The Trablazer of WOEN M LEADERS Kirsty Gordon’s Journey to Showcasing Africa’s Soul
African Safaris
Embracing Excellence
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KIRSTY GORDON JEANNE GILLS The Trablazer of African Safaris Kirsty Gordon’s Journey to Showcasing Africa's Soul Kirsty Gordon’s love for Africa runs deep. BorninJohannesburg,South Africa,shegrewupsurrounded bytherhythmicpulseofthe continent.Whenshewasseven, herfamilymovedtothescenic townofGeorge,nestledwithin SouthAfrica'siconicGarden Route.Thismovedeepenedher appreciationfornatureand adventure,settingthe foundationforwhatwouldlater becomealifelongpassionfor Africantravel.Butitwasa singularmomentinBotswanain 1994thatchanged everything—amomentthat ignitedaloveaffairwiththe Africanwildernessthatwould shapehercareerandinspire travelersfromacrosstheglobe.
The De ining Safari Experience
Her irstsafariwasn'ta meticulouslyplanned professionaltrip.Instead,itwas apersonaljourney—an invitationtocelebrateafriend's 21stbirthdayintheOkavango Delta.Theexperiencewas transformative.Asshe navigatedthroughthepristine wetlands,surroundedbyan
untouchedwildernessteeming withlife,sheknewshehad foundsomethingextraordinary. “Thistripstartedmyloveaffair withAfrica,”sherecalls.It wasn'tjustthewildlifeorthe landscapes—itwasthefeeling ofbeingpartofsomethingfar greaterthanherself.
Professional Evolution: From Corporate Travel to Boutique Safaris
Atthetime,Kirstywasworking inthetravelindustry, specializinginincentivetravel forcorporatecompaniesin SouthAfrica.Shecoordinated luxurytripsforgroupsof20to 200people,curating experiencesthatblended adventurewithcomfort.Her expertiseincraftingseamless travelexperiencessooncaught theattentionofanother companythatfocusedon bringinginternationalgroupsto SouthAfricaforlarge-scale corporateevents.She transitionedintoevent management,re iningherskills inhospitalityandlogistics.But somethingwas
missing—somethingrawand realthatcalledherbacktothe wildersideofAfrica.
The Birth of an African Travel Vision
Inanerabeforeonlinetravel agenciesbecamemainstream, Kirstyrecognizedan opportunity.Sheestablishedher irstonlinetravelbusiness, curatingpackageholidays acrossAfricaandtheIndian OceanIslands.Yet,evenasshe builtasuccessfulcompany,her personalthirstforadventure neverwaned.Sheoften embarkedoncampingsafarisin Botswana,immersingherselfin theuntamedlandscapesshe loved.Thencameanunexpected request—onethatwouldpivot hercareerinanewdirection.A clientfromtheUnitedStates, inspiredbyherpersonaltravels, askedtojoinherononeofher self-plannedcamping expeditions.Thatsingular requestledtothecreationof herluxuryglampingcompany, specializinginintimate,tailormadesafaris.
A Brief Detour: Aiming for the Beijing Olympics
By2006,anotherunexpected opportunityemerged—onethat momentarilypulledherawayfrom thetravelindustry.Atalented equestrian,Kirstywasoffereda chancetotrainandcompete professionallyintheUK,withthe ultimategoalofqualifyingforthe BeijingOlympicsasa representativeofSouthAfrica.She soldhertravelbusinessandmoved totheUK,dedicatingherselffully tothesport.ButAfrica'scallwas neverfarfromherheart.Whenshe returnedhomein2008,shefound herselfatacrossroads.Wouldshe returntothetravelindustry,or forgeanewpath?Theanswer cameswiftly.“Onre lection,I realizedIlovedtravelinginAfrica. Ilovedhelpingpeopleexperience andexploreAfrica—somy decisionwasmade.Africaand travelweremytrueloves.”
Andso,AnywhereinAfricaSafaris wasborn.
Building Strong Partnerships for Unmatched Experiences
Kirstybelievesthatpartnerships arethefoundationofcreating unparalleledexperiences.“Ithelps whenyou'vebeenintheindustry forsuchalongtime.Youbuild trustandhonestywithallthe suppliers—lodges,ground handlers,andguides.”
Tomaintainthehigheststandards, shefrequentlyvisitsdestinations andlodgesherself.In2024alone, sheventuredtoMozambique, Zimbabwe,andZambia.Hernext mission?KenyaandUganda.“I've
beenwantingtorevisitKenyaand UgandasincebeforeCOVID.This year,Iwanttofocuson updates—checkingoutnewlodges, revisitingSamburuNationalPark, MasaiMara,andAmboseli.In Uganda,Iwanttoexperience gorillaandchimpanzeetrekking irsthand,exploreQueenElizabeth NationalPark,visitMurchison Falls,andevengoNileperch ishing.”
A Commitment to Conservation and Responsible Tourism Kirstyisdeeplycommittedto conservationandcommunity upliftment,ensuringthather businesshasameaningfulimpact onthedestinationsitserves. AnywhereinAfricaSafarisdonates aportionofeachclient'stripto twosigni icantinitiatives.
Curating Authentic African Experiences Kirsty's vision for Anywhere in Africa Safaris was clear from the start: to create boutique, highly personalized safari experiences that would not only showcase the continent's beauty but also inspire travelers to become ambassadors for Africa.
Having spent more than three decades in the travel industry, Kirsty has personally explored some of the most remote and breathtaking corners of Africa. This firsthand experience allows her to carefully curate each itinerary, ensuring that her
clients encounter the continent in the most authentic and immersive way possible.
“I focus on handpicking small boutique lodges and ground handlers in the various countries,” she explains. “The guides we use in each destination are vetted by the amazing ground handlers I partner with. We work with lodges and guides who are passionate about Africa and want to showcase the true African experience—somethin g that is authentic and real.”
Go Africa Anywhere in Africa With Us. The Future of African Travel Africantourismissteadily evolving,withgrowinginterest insustainabletravel, conservationefforts,and immersiveexperiences.
CountrieslikeTanzania,Kenya, Rwanda,Botswana,Namibia, andUgandaremaintop destinations.However,Kirsty predictsthatemerginglocations suchasZambia,Malawi, Mozambique,Ethiopia,Reunion Island,andMadagascarwillsee increasedtravelerinterestover thenext iveyears.
“Iamalreadyworkingwith preferredpartnersinthese areas,somynetworkisready,” shesays.Herrecentvisitsto ZambiaandMozambiquehave onlyreinforcedherbeliefthat thesedestinationswillthrivein thecomingyears.“Zambiaisan incrediblewildlifedestination, andMozambiqueofferspristine beaches, ishing,andscuba diving—perfectforthoselooking forbothadventureand relaxation.”
