Step into the Pivot

For our Mother’s Day edition, we’re joined by Tami Ledger and her daughter Ana Chavez, a mother-daughter duo who ended up building parallel careers in the retirement plan industry after a major life disruption forced Tami back into the workforce.If you’ve ever had to reinvent yourself, listen, then share this with someone who’s mid-pivot. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: what pivot are you stepping into next?Guest Bio:Tami Ledger is a Senior Retirement Plan Advisor with Mariner.  Tami works to help ensure quality retirement plan services are delivered to clients. She assists plan advisors and plan sponsors with annual investment, fee and plan reviews and other compliance with ERISA. She also works with plan sponsors to develop education strategies and participant communications.Ana Chavez is a Regional Sales Consultant in the Retirement Plan Division at Ameritas, where she has spent the majority of her four-year tenure supporting financial advisors across multiple territories. She is passionate about being a trusted resource to the financial professionals she works with and is dedicated to helping plan participants feel confident and prepared for retirement.Connect with Tami: LinkedInConnect with Ana: LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

You can spot the moment someone stops treating money as a mystery and starts using it as a tool, and that’s exactly what unfolds in our conversation with Nina Greenberg on Step Into the Pivot. Nina shares how early financial awareness, shaped by her parents, led her to save and build a life within her means, rather than chasing one beyond it.  A defining pivot came when she left academia in her early 30s and grounded herself in three core values, creating, helping others grow, and solving problems, which guided her into a more aligned career path. Along the way, she highlights the importance of financial literacy, especially for women, intentional living, and the courage to make changes without needing certainty about the long term. Her perspective is simple and freeing: you do not need to commit forever, just for the next year. The result is a powerful reminder that meaningful change comes from aligning your life with your values, trusting both yourself and the right experts, and having the courage to move when something no longer fits. If this helps you, subscribe, share the episode with a friend who’s mid-pivot, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.Guest Bio:Every job, and none of them, led Nina to her career in healthcare advertising. As a junior lab tech, she spent a summer inoculating petri dishes with human, er, effluents. Next up? A whole lot of school, and a decade as an English professor, guiding young minds though classes like Feminist Readings of Race and The Body…and the (seriously scatological) Canterbury Tales. It’s been a lifetime of cocktail party conversation killers…and purpose-driven work, ensuring that people get access to the healthcare they need. Still, the most joy has come from helping businesses and colleagues, especially those from non-dominant cultures, rise and meet their potential. Today, Nina’s retired, happily exploring the people, art, food, and places in the world—and her hometown of NYC—that she only got brief glimpses of during her corporate era. She’s doubled down on causes that move her, like ensuring girls come into their power through menstrual health education via Zana Africa. And executive coaching folks from non-dominant cultures here at home. Above all, Nina only needs 3 things: a problem to solve, a story to tell, and talented people to help thrive. Killer.Connect with Nina: LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Our guest Hannah Austin takes us back to the moment she collapsed, the private spiral that followed, and the brutal clarity of realizing that the career she built for 20 years no longer served her mental health, her emotional health, or her life.Hannah shares the core insight behind her book Hello Head Meet Heart, including the gap so many women feel between the “capable leader” everyone sees and the scared, exhausted person living behind the scenes.Subscribe for more real pivot stories, share this with someone who’s running on empty, and leave a review with the one belief about success you’re ready to let go of.Guest Bio:Hi, I'm Hannah! I am an international speaker, best-selling author, and podcast host with over 25 years of leadership experience. I offer speaking and consultative services on the topics of: leadership, resilience, mental health and wellness strategies in the workplace.Connect with Hannah: LinkedInHello Head, Meet Heart Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

What if the moment everything falls apart is the moment you finally meet yourself? We sit down with our friend Heather Fox to trace a raw, luminous journey from a “perfect on paper” life through divorce, identity collapse, and fear into sovereignty, capacity, and a quieter kind of power that lasts.Heather opens up about rebuilding from zero, no money, few friends, a new space with slamming doors, and the unlikely gratitude practice that carried her through: saying thank you with every layer of her old life shed. This conversation is a guide for anyone rebuilding after loss or choosing a pivot on purpose. If you’re ready to trade success on paper for sovereignty in practice, to hold more life without burning out, and to live inside your day instead of racing past it, press play and join us. If this resonated, subscribe, share with a friend who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest now what moment.Guest Bio:Hi! I’m Heather. I’ve played many roles in the corporate world, spoken on global stages, owned various businesses, but what I really do is create a ridiculously safe space for human souls to evolve and transform, which is slightly amazing!I am obsessed with creating a safe space for you to be human - let it all flow…the tears, the fears, the joy, the laughter, the humor. We peel back the layers, beliefs, societal norms, and clear the interferences so you can discover your soulful path. My super power is letting you be your most human self, showing you how freakin’ beautiful and amazing that is, and then igniting and rejuvenating your soul.I’ve been most accurately and consistently described as blend of James Bond and Mary Poppins - a fun mix of intellect and intuition with a dollop of loving discipline and angelic magic.To keep it simple. I love people. I see your souls. I feel your pain. I know your power. I see you. I hear you. I am ready to rock this limitless world with you.Connect with Heather: LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

This episode covers extremely sensitive topics, including grief and death. Listener discretion is advised. Please prioritize your well-being while listening.Kim shares the lived reality of becoming a grandmother guardian after the sudden loss of her daughter. Raising Ruby means carrying grief and love at the same time, navigating invisible labor, chronic stress, and an identity that does not fit neatly into legal language.Guest Bio:Kim McVicker, National Partner Account Manager at Human Interest, supports key distribution partners at the corporate level. Her responsibilities include developing initiatives to drive mutual business growth, fostering engagement between wholesalers and financial professionals, and advocating for her partners within Human Interest. She previously spent more than 30 years with Principal Financial Group. Kim has worked in the financial services industry for nearly 35 years, with a sole focus on the retirement plan market, proving to all that childhood dreams sometimes do come true.Connect with Kim: LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

This episode covers extremely sensitive topics, including grief and death. Listener discretion is advised. Please prioritize your well-being while listening.Kim shares the lived reality of becoming a grandmother guardian after the sudden loss of her daughter. Raising Ruby means carrying grief and love at the same time, navigating invisible labor, chronic stress, and an identity that does not fit neatly into legal language.Guest Bio:Kim McVicker, National Partner Account Manager at Human Interest, supports key distribution partners at the corporate level. Her responsibilities include developing initiatives to drive mutual business growth, fostering engagement between wholesalers and financial professionals, and advocating for her partners within Human Interest. She previously spent more than 30 years with Principal Financial Group. Kim has worked in the financial services industry for nearly 35 years, with a sole focus on the retirement plan market, proving to all that childhood dreams sometimes do come true.Connect with Kim: LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Kevin Husted’s story unfolds at the intersection of career risk and personal truth. After being abruptly dismissed from a nonprofit for being outed, Kevin faced the pressure to keep providing for his family while deciding how much of himself to bring to work. He shares how finding alignment in senior healthcare allowed skill, humanity, and presence to work together, and why coming out is not a single moment but an ongoing practice. Guest Bio:Kevin Husted is the President and Owner of Advisor Health Benefits Group, a trusted insurance agency serving individuals, families, and small businesses across Washington. With nearly 30 years of experience in health insurance, Medicare coverage, and the Washington Health Benefit Exchange, Kevin has helped thousands of clients evaluate their options and enroll in plans that meet their needs and budgets.Kevin is known for providing clear, honest guidance in a space that can often feel overwhelming. Whether you are exploring new health insurance coverage, renewing an existing plan, or preparing to transition to Medicare, Kevin makes the process simple and stress-free.Connect with Kevin: LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

A rare cancer diagnosis at twenty five forced Ilana into uncertainty and hard choices she never planned for. What emerged was a grounded way forward built on specificity, supportive systems, and boundaries that protect energy. Guest Bio:Ilana Morris is a systems and operations strategist and fractional COO who helps purpose driven entrepreneurs and organizations streamline operations and scale sustainably. With over a decade of experience in school operations, data management, executive support, and business systems, Ilana specializes in building workflows, automations, and teams that reduce chaos and create clarity. A cancer survivor and queer professional, Ilana brings empathy, strategic thinking, and sharp problem-solving skills to every engagement, helping leaders grow their businesses without burnout.Connect with Ilana:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

What happens when you achieve the life you worked hard to build and realize it no longer fits? Matt shares the moment he passed the CFP, looked at a future of safety and respect, and felt only boredom. That realization sparked a different kind of certainty, one rooted in agency, self trust, and the courage to become a beginner again.Guest Bio:Matt Mosich is an executive communication and speaker coach who helps leaders transform how they show up in high-pressure conversations — on stage, in investor meetings, and in the media. His work sits at the intersection of storytelling, psychology, and performance, helping senior executives and frontline leaders turn complex ideas into simple, human messages that earn trust and inspire action.After nearly a decade in wealth management, Matt founded The Mosich Group to follow a conviction he’s held since he was 21: our communication defines our reputation. That belief – simple but often overlooked – still fuels his work with CEOs, founders, and keynote speakers across wealth, banking, and digital assets, helping them lead with clarity, conviction, and calm under pressure.A frequent speaker on storytelling, executive presence, and the neuroscience of influence, Matt has worked with audiences ranging from emerging leaders to public company executives. His talks challenge leaders to see communication as a competitive advantage – and storytelling as the most underused leadership tool in business today.Connect with Matt:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

A new year can get noisy with ambitions goals that never get reached, so we chose a more deliberate and sustainable path. In this episode, we focus on clear intentions, values-led choices, and simple actions that actually stick. Instead of chasing balance, Theresa and Ivana show how they plan to work toward integration, guided by one steady theme that keeps decisions honest.We pay attention to the whole self: the body, nervous system, spirit, relationships, money, and time. From strength and mobility to quick regulation tools, clean boundaries, calm money systems, and protected attention. To make it fun, and help anchor the intentions, we use Courage Cards to create an Action Board, a grounded, values-based alternative to a vision board that turns intention into movement.In this way, we have a simple framework, practical prompts, and a way to adjust as life changes, without starting over.What is your guiding theme for 2026? Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

