Choice not Chance: Simplifying Success

Host Marie Chindamo introduces an interview recorded in July 2025 with Brittany Hirson, CEO of South Bay Energy, a boutique retail energy supplier in New York and PJM. Brittany recounts joining the startup as a college intern in 2013 and rising to CEO by following strong leaders, building relationships, taking initiative, and embracing learning before feeling ready. She discusses leading by example, creating room for growth and safe failure, and the importance of authenticity in business trust. Brittany also describes her role as president of the Mid-Atlantic chapter of the Women’s Energy Alliance, focused on women supporting women through member mentorships with inclusive male allies. She shares her consulting work in operations and marketing, shifting from 1x to 10x goals through delegation and “who versus how,” views on technology and APIs, self-care through Pilates and a vegan lifestyle, and the belief that people can tap an extra 10% of effort to seize opportunities.From Intern to CEO: Brittany Harrison on Choice, Confidence, and 10x Leadership 00:00 Show Intro00:22 Intern To CEO01:24 Episode Context04:12 Meet Brittany06:14 Startup Culture08:46 Mentorship Matters11:15 Women’s Energy Alliance15:16 Authenticity Wins16:06 Future Of Energy18:50 Confidence To Lead20:41 Consulting And Ops23:46 Defining Success26:25 Ten X Thinking27:47 Perfectionism And Progress29:16 Risk And Mistakes31:20 Mistakes Can Be Fixed32:00 Beautiful Mistakes and Discovery32:16 Tech and Leadership Tools33:08 APIs and Automation Basics34:16 Upskilling the Team35:10 Low Risk Tool Practice38:16 Too Many Tools Problem40:08 Avoiding the Tech Rabbit Hole41:24 Self-Care and Pilates Routine43:58 Intentional Choices and Health47:59 Truth Be Told Extra Ten Percent52:41 Spotting Opportunities and Initiative57:37 Final Takeaways and OutroConnect with Brittanyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-hirson-660b6788/A little bit about Marie Chindamo:Marie is the founder and CEO of ProTilly, a successful consulting practice founded over 8 years ago. ProTilly specializes in building strategy, challenging the status quo, and inspiring individuals and organizations to think radically differently to achieve transformative benefits. By encouraging fresh perspectives and innovative thinking, Marie and her team help organizations break free from limiting practices, creating room for disruptive ideas and growth. They provide strategic guidance that’s tailored to navigating transitions, whether it's organizational change, market shifts, or leadership development.Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

Strategic Restraint: Navigating Competing Priorities with DiscernmentMarie returns to the Choice Not Chance podcast after an eight-month pause, explaining it was driven by competing priorities and a commitment to quality rather than burnout or lost passion. She reflects on how high-achieving leaders often struggle not with a lack of options but with too many meaningful opportunities, arguing that leadership is defined by discernment, focus, and long-term alignment rather than constant output. During the break, she narrowed instead of accelerated, practiced instead of published, and pursued advanced coursework to deepen her knowledge and integrate new experiences into sharper future frameworks. She reframes pausing as strategic restraint and maturity, encouraging listeners to evaluate whether stepping back is avoidance or alignment. She also connects these themes to the Extreme Executive Club, positioned as a structured space for rigorous thinking, refinement, and executive signature work.00:00 Welcome Back and the Pause00:31 When Consistency Becomes Noise01:12 Every Yes Has a Cost02:12 Competing Priorities and Focus03:26 Integration Builds Depth04:13 Strategic Restraint and Ego05:00 Discernment Questions to Ask05:35 Extreme Executive Club Update06:24 Calibration Over Acceleration07:00 Returning With Clarity07:20 Choice Not Chance ClosingA little bit about Marie Chindamo:Marie is the founder and CEO of ProTilly, a successful consulting practice founded over 8 years ago. ProTilly specializes in building strategy, challenging the status quo, and inspiring individuals and organizations to think radically differently to achieve transformative benefits. By encouraging fresh perspectives and innovative thinking, Marie and her team help organizations break free from limiting practices, creating room for disruptive ideas and growth. They provide strategic guidance that’s tailored to navigating transitions, whether it's organizational change, market shifts, or leadership development.ENJOY THE SHOW? --> Join my X-Treme Executive Clubä to get exclusive access to simple yet mind-blowing strategies and support to achieve your highest potential. --> If this episode is making you think, I would love it if you could share your thoughts with me over on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn!Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

