REDEFINING CONFIDENCE,SELF-LOVE, AND SUCCESS
FRONT COVER FT RAIA
‘coach’
CAREY
RAIA “COACH” CAREY
“It is important for each person to take time and think about what they measure as success. If it is available to you, take a full day to completely unplug. At some point, we need to reset. Expansion requires space. Take some time to write in a journal, put pen to paper. Give yourself a short-term and a long-term goal. Ask yourself, what is one positive thing I can start doing this month? Spend time with loved ones, and if that is not possible, take some time to honor and remember them.”
READ THE FULL ARTICLE PG. 12-17
LET THIS BE THE YEAR WHERE WE STOP LOOKING FOR PERMISSION AND VALIDATION AND INSTEAD LOOK IN THE MIRROR AND BECOME THE LEADER WE ARE MEANT TO BE.
Happy New Year to you!
2025 IS HERE AND ALTHOUGH I DON’T BUY INTO A LOT OF THE POWER GIVEN OVER TO DATES, I DO STILL LOVE A CLEAN SLATE AND FRESH VISION FOR WHAT’S POSSIBLE
This year, the magazine is primed to have our best year yet. Starting with the biggest cover features we have ever had, new collaborations and sponsorships and a deepening that I’ve been craving. We spark this year with the one and only Coach Carey. Coach Carey is one of the most genuine and caring coaches within the marketplace Through passion, dedication and sincere desire to want others to become the best versions of themselves, Coach Carey is a leading life coach and champion I am excited for you, for us, for the world at large who decide to make this year count To do more than what’s expected and become the version of ourselves we are meant to be I am grateful to be a part of that with you through these pages
What I know for sure, is this year will be what we make it. So let’s make it a great year!
JEN SZPIGIEL, EDITOR -IN-CHIEF
“COACH” CAREY pg 12-17
3x Certified Life Coach, Speaker & EDI Consultant
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EDITORS NOTE
Happy New Year to you! Let’s make it a great year.
INVOCATION
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Let this be the year where we stop looking for permission and validation and instead look in the mirror and become the leader we are meant to be.
COVER FEATURE
Coach Carey is one of the most genuine and caring coaches within the marketplace
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ICONIC WOMEN
Meet the extraordinary women within this issue, sharing their wisdom, passions, and transformative insights to inspire your next bold move
ICONIC ETIQUETTE
The art of a handshake. It’s the universal symbol of agreement, trust, and confidence and one that speaks volumes without uttering a word.
29 READY TO LAUNCH?
Creative launch package by Iconic Agency
30 JENUINE CONNECTION
“There have been three health crises that have changed my life. “ A powerful story from our Editor in Chief and Founder of Becoming Iconic, Jen Szpigiel.
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ICONIC LIFESTYLE
In 2025 we ’ re going to declutter & organize your spaces The ICONIC Edit: Your go- to kitchen + bathroom organization items
MEALS IN 35 MINUTES
In 2025, it’s all about quick, nourshing meals that get you out of the kitchen and back to living your life.
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2025 ICONIC TREND REPORT
Winter Footwear - That aren’t Uggs & What we ’ re swapping out!
ICONIC PODCAST
Tune into the latest episodes of the Iconic Podcast.
Let this be the year...
Where we get out of our own way and instead decide to believe in ourselves more than we doubt ourselves.
Let this be the year where we get tired of our excuses and lame reasons why not and instead proclaim where we are going and give life to all the reasons why we should.
Let this be the year where we no longer tolerate dream stealers and nah-sayers and instead surround ourselves with people who are doing what we desire to do.
Let this be the year where we stop playing safe and instead become risk takers and skinny branch leaders for our betterment.
Let this be the year where we stop making everything wrong and instead start recognizing all the ways things are right and in our favor.
Let this be the year where we stop looking for permission and validation and instead look in the mirror and become the leader we are meant to be.
Let this be the year where.... We travel more We play more We serve more We make more We live more We laugh more We love more We give more We trust more We desire more We expect more
On the Cover
As a 3x Certified Life Coach, speaker, and EDI consulant Coach
Carey is passionate about encouraging others to tap into the confidence they never knew they had After overcoming various hardships, she was able to transform her mindset and begin a career that empowers others to do the same By openly sharing her triumphs and tribulations, Raia’s vulnerability helps foster a welcoming and safe environment in every room she enters She strives to inspire and lead those around her by providing unwavering support, guidance, and motivation. By equipping clients with tangible tools to implement in their daily lives, she steers her community towards self-awareness, resilience, and sustainable success.
