PODCAST · society
What We Made Possible
by Patricia Dayleg
What We Made Possible is a podcast about the ripple effects of healing and how they shape leadership, social change, and the way we move through the world. Hosted by Patti Dayleg, a Leadership Coach for Social Change, this podcast explores what becomes possible when we center well-being, cultivate meaningful relationships, and lead with purpose.Through solo reflections and conversations with inspiring guests, we uncover the turning points that spark transformation. Some moments are quiet shifts in perspective, while others are bold decisions that redefine what’s possible. These conversations highlight the ways healing strengthens leadership, deepens collaboration, and creates a more sustainable path for individuals and organizations alike.Whether you’re navigating leadership in a nonprofit, building coalitions, or charting your own growth, this podcast offers stories, insights, and practical tools to help you move forward with clar
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030. The Unspoken Layers of Family Business Transitions and Leadership
In this episode, I explore what it truly means to step into succession within a family business—especially when those transitions aren’t just about operational handovers, but are deeply woven with questions of dignity, legacy, and belonging.Growing up watching my mom run a baby store in Staten Island while my dad commuted across boroughs to Brooklyn, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices that built my family’s stability. For so many in our communities, these family businesses aren’t just assets. They’re proof that all the struggles, the predawn mornings, and missed school buses were worth it. And when it comes time to pass the baton, we’re not just navigating logistics—we’re wrestling with identity, generational hopes, and the weight of what came before us.Throughout this episode, I share personal stories (including how I learned to tie my shoes on the steps of my mom’s store!) and reflect on the questions and pride that shape these transitions. I also talk about systems coaching as a way to hold space for these conversations, and invite listeners considering succession—or those supporting someone in that seat—to reach out.You are not alone in these complex feelings. There’s real hope in finding clarity together, honoring the past while allowing something new to emerge. If you’re at a crossroads with your family’s legacy, wondering what’s possible next, I invite you to listen, connect, and explore these questions with me. Let’s discover what we can make possible for ourselves and our communities.Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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029. Building Stronger Teams with Systems Coaching
In this episode, I share about what it means to lead, heal, and make change at the family, team, and organizational level. I invite you to step into the sometimes messy, always powerful world of systems coaching with me.Lately, I've been deepening my practice by exploring the relational dynamics that shape how we move together. Whether it's a family navigating a layoff, a team supporting immigrant communities in New York City, or an organization redefining its purpose several years into a crisis, I see over and over how our greatest clarity comes when we reflect as a collective. The questions we hold—how do we make decisions together, how do we stay connected to our purpose, how do we support each other in the thick of change—are rarely just personal. They're woven through our relationships.I share stories from the field—including my own family’s journey through sudden career shifts and possibility with succession—and the truth that our leadership and healing are strongest when we invite others into the conversation. Together, we can navigate complexity, move through uncertainty, and practice new ways of being that honor both our values and our need to belong.If you've been questioning your next steps, feeling the stress of transition, or simply craving a more connected way of working and living—this episode is for you. Let's rediscover clarity together, and imagine what becomes possible when we heal and reimagine in community.Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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028. What We Made Possible x Self Care Oasis: What Would Happen if You Stopped Putting Everyone Before Yourself?
In today's episode, I invite you into a raw and nourishing conversation about burnout—what it really looks like, how it creeps up on us, and most importantly, the hope and clarity that can emerge on the other side.This time I am the guest and I sit down with Samantha to share my own story on her show Self Care Oasis: the moment when, after months of pouring myself into mission-driven work during the pandemic, I hit a wall. I talk openly about caring for my partner through COVID, the added weight of anti-Asian violence, and the heartbreak of feeling unseen even on a DEI team. When burnout overflowed, seeking support wasn’t easy. I hit barrier after barrier within our healthcare system, but eventually, with the right people and a dash of luck, I found space to recenter and heal.Together, Samantha and I get real about how systems often work against us, especially as women of color, and why tending to ourselves is essential. We dig into the concept of “emotional first aid” and somatic practices, and how it’s possible to reset and slowly rebuild, even in the face of overwhelming crises.If you’re feeling worn down, I want you to know: you’re not alone, you don’t have to do all the things, and there is a way back to clarity that starts with simple, nourishing steps. Take a listen and let’s explore, together, how you can tend to yourself while still being deeply rooted in community.About Samantha Gregory:Samantha Gregory is a wellness consultant, femtech founder, and sovereignty strategist who helps Black and POC women stop abandoning themselves and start living from self-devotion. After being diagnosed with premature menopause at 33 following years of burnout, toxic relationships, and unhealed trauma, she spent two decades learning, healing, and building a life of intentional bliss. She is the founder of the School of Self Devotion, host of the Self Care Oasis Podcast, and creator of the Self-Devotion Ph.D in Me Degree programs. Her work lives at the intersection of nervous system regulation, identity architecture, and radical self-devotion. Where to Find Samantha Gregory:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/samanthagregoryTiktok: https://tiktok.com/@mssamanthagregoryYouTube: https://youtube.com/@samanthagregoryBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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027. What If Nonprofit Fundraising Was Easy? How to Let Money Fall From the Sky with Misty Marquam
On today’s episode, I sit down with Misty Marquam, powerhouse fundraiser, auctioneer, and founder of Marquam Agency—the nation’s only fundraising auction agency led by and for minorities. As we unpack her remarkable journey, we talk about what happens when possibility shifts: Misty never imagined auctioneering (or fundraising) was even an option, let alone something she could build as a woman of color and a single mom.We dive into the barriers that nonprofits face when fundraising—the reluctance to ask for money, the urge for humility, and the stigma around not being self-sufficient. Misty shares how she’s healing her own “money wound,” reframing scarcity into abundance, and aligning values between organizations and their donors to make the fundraising ask feel not just possible, but joyful.We also laugh about wild moments from live events (elementary school auctions = parents unleashed!), and talk honestly about the historical baggage tied to auctioneering itself. Misty’s work is about reclamation—turning a once-exclusive practice into a tool for collective thriving and representation.So, if your organization or community is experiencing funding cuts and feeling stuck in scarcity, this conversation is your invitation to clarity. Misty’s approach shows us that fundraising can be easy and fun—when it’s rooted in values, authenticity, and alignment.I invite you to listen and reflect: What resonates for you? Where could possibility—maybe even abundance—show up in your work when you’re clear on your goals and invite others in?About Misty Marquam:Misty Marquam, founder + Principal Auctioneer at Marquam Agency, is a powerhouse of energy and enthusiasm. Specializing in fundraising events, data-driven revenue strategy and equity, Misty works tirelessly as organizations’ mission ambassador. She has but one goal for her partners: bring the fun while showing them the money! As a woman of color, Misty proudly advances diversity within the auction industry where less than 16% of auctioneers are women and fewer than 5% are people of color or minorities. Marquam Agency is the first and only fundraising auction agency in the NATION comprised of minorities with emphasis on serving the underrepresented. Innovating FUNdraising since 2006, this native Oregonian, foodie and mother of two is a World Wide College of Auctioneering grad, a Benefit Auction Specialist (only 1% of auctioneers worldwide hold this designation) and a member of the National Auction Association. When not exceeding goals, Misty adores music, dancing, singing, bonfires, nature and general merrymaking. We believe you'll not have a better time supporting your favorite cause with anyone else!Where to find Misty:Website: http://www.MarquamAgency.