EP015 – Freedom Mindset: Tethered to Nothing, Anchored to Purpose“Freedom mindset is saying, I'm making conscious choices to do and act on things that will benefit my long-term growth, and requires you to remove the things that aren't going to contribute to that.” Marie Chindamo In this first episode of season two of 'Choice, Not Chance: Simplifying Success,' host Marie Chindamo delves into the concept of the freedom mindset. Reflecting on her six-week sabbatical and annual retreat, Marie emphasizes the importance of making conscious choices to cultivate freedom and growth. She discusses the power of envisioning your future self, using 'I am' statements, and clarifying core values as foundational steps to achieving exponential personal and professional success. Through personal anecdotes and retreat experiences, Marie offers strategies for overcoming obstacles, leveraging strengths, and enlisting support to enrich one's journey. She invites listeners to utilize her resources and join her in building a life they do not want to retire from.00:00 Introduction to Choice, not Chance00:22 Season Two Kickoff01:10 Embracing the Freedom Mindset06:39 Visioning Your Future Self12:00 Lifetime Extension15:00 Focus on Strengths vs. Weaknesses17:02 Your Superpowers18:59 Commitment Creates Action19:47 Clarifying Core Values21:17 Overcoming Obstacles24:21 Conclusion and Resources Connect with Marie Chindamo LinkedInWebsiteInstagramFacebookENJOY THE SHOW? --> Join my X-Treme Executive Clubä to get exclusive access to simple yet mind-blowing strategies and support to achieve your highest potential. --> If this episode is making you think, I would love if you could share your thoughts with me over on Facebook Instagram or LinkedIn!Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

Empowering Young Women: The Journey of Wonder GirlsIn this episode of 'Choice, Not Chance: Simplifying Success,' host Marie Chindamo interviews Natalie Maniscalco and Irene Robles, co-founders of Wonder Girls. They discuss the inception and mission of their nonprofit organization that empowers high school girls through leadership building, community service, and confidence workshops. They share personal stories, the impact of their professional skills, and the importance of empathy, support, and mentorship in shaping the future of young women. The conversation also touches upon their ambitious plans for expansion and continuous support for aspiring young women leaders.00:00 Introduction to Choice, Not Chance00:27 Meet the Wonder Girls Founders01:26 Natalie's Journey and the Birth of Wonder Girls06:03 Irene's Background and Contributions10:21 Empowering Young Women Through Confidence16:58 Wonder Girls Programs and Impact26:38 Leadership and Support Behind Wonder Girls27:21 Team Effort and Acknowledgements28:08 Board Members and Their Contributions29:23 Personal Fulfillment and Purpose32:13 Fundraising and Events34:25 Podcast and Partnerships36:49 Future Goals and Expansion42:21 Personal Choices and Reflections47:13 Mindset and Overcoming Obstacles49:46 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Natalie Maniscalco & Irene Robles https://www.wondergirlsusa.org/our-teamhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-j-maniscalco-54195a1/https://www.linkedin.com/in/irene-paleologos-zervoudis-301aa0110/ A little bit about Wondergirls:https://www.wondergirlsusa.org/ourvisionourteamFounded in December 2020, Wonder Girls is a non-profit 501(c)3 | empowerment program for middle, high school, and college girls with a mission to build confidence, leadership, community spirit, and the necessary business skills to succeed no matter what educational or career path they may choose. Wonder Girls strive to create a spacefor addressing the current emotional, physical, and mental challenges facingour young girls today. Wonder Girls provides our girls with a support system,giving them a place where they feel safe and comfortable expressing themselveswhile also providing them with the tools they need to grow and thrive in thisworld. We offer our young girls the opportunity to speak their truth withoutfear of isolation or judgment.Wonder Girls believes that every youngwoman deserves the opportunity to thrive as a leader of their own life despiteeconomic, social, or educational challenges. As a network of successful andpowerful professionals, we want to positively impact the lives of our WonderGirls and foster our future female leaders who are ready to make a difference!Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

