How to Stop Overthinking and Trust Your Inner Compass | EP. 9 Maria Pascual on Chai Tea with Nina D.

Maria Jose Ruiz Pascual is a Miami-based interior designer and art curator who built a thriving luxury design career — not by following a blueprint, but by trusting her gut. Raised in El Salvador during a civil war, Maria learned early on how to stay calm in chaos, a lesson that shaped how she navigated motherhood, career pivots, and the decision to walk away from comfort and start her own business. In this episode, she shares how creative instinct (not overthinking) became the foundation of her success. From rebuilding after a career pause to balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, Maria reveals the mindset shifts that helped her take bold action — even when it felt risky. Whether you're a creative, a mom, or someone craving clarity in chaos, this conversation will help you trust your inner compass and make aligned decisions without needing all the answers first.  In this episode, you'll learn: Why intuition (not overthinking) is a creative's greatest tool How to pivot your career while staying grounded What growing up in El Salvador taught her about resilience The moment she knew she had to leave the safety of her 9–5 How she balances motherhood and creativity — without burning out The mindset shift that turned uncertainty into freedom New episodes every Wednesday & Sunday. Honest conversations on mindset, identity, purpose, growth, and the stories that shape us.  💻 Watch on YouTube 📱 Watch on Spotify 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts Follow @NinaPalDixon & @ChaiTeaWithNinaD for behind-the-scenes & daily inspiration.