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marquamagency/Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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026. Local Action and Embodied Healing for Change with Malia Wright
In this episode, I sit down with Malia Wright, an incredible trauma-informed embodiment expert, to talk about riding the waves of uncertainty, transition, and collective change. These days, it can feel like everything is chaotic: there’s burnout, heaviness, and a pressure to do all the things for our communities and the world. But what if that slow, steady ember inside us is actually enough?We get honest about the overwhelm that comes when you’re trying to make a difference and witness so much harm around you. Malia beautifully reframes the idea of capacity as something deeply personal, cyclical, and nuanced. She shares her wisdom on asking for help, tuning into our bodies, and recognizing that sometimes the most powerful action is just checking in on a neighbor or baking brownies for someone who needs connection.We also talk about how clarity in times of chaos often starts with getting “hyper-local”—connecting to those directly around us and remembering our shared humanity. This episode is an invitation to let go of perfection and comparison and to trust the gradual fire within. Whether you’re the “quick burn” activist or the “200-year torchbearer,” your way of showing up matters in the tapestry of collective liberation.I hope our conversation leaves you feeling a little more grounded, a bit clearer, and reminded that it’s okay not to do it all. Sometimes, sustaining yourself and your ember is the most radical act.About Our Guest:Malia Wright is Trauma Informed People & Culture Embodiment Expert, specializing in Embodied Movement, Collective Trauma Healing, Somatic Human Design, and Ayurveda. Through consulting, coaching, and workshops, I combine curiosity and mindfulness to support personal and collective healing. Named by colleagues, “The Queen of Nuance,” She helps organizations and individuals create inclusive, adaptive environments that foster authentic connection, resilience, and well-being.Resources to check out: PHENOMENA, an eco-somatic retreat in Pahoa Hawai'i, March 4-10, 2026 for changemakers, creatives and visionaries at the edge of transition.https://www.ebbwithus.com/phenomena-retreatWhere to find Malia:Website: http://www.maliawright.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maliawrightmerer/Instagram: @maliaewrightConnecting with Patti: Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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025. Healing Tides x Kutturan CHamoru Foundation: Lessons from Three Decades of Chamorro Community Building with Heidi Quenga
In today’s episode, I get to sit down with Heidi Quenga, a cultural leader, advocate, and the driving force behind Kutturan CHamoru Foundation (KCF), the oldest Chamorro dance house outside the Mariana Islands. We talk about what it means to sustain a grassroots, tuition-free community for 33 years and counting, and how that journey is so much more than just keeping the doors open.Heidi shares her story of growing up away from her ancestral home and how that longing for belonging led her to become a bridge for generations hungry for culture and connection. We laugh about bringing great-grandmothers and great-grandkids together in class, and get real about what keeps us showing up even in times of contraction, when resources are tight and energy is low.We also dive into another side of leadership: ancestor guidance and why every gathering, whether it’s preparing for a dance festival, organizing a fundraiser, or just making fried rice, is an offering.This conversation is an invitation to remember that healing, culture, and clarity don’t happen in isolation. They bloom when we welcome each other fully, grow through generations, and honor the wisdom that lives in our roots and rituals. I hope KCF's journey brings you hope and clarity, whether you’re starting, leading, or just longing to belong. Pause and ask: What’s possible for me, right now?About Our Guest:Heidi Chargualaf-Quenga is a highly respected cultural leader and advocate dedicated to preserving Chamorro and Pacific Islander heritage. She has serves as the tenured Executive Director of the Kutturan CHamoru Foundation (KCF), a tuition-free 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Long Beach, California, since 1993, advancing Chamorro culture through music, dance, language, and peer mentoring rooted in the Mariånå Islands. She is the first Pacific Islander to receive a California Arts Council Artist-In-Residence and holds the title of Fafa’någue (Certified CHamoru Cultural Instructor). Heidi also serves as Vice President of the Pacific Islander Health Partnership and Steering Committee Member for the SoCal Pacific Islander Community Response Team. Kutturan CHamoru Foundation is the oldest Guma' (CHamoru Dance house) outside the Mariana Islands and the oldest in the Continental US.Where to find KCF, Kutturan CHamoru Foundation:Website: https://kutturanchamoru.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kutturanchamorufoundation/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/KutturanChamoruFoundation/Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter :https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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024. Healing Tides x SoCal PICRT: The Power of Mentorship and Collective Healing in Social Change Work
On today’s episode, I sit down with Isa Sasi of SoCal PICRT for a heartfelt conversation about healing, leadership, and what it really looks like to build community from the inside out. Together, we dig into the journey of stepping from volunteer work into paid activism, and all the growth and vulnerability that comes with finally getting to serve your people and make a living doing it.Isa shares her own full-circle story, from being a young college volunteer mentored by her executive director, to now taking space in advocacy and policy conversations that once felt intimidating. We reflect on what’s possible when someone sees your potential before you do, and how mentorship across generations both pushes and protects us. We get honest about burnout, the pressure to multitask, and how hard it is to balance caregiving at home with showing up for community.Healing, for us, isn’t the marker of fixing what’s broken. It’s the ongoing shift in how we relate, rest, and grow together. I ask Isa about those moments of interpersonal healing and the ways SoCal PICRT centers wellness, from weekly one-on-one check-ins to a brand new committee focused on self-care and collective joy. About Our Guest:The Southern California Pacific Islander Response Team (SoCal PICRT) is a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting Pacific Islander communities across Southern California. SoCal PICRT focuses on culturally responsive outreach, health access, advocacy, and community engagement to ensure that NHPI voices are heard and needs are met. Their coalition is spread throughout Southern California covering Central Valley all the way down to San Diego. Through collaboration, education, and direct support, we strengthen community resilience and foster a space where Pacific Islander identities and experiences are celebrated.Isa Sasi is an Advocacy Coordinator with SoCal PICRT. Resources mentioned in this episode:Sign up for Fresh Wave 5k: https://www.socalpicrt.org/events-1/fresh-wave-5k-fundraiser-1Where to find SoCal PICRT:Website: https://www.socalpicrt.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socalpicrt/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLL35ln1B0jjn-08D9BijlAWebsite: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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023. Healing Tides x FOU Movement: How Redemption, Faith, and Brotherhood Empower Pacific Islander Transformation