In this episode, Marie welcomes Dr. Steven Padnick, a psychologist with extensive experience in treating stress-related and psychophysiological disorders. Dr. Padnick discusses the importance of recognizing and addressing stress and anxiety, emphasizing that anxiety is a natural and helpful signal indicating that something is out of balance. By tuning into one's inner thoughts and feelings and expressing them through methods like writing, individuals can better manage anxiety and avoid destructive behaviors. Dr. Padnick advocates for early intervention and therapy to prevent the escalation of stress into more serious health issues. The conversation touches on methods of self-therapy, the benefits of group therapy, and the crucial role of self-awareness and intentional living in achieving personal and professional success. “I wish people would seek counseling way sooner than they do. Generally, people wait much too long. If you feel like you're struggling and you're dissatisfied with your life, dissatisfied with your relationships, you have anxiety, you're not sleeping well, you have bouts of depression, or you find that you're drinking more than you should, go find a good psychologist, analyst, or a therapist to talk to, why wait until it has more of a grip on you.” – Dr. Steven PadnickEP013: Show Highlights01:52 Dr. Padnick's Early Life and Career Choices05:45 Understanding Stress and Its Effects08:14 Defining Success and Passion11:36 The Role of Therapy in Overcoming Symptoms15:42 Challenges in Therapy and Group Dynamics22:18 The Importance of Early Intervention30:06 Navigating Professional Challenges30:57 Repetition Compulsion in Adulthood31:44 Personal Stories of Overcoming Adversity32:10 Understanding Childhood Survival Mechanisms33:18 The Brain's Role in Survival and Stress34:36 Free Association and Stress36:48 The Importance of Silence and Self-Reflection37:57 Embracing Anxiety as a Growth Tool44:14 Defining Success and Personal Fulfillment50:02 Concluding Thoughts and ResourcesConnect with Dr. Padnick: Commack Center for Counseling: https://commackconsultationcenter.com/Moody Blues Songs MentionedBalance: https://open.spotify.com/track/10iVtp83V7n1nvCJcqJITZ?si=d7ea0ac7707c42f2Question: https://open.spotify.com/track/4Q27I5G3W14hnYVi45oi2h?si=436df51f97fa45c2 A little bit about Dr. Steven Padnick:Dr. Padnick received intensive post-doctoral training at the Humanistic Psychology Center, the Center for Modern Psychoanalytic Studies, and the Center for the Advancement of Group Studies. Full bio can be found here:https://commackconsultationcenter.com/our-therapists/Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

“Things happen, change, go back, and cycle. That's what happens. So, you adjust. Even through your career, something changes that you didn't plan on. How am I going to adjust to going forward to be the best I can be in this new environment?” Dr. Bryan Frank[Ep 013]:  This episode focuses on how flexibility and seizing opportunities can lead us to realize our fullest potential.My guest in this episode is a wonderful and impressive example of how hard work, flexibility, and commitment have served humanity in multiple ways.Dr. Brian Frank, whose diverse career spans law enforcement, education, and cybersecurity, shares insights from his experiences as an NYPD officer, Intelligence analyst in Iraq, educator, school administrator, and cybersecurity consultant. We explore Dr. Frank's motivations, how his various roles are interconnected, the evolving school safety landscape, and best cybersecurity practices. Dr. Frank's journey emphasizes the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and seizing opportunities to shape one's destiny. Show Highlights01:20 Exploring Dr. Frank's Career01:58 School Safety and Security05:33 The Role of Educators in Security14:53 Parental Involvement and Support22:12 Challenges and Changes in Education29:46 Pressure on Students and Work-Life Balance35:51 Navigating the Modern Workplace36:46 Health and Wellness Initiatives at Work37:31 The Importance of Candid Environments38:33 Team Approach and Ego Management40:21 Challenging the Status Quo43:54 Cybersecurity Insights and Best Practices56:23 Personal Motivation and Career Reflections01:08:10 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMore About Guest Dr. Bryan Frank:Connect: Bryan Frank LInkedInDr. Frank’s Bio:Bryan Frank is an Adjunct Lecturer at Stony Brook University. He earned a B.A. in Political Science and History from CW Post In 1993. Bryan holds a M.S. in Social Studies 7-12, a M.S. in Liberal Studies, and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership through Stony Brook University. He earned an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Saint John's University. Bryan holds permanent certifications in social studies and school administration at the building and district level, and a graduate certificate in Cyber Policy from the University of Maryland. More information on Dr. Frank's extensive bio can be seen through these links:Stonybrook University BioCovert Investigations Bio Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