What happens when life throws multiple pivots at you simultaneously? Jessica Porter found herself facing this exact scenario when she moved from Texas to Portland, transitioned from the automotive industry to financial services, and became a stepmother to an eight-year-old. All at the same time.Jessica's journey begins with the challenges of relocating to rainy Portland in January, knowing virtually no one except her partner who worked long hours. At 27, she discovered the difficulty of making adult friendships, pushing herself as an introvert to join Meetup groups and networking events. "Making friends as an adult is a lot harder than you think," she shares, describing her evolution from networking novice to confident professional through persistence and authenticity.Eleven years later, Jessica has transformed these simultaneous pivots into a life she "could never have seen" for herself - a thriving career as a partner and co-founder of the 401k Girls, a strong marriage, and a meaningful relationship with her now 19-year-old stepdaughter. Her story reminds us that sometimes the most rewarding paths forward come when we say yes to multiple changes at once.Guest Bio:As one of three children of a plumber and a homemaker, Jessica grew up never knowing what a financial advisor was. Once immersing herself in the industry and learning the incredible ways advisors can help people, she focused her practice on providing the education and planning that helps her clients gain a handle on their finances and not only avoid making mistakes that so many do, but strategically plan for their futures.In 2025, Jessica and a colleague founded The 401(k) Girls with the goal to make financial education approachable, relatable, and actually fun. Whether you’re a young professional just getting started or a seasoned exec gearing up for retirement, they can help you avoid common pitfalls, plan strategically, and take control of your financial future.Connect with Jessica:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

A new child, a global pandemic, and an unexpected two-year isolation—Yolanda Reyes White's journey into motherhood was nothing like she planned. Just weeks after welcoming her daughter in February 2020, the world shut down, transforming what was supposed to be a brief parental leave before returning to daycare and office life into an extended period of family bonding that changed everything."I had to go back to places within myself I didn't even know existed," Yolanda shares, reflecting on the simultaneous challenges of first-time motherhood and pandemic uncertainty. While acknowledging the tremendous hardships many faced during this period, she candidly discusses the unexpected gift of extended time with her baby, something virtually impossible to achieve in typical American work culture.Whether you're navigating parenthood, career transitions, or simply seeking greater alignment between your actions and values, Yolanda's experience offers valuable insights on stepping into pivotal moments with courage and emerging more grounded, present, and authentic. Listen now and discover how unexpected challenges might just reveal your path to reinvention.Guest Bio:Yolanda is a relationship manager responsible for building and retaining relationships with prospective and existing clients directly and through consultants, platforms, TPAs and advisors. Yolanda has 19 years of financial service experience, including 14 years in stable value. Prior to joining Principal Morley in 2010, she was a Senior Account Manager for Standard Insurance Company. She has served as Co-Chair of WIPN Oregon and President of the Western Pension & Benefits Council Portland Chapter. She is a committee member for the Stable Value Investment Association and Retirement Advisory Council and holds designations with the American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries. Yolanda received a master’s degree from University of Oregon and a bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University.Connect with Yolanda:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Have you ever experienced a moment when everything you thought you knew suddenly changed? When Stephanie Neault was 15 years old, her parents sat her down and revealed they were actually her grandparents. This single conversation set off a cascade of questions about identity, belonging, and trust that would shape her life for decades to come.After years of "white-knuckling" through life, experiencing dramatic work performance swings from exceptional productivity to complete overwhelm, Stephanie finally received diagnoses of PTSD and bipolar II disorder. This medical truth, while initially shocking, provided a framework for understanding her experiences and accessing appropriate treatment.Listen now to discover how stepping into uncomfortable truths can become the foundation for authentic healing and personal transformation. And remember, if you have a pivot in your life, don't hesitate to step into it.Guest Bio:Stephanie Neault’s career began in special education and took a winding path through the world of finance before landing in the retirement industry. Since 2019, she’s been part of Pension Assurance LLP, where she started as an auditor and now also leads as the firm’s Recruiting Manager. Stephanie thrives on being part of projects that help others—whether in the thick of multiple 401(k) audits or guiding future accountants through their next big step. Her mission remains constant: to bring transparency, integrity, and standout communication to every role she takes on.If she wanted to brag, she could say that she holds an MBA from California Lutheran University and is a board member of Western Pension and Benefits Council—Portland Chapter. In 2018, she finished the L.A marathon. Voted “best wife” by her husband in 2023 and 2024. Overall, actions speak louder than anything that goes on your resume.Off the clock, Stephanie is an adventure-loving traveler, always planning the next trip with her husband (already checked off 24 countries). She lives for new memories, unfamiliar cities, and food that tells a story. Equal parts grounded and whimsical, she can crush a deadline, plan a flawless spreadsheet, and host a dreamy tea party all in the same week. Most at home when surrounded by great books, dogs, and her favorite people, Stephanie believes life gets slightly easier when you reach outside your comfort zone, ignore your fears, and try a new solution to an old problem.Connect with Stephanie:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Purpose-driven nonprofit leader Alison Nakamura takes us on her journey of transformation, sharing the pivotal moment at age 30 when she abandoned her successful Manhattan PR career to pursue social work—a decision that seemed financially risky but spiritually essential. With remarkable candor, she reveals how growing up between two parental influences, her nurse mother's service-oriented values and her father's traditional success metrics created an internal tug-of-war that eventually led to her breaking point."I remember going to Ann Taylor and putting on this weird gray suit and going to interviews in the city when I was like 19. And I was like, this could not be farther from who I am," Alison confesses. That disconnect eventually became too powerful to ignore, leading to a career pivot that would completely reshape her life's trajectory.For anyone standing at the crossroads of comfort and calling, security and purpose, or expectation and authenticity, this conversation offers both permission and practical wisdom. Listen in and discover how stepping into your pivot, however frightening, might be the most expansive move you'll ever make.Guest Bio:Alison Nakamura Netter is a purpose-driven nonprofit leader with a proven track record in advancing gender equity and reproductive health and rights. She currently serves as Executive Director of ZanaAfrica Foundation, an organization that supports girls in Kenya from adolescence to adulthood—ensuring they have the knowledge, resources, and agency to shape their own futures.With 18 years of experience across domestic and international causes, Alison has led initiatives to combat sex trafficking in Cambodia, address food insecurity, and promote diversity and inclusion in the arts in New York City. Her multifaceted background in fundraising, nonprofit management, strategic communications, and social work equips her with a unique skill set to lead sustainable, community-driven change.Alison’s commitment to service started early, teaching English to Haitian immigrants preparing for their U.S. citizenship exams and volunteering at a hospital providing companionship to marginalized patients. Those experiences shaped her values and continue to guide her leadership today.She holds a BA in Sociology from Northeastern University and a Master’s in Social Work from Hunter College’s Silberman School of Social Work. Alison is deeply committed to supporting organizations and solutions that create lasting, sustainable impact.She lives in New York with her husband, son, and their goldendoodle, Molly. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with friends and family, exercising, and spending time in nature.Connect with Alison:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

When Anne Tankersley decided to make 2023 her "self-care year," she had no idea how profoundly that decision would change her life. A mammogram revealed triple-negative breast cancer, launching her into an intense journey of treatments, career transitions, and personal transformation. With remarkable candor, she describes attempting to maintain her professional momentum through 20 weeks of chemotherapy, only gradually learning to adjust her expectations and accept support. Her story powerfully illustrates the delicate balancing act many face when serious health challenges collide with career ambitions.Whether you're personally affected by breast cancer or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers both practical guidance and emotional resonance. And the message remains clear: early detection through regular mammograms saves lives, perhaps even yours.Guest Bio:Anne completed her bachelor’s degree in economics and French studies. For the first few years of her career, Anne worked for a small family-owned construction company. During that time, she found her love for accounting and decided to move into public accounting to get exposure to a variety of industries and clients. Anne started with Geffen Mesher in 2008 and worked in both tax and assurance departments until finally deciding to focus on the assurance practice. Over the last 15 years, she has worked with a variety of clients, primarily focusing on real estate, hospitality, investment companies and employee benefit plans (EBPs).  She found her passion in auditing EBPs. Anne enjoys working with clients to navigate the complex regulatory environment and being part of our client’s benefit process by helping plan sponsors meet their fiduciary responsibilities, providing guidance on best practices for operating a plan and knowing at the end of the day, participants are able to retire.Connect with Anne:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Despite having regular mammograms and being previously told she had benign fibrocystic breast tissue, Kim received news that would change everything. The confusion of conflicting test results and constantly changing treatment plans taught her what would become her mantra: "Prepare for the plan to change." This wisdom carried her through surgery, chemotherapy, and the difficult decisions that followed. Kim's transformation was ‘pivoted’ into an opportunity learning to prioritize her own needs and desires after a lifetime of people-pleasing.The ripple effects of this mindset shift have touched every area of Kim's life. At 58, she joined a business partnership, embracing uncertainty and opportunity with newfound confidence. She's developed a passion for health and wellness, researching mitochondrial function and metabolic health with the awareness that none of us is invincible. Most importantly, she's learned to put herself first – to do what brings her joy before tackling obligations.Guest Bio:Kim Kelleher is a Luminary at Luma Accounting, a bookkeeping/accounting firm (no tax!) committed to helping small- and medium-sized businesses gain clarity around their finances.  Luma’s “secret sauce” is the blending of accounting, technology and process - this gives clients not only the accounting support they need, but also helps identify opportunities for innovation through technology and processes changes.  The firm was born from the merger between Kim and her business partner Heather Deibele - they found they shared the same values and both craved collaboration.  Together, they built a 100% remote, work-on-your-own-time and highly collaborative model designed to support US-based women seeking flexible but meaningful work.Now at Luma, Kim is focused on ensuring the firm’s mission of BEST. EXPERIENCE. EVER., both for clients and for team members.Connect with Kim:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