Advice for Travelers and MustVisit Destinations Foranyoneplanningatripto Africa,Kirstyoffersoneessential pieceofadvice:“It'sthejourney, notthedestination.”She encouragestravelerstoembrace therhythmofAfrica—where thingsmovealittleslower,but theexperiencesareprofoundly rich.“Beopenand lexiblewhen youtravelinAfrica.Trynotto impose irst-worldexpectations onyourtrip.Youwillmeet amazingpeople,seeincredible
wildlife,andwitnessaweinspiringlandscapes—but sometimes,youneedpatience.”
Asformust-visit destinations,shehas threeclearfavorites:
1. Tanzania –Hometo theGreatMigration,a breathtakingnatural eventthatsees millionsofwildebeest moveacrossthe Serengeti.“It'san experiencelikeno other.”
2. Rwanda –“Gorilla trekkinginVolcanoes NationalParkisa once-in-a-lifetime experience,”shesays. AddinNyungwe Forest'schimpanzee trekkingandcoffee plantations,andyou haveadestinationof unparalleledbeauty.
3. Botswana –The OkavangoDelta, ElephantHavens,and thecountry'svast, untouchedlandscapes makeitan unforgettablesafari destination.
Throughherwork, KirstyGordonensures thattravelersdon't justvisitAfrica—they fallinlovewithit.And forthosewhojourney withAnywherein AfricaSafaris,the continentbecomes morethanjusta destination.Itbecomes alifelongpassion.
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Jeanne M. Gills
Bridging Law, Technology, and Leadership M.Gillsisa powerhouseinthe worldofintellectual propertylaw, seamlesslyblendingherengineering backgroundwithherexpertisein litigationtonavigatethecomplex intersectionsoftechnologyandlegal protection.Asa irst-chairpatentlitigator andanequitypartneratFoley&Lardner LLP,shehasbuiltanimpressivecareer advisingFortune500companies,leading high-stakesIPlitigation,andshapingthe futureofintellectualpropertylaw.
Beyondherlegalacumen,Gillsisa trailblazerinfosteringdiversity,equity, andinclusioninthelegal ield.From foundingFoley's African American Attorneys Af inity Group andthe Black Patent Network tospearheading Team Impossible,sheisdedicatedtocreating opportunitiesforunderrepresented groupsinSTEMandlaw.Herleadership extendsbeyondher irm—through mentorship,strategiccounsel,and groundbreakinginitiatives,shecontinues toupliftthenextgenerationofdiverse
legalandbusinessprofessionals.
Inthisexclusiveinterview,Gillssharesthe pivotalmomentsthatledherto intellectualpropertylaw,thelessonsshe's learnedfromintegratinglitigation expertiseintohigh-valuecorporate transactions,andhervisionforthefuture ofIPlaw.Shealsodiscussestheimpactof herleadershipphilosophyandthe importanceofcultivatingmeaningful relationshipsinbothbusinessandlife.
What inspired you to pursue a career in intellectual property law, and how did your background in electrical engineering shape your approach to IP litigation?
STEMhaslongbeenapartofmyworld, andIcouldnotrunfromithavingafather withaPh.D.inmathematicsandasister withaPh.D.inopticalphysics.Thatsaid,a fortuitouspre-engineeringprogramat PurdueUniversitybeforemyhighschool senioryearledmeonasimilarpath. WhileIenjoyedelectricalengineeringat MichiganStateUniversity,Iwasunsure
whetherworkinginanengineering labwasmyforte,soIconsidered post-graduatestudiesin engineering,business,and medicine.Fortunately,theanswer cameviamyinternshipsession with3MCompany,whichafforded meextensivetimeinteractingwith 3M'spatentattorneysgiventhe constantinnovationoccurringin mysupervisors'labs.The intersectionoflawandscience immediatelycaptivatedme.AsI delveddeeper,Idiscoveredmy passionlayinlitigation—enforcing patentandIPassetsincourt,rather thansimplyidentifyingand procuringthoserightsinthe irst instance.
Watchingmyfatherleveragehis technicalbackgroundinnumerous
waysinspiredhowIdeployedmy owntechnicaltraining.Namely,my fathernotonlytaughtmathto studentsatHBCUinstitutions(e.g., Southern,JacksonState,and Howarduniversities),butalsohis substantiveexpertiseandpeople skillsledtoengineeringrolesat AT&TandNASAandtobecoming the irstBlackmemberof Allentown,PA'sSchoolBoard.Asan IPlitigator,mytechnicalskillsgive methecon idencetotackleany technology.Whilemypractice certainlyinvolvesahealthydoseof patentlitigation,Ilikewisehandle alltypesofIPdisputes—including tradesecret,trademark,trade dress,copyright,andfalse advertisinglitigation.Myown “peopleskills”andabilityto cultivatemeaningfulrelationships
hasallowedmetobuildteams withinandoutsideofFoley,leading toafarbroaderIPpracticethan most.Onanygivenday,theIP issuescouldjustaseasilyconcern patentsonanti-dandruff conditioningshampooorfuel vaporcanisterstoreduce evaporativeemissions,asthey couldpatentsonapparelorAI technologies.Likewise,mycareer hasinvolvedcounselingclientson trademarkandtradedress protectionforcolorandpackaging designsanddefendingclients accusedoffalseadvertisingbased onproductplacementonretail shelves.
Growingup,Iwatchedbothmy parentsusetheirpassionsand naturalabilitiestoalsofoster
careersuccess.Givingbackand championingotherswasalso emphasized,whichtaughtmethe valueofinvestingtimetobuild meaningfulrelationships.Those relationshipscoupledwithbeinga naturalconversationalistand people-orientedpersonaretraits thatservemewellasalitigator.
How do you integrate your litigation expertise into advising clients on IP-driven transactions, such as the Kraft Foods split or high-value M&A deals?
Nearly15yearsago,aformer Fortune100deputygeneral counselopenedmyeyestohowmy workasalitigatorcouldnaturally addvaluetoM&Ateams.Atthe forefrontoflitigationisthe managementofrisk.Thatskillset allowsmetoviewatransaction fromthestandpointofhowany particularcontractuallanguagewill beviewedifandwhentheparties' relationshipendsandevaluate potentialrisksandproactively addressthem.Totheextentthat languagecanbeclearandfreeof ambiguitiesfromtheoutset,itcan helpminimizefuturedisputeslater oratleastputmyclientinthe superiorpositionastocontract interpretation.Mylitigation backgroundhelpsmethink criticallyabouthowIPwillor mightbecontestedinthefuture, includingviaexperiencewithIP ownershipcon licts,licensing issues,orvaliditychallenges. Whetherthetarget'sIPportfoliois freeofroadblocks,suchasprior adversarialproceedings,could undermineitsvalue.Likewise, becausecomplextransactionsoften involvesplittingortransferringIP rights,theneedtodraftIP
ownershipandlicenserightswith clarityandenforceabilityinmindis paramount.GiventhevalueofIPin manycommercialtransactionsand thehighcostsofresolvingmostIP disputes,itisvitaltohavethoseIP provisionssolidfromtheoutset.At theendoftheday,whetheritis litigationoratransaction,Ialign thelegalstrategiestomyclient's overallbusinessobjectives.