“We connect on an emotional level. We don't connect through facts and figures. There's a statistic that we remember 70 percent more information that's told to us through stories than through facts.” Tessa Rawson[EP011] - From Thought to Influence: Owning Your Narrative with Confidence. In this episode of 'Choice, Not Chance: Simplifying Success,' host Marie Chindamo interviews Tessa Rawson, a highly experienced speaking coach and founder of Resonance Coaching, who has over 10 years of experience producing TEDx talks. Tessa shares insights on how to help individuals become effective speakers and confidently share their stories. Topics include common challenges in public speaking, the importance of storytelling, and practical tips to overcome fear and anxiety. Tessa also discusses the impact of public speaking on personal and professional growth and offers advice on applying for TED and TEDx events. The episode underscores the significance of embracing one’s voice and using storytelling to make a message impactful.00:00 Introduction to the Show00:27 Meet Tessa Rawson: Expert Speaking Coach01:48 Life on a Sailboat: Tessa's Unique Living Situation03:43 The Importance of Finding Your Voice05:26 Overcoming Speaking Challenges06:56 The Power of Storytelling10:30 Tips for Women to Be Heard in the Workplace14:30 Preparing for a TED Talk16:04 Defining Success Beyond Views21:46 How to Get on the TEDx Stage27:41 Starting with the Core Idea28:41 Building the Talk Framework29:03 Engaging the Audience31:04 Overcoming Nerves and Anxiety35:13 The Power of Storytelling39:13 The Birth of Resonance44:52 Future Aspirations and Final ThoughtsConnect with Tessa RawsonLinkedInWebsiteBooks or Resources Mentioned:TedX Application KitA little bit about Tess Rawson:After nearly 10 years of producing TEDx events in Europe and the US, Tessa founded Resonance because she genuinely believes everyone can be a powerful public speaker. Working with speakers has shown here over and over again that by gaining confidence in your voice, you can change not just your world but someone else’s, too. You already have all the tools you need, sometimes you need a little help figuring out what you want to say and how best to articulate it. She has been sharing stories around the dinner table and on the stage in the US, Turkey, and Switzerland. Tessa now lives with her family on a sailboat in the Caribbean. She has coached leaders from across industries and geographies- everyone from non-profit founders and corporate executives to educators and artists. Videos of their talks have been viewed over 2 million times on YouTube & TED.com, but more importantly, finding what they really want to say and the words to say it has allowed them to grow their brand and increase their impact. Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

 “The key to navigating power dynamics is knowing your own power. It doesn't matter if you're in a position of authority. Your power lies in your values, your boundaries, and your ability to act in alignment with them.” Marie Chindamo[EP010] - The Strength of Quiet Confidence: From Chaos to ClarityIn this solo episode of 'Choice, Not Chance: Simplifying Success,' host Marie Chindamo delves into the importance of trusting your intuition, standing by your values, and making intentional choices in challenging situations. She builds on themes from a previous bonus episode, offering universal principles for managing life's disruptions. Marie emphasizes the power of aligning with our internal energy frequency and the strength found in quiet resilience. She explores strategies for navigating power dynamics and taking small, intentional steps over time to achieve transformative and sustainable change. Self-care, reflecting before reacting, setting clear boundaries, and celebrating small victories are key takeaways to maintaining personal power and integrity. Show Highlights[Ep 010]:  Description00:00 Introduction to Choice, Not Chance00:27 Reflecting on Personal Challenges02:45 Understanding Emotional Reactions05:39 Navigating Power Dynamics09:39 The Importance of Values and Intuition14:30 Real-Life Examples and Applications26:29 Strategies for Self-Care and Reflection28:26 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSupport the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

In this episode of 'Choice, not Chance: Simplifying Success,' host Marie Chindano welcomes Mahrukh Imtiaz, a podcast coach and trusted advisor, to discuss overcoming fears, embracing imperfection, and finding inspiration. Mahrukh shares her journey of transitioning from a corporate job to becoming a successful content creator and podcaster, highlighting the importance of starting imperfectly and learning from experiences. The conversation touches on the challenges of entrepreneurship, the significance of investing in oneself, and the value of staying true to one's unique voice.“I'm making the choice of showing up as me and being okay with not being everyone's cup of tea and that's the intentional choice I'm making because that is the healthy way in my opinion to go about life.” - Mahrukh Imtiaz, Host of Spicy Chai podcast00:00 Introduction to 'Choice, Not Chance'00:42 Meet Mahrukh Imtiaz: From Corporate Success to Personal Fulfillment02:27 Overcoming Fears and Embracing Imperfection05:43 The Journey of Podcasting: Lessons and Reflections09:42 The Importance of Authenticity and Personal Growth20:19 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Personal Life24:18 Shifting Energy in Business and Podcasts25:03 The Growth Process and Comfort Zones25:59 Learning New Skills and Technology26:34 The Role of AI in Content Creation28:09 Embracing Imperfection and Human Mistakes29:00 Introduction to Spicy Chai Podcast29:43 Learning from Practical Role Models31:02 The Importance of Authenticity36:12 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters41:40 Significant Life Choices and Future Focus45:45 Final Thoughts and FarewellContact Guest FEATURED ON THE SHOW: https://mahrukhimtiaz.com/ Spicy Chai Podcast Social Media Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahrukh-imtiaz/https://www.facebook.com/mahrukh.imtiaz.1/https://www.instagram.com/mahrukh.m.imtiaz/https://www.tiktok.com/@mahrukh.imtiaz?_t=8fI2gBC3Oef&_r=1https://www.youtube.com/@spicychai-apodcastforconte6645Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

