I’m driven and lead with heart first. I’m obsessed with challenging the status quo and understanding and improving the human potential.
Tell us about a day at work you'll never forget!
I'll never forget resigning from my full-time job to run Work Bigger full-time. I worked for the largest news organization in the world for 5 years and spent 2 of those years building Work Bigger on the side. I was so scared to leave the security of my full-time gig and to go off on my own. I cried when I gave notice. But I was also ready and knew that making the decision to leave was best for my colleagues and myself. I was ready.
What's your advice about growing a brand?
Find out who you are at the core. Connect with that part of yourself and the parts that you feel will best serve your customers. Share that.
How do you prepare for negotiation conversations?
(1) Work on mindset first. As a career coach, I always get questions on "how do I make the ask" but before you even go into the negotiation, check-in with how you're feeling and where you're most lacking confidence. Then you can create a plan based on that (2) Create your plan! Get clear on your ideal number (and always ask for more) and your bottom line. These numbers should anchor you and what you want. And really ask yourself - what do I want? Not "what do they pay?" You'll get to that eventually. But first ask yourself, what you really want.
Did you ever agree to something in a negotiation you now regret doing?
Of course! Though, I can't think of a specific situation. I'm sure there have been times when I wished I'd asked for more or done more research before saying yes. I think we all have that moment when we make decisions out of fear.
What one tip would you tell your younger self about negotiating?
Asking doesn't reflect badly on you. It's an opportunity to stand for your value. It's quite admirable.
What has been your biggest failure and what did you take from it?
My biggest failure was shutting down my first business. I started my first company while working full time and when I was pregnant with my first. I learned that you can't make an impact or build a business when you're burned out and running on fumes. It's what inspired me to integrate mental health and mindset work into our Work Bigger training. I also learned to lead from the inside out vs. solely focus on the doing.
Can you tell us about a time you experienced imposter syndrome? How did you overcome this?
I feel imposter syndrome all the time - anytime I need to up-level in my work. Right now, we're working on building a team at Work Bigger and this is bringing up a lot for me. "I won't know how to train people the right way," or "I won't make the best leader" is a constant dialogue right now. The only way to overcome it is to observe it and acknowledge it's there. It's showing me something -what I need to work on next. Then I just keep going. I work on it. I learn from it.
Who do you draw inspiration from?
My OGs - a group of close founder friends who I speak with on a daily basis. They inspire me with everything and I love learning from them - from how to build a sustainable business to how to cook yummy meals (I'm not a good cook) to making your big dreams a reality. They're so action-oriented, growth-minded, brilliant, and I love them!
“Asking doesn’t reflect badly on you. It’s an opportunity to stand for your value. It’s quite admirable.”
Has there been one person instrumental to your growth and success? How did they impact you?
There have been so many people instrumental to my growth and success including my parents, mentors, coaches, and founder friends. The immediate person that comes to mind right now is my husband. We're about to have our second baby and juggling work, parenting, a household, running a small business - all of that would be so much harder without his support and encouragement.
Who has taught you the most about knowing your value in the workplace?
My coach has taught me the most about this. We've done a lot of work around self-worth, and loving all of yourself - not just the confident parts, and not just the parts that are successful. Love all of yourself. Then you can stand in your value.
Do you have a habit that you practice which allows you to do what you do?
Yes - journaling and reflection time. I need to pause, just be, and process the day.
What would you be doing if you weren't on your current path?
If I could sing, I'd be the next Beyonce. Or at least I'd try to. Too bad I can't sing.
What's your personal quirk that has helped you to excel in your field?
Two of my biggest strengths are strategic thinking and relationship building. I'm able to use these skills both for coaching - because I can see what people need to get from A to B, and I can hold space for them when things are tough, and building a business. Designing Work Bigger and coaching are my favorite things to do!
What's the worst piece of advice you've been given and why was it so awful?
This is a tough one. I don't know if there was a worst piece of advice but sometimes I find advice in general triggering - unless I directly ask for it. So I guess, unsolicited advice is terrible - period 😂
How did you get to this point in your life and career?
I've gotten to this point in my life and career by never giving up. I look at each struggle as an opportunity to learn and grow versus something I need to get right. I also care deeply about people and supporting others in their journey.
What’s your favorite quote?
“We cannot selectively numb emotions. When we numb the painful emotions, we also numb the positive emotions.” - Brene Brown
Are you reading or listening to anything at the moment?
Ina May's Guide to Childbirth as I prepare for baby #2, and I just finished Clockwork - a great book about setting up systems and processes in your business.
“Find out who you are at the core. Connect with that part of yourself and the parts that you feel will best serve your customers. Share that.”