CONNECT WITH RAIA ‘COACH’ CAREY
Nicole
Doran
Nicole Doran is a founding member of PUR-FORM, a wellness center
Boca Raton, FL, where she leads all marketing and public relations efforts With an MBA in Marketing Management and credentials as a licensed health coach, she brings a unique blend of expertise to her role. Nicole's passion for integrative and regenerative medicine stems from her personal journey with PCOS and autoimmune conditions. She is dedicated to helping others discover transformative health solutions that align with their unique needs
CONNECT WITH NICOLE DORAN
Carrie Colbert
Carrie Colbert is a trailblazer in venture capital, redefining
the industry with a focus on empowering women entrepreneurs. A first-generation college graduate with degrees in petroleum engineering and an MBA from UT Austin, Carrie spent nearly 20 years in the energy sector before founding Curate Capital in 2021. Curate invests in women-led consumer brands across health, beauty, food, fashion, and home, closing its first $15M fund with nearly 80% women investors Recognized by Forbes, Fast Company, and more, Carrie’s mission is clear: championing women and transforming business
CONNECT WITH CARRIE COLBERT
INQUIRE ABOUT BEING A MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTOR OR SPONSOR FOR 2025
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAFAYÉ CLARKET
The Authenticity Blueprint
COACH CAREY, WHO I DEEPLY ADMIRE, IS A THREE-TIME CERTIFIED LIFE COACH, KEYNOTE PUBLIC SPEAKER, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION CONSULTANT, CORPORATE WELLNESS FACILITATOR, AND AN OVERALL ICONIC HUMAN BEING ALTHOUGH THE WORD AUTHENTICITY IS OFTEN OVERUSED, COACH CAREY IS THE DEFINITION OF AUTHENTICITY WITH AN INNATE GIFT OF GUIDING OTHERS INTO LIVING A LIFE FILLED WITH CONFIDENCE AND SELF-LOVE.
Jen: I would love to know your story What brought you into coaching?
Coach Carey: I studied psychology in school I always knew I wanted to help people and approach it from a cognitive perspective, but after university I felt disconnected and thought psychology may not be exactly what I want to pursue in life It was very black and white I have never loved rules When I heard about coaching everything connected, I became completely in love with the work I continue to study and better myself because that is a beautiful part of becoming a coach You are not only becoming better for the people you serve, but you are becoming better within yourself, which impacts everyone around you
Jen: Absolutely. When I am considering hiring someone, one of the first questions I ask is, “Who is your coach?” If they have a difficult time answering that question, it is a red flag for me We must immerse ourselves in the deep end of our own growth and development to offer a hand to someone else You have been a pioneer in coaching and have watched the industry transform through the years As it has changed and morphed, what is your opinion of the industry now?
Coach Carey This is a discussion I have been wanting to have If people are out there helping other people that is great, however, if you are helping people without an approved framework that is dangerous for both parties I encourage people to make sure whoever you ' re working with is certified
Jen: I agree with that Social media has glamorized the industry in terms of money and fame The only way to really thrive is to have a heart to serve others That must be the essence of a coach The money will come
Coach Carey: Yes, if you are working hard and you are staying true to who you are, producing solid results, you can thrive in the industry If the money is your only focus, it is easy to overbook yourself There are so many variables that could prevent someone from being the best they could possibly be For several of us, we do not take on that many clients unless we have other coaches assisting us All the coaches I look up to and want to learn from are not taking on very many clients
Jen: Right that's true I'm curious, what made you do your certification three times?
Coach Carey: I love learning and coaching is a subject I am really intrigued by, so the work and homework didn’t feel daunting I saw the industry starting to shift and knew the more certifications I have, the more my work will continue to speak for itself The more tools we have in our toolbox, the better we serve our clients Clients can all be very different, but I believe everyone has a pattern The more I study patterns, the easier it is for me to recognize them My goal is to work with people for three to six months That is my measure of success, which might be a different angle for most people My goal isn’t to have lifelong clients I find a lot of people are so stuck in needing to fix themselves that they are missing out on big opportunities to thrive in their life. Would you agree?
Jen: I agree I remember one of my early mentors said, “What if you are not broken and what if nothing is wrong?” That question changed my life What if nothing is wrong, and I am stuck looking for ways that I may be wrong or broken? Sometimes we get so caught up searching for flaws that we forget we are on a journey You show up in authenticity Although the word is overused and often diluted, there is so much potency and beauty in authenticity I would love to talk about the journey into being who you are, because it is breathtaking There are so many people who feel they need to prove something to have confidence You are so natural in your confidence.
Coach Carey: The term authenticity has been diluted and shifted as a result of social media When I am coaching, I am constantly asking questions to get to the root The root of authenticity, for me, is summarize by three things Number one is being grounded in my values. As a kid, I could never be swayed. My parents allowed me to really show up as I felt was best Number two is having self-love Even with changing schools frequently, often being the only person of color and feeling like a chubby kid, I loved myself What others said didn’t impact me negatively Number three is being open to receiving What I define as being open to receiving is walking down a quiet street on a Sunday morning The birds are chirping You have your coffee An elderly lady walks by, and you are open to
receiving is walking down a quiet street on a Sunday morning. The birds are chirping You have your coffee An elderly lady walks by, and you are open to receiving, so you give her a smile The opposite is what people typically do What I mean by being open to receiving is being open to see that everyone is going through something That smile could have made that lady’s day Maybe she hasn’t interacted with anyone in months? I am spreading little bits of love, which are always returned through the universe. Magic happens everywhere I go. I show up somewhere late and two perfect seats become available I think the universe gives back those little bits of love
Jen: You described giving as being open to receiving I am fascinated that you called that receiving You are receiving magic back and receiving blessings because you were the blessing first You initiated that by opening your eyes, smiling, seeing people, understanding, accepting, holding compassion, and empathy. That speaks volumes to who you are and how deeply you are connected to people, because you categorized those actions as receiving when they are actually the act of giving
Coach Carey: No one has ever noticed that before. The reason I call it being open to receiving is because you are open to the “what if”
Jen: Let’s go back to self-love because I am fascinated by your journey As a young child you were criticized On some level, we can all resonate with that. You talked about self-love and how your parents really cultivated that within you As a grown adult, I have wobbly moments of self-love To hear you say you built self-love at a young age is beautiful As a mom of four, I want to hear more
Coach Carey: To be fair, I think I was born with a slight gift in this realm I have always been an observer of human behavior I view things differently This gift was also paired with my parents’ affirmations and reassurance When I was 5 or 6, I visited my dad’s family in Bermuda They didn’t say, “I love you ” Particularly the men If you had a roof over your head and food on your table, that meant, “I love you ” I tell all of my friends and family, “I love you ” at the end of every phone call For a while my dad didn’t say it back. When I was in Bermuda, I realized I needed to teach him. Now he is the guy who responds by saying, “I love you more ”
Jen: I can tell being an observer and being acutely aware of others is an innate gift for you I remember you recently told a story on stage about when you told your parents you didn't want to do ballet anymore What did that mean to you, that your parents supported you when you were exploring and learning about yourself, developing your own self-love? They genuinely cultivated that for you
They allowed me to cultivate my own gender expression and style. That could have easily been a different experience.