Canyouelaborateontheprinciples thatguideyourleadership, particularlywithinitiativeslike “TeamImpossible”?
While“TeamImpossible”gotits of icialnameduringCOVIDandata timewhenIparticularlywantedto recognizehowhardmycolleagues wereworkingandperformingata highleveleveninthosedesperate times,thefoundationforourteam hadstartedfarearlier.Every companyundoubtedlyneeds strongleaders,butitisour connectionsand relationships—withtheseleaders andwitheachother—thattruly drivesuccess.“TeamImpossible” comprisesadiversegroupofover 60attorneys,paraprofessionals, andbusinessprofessionalsfrom Foley'smultipleof icesand operatesunderamottoinspiredby MuhammadAli'sfamouswords: “Impossible is nothing …”when wesupporteachother professionallyandpersonally.Asa team,wedriveexcellence,foster collaboration,andalwayspush eachothertobebetter.
Aclient'sCEOrecentlynotedthat whileallleadersstrivetolead otherstoachievethebest outcomes,greatleadersinspire because “following [that leader] is voluntary.”ThroughTeam
Impossible,Itoohopetoinspire, notjustourteambutotherswithin our irmmorebroadly.Wework hardforourclientsandsometimes atpersonalsacri ice.Butwhenyou workwithpeopleyoulike,dowhat youlike,andseethefruitsofthat laborinhowyoumakeothersfeel andtheresultsyouachieve together,itmakesitallworthwhile. Bybuildingteamsandengaging diverseperspectiveswithinthe broadercommunity,ithasenabled metocontinuouslygrowmy networkoftoplegalandbusiness talent,nurturethoserelationships, andleveragetheseconnectionsto bene itothers.Likewise,through hostingexclusivethought leadershipandsocialevents,I facilitateintroductions,spark collaboration,andinspire innovation.
What role does mentorship play in your leadership style, and how do you cultivate growth within your team?
Iamtheproductandbene iciaryof phenomenalmentorshipinsideand outsideFoley,afactIknowmany othersinBigLawcannotsay.I thereforedeeplyvaluethe mentorshipthatshapedmyown careerasoneofthefew irst-chair Blackpatentlitigatorsinthe countryandafemaleequity partnerand irmleader—including rolesonFoley'sIPDepartment leadershipteamandpriormember ofthe irm'sManagement Committeeand2024chairofits CompensationCommittee.I thereforefeelastrong responsibilitytomentor,champion, andfosterthenextgeneration.Iam equallypassionateabout supportingtheprofessionalgrowth ofourclientsbyidentifyingand
sourcingcandidatesforopeninhousecounselrolesatalllevelsand assistingbothlaw irmandinhouseattorneystransitioningto theirnextcareeropportunities.As asinglemothertoanadopted Blackson,Ialsoparticularlyenjoy mentoringwomenonbalancing (juggling!)workandlife, embracingtherewardsof parenting,andmasteringskillslike multi-tasking, lexibility,stress managementandselfcare—invaluablequalitiesfor handlingcomplexlegalmattersand lifeingeneral.
As a founder of Foley's African American Attorneys Af inity Group, the Black Patent Network, and the Chicago Black Partners Alliance, what motivated you to create these initiatives, and what impact have they had?
Asayounggirl,Iwatchedmyfather persevereagainstracismto becomeoneofthe irstBlack studentstoearnhisPh.D.in mathematicsatLouisianaState University.Thenandnow,wehave toensureallpeople(regardlessof race,gender,religionor orientation)havealevelplaying ieldandanequalandfair opportunitytosucceed.AsaBlack femaleengineerandAmLaw50 irmleader,Iwanttominimize someoftheobstaclesIendured, thoughthosesameobstacleshave undoubtedlymadememore resourceful,resilient,creative,and adaptable.Regardless, championingdiversity,equity,and inclusionisessentialtoleavingour worldbetterthanwefoundit. Whilethereisstillmuchprogress tobemade,drivingthelegal professiontowardgreaterdiversity andinclusivenessthrough
organizationssuchastheseis necessary.Indeed,thesuccessof TeamImpossiblestemsfromthe diversityofourcollective backgroundsandlifeexperiences thatallowsustobetter“think outsidethebox”andseethingsthat othersdonotsee.TeamImpossible membersnowworkwithpeople theymaynothavenaturally workedwithbefore,especially afterseeingwhatwehavebeen abletoachievethroughourmore inclusiveapproach.
With multiple leadership positions and a thriving litigation practice, how do you balance your responsibilities and maintain focus?
Honestly,somedaysareeasierthan others.Litigationisinherently demanding,soitrequiresa combinationofprioritization, delegation,andaclearfocuson outcomesandwhattrulymovesthe needle—whetherit'sacritical clientmatter,aninternalinitiative, oraleadershipresponsibility—and allocatingmyenergyaccordingly.
Effectivedelegationiskeyand TeamImpossiblesharesa commitmenttoexcellence.By trustingandempoweringteam memberstotakeownership,work progressesseamlessly,whetherI amdirectlyinvolvedornot.
Regardlessofmyleadershiproles, clientserviceremainsatthecoreof mypractice.Imakeaconscious efforttostaydeeplyinvolvedin high-stakesclientmattersand providepersonalattentionwhere neededwhilealsotrustingand empoweringtheteam.Clearand candidcommunicationensures alignmentandavoidsbottlenecks.
Itisalsoimportanttohavefun, laughter,andjoy,andapersonal boardofdirectorsthatcanhold youaccountableandmakesureyou remainyourauthenticself.Ifeel blessedtohavefamilyandfriends thatkeepmegroundedandensure thateventheworkisfun,butalso thatthereislifeoutsideofwork.
What innovations or changes would you like to see in the ield of intellectual property law in the coming decade?
Fromtheperspectiveofboth technologyanddiversity,theIP ieldhasimmensepotentialfor innovationandevolutioninthe comingdecade.Thereneedstobe clearerguidanceonhowAIenabledinventionsandcreative worksaretreatedunderIPlaws. UsingtoolslikeAIandblockchain tosimplifyprocessescanmake themmoreaccessibleglobally, particularlytoinnovatorsin underprivilegedgroupsorremote partsoftheworld.Inconsistencies inIPprotectionandenforcement alsocreateinef icienciesandrisks. Greateralignmentoflaws, particularlyinfast-growing markets,wouldreducebarriers andfosterinnovation.
