Powered by Authenticity

Holding the Door with a Smile

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I’mjoined by the inspiring Susan O'Sullivan, President of SOS - Strategies, Opportunities & Solutions.I’ve had the privilege of getting to know Susan through TheWIT Network Buffalo Chapter, and I can’t say enough about what an incredible advocate and coach she is for our community. Within, Susan shares her profound insights on:    The Power of Connection: How meaningfulrelationships can drive impactful change.Thinking in Bigger, Abundant Terms: Amindset shift that unlocks possibilities, especially when addressing inequities in the workplace.Coaching Wisdom from Susan:Susan reminds us of the importance of finding a coach who’s the right fit for YOU. She emphasizes:The importance to interview multiple coaches to ensure alignment with your goals and values.Understand that your coaching journey mayevolve—it’s okay to recognize when a coach isn’t the right fit anymore and adjust accordingly. The key is to identify where you need supportand take action to find it.As a seasoned IT Executive, I know firsthand the value of coaching, and this episode came at the perfect time. Going into the recording, I found myself facing a situation that didn’t feel right. Susan graciously guided me throughit, offering solid, actionable advice that helped me gain clarity. This moment highlights the true value of a great coach—they provide perspective, guidance, and genuine care when you need it most.This was such an engaging and insightful conversation,packed with actionable takeaways and relatable wisdom. Thank you, Susan, for sharing your expertise and heart inthis episode!Please find Susan's information below:LinkedIn:Susan (Lundquist) O'Sullivan | LinkedInSusan's Website:My Executive Coach - SOSBio:With over three decades of experience in technology sales and distribution management, I’ve developed a deep understanding of what it takes to drive success. My career was built at a Fortune 100 technology distributor, where Ispent over 30 years advancing from sales roles to executive leadership. As Vice President of U.S. Sales, my teams secured billions of dollars in revenue, and I led over 300 associates across multiple continents, overseeing one of thecompany’s most profitable divisions.Drawing on my leadership skill, sales experience and business acumen, I transitioned my expertise into my own firm, SOS – Strategies, Opportunities & Solutions,providing executive coaching, sales consulting, and sales training services tohelp organizations and leaders achieve transformational growth and measurableresults.Throughoutmy career, I’ve been passionate about mentoring others and fosteringprofessional development. For six years, I led a women’s group focused onnavigating corporate career advancement while mentoring numerous individualsboth within and outside the organization. These experiences have beeninstrumental in shaping my ability to coach and consult leaders and teamseffectively.Now,as SOS merges with My Executive Coach, we combine decades of experience, provenstrategies, and a practical approach to help clients overcome challenges, seizeopportunities, and unlock their full potential in today’s competitivemarketplace.I am a certified professional with extensive training and expertise in leadership, sales facilitation, conflict mediation, and executive coaching.  My credential includes ZengerMiller Leadership Training, Miller Heiman Sales Facilitator certification and I am a certified conflict mediator through Working Creatively with Conflict. I amcertified in Hogan Personality assessments and advanced interpretations, Korn Ferry ESCI 360 and a certified coach through Coaching Training Alliance.  I have further honed my leadership capabilities through Executive Leadership programs through Ingram Micro at the Graduate Business School at Stanford University and the Paul Merage School ofBusiness at the University of California, Irvine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lightness in the Dark of Winter

Late November and early December, I had the opportunity to record a few episodes of the podcast where we addressed some questions I'd received via LinkedIn.In this episode, Producer Ken and I talk about how to stay engaged socially and physically in the winter months...just a couple of tips and tricks we each have.I hope you enjoy this little conversation and keep the questions coming...we love them!! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Create, Interact, Build, Change, Evolve

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Mary Messner, the dynamic CEO and Founder of Highline Creative Group and a highly sought-after keynote speaker. Mary’s passion and enthusiasm are contagious, and her journey from healthcare executive to impactful speaker is nothing short of inspiring.During our conversation, Mary shares powerful insights about her career evolution, emphasizing the critical role of mentorship and the importance of investing in coaching. She reflects on how asking her network for a simple cup of coffee often opened doors, and she’s grateful for those who always said yes. Mary also reminds us that it’s okay to embrace the awkward moments in networking—they’re often where the most authentic connections are made.Mary discusses how having a strong support system has been a cornerstone of her success and why building a team aligned with your vision can be transformative. She also dives into the concept of continuous iteration, highlighting the value of refining your work and embracing growth as essential aspects of personal and professional development.This episode is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and the art of strategically pivoting your career. It’s a conversation filled with actionable takeaways and lessons that will inspire and energize you on your own journey. I can’t wait for you to listen and reflect on the powerful stories and advice Mary shares.Links below where you can find more information on Mary Messner:Speaker Mary Messner | Mary MessnerMary Messner | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grace and Space

In this fifth episode of our six-week special series, Krystalore Crews, CEO of Crews Beyond Limits, and I dive into the successes and challenges of the past week, sharing insights that will resonate with anyone on a journey of growth and self-discovery.💡 Key Themes: Do you give yourself the space for grace?I’ve often noticed I give others far more grace than I give myself. Krystalore and I unpack the “why” behind this and explore ways to shift this mindset. Bringing others to solutions amidst negativity.While it’s natural to want to help others, when do we draw the line and set boundaries to protect our own energy? We discuss the necessity of creating space for ourselves while supporting those around us.This is a conversation filled with reflection, empowerment, and actionable takeaways. I know you’ll enjoy it as much as I did!🌟 Don’t Miss Out:Be sure to check out Krystalore’s incredible programs, including her upcoming Vision Board Working Session! Links are below—don’t miss the chance to set your vision and goals into action.Find Krystalore at the following locations:Krystalore (Crews Beyond Limits) Crews, MBA | LinkedInVision Board Workshop Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ’B’ Word (Boundaries)