Coach Carey Absolutely, and my life would probably be very different had they responded differently. I give them so much gratitude and love for that That wasn't what they were taught They had no tools and resources on how to deal with a kid who is questioning their identity My mom said, finish this year of ballet because we don't quit in the middle When I reflect back on that, I realize my parents were so willing to trust and allow me to guide them at the age of 8 or 9 That is mind blowing
Jen: Your mom didn’t let you quit ballet until the year had ended She instilled a value of integrity, of keeping your word, and the discipline of following through I learned so much through this story. The mom of one of my daughter’s friends reached out to me, and said she was concerned about her daughter She felt like her daughter was hiding I was thinking about you when this came up. I told her the best thing we can do for our kids is let them be all of themselves and love them despite the moods and the different things they are walking through This is a time in their life where they can be all of themselves and they know, no matter what, they are loved
Coach Carey: There was no contempt when I said I wanted to buy men ’ s
clothes. There wasn’t even a conversation. They allowed me to cultivate my own gender expression and style. That could have easily been a different experience It was such a big piece of how I showed up to school and showed other kids who I am Kudos to my parents for setting the rules around things that are foundational and letting me ebb and flow in all other areas with love and respect
Jen: This brings us back full circle to authenticity online There are people reading this right now that are trapped in a façade and proving energy, rather than being in self-love What would you say to someone wavering in their confidence, their self-love, and authenticity What would be your advice to her?
Coach Carey: I believe you make self-love a practice in a way that works for you. For me, it is swimming I have a building with a pool, so I can simply go downstairs Swimming is something that is going to make me feel good, even on my bad days I can get in the elevator, go down a few floors, and keep my commitment to going to the pool twice a week Make your own self-love practice something that is attainable and achievable for you The reason so many people are feeling a pull to show up as someone other than themselves is because of numbers It is completely ridiculous, because if you helped one person, isn't that beautiful? I don't look at numbers or metrics If I'm helping people that is all that matters, and it has continued to prevail again and again I have been able to run my business this way for the last 10 years. I believe when you are showing up with heart centered value, the world provides
Jen: I truly believe success is inevitable if you lead that way
Coach Carey: What success looks like, for many people, has gotten out of hand. For me, my measure of success is gaining my time back I spend time with my parents almost every weekend I usually have brunch with my mom on Fridays, and I golf with my dad on Sundays. I am present with them, not on my phone checking emails. I live the life that I want to live, which is meaningful connections with humans
It is important for each person to take time and think about what they measure as success. If it is available to you, take a full day to completely unplug. At some point, we need to reset. Expansion requires space. Take some time to write in a journal, put pen to paper. Give yourself a short-term and a long-term goal. Ask yourself, what is one positive thing I can start doing this month? Spend time with loved ones, and if that is not possible, take some time to honor and remember them.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAFAYÉ CLARKET
ICONIC MAGAZINE X RAIA “COACH” CAREY
Iconic Contributors
Meet heart-led visionaries, industry leaders and founders who will serve your life and business every month. We feature extra-ordinary women who generously share their insights, journeys and gathered wisdom to give you transformative ideas, breakthroughs and inspiration.
Their contributions embody the spirit of innovation and empowerment, resonating deeply with our readers and exemplifying the ethos of Becoming Iconic.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECKI SMITH
Empowered Investing: My Dream for Women Investors
When I first entered the world of venture capital, I called on those within my network, both male and female, to support my new endeavor. After all, investing in women just makes good business sense The statistics speak for themselves: less than two percent of venture capital dollars go to women, yet study after study proves that women deliver better results
However, as I navigated the venture capital fundraising process, I was initially discouraged by the number of “ no ’ s ” I received, particularly from male colleagues I had known for years. They didn’t seem to understand the value proposition of investing in women-led businesses. On the flip side, though, I stumbled into a happy surprise: many women stepped up to the plate and said yes!
In that moment, I realized a powerful lesson Knowledge is power When we equip women with financial knowledge, they can then step into financial power That solidified my mission to break down barriers for women to understand and participate in investing Investing isn’t just for the Wall Street elite; it’s for all of us With Curate Capital Fund 1, we accomplished something that is unheard of in the venture capital world: almost 80 percent of our investors are women.