Fromapeopleperspective,law irmsthatremaindedicatedto fosteringdiversity,inclusivity,and belongingwillcontinuetosucceed. AsaleaderwithinFoley,Iamnot goingtostopwhatIamdoing becauseIhaveseenoverthecourse ofmycareerthewonderfulthings thatcomefromhavingdiverse teams.
Shaping the future of Business Law Intheever-evolvingworldof corporatelaw,fewindividuals standoutfortheiruniqueblend oflegalexpertise,business acumen,andleadership inesse.Onesuch risingstarisAakankshaRao,whose journeyintothe ieldofcorporatelawis bothinspiringandexemplary.Drivenbya deep-rootedpassionforthelegal professionandakeeninterestinthe corporatelandscape,Aakankshahas carvedapaththatseamlesslymergesthe twodisciplines.Herapproachtolawis notmerelyaboutensuringcompliance butalsoaboutcontributingtothebroader businessstrategyandhelping organizationsthrive.
A Passion Ignited Early Aakanksha'sdesiretobecomealawyer beganasearlyashereighth-gradeyear. Whilemanychildrenarestillexploring theirinterestsatthatage,Aakankshahad alreadydevelopedafascinationwiththe legalsystem.However,itwasn'tjustthe practiceoflawthatintriguedher;shewas equallydrawntotheinnerworkingsof businessesandthedynamicsofcorporate
success.Thisdualinterestpavedtheway forhereventualpursuitofcorporate law—a ieldthatallowedhertocombine herpassionforlawwithherbusinessorientedmindset.
“Corporatelawisnotonlyintellectually stimulating,butitalsoallowsmetomake animpactbyhelpingbusinessesoperate smoothly,complywithregulations,and resolvedisputesef iciently,”shere lects. Thedynamicnatureofthecorporatelegal landscape,whereeverydaypresentsnew challengesacrossdifferentindustries, motivatedAakankshatostepintoa ield whereherproblem-solvingskillscould thrive.
Leadership Rooted in Trust and Transparency
Aakanksha'sapproachtoleadershipis groundedinafewkeyprinciples:trust, transparency,adaptability,and accountability.Shebelievesthateffective leadershipstartswithbuildingtrust withinateam.Forher,transparencyisnot justabuzzwordbutadailypractice.Clear, honestcommunicationensuresthatevery
Aakanksha teammemberisalignedwiththe organization'sgoalsandfeels empoweredtocontribute meaningfully.
“Ialwaysensurethatmyteam understandsthebiggerpicture. Whenpeopleseehowtheir individualroles itintotheoverall objective,theyaremoremotivated andcon identintheirwork,”she says.
Adaptabilityisanother cornerstoneofherleadership style.Inthefast-pacedcorporate world,challengesareinevitable. Aakankshaencouragesherteamto embracechangeandapproach problemswithcreativityand lexibility.Thisadaptabilityhasnot onlyhelpedherteamovercome obstaclesbuthasalsofostered innovationwithinher organization.
Accountabilityisthe inalpieceof Aakanksha'sleadership philosophy.Shebelievesthata cultureofaccountabilitystartsat thetop.Bytakingownershipofher decisionsandactions,shesetsa standardforherteam.“When everyoneholdsthemselves accountable,itstrengthensthe entireteam'ssenseof responsibilityandprideinour work,”sheemphasizes.
The Qualities That De ine a Successful Lawyer Havingnavigatedthedemanding worldofcorporatelaw,Aakanksha hasidenti iedseveralkeyqualities thateverylawyermustpossessto excel.Atthetopofthelistis attentiontodetail.“Lawisoften aboutgettingthesmallthings right.Whetherit'saclauseina contractoraprecedentinacase,
missingthe inerpointscanleadto signi icantconsequences,”she explains.
Strategicthinkingisanother criticalskill.Corporatelawyersare notmerelyproblemsolvers;they mustanticipatepotentialrisksand craftlong-termsolutionsthatalign withtheirclient'sbusiness objectives.Thisrequiresnotonlya deepunderstandingoflegal frameworksbutalsoinsightinto markettrendsandthebroader businesslandscape.
Lastly,strongcommunicationskills areindispensable.Aakanksha highlightsthattheabilitytoconvey complexlegalconceptsinsimple, cleartermsisvital.Corporate clientsoftendonothavealegal background,makingitcrucialfor lawyerstobridgethegapbetween legalintricaciesandbusiness realities.
“Whenyoubalanceattentionto detail,strategicthinking,and communication,younotonly safeguardyourclient'sinterests butalsoaddvaluetotheir business,”shenotes.
A Message to Aspiring Lawyers Forthoseembarkingontheirlegal careers,Aakankshaoffers invaluableadvice:embracethe journeywithcuriosity,humility, andacommitmenttocontinuous learning.Shestressesthatsuccess inlawdoesnotcomeovernight.It isagradualprocessthatrequires patience,persistence,anda willingnesstogrowwitheach experience.
“Don'texpecttoknoweverything fromdayone.Focusonbuildinga strongfoundation—beitinyour
legalknowledgeorprofessional relationships,”sheadvises.
Shealsoremindsyounglawyersof theirbroaderresponsibility towardssociety.Lawyersholda positionofin luence,andwiththat comesanobligationtopromote fairness,transparency,andethical practices.Whetherworkingin corporatelaw,criminaljustice,or publicpolicy,legalprofessionals havethepowertodrivepositive change.
“Neverlosesightofyoursenseof purpose.Theworkwedocanbe challenging,butattheendofthe day,weareheretomakea difference.Keepingthatinmind willguideyouthrougheventhe toughestdays,”shesays.
The Road Ahead
AsAakankshacontinuestogrowin hercareer,sheremainscommitted tohervisionofblendinglegal expertisewithbusinessstrategy. Herjourneyservesasatestament tothefactthatsuccessincorporate lawisnotmerelyaboutmastering legalprinciples—itisabout understandingthepulseof businesses,leadingwithintegrity, andmakingameaningfulimpact.
Foraspiringlawyersandseasoned professionalsalike,Aakanksha Rao'sstoryisareminderthatthe practiceoflawisnotcon inedto courtroomsorlegaldocuments.It isaboutshapingindustries, in luencingdecisions,and ultimately,makingadifferencein theworld.
Ivana Brcan
A Journey of Thefashionindustryisaworldof glamour,highexpectations,and iercecompetition.Formany, steppingintothisspacecanbe intimidating,andsuccessoftenrequires morethanjustastrikingappearance—it demandscon idence,resilience,anda deepunderstandingofone'sworth.Ivana Brcanisonesuchmodelwhohascarved herpathintheindustry,notjustthrough hertalentbutalsothroughher commitmenttoauthenticity,self-love,and purpose-drivenwork.