On this episode, I step into an incredibly moving conversation with the remarkable men of the FOU Movement, a brotherhood that is living proof that change is possible, no matter how long your journey has been or where it began.We talk story about the power of transformation, from lives shaped by gangs, violence, and incarceration, to new paths of faith, purpose, sobriety, and service. Valentino, Vika, Nelson, and Salilo get real about how they turned their pain and past harm into daily hope for themselves and their communities. They share what it means to lean on each other, honor their Pacific Islander roots, and create spaces where healing and leadership ripple out, changing families, neighborhoods, and sometimes even generations.Together, we dig into what actually makes sustained change possible. How do you heal from old wounds? What does reclaiming your life—even after nearly thirty years behind bars—actually look like in practice and spirit? And what keeps this work going, especially when doubt, struggle, or the weight of the past comes knocking?From “hopeless dope fiends to dopeless hope fiends” and, in Valentino’s words, now “hope dealers,” these men show us that the clarity we seek isn’t about erasing the past, but letting it shape us into someone new.If you’ve ever wondered if real change is possible, tune in and take heart. And if you’re looking for a daily word of hope, reach out—there just might be a devotional for you, too. About Our Guests:The Fa'atasica O Usos (FOU) Movement stands as living proof that change is possible. We’re a brotherhood of men transformed from lives of gangs, violence, and incarceration to lives of faith, purpose, and unity. Our mission is to bring hope to those still in darkness and show that true freedom begins with Christ. Through their recidivism program, The FOU Movement advocates with faith to help reintegrate each former prisoner into the community. Their youth outreach program provides services for vulnerable children and youth that addresses their well-being, security, care, and educational needs. And their recovery program provides men and women with a safe, clean sober living environment that allows residents the opportunity to develop life skills along with the resources and tools they'll need on their new journey toward sobriety.Where to find F.O.U. Movement:Website: https://www.foumovement.orgFB Group: https://www.facebook.com/faatasigao.usos?mibextid=LQQJ4dYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefoumovement7133Instagram: https://instagram.com/foumovement?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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022. Healing Tides x MAFANA: Lessons From Tongan Mothers and Ancestral Roots
On today’s episode, we get to the heart of healing, resilience, and the radical warmth needed to build community that lasts. I sit down with Phyllis Ngauamo and ‘Ainise Isama’u, the powerhouse duo behind MĀFANA—a space where Tongan culture, ancestral wisdom, and advocacy come together to create real-world impact across generations.We talk about what it’s like to find yourself doing work your younger self never imagined: preserving traditions, teaching language classes, hosting rituals, and turning deep losses into renewed purpose. Phyllis and ‘Ainise open up about their journeys as daughters of pastors, navigating the strong tides of grief, and the extraordinary blueprints their mothers handed down. These models that remind us care and hospitality are both cultural values and powerful leadership tools.We explore what it means to stay rooted to community when healing feels messy and nonlinear. MĀFANA, which literally means “warmth,” is a living, evolving invitation: how can we remember and reclaim what’s been handed down, even as we grieve, adapt, and dream new dreams into existence?If you’ve ever felt alone in your own transitions, or wondered how healing might move through you and outward into your people, this conversation is for you. I invite you to listen for what resonates, and consider: who are you carrying with you as you lead? What might it look like to give yourself radical grace as you move forward?Tune in to hear how turning pain into purpose, and remembrance into action, can light the path not just for ourselves, but for whole communities. About Our Guests:Ainise K. Isamau is the Executive Director of MĀFANA, where strategy meets soul. She leads with vision, builds bridges across communities, and champions the voices of Pacific Islanders from the local to national stage. With a heart for advocacy and a knack for turning big dreams into real-world impact, Ainise blends faith, leadership, and aloha spirit to keep MĀFANA moving forward — one inspired conversation at a time.Phyllis Ngauamo is a single mother, a caregiver, program director of MĀFANA, where strategy meets soul. Where to find MĀFANA:Website: https://www.mafana.org/Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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021. Healing-Centered Leadership: A Pathway to Meaningful Change with Noilyn Mendoza
On today’s episode, I’m sitting down with my longtime friend, Noilyn Mendoza.We dive into what it really looks like to listen to your spirit when the work you’ve poured yourself into starts to become unsustainable. What's it like when burnout, duty, and big moments (like the 2016 election) force you to ask: are you living in alignment, or just going through the motions? Noylin shares so openly about her own decade-long journey of unlearning, the ways motherhood cracked her heart wide open, and what it means to root possibility in ancestral resilience, even when headlines make hope feel scarce.There’s wisdom here about the hard moments: feeling lost, the heaviness of grief, and reckoning with identity and purpose when the systems around us falter. But there’s also lightness: laughter, reconnecting with community and culture, and discovering that sometimes healing is as simple (and revolutionary) as stepping outside, touching the earth, letting yourself rest, and being witnessed by people who care.Noylin reminds us that transformation doesn’t always look like striving; sometimes it’s about slowing down, honoring our dignity, and remembering that building a better future means tending to ourselves and each other, right here and now.About Noilyn Mendoza:Noilyn Mendoza is a certified life and leadership coach, a savvy business and organizational strategist, and a Professional Pranic Healer. But her real title? She calls herself a "Soul Purpose Coach." Noilyn specializes in supporting changemakers who've lost their way and want to reignite their dreams. She's your bold dream navigator and champion, helping you shift from fear to action so you can start living the life you're truly meant to live. Her journey has taken her through 18 years in the public sector, advocating for immigrant healthcare access in NYC. Noilyn knows firsthand how easy it is to put others' needs first and forget about your own dreams. She now guides individuals at a pivotal moment in their lives to imagine again and rediscover their purpose. She's also the host of "Unlock Your Inner Creator," where she dives into enlightening conversations with brave pathfinders who dare to explore fresh ways of living, being, and doing. When she's not empowering people to step into their greatness, Noilyn engages in epic dance-offs with her kids, tends to her burgeoning green thumb, and continues her quest to fill her passport with stamps. She and her family live in sunny Southern California.Where to find Noilyn:Website: https://www.theradiantu.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theradiantu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theradiantuYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UnlockYourInnerCreatorLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noilynWebsite: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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020. Reimagining Leadership with Michael’s Journey from The Good Place