At Curate Capital, our investment thesis is to invest in extraordinary women building the products, services, and technology the consumer wants for herself, her family, her home, and her life So, we ’ ve created this beautiful symbiotic relationship between the women-led consumer brands we invest in and the female investors who are fueling their growth These women investors are so eager to support the brands we invest in As cliche as it may sound, we indeed are a community of women supporting other women
Building a Community of Women Investors
How did we get here? Well, it’s been a very indirect path to venture investing. After almost twenty years in the energy industry, I “retired” from that career to pursue something that was more aligned with my passions and interests while still capitalizing on my business acumen Through being online in the early days of social media, I started collaborating with brands as an influencer Through those brand connections, I stumbled into angel investing After investing my own money into female-founded consumer brands for five years, I realized the opportunity was immense! I saw firsthand the difference an infusion of
capital made for these women business owners, particularly when paired with mentorship and operational help I was struck by how incredible female founders are at transforming industries with innovative products and services Female founders know what the consumer wants because she is the consumer Women control over 80 percent of household spending, so it only makes sense to invest in women who are building what they wish existed By building a community of women investors, we ' re not only supporting these founders financially, but we ’ re elevating female entrepreneurs and reshaping the traditional view of what an investor looks like.
So, how did we succeed in changing the face of the investor? We consistently generate educational content around frequently asked questions When doing so, we use simple language, eliminating the jargon and lingo that can be hard to understand For instance, the question I am asked most is, “who can invest in venture capital?” The SEC says that individuals must be accredited investors When most women hear that, they think that they don’t qualify. They assume that accreditation requires some test or certification. But actually, it’s a simple definition with an income or net worth requirement. In short, the SEC stipulates that an accredited investor is (a) an individual with gross income exceeding $200,000 in the two most recent years or joint income with a spouse or partner exceeding $300,000 for those years and a reasonable expectation of the same income level in the current year or (b) a person whose individual net worth, or joint net worth with that person ' s spouse or partner, exceeds $1,000,000, excluding the person ' s primary residence When I shared that information, many women realized that they did, in fact, qualify to invest!
The next step is to understand your personal financial situation, assess your risk tolerance, and then evaluate whether or not venture capital is a good fit for you. And it is certainly not a good fit for everyone, depending on your current circumstances, your timeframe, and other relevant factors However, as I like to say, you have to first understand the rules of the game Then, you can decide whether or not you want to play the game
Another point I like to emphasize to women is that you should invest in what you know and like Investing is exponentially more enjoyable when you are passionate about the companies you ’ re backing. Perhaps you resonate with a company ’ s mission, or perhaps it’s a product that you use in
your everyday life. In any case, the more connected you feel to the brands you invest in, the more you will enjoy learning about investing. Indeed, I use products from the female-owned businesses in our portfolio daily, which makes investing that much more enjoyable!
Empowerment Through Mentorship
Alongside my official duties at Curate Capital, I also enjoy mentoring both entrepreneurs and investors I spend time attending events and networking with women across the US, further sharing my story and mission to support female entrepreneurs. I’ve encountered many women who hesitate to invest because they feel intimidated or uninformed. As a speaker, panelist, mentor, and advisor, I take any opportunity to share insights and stories to illustrate the value of supporting women entrepreneurs I’m constantly witnessing successful female-owned businesses making meaningful impacts on our communities, yet they are not receiving the VC dollars or recognition they deserve The need is great, and we can’t sit on the sidelines! It’s exhilarating to see women who once felt unsure about their financial capabilities confidently step into their power
My commitment to supporting women-led businesses is not only business; it’s personal. I’ve met countless women whose tenacity inspires me daily. Many of these women are leaders, mothers, and innovators, each bringing their unique strengths and stories to the table As a mother and mentor, I understand the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, and I want to show women that it’s absolutely possible to make an impact, personally and professionally
Challenges and Triumphs
While my journey has been fulfilling, it hasn't been without its challenges The venture capital landscape still faces systemic biases, and there are days when the hurdles feel daunting. But I remind myself that every small win counts. That’s why I emphasize storytelling – sharing successes, setbacks, and everything in between.
I truly enjoy backing women entrepreneurs because of their innovative and creative ideas that often address real consumer needs I see these entrepreneurs as catalysts for change, bringing fresh ideas and perspectives that enhance our communities and drive meaningful impact, which often resonates much more deeply with a female investor because it’s simply common sense to them!
Looking Ahead
As I look to the future, I’m filled with optimism about what lies ahead for Curate Capital and the movement for women in venture capital.
With our recently launched second fund, we have set some lofty goals. We aim to more than triple the investment dollars we raise and the number of companies we invest in By building partnerships with likeminded organizations, we can amplify our impact and expand our community of female investors
Through Curate Capital, I’m not just investing in businesses; I’m investing in a brighter future where every woman can build the future she wants We will continue breaking barriers and creating a community of empowered women - both entrepreneurs and investors. As we step into
this next phase with our second fund, I’m more inspired than ever And I’m so eager to welcome more women to the world of venture capital CONNECT WITH CARRIE COLBERT
Founding member of PUR-FORM: Discover transformative health solutions that align with your unique needs.
