E279: Leigh Esposito - Don't regret the Journey

Learn more about Leigh at: Leigh Esposito | Author, Coach, TarotistEpisode HighlightsLeigh Esposito’s Origin Story:● Early Life and Influences: Raised by Italian-American parents, Leigh’s upbringing wasshaped by her family's culture and values. Although she grew up in various parts of theU.S., including the suburbs of Philadelphia and Southern California, her cultural rootsplayed a pivotal role in her life and eventually inspired her work as a writer.● Career in Law: Initially, Leigh pursued a career in law, believing it to be a stableprofession that matched her skills in communication and critical thinking. However, shesoon realized that the legal field didn’t align with her passions, describing it as "dry" andlacking the creative stimulation she craved.The Shift to Writing and Coaching:● Pursuing a Second Act: In 2010, Leigh left her law career and embarked on a journeyto follow her dreams. This transition didn’t happen overnight—she spent years honingher craft as an author, developing a unique coaching practice, and aligning her life withher values.● Coaching Style and Philosophy: Leigh brings her background in law into her coaching,combining the analytical approach of a litigator with a creative mindset. Her coachingfocuses on guiding clients through major life transitions, helping them tap into theirdreams and achieve fulfillment in their “second acts.” Leigh’s approach resonates withpeople who want to explore new possibilities while still balancing their existingresponsibilities.Embracing Tarot as a Tool for Insight:● Discovering Tarot: While researching her debut novel The Godmother, Leigh becamefascinated with tarot and began using it as a personal tool for reflection and insight. Overtime, she developed an expertise in tarot, integrating it into her coaching practice.● Tarot's Role in Coaching: Leigh uses tarot not as a means of predicting the future butas a method of uncovering hidden emotions, perspectives, and motivations. Each tarotreading becomes a conversation starter, helping her clients unlock aspects ofthemselves they may not have acknowledged.● Influence on Writing: Leigh’s second novel is set in the world of tarot, blendingmysticism with romance and fantasy, inspired by her love for the introspective nature oftarot cards.Insights on the Sicilian Experience and Heritage:● Sicilian Heritage: Both Leticia and Leigh share a deep connection to Sicily. For Leigh,Sicily represents both her cultural roots and the inspiration for her novel The Godmother.She celebrates Sicilian culture by organizing retreats on the island, where she introducesparticipants to its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique traditions.● ThemesinTheGodmother: Leigh’s novel explores the idea of a strongSicilian-American woman in a position of power, challenging stereotypes. Herprotagonist, a “godmother” figure, isn’t involved in crime but uses her influence andresources to help others—a twist on the traditional mafia narrative.● Retreats in Sicily: Through these retreats, Leigh invites others to experience the beautyand complexities of Sicilian life, from its ancient baroque architecture to its vibrant,multi-faceted communities.Key Messages from the Episode1. Follow Your Passion While Maintaining Balance● Leigh emphasizes that it’s possible to pursue a passion without abandoning one’scurrent responsibilities. She encourages listeners to integrate their interests into dailylife, even if it’s just dedicating a few hours a week to that pursuit.2. The Power of Coaching and Mentorship● BothLeigh and Leticia discuss the transformative power of coaching and mentorship.Leigh believes that having a coach can make a huge difference, especially when itcomes to accountability and support. This guidance can push people to take concretesteps toward their dreams, no matter how daunting they seem.3. Taking Practical Steps Towards Fulfillment● Leigh shares advice on making small, consistent efforts toward a goal rather than waitingfor a perfect moment to make a big change. By building momentum through manageablesteps, individuals can gradually transition to a more fulfilling path.4. Blending Personal Interests with Professional Goals● Leigh’s journey shows the value of combining personal passions (such as writing andtarot) with a professional approach, creating a career that feels authentic and uniquelyhers. She advises others to explore ways to incorporate their unique skills and interestsinto their work.Upcoming Projects and Ways to Connect with Leigh● Writing Workshop: Leigh is leading a 12-week writing workshop designed forindividuals who want to bring their book ideas to life. Participants will work on creating asignificant portion of their novel, with Leigh’s guidance on everything from ideadevelopment to the first draft.● SecondNovel: Currently, Leigh is in the process of writing her second novel, a romancefantasy inspired by tarot. She plans to document her creative journey on social media,giving readers an inside look at the writing process.● StayUpdated: For updates on Leigh’s work, including her writing workshop and otherprojects, listeners can follow her on social media and sign up for her mailing list on herwebsite.Memorable Quotes from the Episode● OnFollowing Your Dreams:“You don’t need to quit your day job to feel more fulfilled. Sometimes, it’s about finding away to integrate that second act with the first.”● OntheRoleofaCoach:“A coach is there to keep you accountable, inspired, and moving forward. They help yousee your potential and take steps you might not take on your own.”● OnSelf-Discovery Through Tarot:“Tarot is about excavating mysteries. The greatest mystery we’re trying to uncover isourselves.”● OnFinding Joy in the Creative Process:“Being an author is like playing in a sandbox every day. It’s a journey of exploration, andI couldn’t be happier. 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