This episode covers extremely sensitive topics, including violence. Listener discretion is advised. Please prioritize your well-being while listening.How do you move forward when the foundation of your life story crumbles beneath you? Claudia St John returns to share the aftermath of her father's shocking confession to murdering her grandmother 26 years earlier.The moment Claudia learned the truth, she knew she would turn her father in to authorities. Yet she took a month to carefully consider the consequences of this decision—a period she describes as "one of the loneliest times of my life." Friends and family offered no guidance until after she'd already acted, when suddenly everyone agreed she'd done the right thing. When prosecutors ultimately decided not to pursue the case against her elderly father, Claudia felt relief that the final decision hadn't rested solely on her shoulders.Claudia's story is a powerful reminder that vulnerability can be our greatest strength. By sharing our most difficult truths, we not only free ourselves but potentially help others navigate their own impossible situations. As she powerfully states, "In these days of anger and tribalism... forgiveness is an underpinning of everything that we do." Her journey shows us that even in our darkest moments, there remains the possibility of finding peace, meaning, and a renewed sense of purpose.Guest Bio:Claudia St. John, SHRM-SCP, SPHR is the Founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors™, a leading HR consulting and training firm specializing in equipping businesses with the consulting support and people skills they need to grow.She is an SPHR (Senior Professional in HR), SHRM-SCP (SHRM Senior Certified Professional), and Certified Professional Behavioral Analyst who empowers organizations with evidence-backed insights, so they can navigate the evolving landscape of talent acquisition, engagement, and retention with confidence and foresight. Known as The Workplace Advisor™, she helps organizations zoom out, shift their mindset, and build businesses that lead their industry. A frequent keynote speaker, Claudia is a regular media contributor on the topic of HR. She wrote the book, Transforming Teams: Tips For Improving Collaboration and Building Trust, a book for leaders that addresses why fundamental breakdowns happen within organizations, and what they can do to correct them.Claudia holds an Undergraduate degree in Employee Benefits & Labor Relations from The American University and a Master’s degree in Business & Public Administration from The George Washington University, in addition to numerous HR and behavioral science certifications.Connect with Claudia:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

This episode covers extremely sensitive topics, including violence. Listener discretion is advised. Please prioritize your well-being while listening.What would you do if someone you loved confessed to an unthinkable crime? Claudia St. John faced this impossible question when her father casually admitted to murdering her grandmother – 26 years after the fact.With raw honesty, Claudia shares the month-long moral crisis that followed – consulting doctors, prosecutors, priests, and even the brother of the Unabomber as she grappled with an impossible choice. Should she protect her father or report him? The decision she and her sister ultimately made speaks to profound questions about family loyalty, moral responsibility, and personal integrity.This powerful testimony isn't just about trauma. it's about resilience in the face of unimaginable betrayal. While few will face circumstances as extreme as Claudia's, her story offers profound insights for anyone confronting difficult truths or painful choices. Listen and discover how even the darkest experiences can ultimately lead to growth, wisdom, and healing.Guest Bio:Claudia St. John, SHRM-SCP, SPHR is the Founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors™, a leading HR consulting and training firm specializing in equipping businesses with the consulting support and people skills they need to grow.She is an SPHR (Senior Professional in HR), SHRM-SCP (SHRM Senior Certified Professional), and Certified Professional Behavioral Analyst who empowers organizations with evidence-backed insights, so they can navigate the evolving landscape of talent acquisition, engagement, and retention with confidence and foresight. Known as The Workplace Advisor™, she helps organizations zoom out, shift their mindset, and build businesses that lead their industry. A frequent keynote speaker, Claudia is a regular media contributor on the topic of HR. She wrote the book, Transforming Teams: Tips For Improving Collaboration and Building Trust, a book for leaders that addresses why fundamental breakdowns happen within organizations, and what they can do to correct them.Claudia holds an Undergraduate degree in Employee Benefits & Labor Relations from The American University and a Master’s degree in Business & Public Administration from The George Washington University, in addition to numerous HR and behavioral science certifications.Connect with Claudia:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

From functioning alcoholic to emotional freedom expert, Helen McConnell's life transformation began with a terrifying realization: "I'm going to lose it all." Though outwardly successful with the elegant BMW, beautiful condo, and executive career, Helen's inner world was crumbling under addiction. Her powerful pivot started with sobriety through AA, but something still felt missing.The true revelation came years later when Helen discovered Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) – commonly known as "tapping." Within just two minutes of trying this simple practice, she experienced what she describes as an "energetic release" of decades of stuck emotions. This moment led Helen to not only transform her own life but to dedicate herself to helping others find similar freedom as a certified EFT practitioner.This episode features a live tapping demonstration that showcases the technique's remarkable efficiency. Host Ivana experiences a dramatic reduction in tension about an upcoming speaking engagement after just one round. The physical release was visibly apparent as stress literally "dumped out" of her body.Discover how this deceptively simple practice could transform your relationship with stress, trauma, and emotional barriers. Ready to experience what Helen calls "participating in a miracle"? Listen now and tap into your own emotional freedom.Guest Bio:Helen is an exceptionally skilled and gifted practitioner of emotional freedom technique with a true passion for empowering all professionals, and especially women. She is a  leading tapping expert and her expertise lies in helping people  achieve success and enjoy their lives to the fullest. With a focus on stress reduction, Helen teaches simple tools that effectively eliminate stress and all its symptoms. Her dedication to her clients’ well-being shines through in her work, as she guides them on a transformative journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.Connect with Helen:YouTube, LinkedIn, Book, Online Resources:"How to Tap", "What if I Could Stop Worrying So Much?" , "Tapping for Neck Pain, Stress & Tension" Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Welcome to the finale of our two-part conversation with Jeff Acheson. A parable about saving starfish opens this profound conversation with Jeff, who shares his journey of transforming devastating personal loss into purposeful action. After losing his daughter Amber two years ago, Jeff founded Amber's Aces to partner with ROX (Ruling Our Experiences), an organization dedicated to building confidence and self-esteem in young women. Through tears and powerful insights, he reveals how "Amber is not here, but she's not gone," as her legacy continues through this mission to help girls overcome the same struggles she faced.Jeff breaks barriers by openly discussing grief, mental health, and emotional intelligence in the retirement industry, creating pathways for others to share their experiences. His perspective bridges gender divides, reminding us that mental health affects everyone.His approach shifts from curative to preventative mental health support, channeling grief into meaningful change that extends far beyond one life. Learn how you can support this mission by visiting our website to find information about ROX and Amber's Aces.Guest Bio:After 46 years in financial services, investment management, and retirement planning, I’ve chosen to focus the most strategic chapter of my career on entities and professionals I deeply respect—law firms, lawyers, and lobbyists. Our shared commitment to precision, discipline, and excellence makes serving the legal community both a professional and personal mission.As CEO of the Advanced Strategies Group (ASG), I’m leading a targeted effort to modernize retention and retirement strategies in the legal industry. Too many plans offered them still follow one-size-fits-all templates that ignore the complexity and sophistication today’s legal professionals require. That’s why I developed the Law Firm Benefits and Planning Platform. These solutions are powered by The Attorney’s Edge, our virtual-first planning platform, and ASG MAPS—an investment strategy framework built to optimize 401(k) outcomes for high-balance participants.I hold seven professional designations as validation of my commitment to being a trusted authority in my field, and I’m a past president of both National Association of Plan Advisors and the American Retirement Association. I also co-authored the NAPA Nonqualified Plan Consultant (NQPC) designation curriculum and serve as a consultant to my peers in this space.ASG’s history was built beyond the legal sector, but today we’re fully invested in serving it—offering a sophisticated alternative to the status quo.The focus of my personal life is on pursuing my definition of Ikigai and helping others find theirs in loving memory of my daughter Amber, who couldn't find hers.Connect with Jeff Acheson:Amber's ACE's for ROX, LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

The moment Jeff Acheson's daughter Amber passed away two years ago, his world changed forever. What followed wasn't just grief, but a powerful transformation that's touching countless young lives today. Through vulnerability and courage, Jeff illuminates the critical distinction between diagnosed mental illness and the broader spectrum of mental health challenges: self-esteem, confidence, and self-worth issues that can silently devastate lives while appearing outwardly functional. His story provides a wake-up call for parents, educators, and anyone who works with young people: sometimes it's not just kids being teenagers.After Amber's passing, Jeff partnered with Ruling Our Experiences (ROX) to create AMBER's ACES—Advocates and Champions for Expansion—raising $100,000 in its first year to help middle and high school girls develop healthy relationships and strong self-confidence. At $100 per participant for the 12-week program, that's 1,000 young lives potentially changed.Join us for this deeply moving conversation about turning pain into purpose and discovering how, sometimes, a person's greatest impact comes after they're gone.Guest Bio:After 46 years in financial services, investment management, and retirement planning, I’ve chosen to focus the most strategic chapter of my career on entities and professionals I deeply respect—law firms, lawyers, and lobbyists. Our shared commitment to precision, discipline, and excellence makes serving the legal community both a professional and personal mission.As CEO of the Advanced Strategies Group (ASG), I’m leading a targeted effort to modernize retention and retirement strategies in the legal industry. Too many plans offered them still follow one-size-fits-all templates that ignore the complexity and sophistication today’s legal professionals require. That’s why I developed the Law Firm Benefits and Planning Platform. These solutions are powered by The Attorney’s Edge, our virtual-first planning platform, and ASG MAPS—an investment strategy framework built to optimize 401(k) outcomes for high-balance participants.I hold seven professional designations as validation of my commitment to being a trusted authority in my field, and I’m a past president of both National Association of Plan Advisors and the American Retirement Association. I also co-authored the NAPA Nonqualified Plan Consultant (NQPC) designation curriculum and serve as a consultant to my peers in this space.ASG’s history was built beyond the legal sector, but today we’re fully invested in serving it—offering a sophisticated alternative to the status quo.The focus of my personal life is on pursuing my definition of Ikigai and helping others find theirs in loving memory of my daughter Amber, who couldn't find hers.Connect with Jeff Acheson:Amber's ACE's for ROX, LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