o r a n
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN CERULLO
“Your greatest weakness is also your greatest strength. And vice versa. ”
This is something I find myself telling my team
and reminding myself of often. It all roots back to where my journey began. At 16, I was diagnosed with PCOS and hypothyroidism. Nowadays, those terms are more widely recognized, but back then, they were foreign to me I didn’t understand why my body wasn’t responding to the teenage diet of pizza and birthday cake the way my friends’ bodies did I was in denial as my clothes stopped fitting, and for the first time in my young life, I struggled in school and sports
For the next 10 years, I felt extraordinarily insecure and disconnected from my body. College and grad school were filled with late-night partying and caffeine-fueled all-nighters. I lived on coffee and did hours of cardio daily, trying to reverse the constant inflammation and discomfort I felt I experimented with every diet imaginable; the more restrictive or extreme, the better As a perpetual perfectionist, I threw myself into every new health fad, convinced I could “fix myself” with the perfect Whole Foods haul
Then, I met a health coach who flipped my perspective entirely. She introduced me to the concept of bio-individuality the idea that what works for someone else (like the keto diet) might not
work for me She recommended practices to calm my nervous system: red light therapy, infrared saunas, and magnesium IV drips for stress relief For the first time in years, my body relaxed, and I let go of the 10 pounds of water weight I had been holding onto, both physically and emotionally Fast forward a few years, and now, as a licensed health coach, I had the chance to meet Dr Joseph Purita, an Orthopedic Surgeon and world-renowned Regenerative Medicine Physician Dr Purita had healed severe injuries in my dad and husband using autologous stem cell therapy, and his vast knowledge of cutting-edge regenerative treatments left me inspired.
Syncing with hormonal cycles:
This knowledge has helped me create a wellness routine tailored to my body’s needs, particularly syncing with my hormonal cycle:
Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)
Red Light Therapy: Gentle wavelengths of red light penetrate deeply into tissues, promoting blood flow and reducing inflammation It helps alleviate cramps, improves mood, and offsets fatigue, providing the calm and care my body needs during this phase
Follicular Phase (Days 6-14)
Contrast Therapy: As energy levels rise, I use contrast therapy alternating hot and cold treatments to stimulate circulation, boost metabolism, and invigorate my mood. It aligns perfectly with the natural increase in energy during this phase
Ovulatory Phase (Days 15-17):
Cryotherapy: With peak energy and mood, cryotherapy helps with muscle recovery and reduces inflammation, making it a refreshing addition during this active phase.
Luteal Phase (Days 18-28)
Compression & IV Therapy: To combat bloating, fatigue, and water retention in the luteal phase, I turn to compression therapy and IV drips loaded with magnesium and essential nutrients. These treatments help me feel balanced and prepared for the upcoming menstrual phase.
In this phase of my life and career, I’ve learned to acknowledge and embrace the TLC my body and mind need to thrive. I no longer fight against my challenges; I work with them. Brain fog doesn’t belong in my strategy meetings, and wardrobe meltdowns shouldn’t steal the joy of a party (has anyone else been there? Just me?). My wellness routine complete with slow mornings, a gluten-free diet, Pilates, and wine nights with my husband and friends has become a cornerstone of my happiness
What I once viewed as my greatest weakness my PCOS has become my greatest strength It’s taught me resilience, helped me guide clients and friends through similar struggles, and instilled the discipline to build healthy habits in all areas of life. Healing isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress, patience, and learning to lean into what makes you uniquely strong.
CONNECT WITH NICOLE DORAN
Iconic Etiquette
Entrepreneurial Etiquette was inspired by Jen’s book idea around timeless values, characteristics and manners that many have forgotten or have never been taught. You have one chance to make a first impression and your reputation is everything in life and business, learn
the gestures, acts, behavior and cultural differences that reflect consideration, thoughtfulness and poise
The art of a handshake ENTREPRENEURIALETIQUETTE:
A handshake.
Simple, isn’t it? Yet, this seemingly straightforward gesture carries a profound impact. It’s the universal symbol of agreement, trust, and confidence and one that speaks volumes without uttering a word. In today’s marketplace, where quick connections and virtual introductions dominate, the handshake often gets overlooked or, worse, executed poorly. As women navigating a world of business and leadership, mastering the handshake is not just etiquette; it’s a statement
Let’s reimagine this simple act as an art form a reflection of your iconic presence.
The Approach: Confidence Begins Before the Handshake
The handshake starts long before hands meet It begins with your posture, your stride, and your presence Walk into the room with your shoulders back, chin up, and an energy that says, “I belong here.” Confidence is not arrogance; it’s a quiet certainty that sets the tone. I call it peaceful confidence. When you extend your hand, make it intentional. A halfhearted, hesitant motion doesn’t convey the confidence of a woman who knows her worth
The Grip: Firm, Not Overbearing
Here’s the truth: a weak handshake does you no favors It can make even the most qualified woman appear unsure But there’s a fine line crushing someone ’ s fingers doesn’t exude strength; it shows a lack of awareness I actually just had this experience at an event where I thought the women broke bones when shaking my hand Ouch and it was interpreted as trying too hard and not appreciated. Find the balance. A firm grip demonstrates confidence and respect. Place your palm against theirs fully, wrap your fingers around theirs, and hold steady. This is your moment to convey, “I am someone worth knowing.”
The Eye Contact: The Unspoken Connection
The handshake isn’t just about your hand; it’s a full-body experience Lock eyes as you reach out, and hold their gaze briefly Eye contact is the silent language of trust It shows you are present, engaged, and unapologetically self-assured Averting your eyes during a handshake weakens the connection Instead, let your gaze say, “I see you, and I’m here to make an impact.” Presence is potent.