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I continue my six-week series with special guest and coach Krystalore Crews, CEO of Crews Beyond Limits Consulting. We dive into the transformative journey of a six-week shred—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. This week’s focus is on gratitude and the power of choosing positivity to fuel personal growth.Krystalore shares her insights on the importance of daily gratitude, setting intentions, and the emotional hurdles we face when striving for authenticity and balance. Together, we reflect on my progress, challenges, and moments of clarity during this journey, and we share some pretty powerful discussion on confidence. Thank you for listening to this impactful episode. Below are links where you can find additional information on Krystalore and her amazing organization.LinkedIn:Krystalore (Crews Beyond Limits) Crews, MBA | LinkedInWebsite:Crews Beyond Limits | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bigger Elbows

Welcome to Week 2 of my special series with Krystalor Crews, CEO of Crews Beyond Limits Consulting! This week, we dive into a conversation that touches on the intersections of health, wellness, and career challenges.After a particularly stressful career event last week, I found myself grappling with lingering emotions. Krystalor introduced me to the concept of an emotional hangover—a powerful way to understand the emotional aftermath of intense situations. She helped me unpack why this happens and how to move forward.Krystalor also shared a personal story about a time when a leader dismissed her efforts and told her to “get bigger elbows.” Together, we explore the deeper meaning of this analogy and why it’s crucial for women to carve out their own space at the table.We didn’t stop there—this episode also tackles the role of nutrition in supporting overall well-being and how it can empower you in moments of challenge.This uplifting conversation is packed with insights and tools to help you navigate the intersections of health, wellness, and career. Don’t miss it!Links where you can find Krystalore Crews:Krystalore (Crews Beyond Limits) Crews, MBA | LinkedInkrystalorecrews.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unpeel the Layers That Hold Us Back

Join me over the next six weeks as I embark on a holistic "shred" journey with my coach, Krystalore Crews! In this series, we’re diving deep into how shifts in health, nutrition, and mindset can positively impact every area of life. I’m excited to share both the highs and the lessons learned along the way.In this first episode, I’ll walk you through my week, rating it a 3 out of 7 based on key areas: workouts, nutrition, tackling my to-do list, and discovering where my energy (not just calories!) is going each day. Krystalore brings valuable perspective, encouraging us to "flip the switch" on mindset and celebrate progress, even when the week isn’t perfect.I hope you’ll follow along as we strive to finish the year strong, learning and growing together in this transformative journey!Where to find further information on Krystalore Crews:krystalorecrews.comLinkedIn:Krystalore (Crews Beyond Limits) Crews, MBA | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Working Through Seasons of Change

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Krystalore Crews, CEO of Crews Beyond Limits Consulting, to explore her remarkable journey from serving in the U.S. Military to leading a thriving global consulting firm. We dive into her powerful CEO mindset, which centers around consistency, education, execution, and embracing new opportunities. Krystalore's perspective on how this mindset can help each of us become the CEO of our own lives is both refreshing and empowering.This conversation left me feeling uplifted, energized, and ready to tackle challenges with a renewed sense of purpose. Krystalore’s positivity and enthusiasm are truly contagious, and I have no doubt they’ll leave you feeling motivated to approach life’s opportunities head-on.Thank you, Krystalore, for sharing your time, insights, and incredible energy!Links to Krystalore's bio and website:Krystalore (Crews Beyond Limits) Crews, MBA | LinkedInkrystalorecrews.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Assessing the Situation

In this episode, I had the absolute joy of chatting with Sarah Elkins, the incredible Chief Storymaker at Elkins Consulting. From the moment we started talking, her warmth and wisdom just pulled me in. She’s not just a coach, mentor, and speaker—she’s someone who makes you feel seen and understood, like you could talk for hours.During our conversation, I decided to get a little vulnerable and had Sarah walk me through my CliftonStrengths report. Everything she said hit home in a way that gave me new perspective on myself. I walked away with some amazing ideas and new energy, thanks to Sarah’s insights.This episode left me feeling inspired, and I know it will do the same for you. After listening, don’t hesitate to reach out to Sarah—her work has the power to truly change the way you see yourself and your strengths.Sarah, thank you for an unforgettable and deeply impactful conversation!Bio:A Montana-based small business owner, Gallup-certifiedStrengthsFinder coach, long-time podcast host, storyteller and professionalmusician, Sarah Elkins gives new meaning to the phrase “show - don’t tell”through her focus on personal brand and authentic storytelling. Her enthusiasm,high energy, and engaging sessions are known to inspire and motivate heraudience to take action - to sustain the momentum in collecting and sharingpersonal stories to truly connect with others and reducing miscommunication atwork and at home.Elkins Consulting:Elkins ConsultingLinkedIn:SarahElkins | LinkedIn  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Encouraging Exploration

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Hoda Kilani, Founder of Right Career Fit. In our conversation we discussed the many aspects of coaching, the importance of networking and how to leverage mentorship.I had such a wonderful time meeting and chatting with Hoda ...she left me with many tidbits that I can use in my day to day.Thank you, Hoda, for being such a lovely guest. I enjoyed this conversation and know you will too!!Dr. Hoda Kilani's Bio:Dr Hoda Kilani is a Certified Professional Career Coach and Founder of Right Career Fit, a coaching practice committed to providing top-notch career learning and coaching services to students,parents, teachers and community partners. Hoda’sexpertiseand deep understanding of Career Literacyallows her to be a vocal spokesperson for the importance of careereducation. She works tirelessly to create global awareness of its valueincluding publishing academic articles and blogs as well as hosting careerconversations on YouTube, podcasts, and radio shows in English and Arabic.LinkedIn Bio:Dr Hoda Kilani CPCC | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.