A Serendipitous Start Ivanaalwayshadanappreciationfor fashionandphotography,butmodeling wasneverpartofherplan.Thatall changedonedaywhenamodelagent approachedheratashoppingmalland askedifshe'dbeinterestedindoinga shoot.Whatstartedasasimpleinquiry turnedintoawhirlwindjourneythattook heracrossdifferentcountries,working withvariousbrandsandphotographers.
Herentryintotheindustrywas unexpected,buttheopportunitiesthat
followedquicklysolidi iedherpassionfor modeling.Theexcitementofworkingon differentcampaigns,experiencingnew cultures,andmeetingcreativemindsdrew herin.However,aswithanynewventure, thejourneywasnotwithoutitschallenges.
Overcoming Self-Doubt OneofthebiggesthurdlesIvanafacedin herearlycareerwasself-con idence.The modelingindustryisnotoriousforits emphasisonappearance,andit'seasyto fallintothetrapofconstantcomparison.
“Buildingmycon idencewasthetoughest part,”sheshares.“It'ssoeasytolookat othermodelsandfeellikeyou'renotgood enough,butovertime,Ilearnedthatbeing authenticandtrustingmyownvaluewas farmoreimportantthantryingto itinto anindustrystandard.”
ForIvana,self-worthhadtocomefrom within.Insteadofchangingherselftomeet unrealisticexpectations,sheembracedher individuality.Thisshiftinmindsetwas transformative,allowinghertogrowboth asamodelandasaperson.
Breaking Through Everymodelhasade iningmoment intheircareer—aturningpoint thatvalidatesallthehardworkand dedication.ForIvana,thatmoment camewhenshelandedher irst majorcampaignwithabrandshe hadlongadmired.
“Itwasadreamcometrue,”she recalls.“Thatcampaignfeltlikemy breakthrough.Itreassuredmethat persistenceandhardworkpayoff, anditgavemethecon idenceto continuepushingforward.”
Thecampaignwasnotjustacareer milestone;itwasapersonalvictory. ItprovedtoIvanathatshebelonged intheindustryandthatsuccessis possiblewhenyoustaytrueto yourself.
A Mission Beyond Modeling ForIvana,modelingismorethan justposinginfrontofa camera—it'sanopportunityto inspireandcreatepositivechange. Sheisdeeplycommittedtousing herplatformtoadvocateforbody positivity,challengeindustry stereotypes,andpromote sustainabilityinfashion.
“There'ssomuchpowerin representation,”sheexplains.“I wantpeopletoseethatyoudon't haveto itintoonespeci icmoldto succeed.Beautycomesinallforms, andcon idenceisthemost attractivethingyoucanhave.”
Hergoalistocollaboratewith brandsthatalignwithhervalues, focusingoncompaniesthat prioritizeinclusivity,ethical production,andmeaningful
storytelling.Shealsohopestobuild astrongcommunityoflike-minded individualswhobelieveinselfexpressionandempowerment.
Staying Motivated and Grounded Theever-evolvingnatureofthe modelingindustrymeansthatno twodaysarethesame.However, Ivana indsmotivationinthe endlessopportunitiesforgrowth. Eachshoot,challenge,and experienceteacheshersomething new,pushinghertoevolveboth personallyandprofessionally.
Shefollowsastructureddaily routinetomaintainbalanceinher life.Morningsstartwithselfcare—meditation,stretching,anda nutritiousbreakfast—beforediving intowork,travel,orshoots.Staying activeisapriority,whetherit'sa walkoragymsession,andshe alwayssetsasidetimetoreviewher goals.Eveningsarereservedfor unwindingandrecharging,allowing hertomaintainahealthymindset inanindustrythatcanoftenbe overwhelming.
The Importance of Mental Health in Fashion
Whilethefashionworldisoften associatedwithglitzandglamour,it alsocomeswithintensepressure. Modelsareexpectedtomaintaina certainimage,bookhigh-pro ile jobs,andconstantlyprovetheir worth.Ivanaunderstandshoweasy itistogetcaughtupinthedemands oftheindustry,whichiswhyshe emphasizestheimportanceof mentalhealth.
ThismindsethashelpedIvana navigatetheupsanddownsofthe industry.Ratherthanviewing rejectionasfailure,sheseesitas redirection,trustingthattheright opportunitieswillcomeherway.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Ivana Brcan
AsIvanacontinuestobuildher career,sheremainsfocusedonher long-termvision.Beyondmodeling, shehopestoexpandintoother creative ields,perhapsexploring actingorbrandcollaborationsthat alignwithhermessageof empowermentandsustainability.
“Iwanttokeepgrowing,learning, and indingnewwaystoinspire others,”shesays.“Fashionis powerfulbutsoisusingyourvoice tomakeadifference.”
Withherdedication,authenticity, andpassionformakinga meaningfulimpact,IvanaBrcanis notjustamodel—she'sarole model.Asshecontinuesher journey,sheisprovingthatsuccess infashionisnotjustabout ittingin butaboutstandingoutfortheright reasons.
“Yourworthisn'tde inedbyhow youlookorthejobsyoubook,”she says.“It'ssoimportanttotakecare ofyourmentalhealthandpractice self-love.Ifyoustartcomparing yourselftoothers,you'lllosesight ofyourownjourney.Instead,focus ongrowth—bothpersonallyand professionally.”
Byte Burnout Dr. Viv Babber's Guide to Thriving in an AI-Driven World Inanerawherearti icialintelligence(AI) isreshapingindustriesandrede ining thewaywework,fewvoicesstandoutclearly andpassionately.Dr.VivBabber'sisanexample ofonesuchprominentvoice.
AseasonedphysicianturnedAIconsultant,Dr. Babberhascarvedauniquenicheatthe intersectionofhealthcare,leadership,and technology.Withovertwodecadesof experienceinmedicine,shehaswitnessed irsthandboththetransformativepotentialand thechallengesthatAIbringstotheworkplace.
Inthisexclusiveinterview,Dr.Babbershares herinspiringjourneyfromthemedical ieldto becomingatrustedadvisoronethicalAI integration.Hermissionisclear:toempower professionalsandorganizationstoembraceAI responsibly,ensuringthattechnology complementshumaneffortratherthan overwhelmingit.Throughherinnovative consultingprograms,suchasthecAlmCode framework,andherbookByte Burnout: 50 Strategies to Outsmart AI Stress in Tech, Dr. Babberoffersactionablesolutionstomanage thestressthatoftenaccompaniesAIadoption.
JoinusasDr.VivBabberdiscussesthecritical roleofethicsinAI,strategiesforreducingAIinducedburnout,andhervisionforabalanced, human-centeredapproachtoinnovationinthe digitalage.Whetheryou'reatechprofessional grapplingwithAI'srapidevolutionoraleader navigatingorganizationalchange,Dr.Babber's insightswillleaveyouinspiredandequipped forthefuture.