The Smile: Warmth with Intention
Pair your handshake with a genuine, effortless smile. Not the forced, wide grin of someone trying too hard, but a soft, confident curve of your lips that radiates approachability and professionalism. A smile is your invitation to collaboration, setting the tone for the conversation to follow
The Duration: Less is More
A handshake is not a marathon Two to three firm pumps are sufficient Anything longer feels awkward, while anything shorter feels dismissive Be intentional but efficient just enough to leave an impression without overstaying the moment
The Exit: Leave Your Mark
When the handshake ends, don’t rush to pull away or immediately dive into your phone or notes. Allow the energy of the handshake to linger for a beat. Stand tall, and let your presence fill the space. This small moment of pause reinforces the confidence and poise you just demonstrated.
“As women navigating a world of business and leadership, mastering the handshake is not just etiquette; it’s a statement.”
WHY IT MATTERS
As women, we often face unspoken scrutiny in moments of introduction. A handshake isn’t
just a handshake; it’s your opportunity to set the tone It’s an unspoken declaration of your competence, your confidence, and your character When done with intention, the handshake becomes more than etiquette it becomes your signature It’s a reminder to the world that you are a leader, not just in what you do but in how you carry yourself. I’m known for using both hands when l shake someone ’ s hand It’s my way of giving a respectful hug and also my signature shake that people always comment on and say how nice it was
And that’s iconic.
JEN SZPIGIEL, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ready to launch and feel confident doing It?
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Iconic Connections
J E N U I N E C O N N E C T I O N
Amonthly heart-centered article written by the Editor in Chief and Founder of Becoming Iconic, Jen Szpigiel. Jen has a reputation for being profoundly impactful for how she is able to blend vision, transparency and passion while leading and guiding others. Enjoy
her personal journal entries through the Jenuine Connection that host perspectives, insights and realizations that are only shared here within Iconic Magazine.
THERE HAVE BEEN THREE HEALTH CRISES THAT HAVE CHANGED MY LIFE
They usually do.
They come at times when I’m ignoring the message and trying to control things. They have come when I am not being honest with myself and instead forcing things to stay the same. The power in comfort. The effect of holding onto things that no longer are for you. It’s like wanting to stay in high school forever even though you ’ ve graduated
Last year, January 2, 2024, I had to rush myself to emergency This was only the second time in my life I had to go to an emergency department I was fiercely sick with pain that was intolerable I had this attack once before just a week earlier but otherwise it was new to me. It made me violently ill and for someone who has a high threshold for pain, you knew it was bad if I took myself in.
I was put on IV and given pain medication because the doctors could see how much I was suffering There were no questions, only support to get me over whatever was happening I knew what was happening I knew exactly why my body was feeling this way I just didn’t want to admit it
For over a year, I had heard whispers of guidance to stop drinking. The pandemic had put me in a routine of charcuterie boards and wine. Most nights consisted of it. We had become a couple who made some sort of snack and grabbed a cocktail to sit and watch something on tv or listen to music together I loved it to be honest But when I was quiet, I would hear “release alcohol from your life” I made excuses like “Jesus drank wine” and “I deserve it” but the
whispers continued It was this moment in the hospital where I knew It wasn’t that I overconsumed I would have a glass or two often Not justifying, although I did for a long time The idea of giving up alcohol felt like the furthest thing from what I desired My dad and I loved to have a good bottle of wine together when I made a nice meal. My mom and I loved to have a glass of white with some chips to catch up. My favorite vacation practice was a glass of wine at 4pm on my balcony after a day of sun and ocean. I couldn’t see how life would be without it. Until my body forced me to not have it.
Although I never got a clear diagnosis, I didn’t need one because I knew exactly why this had happened I also knew I had a choice to make To continue the way I was going and affect my health, or trust the process and remove most of it from my life I decided to remove it Not a rule of I will never have it again and instead I will have it only when it’s really worth it
“ I was releasing weight that I had been holding on to. I wasn’t tired in the mornings. I went to bed earlier and read more books than I ever had in a year I was rested My mood swings left me It was undeniable what was happening as a result of cutting alcohol.”
The first few months were relearning how to unwind and enjoy a meal without wine accompanying it I really resisted at first but I kept going I had an occasional glass here and there but it wasn’t very often It got easier and easier as the months went by because I cared more about protecting how I was feeling than the temptation for a drink During this time I had these incredible experiences My acne cleared up My puffiness was going away. I was releasing weight that I had been holding on to. I wasn’t tired in the mornings. I went to bed earlier and read more books than I ever had in a year. I was rested. My mood swings left me. It was undeniable what was happening as a result of cutting alcohol.
I have really enjoyed this experience and so much so that I don’t see myself going back How I feel and who I have become by releasing alcohol is one of my greatest rewards and wins in life I’m not against alcohol I will still have a drink if it’s worth it to me I just don’t choose it very often anymore
The thing that really anchored all of this in was when our kids said to us “ you guys don’t really drink alcohol You used to but now you don’t” My husband and I realized how much they are watching and how our example is the one they remember To show them a healthy relationship with alcohol and also that you don’t need it in your life is something I am really proud to give them.