In this episode of Step Into The Pivot, Theresa and Dr. Ivi (Ivana) share deeply personal reflections on July 4th, and how the meaning of this holiday has shifted for each of them over time.Theresa recalls the joy and innocence of childhood fireworks. For Dr. Ivi, the explosions once triggered traumatic memories from her war-torn childhood in Croatia. But instead of avoiding the pain, she chose a bold pivot: transforming the holiday into a ritual of personal liberation.Through mindful sensory engagement and deep inner work, she rewired her nervous system and turned July 4th into her own Independence Day. This journey inspired her to create the Courage Cards, tools that help others uncover truth, heal gently, and honor their evolution with playfulness and depth. One card, “Toast Your Triumphs,” reminds us that real transformation is layered, courageous, and lifelong.Tune in to explore how intentional rituals can help you reclaim parts of your life that still need healing. What might your personal independence day look like?If you want more information about purchasing your own deck of Courage Cards—or are simply curious—reach out to [email protected] or visit our website at www.courageousbeing.com.  Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

What happens when you realize the person you've been presenting to the world for decades isn't your true self? Jay Washington's powerful conversation takes us on a journey through authenticity, emotional growth, and unexpected life pivots.The conversation takes a deeply moving turn as Jay shares his transition from being the fun uncle ("funkle") to becoming a father figure ("dunkle") for his niece and nephew after they lost both parents. Rather than seeing this unexpected responsibility as a burden, Jay discovered it became his North Star, providing purpose and healing wounds he didn't know existed. "To make the choice to love a child that you didn't biologically create is a special gift," he reflects.Jay's insights on setting boundaries, emotional intelligence, and breaking generational cycles offer practical wisdom for anyone navigating their own pivot. His simple yet profound advice to his younger self "I would hug him and tell him you are enough" encapsulates the core message of his transformation. For men especially, his advocacy for emotional expression challenges harmful societal norms: "The more emotionally in touch you can be as a man, it takes security in yourself to go against what society has prescribed for you."Guest Bio:Jay Washington is Client Advisor, Vice President Workplace Retirement Solutions for JPMorganChase.  He works with Chase Business Bankers and other intermediaries provide a turnkey 401(k) solution to business owner plan sponsors. Jay Joined JPMC  in March 2025. Prior to that, Jay spent 25 years in the retirement space in various client facing roles, where his passion for better participant outcomes provided a wealth of opportunities.Jay graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, with degrees in Economics and Journalism, and obtained his MBA from Point Park University— in addition to several industry designations. He holds FINRA Series 6, 7, 63 and 65 licenses. In his spare time, Jay enjoys working out and traveling. He is an active father-figure to his niece and nephew, as well as an active member and officer of five nonprofit boards.Connect with Jay:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

When we first met Lia Bliss at a business conference, she captivated the room with her LinkedIn expertise, delivering insights so valuable that attendees could barely keep up with their note-taking. Behind this polished presentation style lies a story of persistence and transformation that began with 20-hour shifts split between retail and bartending while supporting herself as a single mother.The turning point came when Lia invested in a business coach despite financial constraints, finding support from an unexpected source who believed in her potential. Then COVID hit. Rather than seeing disaster, Lia recognized opportunity. She began creating content about working from home, which caught the attention of her father, a career CMO needing help with corporate training during the pandemic lockdown. For a year, Leah delivered multiple 90-minute sales trainings weekly, receiving intense camera training and feedback after each session. Simultaneously, she worked with professional speakers, published a book, and built the foundation for her future business. When both positions ended abruptly on the same day, she faced the ultimate pivot: fully embracing entrepreneurship. Today, Leah delivers memorable keynote presentations and thrives on connecting with inspiring professionals. Guest Bio:Lia Bliss transforms digital engagement into measurable business growth. As a LinkedIn strategy expert with algorithm intelligence that cuts through the noise, she operationalizes social selling for Fortune 500 executives and high-growth entrepreneurs alike. Beyond traditional platform tactics, Lia's systematic approach converts digital presence into revenue through her Executive Thought Leadership programs, Enterprise Training for sales teams, dynamic Keynote Speaking, and exclusive Entrepreneurs Mastermind. With a background in sales enablement and a reputation for delivering results, she brings both strategic vision and tactical precision to professionals navigating the digital landscape. When corporate leaders need digital engagement that performs, they turn to Lia for the systematic advantage their competition hasn't seen before.Connect with Lia:TheBlissMagic.com Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

In this thought-provoking conversation with psychiatrist Dr. Xiaojue Hu, we explore how integrating spirituality with conventional psychiatry creates powerful new possibilities for healing.Dr. Hu shares the remarkable story of her own unexpected spiritual awakening that occurred during her fourth year of psychiatry residency at NYU. Raised by atheist parents from communist China, she experienced a profound shift in consciousness that opened her to both spiritual exploration and psychedelic research simultaneously. This personal transformation fundamentally changed how she approaches mental health treatment.The heart of our discussion centers around viewing psychological challenges through metaphors that honor their transformative potential. Dr. Hu introduces the concept of the "descent journey" where we descend into emotional darkness, are stripped of familiar identities, and eventually emerge transformed. She compares psychological suffering to childbirth: painful and intense, but ultimately creating something new and meaningful from the experience.Whether you're navigating your own mental health journey, supporting loved ones through theirs, or simply curious about new paradigms for understanding psychological suffering, this conversation offers valuable insights for Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond. Join us in exploring how viewing suffering through a sacred lens creates space for more comprehensive healing.Guest Bio:Dr. Xiaojue Hu is a psychiatrist based in New York City. She’s an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at the New York University Center for Psychedelic Medicine, where she's worked as the lead study therapist and co-investigator on multiple psilocybin clinical trials. Xiaojue has also worked with the pioneering nutritional psychiatrist Drew Ramsey as part of his group private practice Brain Food Clinic, where she has a holistic, integrative approach to mental health. She is trained in psychedelic integration and such mind-body therapeutic approaches as Internal Family Systems (IFS, Level 1) and Focusing. Xiaojue is especially interested in spirituality, women’s mental health, and cultural psychiatry (including issues around belonging, migration, race, and identity), and has previously worked as the leading psychiatrist at the Asian Bicultural Clinic at Gouverneur Health, a community mental health clinic providing care to the underserved.Connect with Xiaojue:PsychologyToday.com Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Bill Harmon, seasoned retirement industry executive, broke through the polished corporate veneer to share a deeply personal story.Bill takes us through the life-changing moment when his son William was born with Down syndrome, and the emotional rollercoaster that followed. After initially struggling with clinical, limitation-focused medical resources, Bill discovered a beautiful metaphor that changed his perspective forever: "Welcome to Holland." This poem frames having a child with special needs as boarding a plane for Italy but unexpectedly landing in Holland, a different destination with its own unique beauty. Through William, Bill learned to embrace authenticity in an industry often defined by careful personas. "If I had a superpower it would be to make everyone feel comfortable in their own skin," he shares, crediting his son with teaching him this invaluable lesson. The impact reached far beyond his family life, transforming Bill's leadership style from competitively driven to purpose-focused. His willingness to bring his whole self to work, emotions and all, made him stand out in financial services leadership.Have you experienced a "Welcome to Holland" moment in your life? We'd love to hear how you navigated your own unexpected destination. Share your story in the comments or reach out, because as Bill reminds us, finding a community for support makes all the difference.Guest Bio:Bill Harmon has spent his career in the retirement industry.  Starting his career with Great-West and leading them forward as they became Empower Retirement to lead their core market growth.  Bill then continued with Voya Financial as he led their 401(k) Markets with an end result of improving client retention.Currently Bill serves as President of Thrive Flexible Matching.  With debt being a key inhibitor toward saving for retirement, Thrive helps employers meet their employees where they are. There is over $1.7 trillion in student loan debt from 44 million Americans, so the need to address this is great, and Thrive can help.Bill’s career highlights his communicative and open-minded working culture with a passion for fostering professional development. An insightful influencer and thought leader, he has served on many industry and nonprofit boards and pursued various innovative business applications for industry-wide advancement.Connect with Bill:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

