a Black woman in tech, highlighting the importance of identity and leadership in paving one's own path, in this interview with Olga Lykova.

11. 

    12 May 2025

    Creative Detours & Leading with Vision: Clara Sancho on Building a Career in Luxury Fashion

    In this episode, we sit down with Clara Sancho Ortega - HR Director at LVMH Fashion Group UK - to explore her unconventional path from film sets to fashion boardrooms. Clara shares how she carved out a leadership role across brands like Givenchy, Loewe, and Marc Jacobs, and reflects on creative ambition, habit-building, and what balance really looks like in the world of luxury.

12. 

    29 Apr 2025

    Unshakable Drive: Corinne Sklar on Success, Sacrifice, and Staying Ahead in a Changing World

    In this episode, we sit down with Corinne Sklar - Vice President and Managing Director for Salesforce at IBM and a trailblazing leader in customer experience, AI, and digital transformation. Corinne shares her career journey from building and scaling Bluewolf, to driving massive growth at IBM, all while navigating the real, often hidden costs of prioritizing ambition early on. We get into: - The price she paid for putting career first — and what she would tell her younger self -How AI is already reshaping the workforce (and how to stay ahead) - The art of marketing yourself and building a lasting career brand - Lessons from two decades of executive leadership across tech and consulting - Balancing ambition, leadership, and personal milestones across different life seasons Whether you're building your career, stepping into leadership, or rethinking your next chapter, this conversation offers raw insight, strategic advice, and a powerful reminder that growth comes with trade-offs — and that's okay.

13. 

    15 Apr 2025

    Redefining Ambition: Stephanie Glenn on Finding Purpose at the Top

    In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Glenn, Chief Commercial Officer at Maven Clinic and former EVP at Salesforce, to unpack the career path of a powerhouse leader who’s done it all — from running large-scale GTM teams to finding purpose in mission-driven work. Stephanie shares her journey from big tech to women’s health, and the mindset shifts, habits, and relationships that helped her get there. We dive into: The daily habits that support personal and professional growth How to step into leadership roles (and actually get them) Smart networking strategies that land you the right opportunities Lessons from decades in executive leadership at Salesforce Balancing ambition, motherhood, and meaning at every stage Whether you're climbing the ladder, pivoting industries, or looking for purpose in your path — this one’s full of practical takeaways and fresh perspective from someone who’s walked the walk.

14. 

    3 Apr 2025

    The Power of Risk & Resilience: Susan Detmar’s Guide to Career Success

    How do you build a career that aligns with your ambitions and values? Susan Detmar joins us to share her journey from an unexpected start in sales to leading small business acquisition at LinkedIn. She opens up about the pivotal moments, risks, and relationships that shaped her success. From career transitions to leadership growth, Susan offers insights on navigating challenges and making intentional career moves. We discuss: • Embracing career shifts & stepping into leadership • The power of mentorship, sponsorship & building a strong network • Advocating for yourself & negotiating with confidence • Daily habits that drive long-term career success If you’re looking for practical career insights and inspiration to take your next big step, this episode is for you.

15. 

    17 Mar 2025

    The Bold Career: Estee Cross on Taking Risks & Owning Your Career

    What does it take to carve out a career on your own terms? Estee Cross shares her journey from publishing to digital media, taking bold risks, and balancing ambition with personal life. From navigating career transitions—including a game-changing move to Tumblr—to defining non-negotiables and advocating for yourself, Estee breaks down the mindset shifts that lead to success. We discuss: 🔹 Taking career risks & embracing the unknown 🔹 Navigating big transitions (including pregnancy & leadership shifts) 🔹 Building a support network & seeking sponsorship 🔹 How to confidently negotiate for yourself & your career growth If you're ready to take control of your career, push past fear, and step into new opportunities, this episode is for you. 📺 Watch this episode on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/6pRR0X-ZAlk?si=QpOogtzS0_KzcoE_ 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @rulestothrive (https://www.instagram.com/rulestothrive/)

16. 

    3 Mar 2025

    From Finance to Fulfillment: Marina’s Journey Trusting Her Gut & Redefining Success

    What happens when you leave a decade-long career in finance to chase a calling in leadership and executive coaching? Marina Cvetkovic knows firsthand the power of trusting your gut and taking bold leaps. In this episode, she shares her journey of reinvention—how she navigated fear, rejection, and the unknown to build a career that’s not only successful but deeply fulfilling. Marina is an award-winning leadership advisor, CEO of Heimann Cvetkovic & Partners, TEDx speaker, and LinkedIn Top Voice in Executive Coaching. With a track record of advising global leaders, she’s on a mission to help executives amplify their influence, embrace visibility, and step into their full leadership potential. We discuss: 🔹 The gut-check moments that shaped Marina’s career pivot 🔹 Overcoming fear, rejection, and imposter syndrome 🔹 Why building a personal brand is essential for career growth 🔹 How to turn setbacks into stepping stones If you’ve ever felt the pull to redefine your career, take a leap, or simply step into your leadership power, this episode is for you. Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/nxyu1k-ik-g?si=nLZ1f7kEiCKD5jTs Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rulestothrive/

Who has been a guest on Rules to Thrive with Olga Lykova

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Jo Madani
• Regina Viadro
• Katherine Heisler Chance
• Victoria Pelletier
• Alissa Abdullah

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

8 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 21 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

11

Social presence

91

YouTube

0

Engagement

32