Thank you for this interview, Dr. Babber. Can you please share your journey from being a seasoned physician to becoming an AI consultant? What inspired this transition?
Certainly!Myjourneyfrombeingaseasoned physiciantobecominganAIconsultantwasa naturalevolutiondrivenbycuriosity,apassion forinnovation,andadesiretomakeabroader impact.
Asaphysicianwithover20yearsofexperience, Ihavealwaysbeendeeplyinvestedinimproving lives—notjustthroughpatientcare,butalsoby enhancingsystemsandempoweringcolleagues. Overtime,Ibecameintriguedbythe transformativepotentialofAIinhealthcareand
beyond.ThewayAIcould streamlinework lows,improve diagnostics,andpersonalizecare feltrevolutionary,butIalsosawthe otherside:thestressandfearit introducedforprofessionals.
Whattrulyinspiredmytransition wasseeinghowmanyleadersand teamswerestrugglingtoadaptto thisnewAI-drivenlandscape.I realizedthatmyunique backgroundinmedicine,mental health,andleadershippositioned meperfectlytobridgethegap betweenpeopleandtechnology.By earningcerti icationsinAI medicineandAIethics,Ideepened myunderstandingofhowAIworks and,moreimportantly,howit impactsindividualsand organizations.
Now,asanAIconsultant,Ifocuson helpingcompaniesandleaders preventAIburnoutandembrace thesetoolswithcon idence.My missionistoshowthattechnology, whenapproachedthoughtfully, doesnothavetoreplacehuman effortbutcanenhanceit—allowing ustoworksmarter,notharder.Itis anexcitingspacewhereIgetto combinemyloveforteaching, innovation,andcreating meaningfulchange.
You emphasize the ethical use of AI in the workplace. How do you integrate this focus into your consulting and training programs?
Ethicsisattheheartofallmy programs.Ibeginbyfosteringan understandingofwhatethicalAI means—fairness,transparency,and accountability—andthenalign theseprincipleswithorganizational goals.Myconsultingandtraining
focusonhelpingleadersdesignAI strategiesthatnotonlyimprove ef iciencybutalsorespect employees’well-beingandfoster trust.Forexample,Iamableto guidecompaniesindevelopingAI policiesthatprioritizehuman oversight,educateteamson identifyingbiasesinAItools,and promoteopencommunication abouttheimpactofAIonjobs.By addressingbothtechnicaland emotionalaspects,Iensurea balanced,human-centered approachtoAIadoption.
Tell us more about your cAlm Code program. How does it help tech professionals achieve a balanced and ethical work environment?
ThecAlmCodeprogramstandsfor "ConsciouslyAligningLeadership andMindset"withtechnology.Itis astructuredframeworkIcreatedto helptechprofessionalsand organizationsmanageAI-related stresswhilefosteringanethical workplaceculture.Theprogramis builtaroundfourkeypillars:
Awareness – Understandinghow AIimpactswork lowsandmental health.
Alignment – Ensuring organizationalvaluesalignwithAI implementations.
Mindset – Shiftingfromresistance tocuriosityaboutAI’spotential.
Leadership – Empoweringleaders tochampionethicalAIuseand supporttheirteams.
Throughworkshopsandtraining, cAlmCodeequipsprofessionals withactionablestrategiesto
embraceAIresponsiblywhile maintainingabalanced,humane workenvironment.
What inspired you to write Byte Burnout: 50 Strategies to Outsmart AI Stress in Tech?
Theinspirationcamefrom witnessingagrowingtrend: talentedprofessionalsfeeling overwhelmedbytherapid integrationofAIintotheirroles.As someonewhohasnavigatedthe intersectionofhealthcare, leadership,andtechnology,Ihave seenboththetransformative potentialofAIandthetollitcan takeonpeoplewhenintroduced withoutadequatesupport.
Iwantedtocreatearesourcethat wasapproachable,practical,and evenalittlefun—somethingthat equipsprofessionalswithtoolsto managestress,shifttheirmindset, andthriveinanAI-driven workplace.Thebookismywayof saying,“You’renotaloneinthis,and yes,therearesolutions.”
Could you highlight a few of the 50 strategies from your book that you believe are game-changers for managing AI-induced stress?
Absolutely!Hereare3gamechangingstrategiesfromByte Burnoutthatareespecially impactfulformanagingAI-induced stressinthetechworld:
Automate to Elevate
TheStrategy:UseAItoautomate mundane,repetitivetaskssoyou canfocusonhigher-level,creative work.LetAIbeyourassistant,not youroverlord.
WhyIt’saGame-Changer:Tech professionalsoftenoverburden themselveswithtasksthatcould easilybeautomated.BylettingAI handleroutineprocesses,youcan reclaimmentalspaceforcritical thinkingandinnovation.
Example:UseAItoolstoautomate reporting,codedocumentation,or datacleaning—allowingmoretime forstrategyandproblem-solving.
Impact:Reducesdecisionfatigue andcognitiveoverload,preventing burnoutwhileincreasing productivity.
Digital Detox: The Tech Sabbath
TheStrategy:Designateoneday,or evenhalfadayeachweek,asa "TechSabbath"—atimetounplug fromscreens,AItools,andalltechrelatedtasks.
WhyIt’saGame-Changer:Tech burnoutstemsfromconstant stimulationandlackofmental downtime.Adeliberatebreakhelps resetyourbrainandreduces cognitivefatigue.
Example:Nocoding,nomodel training,nonoti ications—spend thetimeonphysicalactivity, hobbies,orfamily.
Impact:Allowsformentalrecovery, helpingyoureturntowork rechargedandmorecreative.
Advocate for Ethical AI Practices
TheStrategy:Pushfor transparency,fairness,and responsibilityinAIdevelopment. Aligningyourworkwithyour valuesreducesmoralstress.
WhyIt’saGame-Changer:Working onethicallyambiguousAIprojects cancreatesigni icantmental tension.Ethicalalignmentprovides purposeandreducesinternal con lict.
Example:Collaboratewith leadershiptoimplementethical reviewprocessesforAImodels, ensuringfairnessand accountability.
Impact:Providespeaceofmindand reinforcespurpose-drivenwork, reducingburnoutcausedbyethical con licts.
Thesestrategiesofferimmediate, practicalwaystotackleAI-induced stresswhileempoweringtech professionalstothrive.They addresseverythingfrommindset shiftsandtaskmanagementto ethicalalignmentandmentalwellbeing,makingthemgame-changers forreducingburnoutinthehighpressureworldofAIandtech.
What sets your book apart from other resources on stress management and work-life balance in tech?