What would happen if you woke up tomorrow fundamentally believing in your worthiness, regardless of your accomplishments? This question lies at the heart of our conversation with transformational leadership coach Toya Gavin, whose journey from burnt-out prosecutor to authentic coach reveals profound lessons about reclaiming our true selves.Toya shares the vulnerable moment when she publicly admitted her burnout and depression to thousands of fellow attorneys, expecting little response. Instead, she received an outpour from others suffering silently with similar struggles. This act of courage not only launched her coaching practice but demonstrated the transformative power of vulnerability.At the core of Toya's philosophy is "Woke Up Worthy", the revolutionary idea that our worth isn't tied to achievements or others' approval. This perspective offers liberation especially for women and people of color who often feel they must be perfect and never falter. As Toya explains, "We're expected to be these perfect things where nothing goes wrong and we never make mistakes...but for women and people of color, we don't get the room to try and see what we can create."Guest Bio:Toya Gavin is an attorney, coach, and founder of Woke Up Worthy. At Woke Up Worthy, Toya helps women of color stop chasing degrees so they can start going after the life they want. Toya is an ICF-certified coach and holds a Juris Doctorate from the George Washington University Law School and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Rutgers University. She also is licensed to practice law in New York and New Jersey. Toya's work as a coach is informed by numerous teachers, authors, artists, and practitioners, both personal and professional, including her sisters, aunts, husband, and mother.Connect with Toya:Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Substack Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Step into the remarkable journey of Melissa Terito, a dynamic guest who transitioned from a fulfilling teaching career to become a partner at a top CPA firm. In this episode, we explore how she navigated her career pivot, embracing the internal nudges that drove her towards a new path in accounting. With a deep appreciation for the skills acquired through her teaching background, Melissa discusses the unique ability to translate complex ideas into relatable concepts, a skill that serves her well in the financial industry. Listen as she shares candid insights on the fears and challenges associated with her transitions, from how mentorship played a crucial role in her development to her newfound leadership aspirations. As she reflects on the importance of resilience, discipline, and physical well-being, Melissa inspires us to not only seek personal growth but to also mentor those who follow us. Join this engaging conversation, highlighting how embracing changes can lead to significant personal and professional fulfillment. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your own pivot stories with us!Guest Bio:It all begins with an idea. Melissa, or Missy to her friends and family, is the woman with all the ideas. Melissa attended Louisiana State University and graduated in 2005 with a degree in Education. After four years of teaching high school math, she returned to LSU part-time to see if she would enjoy the accounting profession. Something about it stuck and she resigned from teaching.  She was hired at Faulk & Winkler as an intern in the pension department, completed the courses to sit for the CPA exam, and received her CPA designation in 2012. Melissa’s brief career in the classroom was invaluable in positioning her to be a mentor in the CPA profession as well as giving her the communication skills to build strong relationships with clients and colleagues. In 2020, Melissa started a podcast – Louisiana Ladies – wherein she speaks to local (mostly) female members of the Baton Rouge community. Many are entrepreneurs, some are domestic engineers, all are inspiring. She chats with them about their story, it is lighthearted and fun, and has a steady following with over 20k downloads. In 2022, Melissa began her public speaking debut about Boundaries in the Workplace, something she is very passionate about, and has curated perfectly over the years. Melissa resides in Baton Rouge with her husband Patrick and their two dogs. They appreciate the local culture and flavor of the city, especially the culinary offerings. Away from the office, she enjoys reading, riding her Peloton, playing pickleball, traveling, and spending time with her five adorable nephews.Connect with Melissa:Website, LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

This episode covers sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Please prioritize your well-being while listening.What would you do if you had more courage? This question sits at the heart of our illuminating conversation with Dr. Margie Warrell, global thought leader on brave leadership and author of "The Courage Gap." The courage gap affects us all, but particularly women. We explore how imposter syndrome manifests as underestimating our abilities while overestimating dangers. As Margie powerfully states, "We shouldn't be trying to prove our worth. We need to just own our worth." This simple shift in perspective can liberate us to pursue meaningful goals with confidence rather than doubt.Through vulnerable personal stories, including surviving an armed robbery, Margie demonstrates her transformative "Three Ps" approach to reframing difficult situations. By choosing narratives that make us feel more Powerful, Positive, and Purposeful, we can create generative stories that shape our future rather than keeping us stuck. "You create your stories. But your stories then create you," she explains, offering practical wisdom for catching and redirecting unhelpful narratives. By giving ourselves permission to be imperfect, whether as parents, professionals, or creators—we open doors to experiences and growth we might otherwise miss.What pivot might be revealing your path today? Listen in and discover how embracing courage in the face of uncertainty can transform your life's journey.Guest Bio:Dr. Margie Warrell is a globally recognized expert in leadership and human behavior, renowned for her ability to help leaders and organizations unlock untapped potential by countering the underlying dynamics that inhibit bold thinking, decisive action, and transformative growth.A passionate advocate for advancing women in leadership, Margie has contributed to government roundtables, spearheaded initiatives to elevate more women to decision-making roles, and co-led Korn Ferry’s Power of All program during her tenure as a Senior Partner in their CEO & Enterprise Leadership Institute.Margie’s latest book, The Courage Gap (Jan ‘25), distills her decades of research and experience, providing a roadmap for closing the gap between potential and performance. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, Margie balances her professional endeavors with her love of adventure. A lifelong hiker and aspiring barista, she finds inspiration scaling mountains, including summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro with her husband and four children.Connect with Margie:Website, LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

In this episode, we welcome the insightful Morgan Rysdon, who shares her inspiring journey of healing through trauma, loss, and the practice of the Alexander Technique. Morgan reflects on pivotal moments that shaped her, including her childhood experiences and the heartbreaking loss of her brother, leading her to embrace a path of resilience and choice.Amidst profound sadness, Morgan discovered the Alexander Technique, which transformed her relationship with her body and mind. This approach emphasizes awareness and posture as tools for healing, enabling individuals to reconnect with themselves. We explore how Morgan’s experiences led her to understand that true healing begins within and the importance of making conscious choices in life. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the power of curiosity over judgment and the necessity of seeking movement, comfort, and joy in our everyday routines. Join us for this insightful conversation, where Morgan’s wisdom will resonate deeply, inspiring you to reflect on your own choices and journey toward living fully. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences with us. How are you stepping into your own pivots?Guest Bio:Morgan Rysdon is a nationally certified Alexander Technique teacher and speaker. In 2013, she created Center  Studio to help others improve their quality of life through increased awareness and mindfulness. Since then,  she’s gone on to teach her work nationally and internationally, helping individuals elevate their performances in the workspace and recover from chronic pain, injury, stress, and anxiety. Committed to helping others,  Morgan teaches workshops, introductory classes and works 1:1 with a focus on building self-awareness,  self-confidence, and poise through improving the overall function of an individual’s mind, body, breath, and voice.  Connect with Morgan:Website, YouTube, Instagram Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Have you ever felt like life threw you a 40-pound bag of lemons? Join us as we welcome Chase Sterling, an Army veteran, who shares her incredible journey of resilience through life's unexpected turns. From navigating a challenging childhood in an abusive adoptive home to her courageous decision for early emancipation at 17, Chase's story is a testament to strength and adaptability. Her journey continues with the founding of the Wellbeing Think Tank, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing workplace environments. By sharing the evolution of her consulting practice, Chase emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in fostering well-being. With monthly events that promote knowledge-sharing and interdisciplinary strategies, Wellbeing Think Tank aims to create uplifting environments that positively influence both personal and societal well-being. Through Chase's personal evolution and her blog "Evolution of Chase," we uncover nuggets of wisdom and reflect on the necessity of adapting to change, inspiring listeners to embrace resilience and become better versions of themselves.Guest Bio:Chase Sterling is an Army veteran having served from 1998 - 2005, both on Active duty and in the Reserves. She was an 88M and left the military as an E5.After transitioning from the military, Chase has dedicated her career to improving both individual and organizational wellbeing. With over 20 years of experience, Chase brings passion combined with evidence-based expertise.Dedicated to the mission of improving workplaces, Chase founded Wellbeing Think Tank which provides free educational events on workplace wellbeing. Additionally, Chase partners with organizations to drive employee engagement at HHP Cultures. She has held leadership, consultant and educator roles at a variety of organizations including Cigna, Wounded Warrior Project, Google and Sinclair Community College.Chase holds a BS in Exercise Science and Health Psychology and an MA in Industrial/Organizational Psychology with a concentration in Occupational Health Psychology. She holds numerous certifications related to health and wellbeing including Certified Wellness Practitioner, Mental Health Ally, DEI in the Workplace, and is a Certified Personal Trainer. Additionally. Chase has been published in the The American Journal of Health Promotion and serves on PAPREN, the Physical Activity Policy Research and Evaluation Network Worksite work group.Chase currently resides in Portland, Oregon with her rescue cat Fizzgig.Connect with Chase:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Ever wonder what makes love last? This Valentine's Day, we’re thrilled to have Canadian psychologist Kathleen Henderson with us to unravel the mystery of successful relationships. Kathleen shares how addressing individual issues within the framework of couples therapy can be transformative. She emphasizes the power of slowing down emotional reactions to uncover underlying feelings, which can break cycles of misunderstanding.  The conversation serves as a mirror for therapists as well as clients, highlighting how their own development can intertwine with the progress of the people they help. Join us for a heartfelt reflection on the universal principle of practicing what we teach, and gather inspiration for embracing change and growth in your relationships.Guest Bio:Kathleen Henderson is a registered psychologist from Canada - a therapist specializing in helping couples reconnect and strengthen their relationships. Using a collaborative approach, Kathleen focuses on identifying and transforming patterns of communication that may cause disconnection. Kathleen practices Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a method backed by research showing significant improvement in over 80% of relationships. Committed to providing quality care, Kathleen encourages individuals and couples to seek evidence-based approaches to therapy and to prioritize finding the right fit in a therapist to meet their unique needs.Connect with Kathleen:psychologytoday.comLinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Discover the transformative power of mindfulness with Lauren Loehning, a trailblazer in financial services and co-founder of Money Well. Lauren shares her inspiring journey of integrating meditation into her bustling career and family life, revealing how the practice has been a game-changer in managing stress and finding clarity. With nearly a decade of Vipassana meditation under her belt and a completed teacher training program, Lauren offers profound insights into the benefits of silent retreats and the serenity that mindfulness brings amid life's chaos. We're excited for you to hear how meditation has become a cornerstone in her life and how it can enrich yours too.But that's not all—we explore how mindfulness and emotional awareness can significantly enhance financial resilience. Lauren delves into the intriguing connections between emotions, meditation, and financial well-being. You'll gain practical tips on understanding the parallels between maintaining consistent financial and mindfulness habits. This episode is your invitation to embrace meditation, not just as a tool for personal growth, but as an essential practice for a balanced and fulfilling life.Guest Bio:With over two decades in the financial services sector, Lauren K. Loehning is arespected Partner at Retirement Impact, where her client-first approach hasearned her a reputation for excellence. As the Co-Founder of Moniwell, sheleads a pioneering initiative blending psychology, science, and technology toredefine financial well-being.Lauren's expertise, spanning financial planning, investment management, andfinancial therapy, is bolstered by prestigious certifications, including CertifiedFinancial Planner® practitioner, Certified Investment Management Analyst®,Certified in Financial Social Work, and Accredited Investment Fiduciary®Her commitment to professional excellence has been recognized by the NationalAssociation of Plan Advisors, with accolades including Top Advisor – All Star(2021-2023) and Rising Star (2016-2020).Connect with Lauren:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Jessica's journey is nothing short of inspiring, as she shares her remarkable story of resilience and leadership. From facing bullying as the only Black person in her family, to discovering the circumstances of her conception, and stepping into her own unwavering strength as a mother, Jessica's life has been a testament to overcoming adversity. Her unique experiences have fueled her commitment to equitable leadership, and she passionately works to create inclusive spaces where everyone feels they belong. Jessica's narrative highlights the profound impact of empathy and the importance of recognizing our personal growth, making her a powerful voice for change.Parenting and leadership are intertwined in Jessica's philosophy, where authenticity and humor play crucial roles. She emphasizes the need to nurture children's unique gifts, encouraging them to grow beyond imposed labels or expectations. By sharing touching stories, Jessica illustrates how humor can bridge connections, even in challenging times, and how life events shape our resilience and empathy. Her insights remind us that true leadership is about fostering environments that promote growth and healing, embracing vulnerability, and using challenges as stepping stones to a more meaningful life. Join us as we unpack the profound lessons from Jessica's incredible journey.Guest Bio:Dr. Jessica Taylor is passionate about equitable leadership and empowering others to transform their organizations and leadership legacy. Known for her empathy, pragmatism, and humor, Jessica empowers and builds organizations where everyone can courageously be themselves without bias, discrimination, or barriers determining their success. With a lifetime of perspective as a biracial, woman of color, years of executive experience, and a background in human development, Jessica coaches executive leaders and guides organizations through equitable leadership strategies through nuanced and comprehensive methods. (she/her)Connect with Jessica:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