In this episode of 'Choice, Not Chance. Simplifying Success,' host Marie Chindamo discusses a thought-provoking topic on the importance of communication, especially for individuals with high cognitive function but no capacity for language. Guest Elaine Keuning, a speech and language pathologist, shares her experiences and methods in working with individuals with Rett syndrome, a neurological disorder that affects communication. Keuning highlights her journey from broad-spectrum speech therapy to specializing in aiding non-verbal communication using advanced technological solutions, relentlessly helping her clients find their voice so they can expand their personal purpose. Despite encountering various professional challenges and societal hurdles, she emphasizes the transformative power of intentionality and constant learning. The episode underscores the triumphs and continuous efforts in supporting and giving a voice to those who communicate differently. 00:00 Welcome to Choice, Not Chance00:27 The Importance of Communication02:07 Introducing Elaine Keuning04:41 Understanding Rett Syndrome07:56 Challenges and Success Stories29:21 Launching a Private Practice34:45 Gaining Expertise in AAC and Rett Syndrome35:35 Building a Client Base and Starting a Business36:32 Challenges and Specialization in AAC42:25 Core Values and Influences47:08 Parallels Between Athletics and Business55:11 Future Aspirations and Gene Therapies57:53 Access to Devices and Insurance58:44 Final Thoughts and Contact Information A little bit about Elaine Keuning:Elaine Keuning is a speech and language pathologist with 14 years experience, She carved her own path to focus on an underserved population of individuals with complex needs. Before starting her own business Elaine worked as an employee for several agencies servicing the tri-state area. Currently she leads the Rett Syndrome communication clinic at Montefiore Children’s Hospital and has her private practice Williams Speech and Language Pathology PLLC.  Elaine believes that access to language is a basic human right and individuals of all abilities should be able to have their own voice. Connect with Elaine Keuning: LinkedInBooks or Resources Mentioned:RettSyndrome.orgReverserett.orgSupport the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

Empowering Choices with Elisa Padilla: From Sports Executive to Inspirational LeaderIn this episode of Choice, Not Chance, host Marie Chindamo interviews Elisa Padilla, a seasoned executive in the sports and entertainment industry and current Chief Marketing Officer at the New York Red Bulls. Elisa shares insights from her impressive career, her approach to leadership, and the genesis of her inspirational Instagram series, Kick It by EP. We discuss how to embrace the power of intentional living—find balance with your values and let them guide your success journey.Elisa shares her strategies for leading a team, advocating simplicity, and the significance of process in achieving success. The episode closes on a reflective note about the true meaning of success and the importance of health, kindness, and authenticity.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:22 Interview with Elisa Padilla00:51 Elisa's Journey and Achievements01:59 The Inspiration Behind Kick It by EP05:41 Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges11:20 Defining Success and Future Aspirations16:07 Leadership and Team Management21:04 Simplifying Success and Marketing Insights26:00 Future Choices and Consulting35:30 Final Thoughts and Farewell Connect with Elisa Padilla: LinkedInInstagramWebsite Books or Resources Mentioned:Atomic Habits by James Clear Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

 "Rely less on wishful thinking and creating a mental picture of where you want to be. That picture sits in the forefront of your mind to the exclusion of everything else and when you make that happen, when you make that a priority, you'll determine where your energy should go and where your energy no longer belongs."Marie Chindamo [EP003] - Choice, Not Chance: Simplifying Success with Marie Chindamo In the inaugural episode of 'Choice, Not Chance,' host Marie Chindamo shares her personal journey from hardship to becoming a successful entrepreneur. She discusses the importance of making deliberate choices to shape one’s destiny and introduces the key principles of her M.IN.D. Set playbook. Marie emphasizes the power of mindset in achieving success, drawing inspiration from extreme athletes and her own experiences in various roles, from administrative assistant to running a consulting practice. She also provides insights on creating a vision, overcoming obstacles, and the significance of persistence. Tune in to learn strategies for simplifying tough life decisions and consciously crafting the life and career you desire. 00:00 Introduction to Choice, Not Chance00:28 Marie Chindamo’s Personal Journey01:55 Turning Hardship into Success04:20 Career Growth and Mindset07:14 The Power of Mindset07:32 Learning from Extreme Athletes10:13 Creating a Vision and Overcoming Obstacles21:41 Persistence and Teamwork25:06 Launching the Podcast29:15 Final Thoughts and Motivation Connect with Marie Chindamo LinkedInWebsiteInstagramFacebookSupport the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