ByteBurnoutstandsoutbecauseit speci icallyaddressesthe intersectionofAI,work-lifebalance, andstressmanagement.Most booksonthesetopicstreat technologyasabackdrop,butmy bookputsitfrontandcenter, recognizingAI’suniquechallenges andopportunities.
Italsoblendsactionablestrategies withhumorandrelatability,making itbothinsightfulandenjoyableto read.Thinkofitasatoolkitthat speaksdirectlytotech professionals’real-worldstruggles
whileofferingfresh,empowering perspectives.
What’s next for Dr. Viv Babber? What does the future look like for you and what are you most excited about?
Thefutureisaboutexpandingmy reachtohelpmoreorganizations navigatetheAItransition responsiblyandsustainably.Iam workingonlaunchingmoretraining basedonthecAlmCodeframework, andIplantocontinuespeakingat conferencestoadvocateforethical AIadoption.
Iamalsoexploringopportunitiesto collaboratewithcompaniestocodesignworkplacestrategiesthat prioritizementalhealthwhile leveragingAI’spotential.What excitesmemostisbeingatthe forefrontofamovementthat championshumanityinan increasinglyautomatedworld.
How can individuals and organizations interested in your work get in touch with you or access your services?
Iwouldlovetoconnect!Youcan reachmethroughmywebsite, calmcode.ai,orviaLinkedIn.Ialso offerconsulting,workshops,and speakingengagements,whichcan betailoredtoyourorganization’s needs.
Andifyou’recuriousaboutmy book,ByteBurnout:50Strategies toOutsmartAIStressinTech,it’s availableatbyteburnout.ai.Let’s worktogethertocreateafuture whereAIandhumanitythriveside byside!
IN – FOCUS Liz Clifton Embracing the Calm Confidence indingasenseofcalmand con idencecanbea transformativejourneyinthis fast-pacedandoftenchaoticworld.
LizClifton,acoachandadvocateforcalm leadership,hasmadeithermissionto empowerindividualswithwhatshe describesas"clear,calm,connected con idence."Drawinginspirationfrom herpersonalexperiences,particularly rehabilitatingher irstRomanianrescue dog,Zara,Lizhasdevelopedaunique coachingphilosophythatemphasizesthe importanceofcalmleadershipandthe profoundimpactofouremotionalstates onthosearoundus.
Inthisexclusiveinterview,LizClifton sharestheoriginsofhermission,the essenceofcalmleadership,andhowher workwithrescueanimalshasshapedher coachingmethods
Your coaching philosophy centers on empowering individuals with clear, calm, connected con idence. Can you describe what initially inspired this mission?
Yesofcourse,thankssomuchforasking. Whilstrehabilitatingour irstRomanian rescuedogZara,IdiscoveredthatItoo washistoricallylowincon idence,trust ofothersandwasstayingsilentrather thanusingmyvoice.Asweslowlygrew
ourownindividualself-con idence throughsilentcalmconnectionand gentlelovingcompanionship,weboth begantoenjoybeingourselves.
AftermonthsweheardZarabarkforthe very irsttimeeverandItoobeganto usemyvoicetosupportthosearound me.Ibelievethatwhenwecancreateour ownclear,calm,connectedcon idence withourselveswearethenabletocreate andstrengthenitwithotherstoo.Itwas infactduringamomentofsilentAnimal Reikirelaxationmeditationthatthe take34umissionandFamilyDog ConnectionLimitedideascametome.In ourcalmconnection,mycreativitygrew alongsideZara'splayfulinquisitive naturalinstinctsandpersonality.Iknew thereandthenthatIgottosupport othersto indtheirownwayandease theirtransformationaljourneys.
How do you de ine calm leadership and why do you believe it is essential in today's fast-paced world?
Forme,calmleadershipistheabilityto leadfromaspaceofcalm.Whenyouare calmeverythingisclearerforyou.You canviewthingsfromaneutralcalm perspectivefreefromanyoldbiasor emotionalattachment.Beingabletotake amomentanywhereatanytimetopause andcalmyourselfisamagni icent attributeofagreatleader.Tomethe greatestleadersinallareasoflifelead
fromthisspaceofcalm.It'sa tremendousstrengthtobeabletostrive forasenseofcalminanysituationasit givesyoutheopportunitytochooseyour nextactionorstepforwards.
Calmleadershipempowersyouto connecttothosearoundyou,ofany species,withunconditionalcompassion, empathy,clarityandkindcon idence. Thishelpsyoutocreateandenjoystrong relationshipsthatarebasedoncalm activelisteningandfairunbiased treatmentwhichleadstosuccessforall individualsconcerned.Calmleadership offersyouthechancetostepoutofthe busyfast-pacedworldthatweliveinso thatyoucanenjoythepresentmoment, choosetheimportantareasofyourlife thatyouwanttofocuson,andlead yourselfandallareasofyourlifewith naturaleaseand low.
You mentioned the profound impact of rehabilitating rescue animals on your own healing process. Can you share more about how this experience translates into your coaching methods?
Thankssomuchforsuchathoughtful question.Rescuinganimalsoffersusa uniquemirrorofourownbehavior, emotions,feelingsandenergy.Ifyou wakeupfeelingabittiredorfrustrated it'slikelythatyourrescueanimalor otherpetwillexhibitadifferent behaviorthanwhenyouarefeeling relaxed,calmandcontent.So,wheremy clientshavepets,Ioftengetthemto noticehowtheirfeelingsaremirroredby theiranimals.Thisisagreatplacefor themtoconsiderhowtheirfeelingsare affectingtheirbehavior.
Whereclientsdon'thavepets,Istilluse rescueanimalsasanexampleforstory purposesasitisstillsupportivefor peopletostarttoconsiderhowthey haveachoiceonhowtheychoosetofeel
andbehave.Wheretheyinstead livewithorinteractwithpeopleat homeorregularly,Igetthemto noticehowtheirmoodchanges thebehaviorofthosearound them.Rescueanimalsalsoshow innatenaturalinstinctsreadily andopenlywhichIsharewithmy clientstohelpthemstartto considertheirownnaturalneeds, wantsanddesires.
Thisinitialself-awarenessisa greatfoundationtostartbuilding self-acceptance,selfunderstanding,self-forgiveness andself-love.Allofwhichplaya hugepartinchoosing,planning, creatingandachievingthe changesthatyouwanttomakein allareasofyourlife.
How do you tailor your coaching techniques to suit the diverse needs of your clients, considering you aim to empower individuals of any species?
Atmyinitialsession,Ievaluate whattheindividualclientwants andneeds.FromthereIthen tailorabespokecoaching experienceusingmyvastrangeof skillstoaddresstheirspeci ic needs.