As we usher in 2025, in this episode focused on creating new healthy habits, Theresa interviews Ivana, who's recently been through a major positive pivot: Ivana has worked with the co-creators of Inner Bonding® Dr. Margaret Paul and Dr. Erika Chopich to create a brand new book, Inner Bonding Guided Journal! This journal is a concise introduction to an astonishingly powerful healing practice of Inner Bonding, and an all-purpose tool to cultivate a more peaceful and joyous life.We unpack the six-step Inner Bonding process, exploring the empowering role of the "loving adult" in taking responsibility for our emotions and how connecting with our higher self can bring clarity and purpose to our lives.To our dedicated listeners, your support means the world to us. To express our gratitude, we're thrilled to offer a special book promotion. Purchase the recommended book and email us to receive a unique listener gift. As we wrap up this empowering episode, we're here to remind you to embrace the possibilities of change. Let's step boldly into our pivots, ready to tackle the new year with renewed energy and open hearts.Our community, the beloved "Pivoters," shared incredible stories with us throughout 2024, and we're committed to maintaining these connections by shifting our podcast release schedule to every other Friday. This change prioritizes quality and aligns with our personal values of self-care and holistic wellness.Check Out The New Inner Bonding Journal Here!AmazonTargetBarnes & NobleOR Try The Audiobook Version! Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Amanda Dixon's journey is nothing short of inspiring as she takes us through her transition from tax professional to marketing expert after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Amanda faced the initial signs of MS with a nerve pain twinge in her shoulder, which led to her diagnosis in 2020, a pivotal moment that transformed her life. Her unwavering commitment to self-advocacy and listening to her body serves as a beacon of strength and empowerment, especially for women navigating healthcare systems. Amanda's story is a powerful reminder of the resilience needed to set boundaries and prioritize self-care while living with a chronic condition.Navigating the medical maze to secure her MS diagnosis, Amanda recounts the challenges of numerous tests and consultations before finding a specialist who confirmed her condition. Her proactive approach led her to choose Okravis, a chemotherapy drug that has effectively halted her disease progression. Amanda shares how adjusting her work life to a part-time, remote setup has provided her with the balance she needed, highlighting the significance of supportive relationships and a positive mindset on this journey. Her experience underscores the importance of advocating for oneself, particularly in the face of dismissive healthcare professionals, and embracing each day with awareness and acceptance.Guest Bio:Amanda Dixon began her career as a tax professional, preparing all types of returns, from 1040s to 990s. In 2020, amidst the global pandemic, her life changed when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. After taking the time to get used to her new life with her disease, she began working from home. In 2023, she earned her Enrolled Agent designation, but began to feel an interest in the marketing function at her firm. Seeing an opportunity, she made the switch that same year to a marketing role. She now uses her previous experience and knowledge to break down the complex world of accounting to effectively communicate what her firm’s clients need to know. Today, she advocates for the disabled community and encourages others to advocate for themselves to ensure they get the best possible medical care they can. Amanda considers herself an open book, and is always happy to answer questions about her MS, her diagnosis process, the symptoms she experiences, and how others can better understand and help those in the disabled community. When she’s not at work, you can find Amanda playing Dungeons and Dragons with her friends, dressing up her 12 foot skeleton, watching a spooky movie, and spending time with her husband Adam and their adorable pets.Connect with Amanda:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Karen Zander, an executive director at JP Morgan, courageously opens up about the complex and often untold journey of caring for aging parents, a reality many face but few discuss openly. Karen's personal story of managing her father's physical challenges and her mother's dementia and Parkinson's disease is likened to participating in an endless, uphill marathon. Her insights highlight the unpredictable nature of these responsibilities and underscore the importance of having a support network. Within this discussion, Karen draws compelling parallels between preparing for life's unexpected events and training for a marathon, reminding us that many face these challenges without prior preparation.We delve into the emotional intricacies of caregiving and the daunting decisions that come along with it. Karen emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and open, honest conversations with aging loved ones about their wishes. Through poignant personal anecdotes, she shares the weight of making difficult medical decisions and the crucial role of supportive family dynamics. The episode sheds light on the value of compassionate leadership within the family, especially when navigating the healthcare system and making decisions about treatments.Wellthy, the organization we reference on the show, helps families balance work and caregiving responsibilities through a combination of precision technology and human expertise.Connect with Wellthy:Wellthy.comGuest Bio:Karen Zander, Executive Director, is a Retirement National Accounts Client Advisor at J.P. Morgan Asset Management.  Karen is responsible for managing key national accounts with strategic retirement and defined contribution platform partners.  With over 25 years of experience in the investment management industry, and the majority of the time specializing in corporate and individual retirement, Karen serves as a retirement and investment specialist resource for retirement clients as well as internally on special projects.  Karen graduated with a B.S. in Psychology from Fordham University, lives in New York City, and also answers to the nickname “KZ.” Connect with Karen:LinkedIn Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Brandon Helms, a beacon of authenticity in the finance world, joins us to share his transformative journey of staying true to oneself amidst career changes. Gain insight into Brandon's recent shift to MarshBerry, where he finds new freedom to express his personal brand and connect stories to the often impersonal numbers of finance. With an impressive trajectory of seven roles over 18 years, Brandon's career is a testament to the power of integrating personal growth with professional development. His approach to maintaining genuine connections within a data-driven industry sheds light on the vital human element often overlooked in financial services.Our conversation also highlights the urgent need for heart-centered leadership, exemplified by Teresa's successful journey in conscious leadership. We explore the evolving landscape of business ownership and the necessity of nurturing a love for the industry through mentorship and clear career pathways. With personal anecdotes underscoring the importance of purpose and courage, this episode serves as a guide for current and future professionals striving to make meaningful impacts in their careers.Guest Bio:The same commitment needed to give his former retirement plan and wealth clients clarity to make more informed decisions drives Brandon Helms to help retirement and wealth advisors steward their businesses.As a Vice President on MarshBerry’s Financial Advisory team, Brandon’s background in being on the inside of building two fast growing financial advisor teams gives him a unique perspective to be able to consult with advisors on growth strategy and succession planning.Brandon’s core focus is on providing financial advisors with ideas & insights specific to their business today and align with their vision for the future. Many times, this includes anticipating any potential challenges advisors face as they grow and ways to overcome them.Prior to MarshBerry Brandon led financial advisor distribution in the southeastern US for a global asset manager where he was able to deliver tailored value add business consulting to some of the largest financial advisor teams in the country. Brandon also spent close to a decade building both individual and institutional businesses experiencing firsthand the challenges and opportunities of operating a successful financial advisory business.Brandon attended Appalachian State University and currently lives in Greensboro, NC with his wife Lauren, two boys Carter and Greyson and their mini-goldendoodle pup Rose. In his free time, Brandon enjoys working out, watching college football & Premier League soccer, and all outdoor activities.Connect with Brandon:LinkedInBackflip YouTube Video:Brandon Helms: Stay True, Stand Out (at 09:27) Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Promo Code Below!What happens when a high-pressure career in New York City leads to an unexpected health crisis, only to unlock the door to a new, fulfilling path? This is precisely the story of our guest, Nicole Bryson, who transformed her life from corporate chaos to becoming a certified health coach in Oregon. Her journey began with a relentless facial rash in 2012, which Western medicine couldn't cure. This pivotal moment forced Nicole to explore naturopathic medicine and nutrition, ultimately identifying her condition as perioral dermatitis linked to gut imbalance. Her path to recovery through holistic health practices sparked a passion for wellness, changing her life forever.Nicole explores the broader aspects of holistic wellness, from mindfulness and spirituality to financial health. This exploration led her to embrace yoga and co-fund an herbal business. We invite you to reflect on these vital aspects of life and express our gratitude to Nicole for sharing her wisdom and experiences. Guest Bio:Certified Health CoachCo-founder, COCOGLOW Nicole is a longtime vegan, focused on creating nutrient-dense, whole foods recipes and non-toxic beauty routines. She grew up on a small farm in Eagle Creek, Oregon and learned early where food came from, and what fresh plant foods are really supposed to taste like. After college, she started experiencing skin reactions to most cosmetics and foods, which she soon learned was perioral dermatitis. She began to break out into hives and welts on a regular basis, often in response to skincare products, environmental stressors, foods and stress. This experience ended up being a healing crisis and turning point in her life. From that point on she started devouring all the information she could find on holistic nutrition, natural beauty, and herbalism. She recently completed her studies through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, becoming a Certified Health Coach. Nicole believes that we get one body, so we should do our best to treat it right!  Her outlook on nutrition and beauty is adaptable and positive -- focus on adding nourishing habits and rituals to your life, and eventually crowd out lifestyle choices don’t serve you.Promo code for CocoGlo products:SITP20 for 20% off @ www.sipcocoglow.comConnect with Nicole:LinkedIn, sipcocoglo.comCocoGlo Insta:@cocoglowherbal Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