On today’s episode [spoiler alert], I imagine what it would be like if Michael the Architect from “The Good Place” walked into a coaching session—clipboards, bow tie, and all. If you’re a fan of the show, you’ll appreciate the twist: Michael starts out as a demon running a torture-based neighborhood but, through a winding journey (and plenty of resets), finds himself wanting to change and lead with care.This arc is hilarious but also deeply human and, honestly, familiar to so many of us. I see it happen with leaders who entered their work ready to make things better, only to get lost in old patterns of control and perfectionism. Maybe you, too, have found yourself swinging between over-managing and apologizing, longing to lead with purpose but feeling stuck and a bit confused.I break down five challenges Michael (and real-life leaders) face: moral awakening and identity crisis, leadership confusion, guilt and over-functioning, control and fear of uncertainty, and longing for meaning. Along the way, I share coaching strategies for navigating these transitions—slowing down, building trust, letting go of what you can’t control, and finding real healing.This episode is an invitation: If you’ve ever felt like you’re living through a cosmic plot twist, wrestling with guilt, or redefining what leadership means for you, you’re not alone. You’re allowed to change and to begin again. Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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019. Resilience and Bayanihan: How Sheila Burmistrova Built Narra Collective and Redefined the Future of Work
On today’s episode of What We Made Possible, I had the privilege of sitting down with Sheila “Shy” Burmistrova, founder and CEO of Narra Collective, the only 100% women and Filipino-owned coworking space in the greater NYC area and Jersey City area. If you’ve ever wondered what it could feel like to belong in a space built around genuine care, community, and Filipino hospitality, this conversation will feel like a warm invitation home.Shy opens up about the deeply personal journey that led her to create Narra, weaving together experiences of motherhood, immigration, and countless rejections (104 to be exact!) before finally launching her business. We dive into what it means to build something out of need—from feeling isolated as a new mom in a new country, to intentionally crafting a space for BIPOC founders and creatives seeking connection and support.I loved hearing about how Shy’s approach centers learning by doing, embracing “spaghetti on the wall” experimentation, and listening deeply for what her community truly needs. Whether you’re a woman of color, a parent, or simply someone navigating big transitions, Shy’s story reminds us that “everything is possible”—especially when we move with courage, build meaningful support, and refuse to let setbacks define our path.This episode is a heartfelt reflection on resilience, clarity, and the incredible transformations that come when we create environments of real belonging. If you’re searching for hope or clarity in your own leadership journey, I invite you to listen in—and remember: sometimes the space we’re searching for is the one we’re called to build ourselves. About Sheila “Shy” Burmistrova:Sheila “Shy” Burmistrova is the Founder and CEO of Narra Collective—the only 100% woman- and Filipino-owned coworking space in the greater NYC area. With a background in early-stage startups, operations, and commercial real estate, Shy brings a rare blend of vision and execution to her work—reimagining what workspaces can feel like when built around people, not just productivity.Centered on community, inclusivity, and Filipino hospitality, Narra exists for creatives, founders, and families often left out of traditional workspaces—and is now home to 80+ members and hundreds of community guests.Resources mentioned:Narra Collective’s 1 year anniversary celebration: https://www.joinnarra.com/event/narra-collective-anniversary-luncheon-and-networkingWhere to find Shy:Narra Collective Website: https://www.joinnarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/narra.collective/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558925484668Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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018. If Facebook's Sarah Wynn Williams Came to Me for Coaching: A Healing Approach
On today’s episode, I’m trying something a little different: I dig into what happens when the places and missions we care about most end up breaking our hearts. Inspired by Sarah Wynn Williams’ memoir Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism, I walk through the personal cost of working inside institutions that say they want to “change the world,” but whose actions betray their people and values.Sarah’s journey as a global policy leader at Facebook/Meta is raw and relatable for anyone who’s ever tried to do good within a complicated, sometimes harmful system. She came in with so much belief and hope for making change, only to find her ideals slowly chipped away. From being overlooked as a woman and mother to confronting the real-world impact of neglected policies, Sarah’s story is painfully familiar to so many of us working in nonprofits, philanthropy, or social change jobs.In this conversation, I imagine how I might coach someone like Sarah through three of the hardest challenges: identity disruption, moral injury, and finding your voice again after institutional betrayal. I explore the question: Who am I now, and how do I reconnect to possibility after disappointment?If you’re wrestling with burnout, guilt, grief, or just feeling stuck in a place that no longer aligns with your values, I hope you’ll hear hope here. We don’t bypass the pain, but we do make room for clarity and self-compassion. You're allowed to change, to rest, and to begin again.Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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017. Burnout and Leadership Transitions: How to Leave Well Without Losing Yourself
Today, I’m inviting you to settle in with me for a heart-to-heart about leaving well. I know so many of us are sitting with big transitions right now, whether we’ve chosen them or not. If you caught the last episode, you know this is a topic close to my heart. And honestly? With everything happening in the world and in our communities, it’s no wonder so many of us are running on fumes.I’m sharing from a really personal place in this one. There’s a new dog in my life (yes, total cutie, total upheaval), and it’s reminded me just how much adjusting to change takes from us—physically, emotionally, even spiritually. It got me thinking about how burnout can sometimes sneak in and push us out the door before we’ve had a chance to leave on our own terms. I see it with my clients all the time, and I’ve absolutely felt it myself.In this episode, I walk through what burnout really looks like: those moments where empathy gets hard, when you feel like nothing you do makes a difference, or when you’re not even sure you recognize yourself. I also guide you through a calming practice that you can try right now, especially if you feel stuck in “battery saver mode.”If you’re feeling stretched thin or grappling with whether—or how—to move on from your organization, I hope this conversation lands softly for you. You deserve a transition that’s guided by care, not just survival. Let’s get curious, together, about what’s possible on the other side of burnout. What support do you need, right now, to move just one gentle step closer to wholeness? I’d love to hear what resonates.Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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016. Leaving Well: Why Leadership Transitions Matter in Mission-Driven Organizations