So, cheers to semi-sober living. A new mind, body and spirit around what alcohol means and doesn’t mean to me and mostly, health and vitality to continue building and leading a life of legacy
If you ’ re sober curious or would like to chat, never hesitate to reach out I had a whisper that I ignored until I couldn’t anymore I recommend you listen to the whisper and spare yourself the health crisis!!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAC’S STUDIO
Iconic Lifestyle
The way to invite an opulent lifestyle into your world is through the intentionality of elevating all of your senses. Luxury is found within the details. esSENSE is here to inspire you to create experiences that turn moments into gorgeous memories. Learn about the most iconic
places, products, sounds, tastes and sights to immediately raise your standards of excellence within your life and business.
Declutter & Organize your spaces
Go-to kitchen organizations items THE ICONIC EDIT
. Oil Dispenser 03 Cutlery Flatware holder
02. Paper Towel Holder
04. Spice Drawer Organizer with labels
06. Food Processor + Recycler
05 Clear Storage Containers
THE ICONIC EDIT
Bathroom goals
01 Shampoo and Conditioner Dispenser
04. Makeup + Product Organizer
03. Acrylic holders
02. Slim Laundry Hamper
06. Vanity Tray
05. Bathroom Utility Cart
Meals in under 35 minutes
In 2025, it’s all about quick, nourishing meals that get you out of the kitchen and back to living your life.
BY THE CHUNKY CHEF
Chicken Fajita Pasta
INSTRUCTIONS INGREDIENTS
3 Tbsp olive oil, divided
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2 - 1 inch pieces
2-3 Tbsp fajita seasoning (taco seasoning works too)
1 large yellow onion, peeled and diced
2-3 bell peppers, any variety, sliced into 1 inch long
strips
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups reduced sodium chicken stock
1/2 cup heavy cream
10 oz can diced tomatoes and green chiles (like Rotel brand)
8 oz dried penne pasta (or other short cut pasta)
kosher salt and black pepper, to taste lime wedges, for garnish
sliced green onions, for garnish
minced fresh cilantro, for garnish
Heat 1 ½ tbsp olive oil in a Dutch oven or skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, sprinkle with half the fajita seasoning, and cook 2 minutes per side. Remove to a plate.
Add 1 ½ tbsp olive oil, onions, peppers, and remaining seasoning to the pot. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened and slightly charred. Stir in garlic, cook 30 seconds, then transfer to the plate with chicken.
Add chicken stock, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, chiles, pasta, salt, and pepper. Scrape the bottom to deglaze, bring to a boil, then reduce to a low boil. Cover and cook 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If liquid isn’t absorbed, cook 3–5 more minutes. Add chicken and vegetables back to the pot, stir to heat through.
Serve with green onions, parsley or cilantro, and lime wedges.
Honey Garlic Shrimp
INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or oil)
1 pound extra-large shrimp
1/2 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
1 tablespoon minced garlic
3 cups fresh broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
Sauce
2 teaspoons cornstarch
4 tablespoons regular (not lite) soy sauce
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil (Note 2)
2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (Note 3)
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper, optional
Optional: white rice, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
Steam Broccoli
Sauce: In a small bowl, add cornstarch and soy sauce. Whisk with a fork until smooth. Add remaining sauce ingredients and whisk again.
Shrimp: Add oil to a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 of shrimp in one even layer (don't overcrowd or overlap). Cook for 1 minute, then use tongs to flip on the other side and cook for 1 more minute up to 90 seconds or until cooked through. Use tongs to transfer to a plate. Repeat cooking the remaining shrimp and transfer to the plate.
Veggies: Keeping the heat at medium-high, add in the thinly sliced onion. Cook, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes or until starting to soften. Add a touch more oil if needed and scrape the bottom of the pan as you cook. Add in garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds. Finally, add in broccoli and cook to crisp tender.
Add Sauce: Quickly stir up the sauce again (honey usually settles) and add to skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens like syrup (about a minute). Add the shrimp back in (and any accumulated juices) and toss through just to fully warm the shrimp. Remove from heat, garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately! We like this served over cooked rice.
BY CHELSEA’S MESSY APRON
BY NOURISH AND FETE
Unstuffed Peppers Skillet
INSTRUCTIONS INGREDIENTS
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 medium yellow onion chopped
3-4 cloves garlic minced
2 cups beef or chicken broth
3/4 cups white Jasmine rice
2 bell peppers any color, seeded and chopped
1 14 ounce can diced tomatoes with juices
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon kosher salt
12-15 cranks fresh-ground black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella
parsley for garnish optional
Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the beef, onion, and garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the meat is crumbled and well-browned. Drain any excess grease and return skillet to the heat.
Stir in the broth, rice, bell peppers, tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a rapid simmer, stir well, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 18-20 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Stir the mixture gently, then top with shredded mozzarella. Return to the heat and recover, or place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, to melt and brown the cheese, as desired. Garnish with parsley or other herbs as desired, and serve.
Let’s get saucy
Check out these quick and easy salad dressings and marinades to keep on hand for fast, flavorful meals.
Creamy House Salad Dressing
INGREDIENTS
Vinegar – White vinegar is used for this dressing recipe. You can substitute it with red wine vinegar. Olive oil – Use a high quality olive oil for the best flavor dressing.
Lemon juice – Fresh lemon juice adds delicious flavor. Mayonnaise – I am using a full fat mayonnaise for the best flavor.