Theinitialworkusuallycenters aroundreleasingtheirhistoric emotionalbaggage/limiting beliefs,fears,hurt,sadness,loss, andstresssothattheycanbegin torebuildtheirconnectionto themselvesandthosearound themalongsidetheircalm con idence.
Thenextstepistothenworkon sharingskills,techniques, practices,andresourceswith
IN – FOCUS them.Sothattheycanbeginto useandenjoythemimmediately and,inthefuture,torelease ongoingemotionsandenjoy makingtheirongoingchoiceswith easeandcon idence.
As someone who has already guided thousands, what strategies do you employ to measure the success and impact of your coaching?
ForindividualclientsImeasure theirowninitialwellbeingscores inallareasoftheirlifeagainst theirpersonalscoresattheendof theirsessions.Forgroups,I measurethenumberofsession andprogramcompletions alongsidetheirownwellbeing scoresfromthebeginningand endoftheirsessions.Ialso measureanyreferralsfrom individualclients.
Looking forward, what are your primary goals for the next ive years in your coaching practice?
Inthenext5years,Iwillcomplete mybespokeaccreditedcalm leadershipprogramtosupport otherstodeveloptheirowncalm leadershipinallareasoftheir lives.Iwillalsoachieveatleast another1,500completedcalm leadershipstudentswithme personallywhowillthenbeable tosharetheirnewskillswith thosearoundthem.
Iwillalsohavesupportedatleast another50individualclientsto completetheirbespoke transformationcoaching experiencesandwillhave employedatleast10calm leadershipmentorstosharemy accreditedcalmleadership
programacrosstheUKand beyond.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their career in coaching or leadership?
Trustyourself.Taketimetotruly connectwithwhatyouwantto achievewithyourcoachingor leadershipcareer.Youcouldask yourselfthissimplequestion"For whatpurposecoachingor leadership?"Noticewhatcomes upforyouandcontinueasking yourself"Forwhatpurposex?" untilyouhaveagood understandingofyourdrivefor yournewcoachingorleadership career.
Basedonyouranswers,chooseif youwanttoworkforyourselfor withacompany,charity,or organizationaseachofthemwill requireadifferenttypeoftraining quali ication,insurance, accreditation,andprofessional bodymembership.Alwaysreach outforsupportasmanyofushave walkedthispathjustlikeyouand arehappytohelpyouchoosethe bestpathforyou.Aboveallelse ensurethatyouenjoywhatyou do.Coachingandleadershiproles offeryouthechancetomakeabig differenceinpeople'slivesbut alwaysremembertolookafter yourself irst.Lookafteryour healthandwellbeing,bygiving yourselfdailyjoy,rest,and relaxationasthatwillalways empoweryoutohelpotherstothe bestofyourability.
DARYL APPLETON Unlocking Potential with The Success Doctor AsaChiefWellnessConsultantand performance-wellnesscoach,Daryl Appletonhasmadeasigni icantimpact invarious ields,includingprofessional sports,business,government, inance, medicine,andentertainment.Her specialtyliesinworkingwithmid-career executivesandspecialists,helpingthem workmoreef icientlyandeffectively throughself-awareness,strategy,and scienti icmethods.Sheisoftenreferred toas"thereal-lifeWendyRhoades"from theShowtimeshow"Billions."
Inthisinterviewfeature,Darylshares herjourney,thechallengesshehasfaced, particularlyasamotheroftwin daughters,andthesuccessstoriesthat haveshapedherapproachtocoaching. Sheprovidesinsightsintoherworkat BrownUniversity'sGeneralSurgery department,whereshehasdevelopeda comprehensivewellnessprogram focusingonself-awareness,selfgovernance,andself-improvement.
Can you please introduce yourself, your business, and your specialization as a coach.
Myjobistohelphighperformersgetout oftheirownwaysothattheycando their job.
Currently,IamtheChiefWellness ConsultantatBrownUniversity'sGeneral SurgeryProgramandhavecontracts centeredaroundperformance-wellness (thelensinwhichIinterpretandsee well-being)andleadershipwith organizationsandindividualsinthe ieldsofprofessionalsports,business, government, inance,medicine,and entertainment.
Myspecialtyisinworkingwithmidcareerexecutivesandspecialistwhoare lookingtoworkmoreef icientlyand effectivelythroughself-awareness, strategy,andscienti icmethod.
As a coach, what are some of the biggest challenges that you have faced in your journey?
Mytwin3-yearolddaughters.Having kidshasabsolutelychangedthewayIsee theworldandthelessonsandstrategies Igivemyclients"tryingtodoitall".I havetrulylearnedthatthereisnosuch thingaswork-lifebalancebutinstead thereneedstobeaswayandalignment towork-lifeintegration.
Can you share a success story or a signi icant achievement in your coaching career?
IstartedworkingwithBrown University'sGeneralSurgery department5yearsago.Atthetime theirwellnessprogramconsistedof yogaandmeditation,anditwasnot landing.WhenIsteppedintothe role,leadershipandIcollaborated onanoperationalde initionfor wellnessinsurgery(whichifyou knowanysurgeonsyouknowhow well"wellnessprograms"goover withthem).
Herewewereabletocreateafullbodiedprogramthatviewed wellnessthroughthelensofselfawareness,self-governance,and self-improvementforindividuals andtheteamatlarge.Fiveyears laterwehaveafullbodied curriculumfocusonthegamutof performance,wellness,and leadershipstrategiesforresidents, jrattendingsandseniorattendings ateverystageofthecareer.This alsoincludesanewlyformed LeadershipLab,Mentorship Program,didacticlectureseries, executivecoaching,division retreats,andresearcheffortsto continuetoexpandandimprove.It hasbeentrulyacollaborativeeffort betweenhardandsoftscienceto focusonaddressingburnoutand non-technicalskilldevelopmentin theworldofmedicine.
How do you measure the impact of your coaching on your clients or teams?
AtBrownwedorobustresearch effortsthatincludequalitativeand quantitativeinquirywhichalso includesfocusgroups,and longitudinalstudies.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to be leaders in the coaching industry?
WhenIwasfreshoutofcollege,my bosstoldmethat"whatIwantedto dodidn'texist"and"Iwouldbe betterstickingtowhatIknew".You areallowedtoFrankenstein togetheracareerthatdoesn'texist butworksforyouandthepeople aroundyou.Keeppushingahead andinnovatinginadirectionthat youcanmakeanimpactin.
What are your future goals for your business and brand? What is your vision through coaching?
Lookingahead,myteamandIare activelyworkingonexpandingour
performancewellnesscurriculum bothvirtuallyandin-personto medicalprogramswhodonothave thefundstohireaChiefWellness Consultant/Of icer.Thehopethis wouldalsoincludetrainingfor futurecoachesandexecutives lookingtobringtheirexpertiseor transitioninthemedical ieldfor leadershipand/orcoachingin healthcare.