On this solo episode of What We Made Possible, I dig deep into an often-overlooked but essential topic: what it really means to leave well in an organization.Leaving—whether you’re a founder, executive director, or team lead—doesn’t have to be fraught with chaos, confusion, or burnout. I share one of the rare instances from my own career where a leadership transition actually felt healthy and whole, and unpack why it’s so difficult for most organizations to create that sense of trust, clarity, and continuity. If you’ve ever been in a nonprofit or mission-driven space, you know too well how destabilizing it can feel when transition planning is neglected. But it doesn’t have to be this way.I walk through the ripple effects of “leaving well” (and not-so-well), from the emotional exhaustion of staff to the collective grief and readiness that can actually empower a team when done thoughtfully. Plus, I offer you concrete approaches, from leader coaching to team retreats and integration circles, so you can begin realigning for sustainability, whether you’re preparing to leave or picking up the pieces after a rocky departure.If you’re craving more stability, transparency, and care in your organization’s transitions, this episode is for you. You’re not alone. Healthy goodbyes are possible, and together we can build cultures that sustain us, not just our missions. If you want to dig deeper or need support, my door (and calendar) are always open.Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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015. Anti-Cringe Networking: Authentic Connection Without the Ick with Betty Chan
On today’s episode, I’m inviting you into a candid conversation with my friend and fellow coach, Betty Chan, all about what we like to call “anti-cringe networking.” If the word “networking” makes you want to shrink into your blazer or bolt from the room, this episode is for you.Together, Betty and I unpack why traditional networking feels so icky and transactional, especially for those of us who find ourselves code-switching and navigating multiple identities. We question those outdated business school checklists (you know, the ones about pressed collars and perfect elevator pitches) and talk about what it really looks like to build authentic connections—ones rooted in care, curiosity, and community.I share how my approach to networking is actually about showing up as I am, embracing all the parts of myself, and focusing on relationships rather than cold transactions. You’ll hear about how our upbringings shape the ways we engage with community, and why letting go of performance can reveal powerful possibilities.If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain about what you need from a connection or the next step on your journey, I hope this conversation gives you permission to be transparent, to lead with intention, and to trust that clarity comes from showing up as yourself.Listen to this episode before your next networking event, and then let it feel natural, nourishing, and even joyful. About Betty Chan:Betty Chan is an Authenticity Life Coach, Speaker, and Facilitator supporting individuals and teams to choose who they are becoming. She’s known for turning gentleness into a strength, helping her clients find relationships and success without shrinking who they are.Where to find Betty:Website: https://www.heybettychan.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachbettychan/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@coachbettychanLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettychan/Free 1:1 discovery call to learn about Betty’s coaching: heybettychan.com/coachingWeekly newsletter: https://coachbettychan.kit.com/88e9ff897fWebsite: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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014. Why Your Purpose Doesn’t Have to Be Your Paycheck with Brenda Umana
On today’s episode, I reconnect with my friend and fellow public health grad school alum, Brenda Umana, a true multi-hyphenate: poet, yogi, writer, and communications pro. We dive into her beautifully winding journey from accountant to creative, and the courage it takes to claim all the titles that make you whole.Brenda opens up about what a younger version of herself never thought was possible: saying yes to the many layers of identity instead of confining herself to a single box. We chat about the pressures of being first generation—the familiar narrative of honoring family by pursuing “safe” or “practical” roles, and the gentle rebellion it takes to explore paths that light us up, even when they don’t neatly fit someone else’s expectations. Brenda shares how yoga and intuitive listening unlocked doors she didn’t know existed, helping her weave together a life that holds both stability and creativity.I especially loved Brenda’s reflections on dharma—the idea that our purpose might not always align with our job title or paycheck. And how sometimes, giving yourself the freedom to be more than one thing is exactly what allows you to show up for yourself and your community.If you’re wrestling with the “shoulds” or seeking permission to be your fullest, multi-faceted self, this episode will meet you right where you are. I invite you to pause and ask: What would it look like to honor all your possibilities? What version of you is waiting for a seat at the table? Let’s explore together.About Brenda Umana:Brenda Umana is a multi-hyphenate creative—poet, yogi, writer, and marketing/communications director in the education space. Moving through life with a bi-cultural lens, she embraces many roles, never limited by one title — trusting that with the right intention, each path reveals itself when it’s meant to. Her debut poetry chapbook, Familiar Roots: Tending to Healing Through Poetry, explores generational stories and the journey of self-discovery. Whether guiding meditation, crafting language, or leading teams, Brenda’s work invites others to pause, reflect, and honor themselves. Where to find Brenda:LinkedIn: Brenda Umana, MPH Substack: https://thecontentmentcorner.substack.com/ Book: Familiar RootsResources Mentioned:The Invitation by Oriah Burnout by Emily Nagoski PhD and Amerila Nagoski DMAWebsite: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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013. Building Legacy and Community through Harlem's First Modest Thrift Shop with Kadjahtou Balde
On today’s episode, I sit down with the incredible Kadjahtou Balde, social entrepreneur, community builder, and founder of Modify, Harlem’s first modest fashion thrift store. Kadjahtou shares her moving journey of taking over her father’s longtime shop and transforming it into a vibrant retail space that's also a living, breathing community hub.We talk honestly about the surprises and challenges of working with family, especially in immigrant households where legacy, healing, and “building with what you have” are a way of surviving and thriving. Kadjahtou opens up about learning to honor both her father’s wisdom and her own vision, blending intergenerational knowledge and modern sustainability practices. One of the most beautiful parts of our conversation is exploring how Islam grounds her in patience, compassion, and the drive for community-centered abundance.What struck me most is how Kadjahtou is redefining wealth, not just in dollars, but in resourcefulness, deep relationships, and collective care. She speaks openly about launching Modify shortly after giving birth, fundraising with limited resources, and learning to give herself the grace to move at her own pace.I invite you to listen in and ask yourself: What could become possible if I trusted my own resourcefulness, my people, and the wisdom of those who came before me?About Kadjahtou Balde:Kadjahtou Balde is a social entrepreneur, community builder, and the founder of Modify—a Harlem-based thrift shop reimagining modest fashion through sustainability and accessibility. She is also the Founder and Executive Director of Faithfully Sustainable, which offers faith-rooted, capacity-building programs that inspire Muslims to adopt environmentally conscious practices and build community-centered economic systems.Before launching her own ventures, Kadjahtou served as a Program Manager for Entrepreneur Development with the New York State Small Business Division, where she helped deliver millions of dollars in funding and support to small business owners across the state.Rooted in her experience as the daughter of immigrants and now a mother herself, Kadjahtou’s work is guided by a vision of legacy, healing, and community self-sufficiency. She builds with what’s available, leads with intention, and creates spaces that reflect care, dignity, and collective resilience.Where to find Kadjahtou Balde:Instagram: @kadjahtou, @modifythriftshop, @faithfully.sustainable Website: Modify Thrift ShopWebsite: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter: https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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012. A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Malaya’s Rebrand: Embracing Authenticity and Culture in Leadership