Garlic – One minced garlic clove is used. Italian seasonings – This adds great flavor to the dressing.
Sugar – Just a little bit of sugar helps to balance all of the flavors.
Parmesan cheese – Grated parmesan cheese. Salt and pepper – Season to taste preference
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Place mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, and sugar in a bowl. Whisk together until completely combined.
Step 2: Slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking.
Step 3: Whisk in garlic, Italian seasonings, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper
BY HEATHER SEELY
Classic Pork Marinade
INGREDIENTS
¼ cup of Dry Mustard
1 ½ cups of Brown Sugar
¾ cup of Pineapple Juice
2 tsp of White Sugar
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare Ingredients: Gather 1/4 cup dry mustard, 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, 3/4 cup chili sauce, 3/4 cup pineapple juice, and 2 tsp white sugar.
Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine dry mustard, brown sugar, and white sugar in a bowl. Mix well.
Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in pineapple juice and chili sauce, whisking until smooth and sugars dissolve.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate the marinade for at least 2 hours, or overnight for better flavor.
Marinate Meat: Pour marinade over pork in a sealed bag or dish, ensuring even coverage.
Seal and Rest: Remove air if using a bag or cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate for 2+ hours or overnight for best results.
BY SAUCE CHICK
Everyday Salad Dressing
INSTRUCTIONS INGREDIENTS
Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and whisk or stir until emulsified (fully combined and thickened).
Add to your favorite salads! This dressing is very versatile and tasty with: green, leafy salads, grain-based salads (like quinoa), or even pasta salads.
BY HER WHOLESOME KIITCHEN
Store the dressing in an airtight container (Like a jar) in the fridge. Properly stored, this dressing will stay good for 2 - 3 weeks.
2025 Iconic Trend Report
Winter Footwear
THAT AREN’T UGGS!
Converse
06. Winterized Sneakers
01 The Biker Boot
Michael Kors
Steve Madden
04. Lugged Ankle Boot
Inuikii
05. “Moon” Boot
02. The Riding Boot
Hermes
Prada
03. Combat Boot
The oversized blazer has reigned
supreme in recent years, becoming a wardrobe staple for its effortless, relaxed vibe. But as we step into the new season, a tailored twist is making waves The tailored fit blazer is the polished upgrade your wardrobe needs This silhouette emphasizes structure and sophistication, perfectly balancing modern and classic aesthetics Its sleek, cinched design elevates your outfit while highlighting your figure, offering a refined alternative to its oversized predecessor.
What we ’ re swapping out
UPDATED SILHOUETTES TO CONSIDER
Oversized Blazer
Tailored Fitted Blazer
Love it or loathe it, the low-rise trend is officially back
and it’s not just a Y2K revival. This time, the look is more versatile, modern, and dare we say, wearable. Low-rise bottoms, from denim to tailored trousers, are becoming a go-to for their ability to elongate the torso, making them especially flattering for shorter torsos Think sleek, understated cuts rather than ultra-distressed throwbacks
High Rise
Low-rise
Iconic Thought
Jen has built multi seven figure businesses globally as well as supporting her clients to create over thirty million dollars in sales through her wisdom, experience and leadership. Her strategic and energetic approach matched with her leadership expertise is unmatched within the marketplace. Acquire business advice, new
insights and contemplations through Jen’s monthly Iconic Thought that will support your next level growth within business.
SOME YEARS JUST DON’T GO AS PLANNED
Some years just don’t go as planned We set our goals, we deve-
lop the plan, we do the work, yet it doesn’t go as planned It can feel so frustrating and defeating We doubt We wonder We question We begin to feel ourselves slip backwards into ideas of settling We start to seduce ourselves into thinking that it “ wasn’t so bad” before and forget all the reasons why we started in the first place.
I’ve been there. More than once. After eighteen years of entrepreneurship, not every year has felt like popping champagne Some years knocked the wind out of me There’s been times I’ve been on my knees begging for some sign that it was going to work out Wondering if this was the end and my time had dried up
What I have learned is that these are our most defining moments This is where leaders are born and character is solidified. It’s also where I have become the most proud of myself. When the easy choice was to quit and instead I chose to keep crawling as a warrior who could not be defeated. Dusty, bruised and with skinned knees, I chose to stay in the arena. Not because it was easy but because it was what a leader would do I promised myself I would be the last one standing
A new year doesn’t hold the power to change your circumstances It’s not like January 1st has some magic to it that December 31st didn’t
It’s the way we view things and our personal power that makes a year always worth celebrating
Our life story is soaked in those big celebration memories Those are the moments after we crawled and I believe it’s part of why it feels so good We had them because we kept going. Yet, my memories often lie in the years that chiseled me. The years where I felt like I was failing, are the years that made me into the leader and woman I became to hold that next champagne moment. I was being sharpened. I was made aware of the people, things and behaviors that no longer fit I was required to do the hard things to hold and relish in the big growth and expansion
So when the years feel disappointing or radically different from the goals I had set out for myself, I am reminded that it’s the year of chiseling I have faith in the journey that I must take in order to hold the big vision that I have I no longer fight these years that don’t go as planned or make them wrong. I no longer wish them to be over or expect the stroke of midnight to change my circumstance. I instead, allow it to unfold as it will. The pace in which my success comes is dependent upon the pace that I am able to learn the lesson, apply it and lead This I know for sure
JEN SZPIGIEL, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
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