What if the emotional baggage from your childhood could influence your financial decisions as an adult? Join us this week as we uncover this connection with Dave Won, certified money coach and founder of Budget Captain. By sharing his personal story, Dave reveals how growing up in a financially troubled household shaped his approach to money management and led to a profound moment of reckoning: a panic attack triggered by buying his first home. We explore how our upbringing can shape our financial behaviors, often manifesting as irrational fears and anxiety around money. Dave's story teaches you how recognizing these emotional roots can help you face financial challenges and improve your overall well-being.Our conversation goes beyond personal anecdotes to examine the broader theme of financial wellness, where true freedom is defined by emotional health rather than just monetary wealth. We delve into the complexities of money as a flowing energy and discuss how generational narratives can inadvertently dictate our financial choices. Dave's journey offers valuable lessons on overcoming ingrained fears and embracing new opportunities, whether it's the fear of spending savings or the struggle of facing significant financial decisions. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that aims to inspire you to confront your financial fears and rewrite the narrative of your financial journey.Guest Bio:Dave Won is a TED Speaker, Certified Money Coach (CMC)®, and the Founder & CEO of Budget Captain®, a holistic financial wellness company. Dave has been recognized as a global Top 30 subject matter expert by The Outlier Project.From conferences and summits to the corporate workplace, Dave has been empowering people to achieve emotional freedom first so they can experience true financial freedom. His approach is unique in that he believes the root cause of financial stress is emotional and behavioral, which cannot be solved with practical solutions.He is a former Air Force Captain with a decorated military career that includes work supporting the Air Force One along with an overseas tour. He is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and earned his MBA from Indiana University. He has been featured by TEDx, ABC, EBN, Military Media and the Air ForceConnect with Dave:https://www.linkedin.com/in/davewon?trk=public_post_feed-actor-name Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

How does one navigate the tension between comfort and growth? On this episode of Step Into the Pivot, we welcome Kate Beck, a dynamic force in the healthcare industry and founder of PDX Insurance, who shares a compelling narrative about personal responsibility, intuition, and transformation. Our dialogue with Kate uncovers heartfelt stories, like the poignant choice she faced in 2010 about her father's health, and her childhood lessons in authenticity and courage. Through her metaphor of the "itchy scratchy sweater," Kate challenges us to confront discomfort and embrace open conversations to enrich our personal and professional lives.Explore with us the enlightening journey of letting go, as Kate's anecdotes such as the "poached egg situation" reveal the pitfalls of ignoring our inner voice and the joy of embracing our intuition. By setting healthy boundaries and decluttering both mentally and emotionally, Kate guides us on how to craft a life of peace and growth. This episode is not just a conversation but an invitation to transform how we perceive change, recognize pivotal moments, and engage with a life full of potential. Don't miss this inspiring discussion that leaves you ready to shed your own "itchy sweater" and step into a more fulfilling existence.Guest Bio:Kate Beck, founder of PDX Insurance & Associates, Inc. creates health insurance and planning strategies for businesses, families, & individuals for their ever-changing lives and situations. She has been a licensed agent specializing in health insurance since 2009 and has taught Medicare 101 throughout the community for 11 years. In 2016 she launched her own company, PDX Insurance & Associates, Inc. As a member of the health insurance industry, Kate also works as a motivational and transformative influencer, cultivating confidence for mindset, skillset, & action set.Connect with Kate: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-beck-pdx Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

In part 2 of our conversation with Mickie Murphy, a resilient leader with an inspiring story, we learn about how a life-altering car accident became a catalyst for her personal growth and transformation. Born into a life of constant change, with a military father and a journey filled with relocations, Mickie views change as an opportunity for reinvention. Her courageous decision to embrace the inevitable, letting go of her leg after countless surgeries, reminds us that even in the darkest times, healing and transformation are possible.Her accident and subsequent experiences have unveiled a new purpose—speaking publicly to inspire others facing their own battles. Mickie encourages us to embrace our pivotal moments with intention and love, believing in our inherent ability to overcome adversity. Tune in as we explore the profound lessons of embracing change, sharing stories of transformation, and stepping confidently into the future.Guest Bio:Mickie Murphy, CPC, QPA, QKC, ERPAMickie leads the Blue Benefits Consulting practice firm-wide. Over 30 years in the retirement plan administration, has given her experience in serving client retirement plan needs in banking, record keeping and Third Party Administration practices.  She specializes in retirement plan consulting, plan design and corrections, and has responsibility for new business development.Mickie is an Enrolled Retirement Plan Agent (ERPA) with the IRS, and a current credentialed member of the American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries (ASPPA) with designations of Qualified Pension Administrator (QPA) and Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA). Mickie is also a current member of the Indiana Benefits Conference and has previously served multiple terms as Vice President of the Illinois Chapter of The ESOP Association as well as served on the Employee Benefits Committee of the US Chamber of Commerce. She has spoken and presented through various media on retirement plan subject matter before professional and business groups.Connect with Mickie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickiemurphy/ Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Prepare to be inspired as Mickie explores a life-changing car accident that tested her resilience and highlighted the power of support systems. After enduring a leg amputation, Mickie chose humor and positivity over despair, teaching us the importance of a lighthearted perspective in tough times. Her anecdotes, from naming her "residual leg" to sharing emotional moments with her family, underscore the strength found in optimism. Mickie's journey is a testament to embracing life's challenges with grace and a smile, reminding us all that positivity can transform even the most daunting situations.Mickie's tale is one of courage and determination. From living in 18 different places and mentoring countless couples on marriage and faith to shattering glass ceilings as the president of Blue Benefits Consulting and a CPA firm, Mickie was initially overlooked for leadership roles but her initiative and substantial contributions proved her worth, making her a trailblazer in her industry. Guest Bio:Mickie Murphy, CPC, QPA, QKC, ERPAMickie leads the Blue Benefits Consulting practice firm-wide. Over 30 years in the retirement plan administration, has given her experience in serving client retirement plan needs in banking, record keeping and Third Party Administration practices.  She specializes in retirement plan consulting, plan design and corrections, and has responsibility for new business development.Mickie is an Enrolled Retirement Plan Agent (ERPA) with the IRS, and a current credentialed member of the American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries (ASPPA) with designations of Qualified Pension Administrator (QPA) and Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA). Mickie is also a current member of the Indiana Benefits Conference and has previously served multiple terms as Vice President of the Illinois Chapter of The ESOP Association as well as served on the Employee Benefits Committee of the US Chamber of Commerce. She has spoken and presented through various media on retirement plan subject matter before professional and business groups.Connect with Mickie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickiemurphy/ Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

What happens when life throws you a curveball? In today's episode of "Step Into the Pivot," we are joined by the inspiring Dr. Elizabeth Grill, a health psychologist and medical researcher who shares her journey through the tumultuous waters of divorce and family court battles. Dr. Grill opens up about the survival mode mindset that took over during these challenging times, and the crucial role a strong support system played in her resilience.Imagine suddenly finding yourself as a full-time parent without financial stability or childcare support. A life-altering court decision propelled Elizabeth into immediate problem-solving mode, eventually resulting in personal growth and the birth of new business ideas. It's a story of resilience and innovation, where channeling energy into positive pursuits not only restored confidence but also inspired others along the way. “By listening to empowering narratives during my daily commutes, I found purpose and motivation amid adversity, reinforcing the belief that every challenge can be an opportunity in disguise.”Guest Bio:Dr. Elizabeth Grill is the Director of psychological services at the Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and is Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology in the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, and Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine. She is also an Assistant Attending Psychologist at New York-Presbyterian Hospital.Dr. Grill is established as a nationally recognized expert and innovator in reproductive and sexual mental health.  She is the current Chair of RESOLVE, the National Infertility Patient Organization, the Past Chair of the Mental Health Professional Group of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Past President of the Society for Sex Therapy and Research. Dr. Grill is experienced as a health psychologist and medical researcher with a special focus on the emotional aspects of infertility, IVF treatment, third party reproduction, oncofertility, fertility preservation, sexual dysfunction, and stress and infertility.  She is also the co-owner of FertiCalm and FertiStrong, the first digital apps developed to reduce distress for those experiencing infertility, using research proven modalities. Dr. Grill is an editorial reviewer for the top peer reviewed journals in the field, the author of numerous articles and book chapters, has lectured worldwide to patient and medical audiences and has participated in media interviews related to the emotional aspects of reproductive medicine. Connect with Elizabeth:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlizgrill/ Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Ami Hindia, faced a breast cancer diagnosis at 42, shortly after her third daughter's birth. Join us on this heartwarming episode of Step Into the Pivot where Ami bravely recounts her journey through solitary medical tests during the pandemic, the relief of a successful lumpectomy, and the vital importance of early detection. Her story is a powerful call to prioritize health, regardless of family history, especially highlighted during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.Ami's journey led to a profound realignment of her life priorities, emphasizing the importance of being present in the fleeting moments of life. Throughout our discussion, she shares how her experience reshaped her focus from professional demands to cherishing time with her children and practicing self-care. The unexpected outpouring of support from her community also highlights the invaluable role of relationships during challenging times. Ami’s reflections underscore the significance of maintaining social connections and self-care as essential pillars of well-being and role modeling for her kids.Authenticity in professional settings takes center stage as Ami discusses her decision to be open about her cancer journey on social media and at work. She shares the cultural challenges she faced within her Indian family and the rewards of fostering deeper connections through transparency. Our conversation underscores the power of empathy in leadership, encouraging us to understand colleagues beyond their professional roles. As we explore the life-saving potential of early cancer detection, we invite you to continue the dialogue on empathy and health consciousness beyond October. Tune in and be inspired by the transformative power of Ami's story.Guest Bio:Ami Hindia is the Central & Southeast Divisional Manager for Core Market Sales within Fidelity’s Workplace Investing. She has been working with advisors and plan sponsors in the retirement plan space for over 20 years. As a leader, she supports her team whose focus is building advisor & TPA relationships and winning new 401(k) plans for Fidelity in the Core Market space. Prior to being in this role, she was on the institutional asset management side of Fidelity as a Defined Contribution Investment Only (DCIO) wholesaler for 11 years. She was responsible for wholesaling Fidelity Advisor Funds, Fidelity VIP Portfolios, and Fidelity sub advised portfolios on the insurance, bank, broker-dealer, and TPA recordkeeping platforms across the North Central part of the country. Prior to joining Fidelity in 2010, Ms. Hindia served as a vice president and regional sales director for the investment-only division at Columbia Management, where she supported both insurance and qualified plan distribution efforts as the firm’s North Central retirement specialist. Previously, she was a key accounts manager for institutional clients at UBS Global Asset Management, and a sub advisory wholesaler at JP Morgan Asset Management. She started her career at Deutsche Asset Management Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