On today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my own rebrand and inviting you into a deeply personal conversation on authentic leadership, especially in a world where so many of us still feel pressure to fit in, perform, or wear an “emotional support blazer” just to belong.This is the first time I’m sharing the heart behind Malaya Solutions: why I chose freedom over assimilation, how my intergenerational roots and my ever-supportive mom became central to my visual identity, and why a humble pineapple (yes, really!) can represent both the pain and power of reclaiming our stories. I talk about leading through turbulent times, like the recent federal spending bill that challenges our sector, and ask: what does it mean to guide our communities from a place of legacy, not just personal achievement?If you’re wondering how to show up as your full self in your work, and questioning which parts of “professionalism” or leadership you might be ready to unlearn, I hope my stories offer both clarity and hope. You do not have to perform to lead powerfully. You can root your leadership in family, history, resistance, and joy.Let’s reflect together: What would your leadership look like if it didn’t require a costume? What parts of your lineage or culture are you ready to reclaim? I invite you to listen in, lean into your own evolution, and imagine what’s possible when we lead from who we truly are.Website: https://www.malayasolutions.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcast
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011. Transit Thursdays x What We Made Possible: Finding Light in Loss
On today’s special episode, I’m excited to share a heartfelt cross-post from my conversation with the brilliant Didi Paterno on her podcast, Transit Thursdays. This one is truly close to my heart. We explore the dance between finding light in moments of loss, community connection, and what it really means to be rooted as a Filipino American in a world that can feel both unfamiliar and full of possibility.My former coaching client Didi interviews me and I get to share more about my personal journey, from growing up in a multigenerational Filipino household in Jersey City, serving as a landing place for new immigrants, to stepping into advocacy and leadership roles that often felt like pushing against heavy winds. I open up about navigating the challenges of working in under-resourced BIPOC organizations, grappling with feelings of burnout and searching for stability, especially during turbulent times. Through it all, I share how mentorship from within my own community helped me pivot from simply surviving to truly thriving.We chat about my evolution from working as an advocate to becoming a coach, and what it’s meant for me to find (and offer!) light through coaching, not only as an individual practice but within groups and whole communities. Loss, I’ve learned, is not just about what is taken but also what becomes possible: a rediscovery of self-worth, a reclaiming of agency, and an opening for deeper connection.If you’ve felt stuck, heavy with loss, or unsure how to step forward, let this episode serve as a gentle invitation: together, we can find the little lights that guide us home, anchoring ourselves in community, courage, and hope. Thank you for joining us on this journey—no matter where you are, you’re not alone. About Didi Paterno:Didi is a Filipino-American writer, tarot card reader and your vedic astrology ate (elder sister). She is also host of the Transit Thursdays: A vedic astrology tutorial podcast, where she hopes to shine a little more light on ourselves through the stars as we transit through our lives.Where to Find Didi Paterno:Instagram:@didipaternoFacebook: Didi PaternoTransit Thursday podcast on SpotifyImportant Links: https://linktr.ee/didipaternoWebsite: http://didipaterno.comBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/podcastWebsite: https://malayasolutions.com/
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010. Navigating Change: Carey Peters on Authenticity and Big Transitions
On today’s episode, I sit down with one of my mentors, Carey Peters. She is a powerhouse in coaching and a living example of what’s possible when we lean into healing, transparency, and bold new steps. Carey shares her incredible journey from believing she could only ever be an actor, scraping by, to co-founding and building six businesses and certifying over 40,000 coaches around the globe. Along the way, she opens up about moments of self-doubt, navigating transitions, and the surprising magic that happens when we finally realize: we have a choice.We talk vulnerably about what it feels like to be in the messiness of change: moving through big identities, letting go, and grieving what’s been while opening to what’s next. Carey’s candor around imposter syndrome, business fears, and the rawness of growth is a gentle reminder that the people we look up to are human too. I found so much hope in her story of being supported by coaches and mentors, embracing faith, and centering creative practice—even when she wasn’t sure who she was becoming.If you’re in a season of transition, wondering if you belong, or feeling apprehensive about showing up as your realest self, this conversation is a warm invitation to pause and reflect: What possibilities am I not seeing yet? How do I want to choose myself today?Take a listen, notice what resonates, and let yourself get curious—what’s newly possible for you and your community right now? About Carey Peters:Carey Peters has founded or co-founded 6 businesses, exited 2 and played a key role in taking them from startup to revenues totaling over $220M, including Holistic MBA and Health Coach Institute, which have trained 40,000+ health and life coaches in 100+ countries.Carey and Stacey Morgenstern created Health Coach Institute’s “Become A Health & Life Coach” (an ICF CCE-accredited dual Health and Life Coach certificate training) flagship program, which teach students Health Coach Institute’s proprietary Habit Change Coaching skills and how to use those skills to create lucrative coaching businesses.Carey guest-starred in 25 episodes of the Yahoo web series “Reluctantly Healthy”, hosted by actress Judy Greer, and has been featured in Forbes Magazine, New York Magazine, Fitness Magazine, The Chicago Tribune, The Huffington Post and more.Currently based in Chicago, Carey holds a BFA in Acting from DePaul University. She lives with her husband and her beautiful 9 year old daughter. Outside of work, Carey enjoys theater, music, art and stand-up comedy.Where to Find Carey PetersInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/careypetersofficial/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/careypeters/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carey.peters/Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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009. Redefining Clean Energy Leadership: Daphany Rose Sanchez from KC3 on Community, Equity, and Systemic Change