In this episode of 'Choice, Not Chance. Simplifying Success,' host Marie Chindamo interviews Chris McAuley, an accomplished speaker and actor known for his expertise in business storytelling and presentation skills. We emphasize the importance of authenticity in human connection and how to craft your message so it has the greatest impact.Chris shares valuable insights on common communication fears, the importance of knowing your material, strategies for managing your nerves, and the power of storytelling in engaging and persuading an audience. He emphasizes the significance of tailoring your message to the audience, varying your presentation delivery, and ensuring the content is concise and impactful. The conversation underscores the role of communication in building effective connections in both business and personal contexts, advocating for authenticity and emotional engagement to achieve success. We discuss the power of storytelling, how to handle hecklers, and why understanding your audience is key. Whether you're a business leader or just starting out as a speaker, this episode has some great advice to help you communicate with more confidence and clarity. Highlights from this episode: [02:35] Overcoming Presentation Fears[04:30] The Power of Owning Your Material[17:36] The Impact of Storytelling in Presentations[30:37] The Benefits of Co-Presenting[33:21] Handling Distractions During Presentations[35:41] Engaging Different Types of Audience Members[37:02] The Ideal Presentation Length[44:55] The Importance of Human Connection in Business Connect with Chris McAuley:WebsiteLinkedIn Books or Resources Mentioned:ToastmastersTEDxA little bit about Chris McAuley:Chris McAuley is a seasoned speaker and business storyteller with over 35 years of experience in both not-for-profit and for-profit sectors. His expertise in crafting impactful narratives helps him effectively communicate with diverse audiences, from executives to frontline employees. Chris is also an accomplished actor, with over 40 stage and film productions under his belt, bringing a strong understanding of performance techniques to his storytelling approach. As the founder of MCAVOY Inc., he helps professionals enhance their presentation skills and delivers coaching and workshops focused on building trust, improving employee engagement, and revitalizing workplace culture. Outside of work, Chris is an active volunteer, jazz enthusiast, family-oriented, and is preparing a solo show for a 2025 tour.  "When we speak from our heart, the audience feels that. They are going to listen from their heart, that's how you move people "Chris McAuley  Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar

In this episode of Choice Not Chance: Simplifying Success, I sat down with my sister, Laura Longo. We discuss Laura's remarkable 25-year career in education, how she manages various responsibilities from kindergarten through 12th-grade science programs, and her pursuit of a Ph.D. Despite her demanding career and raising three children, Laura shares her secret to balancing it all, highlighting the importance of intentionality, structured processes, and lifelong learning. We talk in-depth about how leadership skills are developed in unconventional ways and the importance of investing in yourself and leaning into experiences to craft your future. Our engaging conversation covers topics like work-life balance, strategies for career advancement, and the value of being a strong, confident woman in leadership roles. Highlights from this episode:  [02:28] Balancing Career and Family[05:18] Journey into Science Education[12:03] Navigating Challenges as a Female Leader[23:54] Building a Supportive Community[29:39] Divine Interventions and Human Connections[34:32] Investing in Yourself[36:29] Navigating Career Transitions[42:54[ Balancing Career and Personal Life  Connect with Laura Longo: LinkedIn Books or Resources Mentioned: A little bit about  Laura Longo:Laura Longo is an accomplished educator with 25 years of experience in the field of science education. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Mathematical Physics and a Master's degree in Secondary Education of Physics, and she is certified in Educational Leadership. Laura is currently working on her dissertation for a PhD in Science Education at Stony Brook University. Support the showIf you enjoyed this content and would like to learn more about how you can awaken and showcase your unique gifts, use the link below to join our X-Treme Executive Club. Our Club offers:30-minute private coaching calls each month with Marie ChindamoExclusive Masterclasses and access to bonus episodes of Choice, not ChanceUnlimited email correspondence with a coachSemi-Annual live inspirational mixers with Marie Chindamo and other X-Treme Executive Club Members  https://successschool.protilly.com/membership#nav_bar