Achieving Freedom Through Intentional Growth: A Conversation with Maryam Habashi

In this episode of Thriving in Intersectionality, host Lola Adeyemo welcomes Maryam Habashi, a transformational business development coach with nearly three decades of professional experiences across corporate America, sales leadershiphip roles and entrepreneurship. As the founder of INFUSE system, Maryam specializes in implementing systems that drive measurable growth for top producers, team leaders, and executives across the U.S. and Canada. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How diversity creates competitive advantages in business Strategies for career advancement in male-dominated industries The truth about corporate careers versus entrepreneurship Using behavioral profiling to improve professional relationships The four freedoms that define true success The Power of Intersectionality Born in Tehran, Iran, Maryam brings a unique perspective as a Middle Eastern woman who speaks Farsi and Spanish. She explains how diverse teams reach broader markets and solve problems more effectively. While advocating for inclusive recruiting, she emphasizes the importance of hiring qualified candidates rather than filling quotas. Navigating Career Growth in Corporate America In the male-dominated insurance and investment industry, Maryam made history in her company by age 37 and earned her first million by 42. When facing gender-based obstacles, she focused on measurable performance, letting results speak for themselves. Her philosophy: "I accepted that I might need to work harder... and I deserve it." Understanding Yourself Through Behavioral Profiling As a certified DISC assessment coach, Maryam helps professionals understand their natural tendencies and communication styles. She challenges the golden rule, suggesting instead: "Treat people the way they want to be treated, lead people the way they want to be led." This requires self-awareness and adaptability. Corporate vs. Entrepreneurship: Breaking False Dichotomies Maryam counters the myth that entrepreneurship is superior to corporate employment. "I'm tired of hearing that the corporate world is bad," she states. Drawing from experience in both worlds, she emphasizes finding the environment where you'll personally thrive long-term, whether that's corporate stability or entrepreneurial freedom. How Do you Define Success? Maryam shares the definition of success through four essential freedom lens: Freedom of Time - Managing your schedule while prioritizing health and relationships Freedom of Money - Financial flexibility with uncapped earning potential Freedom of Mission - Pursuing your purpose and utilizing your unique gifts Freedom of Relationship - Working with people you want to serve She emphasizes that these freedoms remain inaccessible to those trapped in a victim mentality or self-doubt. "We're in a country where you could be whatever you are and be amazing at it." Resources from Maryam Maryam offers several resources for listeners: Quarterly Virtual Educational Sessions on sales, leadership, and mindset Free Initial Business Strategy Session to discuss your goals and challenges INFUSE System Coaching Programs with access to a private membership site featuring customized materials and weekly live calls Wheel of Life Worksheet for those scheduling an initial session, helping you identify areas you're thriving in, struggling with, and opportunities for growth Connect:  Connect with Maryam Habashi on Linkedin or visit www.infusesystem.com Connect with Host Lola Adeyemo: LinkedIn Profile Get Involved Apply to be on the podcast: Application Link Join the Immigrants in Corporate Community: Membership | Facebook | Instagram Send us Fan MailSupport the showThank you for listening to Thriving in Intersectionality with Dr. Lola Adeyemo.This podcast explores how identity, lived experience, and leadership intersect in today's workplace and beyond. Through conversations with leaders, founders, educators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, we uncover stories and insights that help people thrive across the many intersections of their lives.💬 Have a thought about this episode? Send a Fan Mail message directly through Buzzsprout. I'd love to hear what resonated with you.❤️ If you find value in these conversations, consider becoming a supporter of the show. Your support helps us continue amplifying diverse voices, meaningful stories, and leadership insights from across industries and experiences.⭐ Follow, share, rate, and review the podcast to help others discover these conversations.📬 Continue the conversation - read the companion reflections on Substack🌍 Immigrants and first-generation professionals can join our free community at:www.immigrantsincorporate.orgConnect with Host Dr. Lola Adeyemo on LinkedIn.Keep thriving in your intersections. Your story matters.