We are honored to welcome back Nadine Youssef! Receiving a cancer diagnosis can feel like the ground has shifted beneath you. We explore how balancing worry with proactive steps and maintaining a hopeful attitude can make a world of difference. The emotional rollercoaster of waiting for test results is another topic we tackle, offering insights on how to navigate these periods with a rational mindset and support.Nadine's personal journey through breast cancer is a testament to her resilience and spirit. She opens up about facing societal and emotional challenges, particularly the intersection of physical disfigurement and self-worth. Her story highlights the essential role of support systems and the courage it takes to confront such a daunting path. We celebrate her infectious positivity and the community support that has fueled her strength, providing a beacon of hope for others in similar situations. Join us for an episode brimming with inspiration and invaluable insights.Guest Bio:Nadine YouseffAssistant Chief Counsel at The Walt Disney CompanyStrategic legal partner supporting multiple client groups in global commercialization business including licensing, consumer products, digital/interactive experiences, retail, marketing, rights clearances, supply chain, social responsibility, and business processes/operations. Demonstrated leadership skills managing a team of cross-functional attorneys and paralegals to drive optimal legal and business results. Spearheaded the development and implementation of multiple DE&I initiatives.Connect with Nadine:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadineyoussef/ Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time of reflection and advocacy, and we're thrilled to welcome back Andrea Nitta to "Step Into the Pivot." Celebrating Andrea's two years post-diagnosis, we emphasize the ongoing journey of self-care and management. Andrea's advocacy work, including her involvement in events like the More Than Pink Walk and her potential pursuit of a board position, showcases the impact one person can have on a community. Her journey from a personal battle to a platform for support will leave you motivated to take action in your own life.Andrea shares how this life change opened doors for her to further her advocacy efforts, all while balancing personal and family commitments. The conversation reiterates the importance of collective advocacy and mutual support, encouraging listeners to embrace life’s pivots with confidence. We thank Andrea for her incredible contributions and stories, reminding everyone that sharing your experiences can provide strength and inspiration to others.Guest Bio:Andrea was introduced to retirement plans through growth and acquisition at her first job out of college at US Bank. She holds a Finance degree from Minnesota State University - Moorhead. Andrea’s industry knowledge prospered with 17 years in varying roles focused on service at The Standard. Moving from a recordkeeper to a broker/dealer with two years at Cetera Financial Group only broadened her expertise. Joining Fiduciary Decisions (FDI) in November 2020 as Vice President of National Accounts has allowed her to focus close to 25 years of industry experience on FDI’s valuable broker/dealer and RIA clients.Andrea is very active with WIPN — WE | Inspire | Promote | Network — a non-profit organization focused on advancing equity and opportunity for women in the retirement industry. She currently serves as the Regional Leader for the Pacific Northwest region and had previously co-founded and co-chaired the Oregon chapter. She is also active with the Youth Charity League (YCL) and currently serves on the YCL Board as Secretary. YCL has provided her and her family with the opportunity to serve various non-profit organizations. She enjoys time with friends and family, golfing, reading, and traveling. Andrea is a proud parent to three awesome kids – two in college and one in high school. Andrea lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband, kids on the go, and their dog Rocky.   Connect with Andrea:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-nitta/ Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

What if the key to saving your life lies in the power of early detection and the stories of those who've walked this path before you? Join us as we embark on a poignant journey through the evolution of breast cancer awareness with Host Theresa, who brings both statistical insights and personal reflections on her own experience of breast cancer. Theresa chronicles the remarkable progress in treatment and the critical role of early detection. You'll uncover the striking rise in breast cancer cases from one in 14 women in the mid-20th century to one in eight today, underscoring an urgent need for awareness and genetic testing.Feel the transformative power of community and support as we highlight the significance of mammograms and self-exams. Discover why starting screenings at age 40—or earlier for those with a family history—can be a life-saving decision. We'll tackle common fears and misconceptions about mammograms, sharing real-life stories of how early detection has changed lives. We celebrate the strength of sharing personal journeys and the profound impact of connecting with others who have faced similar battles. Breaking down stigma, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to the progress made and a rallying cry for continuous effort in the fight against breast cancer. Join us for an inspiring and educational conversation that champions detection, support, and gratitude at every step of this journey. Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

Join us as Michael Muirhead opens up about the profound impact of his son's recent move to Japan, exploring themes of flexibility, personal growth, and the intricate dance of supporting a loved one's dreams. Michael's candid reflections provide a touching and insightful look into the emotional and philosophical challenges of this significant life pivot.Listeners will be moved by Michael's stories of generational opportunities and family continuity, drawing from his family's immigrant background to highlight the importance of openness and gratitude. As he prepares to visit his son abroad, Michael shares his wisdom on embracing inevitable change and the transformative power of surrendering to new beginnings. This heartfelt episode is a testament to the unforeseen connections in parenthood and the ongoing journey through life's stages, offering valuable insights to anyone grappling with change and growth.Guest Bio:Michael Muirhead, Jr. is senior director, Broadridge Fi360. In this role, he’s responsible for leading the product management and delivery of fiduciary training, designation, and certification solutions.Michael approaches learning and development from the perspective of an industry professional who has successfully worked with plan sponsors, financial advisors, consultants and plan providers for more than 30 years. Before joining Broadridge Fi360, Michael was a financial advisor and large market institutional sales manager for Merrill Lynch, where he gained a wealth of experience in consulting, sales, marketing and relationship management.In addition to his industry experience, Michael has a Bachelor of Science in business administration with a concentration in Finance from the Wayne State University. He also attained the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) credential in April 2011 and his Professional Plan Consultant® (PPC®) designation in September 2015.Connect with Michael:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-muirhead-jr-652a0581/  Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot

This episode covers sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Please prioritize your well-being while listening.What happens when personal tragedy collides with professional life? Join us as we sit down with Scott Kelley, a leading figure in the retirement plan industry, who opens up about the heart-wrenching moment he learned of his brother's suicide during an intense work schedule. Scott's story is a powerful exploration of how unexpected loss can deeply impact both personal and professional spheres. He shares not only his immediate reaction and the crucial role his wife played in those first harrowing moments but also the enduring effects of this tragedy on his day-to-day life.In part two, Scott takes us through the emotional labyrinth of suppressing grief while striving to maintain a strong facade at work. The combination of job loss and the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to confront long-ignored emotions. He offers a candid look at his journey through therapy, emphasizing its pivotal role in his ongoing healing process. By sharing his metaphorical unpacking of emotions likened to boxes in his office, Scott provides an honest and relatable reflection on the challenges of personal growth. This episode is a profound reminder of the necessity of empathy and support in the workplace, making it essential listening for anyone dealing with similar struggles.Guest Bio:Scott joined Federated Hermes in 2022 as a Vice President/Senior RetirementConsultant with 20 years experience working in the financial industry. Prior to hiscurrent role with Federated, he was at Bank of America Merrill Lynch as a VicePresident, Employee Benefits Specialist. He helped advisors in his assignedterritory drive retirement plan business and worked closely with their bankingpartners to integrate retirement plans into the business model. Prior to that hewas Vice President, Senior Retirement Consultant at OppenheimerFunds, Inc.where he managed the DCIO territory on the West Coast.Scott attended Oregon State University and has a Bachelor of Science in BusinessAdministration.Scott dedicates his time and energy to provide retirement plan advisors withstrategies that will help them save time, and grow their practice.Connect with Scott:https://www.linkedin.com/in/srkelley/ Connect with Theresa and Ivana:Theresa, True Strategy Consultants: tsc-consultants.com LinkedIn @treeconti, Insta @tscconsultants Ivana, Courageous Being: courageousbeing.com LinkedIn @ivipol, Insta @courbeingSITP team, Step Into The Pivot: stepintothepivot.com LinkedIn @step-into-the-pivot, YouTube @StepIntoThePivot