On this episode, I sit down with Daphany Rose Sanchez, the passionate Brooklyn-born climate justice leader behind Kinetic Communities Consulting (KC3). Together, we get real about what it means to build radical, community-rooted change—especially when the old systems don’t make space for us.Daphany openly shares her journey from growing up in NYC public housing, to storming through the world of energy consulting as a young woman of color, to founding KC3 out of a blend of anger, hope, and a deep belief in possibility. We talk about hustling through long, exhausting days, battling external barriers and internal expectations, and what it takes to unlearn that survival is the only way forward.There’s so much heart in this conversation: how Daphany learned to honor her own boundaries, lead through trust (not just grit), and bring her full, unapologetic self to a sector that desperately needs new voices. She reminds us that we don’t have to twist ourselves into knots to drive change—sometimes, slow reflection and centering our communities is the most radical move.Throughout our chat, we explore what it looks like to build a team rooted in care, real representation, and the belief that technical skills are important, but lived experience and self-trust are just as necessary.If you’ve ever doubted that you belong at the table, or wondered whether you can show up as yourself while making systems-level change, this episode is your permission slip. Let’s reflect together: What’s possible for you, your community, and your healing if you trust yourself—just a little more?Tune in, and step into what’s possible with us.About Daphany Rose Sanchez:Daphany Rose Sanchez is a Brooklyn-born climate justice leader dedicated to building affordable communities. As the founder and Executive Director of Kinetic Communities Consulting (KC3), she champions equitable clean energy solutions for historically excluded neighborhoods. Daphany grounds her leadership in lived experience, resilience, and heart. She moves with a deep belief that real change starts with connection, belonging, and honoring community wisdom. Whether she’s driving policy, designing programs, or amplifying voices, Daphany leads with grit, grace, and an unwavering commitment to justice, healing, and possibility.Where to Find Daphany Rose Sanchez:Website: http://www.kc3.nycInstagram: @kineticcommunitiesLinkedIn (Personal): Daphany Rose SanchezLinkedIn (Organization): Kinetic Communities ConsultingFacebook: Kinetic Communities ConsultingDiverted Power: DivertedpowerDiverted Power | Racial Discrimination’s Role in Undermining the Clean Energy Transition.Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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008. Powerless but Not Voiceless: Dr. Diana Hernández on Energy, Justice, and Possibility
In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Diana Hernández—a trailblazer, advocate, and proud native New Yorker—to unpack what’s truly possible when we challenge the old narratives about wealth, power, and community.Diana and I revisit the moment over a decade ago when she, my professor at Columbia, first cracked open my mind to who gets to claim the words “wealthy” and “homeowner.” We dig into her journey: from rolling up her sleeves to rehab forgotten buildings in her community in the Bronx, to leading ground-breaking research on energy insecurity, a struggle affecting nearly half of U.S. households but so often hidden in shame and silence.She shares how ambition isn’t just about accumulation, but about intention: about building until you feel satisfied, and then making space for others. We talk about her new book, Powerless, which not only names but illuminates the deep impact of energy insecurity and how it’s within our collective power to solve it.If you’ve ever wondered how your story or your community fits in the bigger fight for justice, or how to know when “enough” is truly enough, this conversation is for you. Diana’s wisdom is a gentle invitation to reimagine what’s possible, grounded in lived experience and hope for change.Let’s open ourselves to new possibilities, honor our own power, and hold space for the voices and solutions that have always existed within our communities. About Dr. Diana Hernández:Dr. Diana Hernández, a tenured Associate Professor at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, is the Founding Principal Investigator of the Energy Equity, Housing, and Health Program and co-Director of the Energy Opportunity Lab at the Center on Global Energy Policy.Dr. Hernández is a pioneering sociologist and leading authority on energy insecurity, a concept she defined and operationalized through groundbreaking mixed-methods research. Rooted in community engagement and policy innovation, her work addresses systemic barriers to energy access for disadvantaged populations and tests promising interventions. She is author of Powerless: The People’s Struggle for Energy (with Jennifer Laird, Russell Sage, April 2025), the first major book on energy insecurity in the U.S. Where to Find Dr. Diana Hernández:Website: http://drdianahernandez.comInstagram: @hotandcold_nycBook, Powerless: The People's Struggle for Energy: https://www.amazon.com/Powerless-Peoples-Struggle-Diana-Hern%C3%A1ndez/dp/087154914XBook a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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007. Why Women of Color Overcorrect
On today’s episode, I’m speaking to my fellow women of color leaders, especially those who know what it’s like to endure toxic work environments or survive in predominantly white institutions. Maybe you’ve found yourself working twice as hard, navigating a maze of microaggressions, and watching others get promoted while you’re left doing the heavy lifting. And now, after finally landing in a position of power, or maybe even creating your own seat at the table, everything suddenly feels heavier than expected. Let’s talk about overcorrection. I open up about the emotional labor, the struggle to avoid hierarchy at all costs, and how the desire to lead differently can sometimes backfire, leaving you and your team confused or burned out. Together, we unpack why these behaviors are not personal failures, but deeply human and understandable responses to the systems we’ve survived. The tools that protected us before aren’t always the ones that let us thrive now. You’ll hear stories from my coaching practice, like the leader so committed to protecting her team she ended up isolated, and how clarity (not just care) was what everyone really needed. I walk us through real strategies for shifting from reaction to intention: leading with both empathy and direction, sharing power with structure, and building liberatory leadership rooted in justice and care.If you’re feeling stuck, know you’re not alone. I invite you to listen in, breathe, and imagine: What could leadership look like if it was shaped by your values, not your wounds?Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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Bonus Episode: How Funders Can Resource Wellbeing, Equity, and Collective Power Now
In this mini companion episode, I speak directly to funders whose support is crucial for nonprofits doing equity and justice work—especially in this shifting and sometimes precarious political landscape. If you fund organizations working with communities of color, immigrants, coalitions, or environmental and racial justice causes—this one’s for you.We’re not sugarcoating it: times are tough. Funders, you’re facing big choices. How you show up in 2025 will either reinforce the status quo or help reshape what’s possible for all of us. Drawing from insights by the Building Movement Project, I share five key leadership shifts nonprofits are making: from certainty to adaptability, individualism to collective power, authority to trust, perfectionism to experimentation, and productivity to well-being.But here’s where clarity (and hope!) truly come in: your funding approach isn’t just about checklists or deliverables—it’s about building trust and resilience in the communities you care about. I invite you to consider concrete ways to support these shifts, like offering unrestricted, multi-year funding, resourcing well-being as essential, and fostering spaces for collaboration and learning.If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of your next move as a funder, let this episode light the path forward. I hope you walk away with clarity—and the courage to fund with care, empathy, and an eye toward liberation. Let’s reimagine what’s possible, together. And as always, I’d love to hear your thoughts and keep this conversation going.Resources Mentioned:Building Movement Project FAQ: https://email.buildingmovement.org/hubfs/FAQ%20for%20EOs.pdf?hsCtaAttrib=186681037124Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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006. Why Empathy, Trust, and Rest Will Shape the Future of Nonprofit Leadership
In today’s episode, I share the urgent shifts I believe are needed for leadership this year, especially in times that feel so uncertain and, at times, overwhelming. Together, we explore five key transformations that can keep our organizations, and our hearts, resilient and grounded.I’m inviting you into a real conversation about moving from the illusion of certainty to bold adaptability, and from isolating individualism back into the collective power that has always been our roots. We talk about releasing old patterns of authority in favor of deep trust, and shifting from a place of ego to true transparency, vulnerability, and collaborative action.You’ll hear coaching stories, from the leader frozen by losing funding, to the advocate burning out under pressure, and the manager who finally put rest at the heart of her culture. We get honest about perfectionism (aka fear in a cute dress), and the freedom that comes with giving ourselves and our teams permission to experiment, learn, and grow.If you’re leading in nonprofit, social impact, or simply care deeply about community, this episode is for you. We name what’s hard, and we also tap into what’s possible. My hope is that you walk away feeling seen, less alone, and maybe even a little more courage to bring your people along for the journey.I invite you to pause and reflect: Which leadership shifts are calling to you right now? And how might you show up, not perfectly, but powerfully, for your team and your community?Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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005. Reenergizing Team Morale: Strategies for Leaders
In this episode of What We Made Possible, I delve into the struggles many leaders face with low morale in their teams. We've all been there, right? Like pulling everyone behind you while feeling utterly exhausted. But it doesn't have to be all about productivity. It's about genuinely caring for your people.I'll share real-life coaching strategies and stories to help you to reenergize your team. We'll discuss: clear expectations where everyone knows what engagement means, moving from a task-checking mindset to meaningful check-ins, and giving feedback that fuels motivation rather than deflates it. It's been a game changer for the leaders I work with, and I hope it's the same for you.So, how do you want your team to show up? Which of these small shifts resonates with you? Let's shake off that morale slump and create a culture where people are excited to show up and do their best work. If this episode hits home, I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts, or reach out if you're ready to bring these strategies to life in your organization.Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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004. When DEI Gets Cut A Personal Story of Change, Resilience, and New Directions
On today’s episode of What We Made Possible, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my own career pivot—from working in DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) to becoming a full-time coach. We get into it: the reality of DEI being dismantled, the ways I’ve navigated change management and policy work to support supplier diversity, and why DEI was never about liberation—just harm reduction.And with so many DEI roles being slashed, I’ve had to rethink my path too. From government to Broadway to coaching, I’m finding new ways to help people build spaces of their own.This episode is for anyone wondering: What now? It’s about adapting, reimagining, and finding new ways to do the work—on our own terms. Join me as I share stories of resilience and possibility. Let’s dream beyond the tables we’ve fought to sit at—because what if we built our own? Tune in and let’s figure it out together.Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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003. How Imposter Syndrome Cost Me $10,000: A Story of Self-Doubt
On today's episode, I dive into the story of how I faced imposter syndrome and lost $10,000 as a result.Imposter syndrome isn’t an illness, but rather internalized oppression that tells us we don't belong, often when we're stepping into roles of greater power or transitioning into new environments.I share my journey as I grappled with self-doubt while taking on a leadership position within an office of diversity in New York City government. Despite initially denying a promotion and second-guessing my abilities, I realized that I had been doing the work all along. It only took a nudge from my boss and a shift in my mindset to embrace my worth and step into the role confidently.Let’s explore how self-belief can transform our opportunities, aligning ourselves with purpose. I invite you to reflect on your own experiences and ask, "Am I allowing imposter syndrome to hold me back?"Book a consult for private coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/private-consultBook a consult for team coaching: https://tidycal.com/malayame/team-coaching-consultInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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002. Embracing Compassion: A Leadership Skill for Lasting Change
On today's episode, I dive into the power of compassion, especially its role in leadership and social change. I believe that if we're trying to create a just world, we need to start by practicing compassion ourselves. This episode is packed with insights on how women of color can develop this crucial skill, despite the lack of examples in predominantly white institutions. I'll share personal anecdotes, debunk myths, and explain why compassion isn't just a foundational leadership skill. It's a way to resist harmful narratives and foster genuine connections.I walk you through practical steps to build self-compassion and how to extend that compassion to others, turning adversaries into allies. Ultimately, compassion is about putting humans first, creating sustainable and impactful change, and building a world where we take care of each other. Let's explore these possibilities together and strengthen our communities with compassion.If something resonated with you, I'd love for you to pause and reflect: What are you taking away, and what's possible for you and your community now? Please leave a review and rating; it helps so much. Thank you for joining me on this journey.Enjoyed today's episode, follow me on Instagram and LinkedIn & subscribe to my newsletter.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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001. Discovering What's Possible: Healing and Leading with Patti Dayleg
On today's episode, I kick off "What We Made Possible," a podcast exploring the impact of healing in leadership and community work. I share my journey from working in nonprofits to government roles, and how embracing self-compassion and values has been pivotal.I recount my family's resilience and constant pivots, shaping my approach to life and leadership. I discuss her struggles with imposter syndrome, turning down a promotion due to self-doubt, and the importance of personal healing for collective impact.Emphasizing the power of grounding in self-awareness and trust, I highlight that centering healing can amplify our influence in organizations and communities. I invite you to explore the possibilities that arise when we lead with healing and connection, promoting a future rooted in our values.Tune in to discover how self-compassion and alignment with your values can transform your personal and professional life, fostering clarity, purpose, and a deeper impact.Enjoyed today's episode, follow me on Instagram and LinkedIn & subscribe to my newsletter. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patti.malaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadayleg/Newsletter : https://malaya.myflodesk.com/ub5ick46aa
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
What We Made Possible is a podcast about the ripple effects of healing and how they shape leadership, social change, and the way we move through the world. Hosted by Patti Dayleg, a Leadership Coach for Social Change, this podcast explores what becomes possible when we center well-being, cultivate meaningful relationships, and lead with purpose.Through solo reflections and conversations with inspiring guests, we uncover the turning points that spark transformation. Some moments are quiet shifts in perspective, while others are bold decisions that redefine what’s possible. These conversations highlight the ways healing strengthens leadership, deepens collaboration, and creates a more sustainable path for individuals and organizations alike.Whether you’re navigating leadership in a nonprofit, building coalitions, or charting your own growth, this podcast offers stories, insights, and practical tools to help you move forward with clar
HOSTED BY
Patricia Dayleg
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