Sh*t I Just Quit My Job

In this episode of 'Sh*t I Just Quit My Job,' host Maricella Herrera dives into a candid conversation with Megan Senese, a legal marketing and business development expert who co-founded the company Stage. Maricella and Megan discuss the challenges of navigating career shifts, dealing with corporate burnout, and the importance of authenticity in business. They explore Megan's transition from the corporate legal world to entrepreneurship, the strategies she used to build her business from the ground up, and the vital role of relationship building in professional success. Megan also shares valuable insights on personal branding, navigating layoffs, and the significance of doing things differently in a crowded market. The episode ends with Megan's advice to her younger self: just hold on, it will be over soon.About Megan Senese:Megan Senese is a legal marketing and business-development entrepreneur and co-founder of Stage, where she helps lawyers grow their practices through authentic relationship-building and strategy. She is especially admired for her ability to bring empathy and genuine human connection into an industry often driven purely by numbers.Show Notes00:00 Podcast Introduction04:30 Childhood Dreams vs. Reality21:06 The Big Quit23:36 Pandemic Burnout and the 2% Raise32:25 Unlearning Corporate Toxicity35:47 The Leap to Entrepreneurship42:04 The Thousand Meetings Strategy49:23 Business Development Advice51:21 Going Unhinged on LinkedIn55:06 The So Much to Say Podcast58:43 Final Advice: Hold OnTakeaways:The podcast delves into the complexities of personal reinvention, particularly after quitting a job that was once deemed defining.Listeners are encouraged to embrace the chaotic journey of self-discovery and the uncertainties therein, recognizing that it is a universal experience.A significant theme discussed is the importance of authenticity in business, suggesting that one can still be themselves while building a successful enterprise.The speakers emphasize the necessity of building genuine relationships and connections rather than relying solely on traditional networking methods.The conversation highlights the emotional and psychological challenges faced during career transitions, particularly in acknowledging and navigating grief associated with leaving a familiar job.Insights are shared on the evolution of personal branding and visibility in a digital age, stressing the need for uniqueness in content to stand out.

In this conversation, Denis Keane shares his journey from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges and lessons learned along the way. He discusses his experiences in the nightlife and restaurant industries, the importance of people skills, and the role of adaptability in navigating the ever-changing landscape of startups and technology. Denis emphasizes the need for risk-taking and the value of understanding business fundamentals, while also reflecting on personal growth and self-worth.Show NotesThis episode presents a profound exploration of career transitions, personal growth, and the entrepreneurial spirit through the lenses of Maricela Herrera and her guest, Denis Keane. The narrative begins with Maricella's honest reflection on her struggles with motivation and the emotional toll of returning to her routine after a significant hiatus. Her vulnerability lays the groundwork for a rich discussion with Denis, whose dynamic background as an entrepreneur in the nightlife and technology sectors illustrates the multifaceted nature of career journeys. Denis recounts his experiences navigating the challenges of establishing a successful nightclub in a gentrifying neighborhood, offering insights into the importance of risk-taking and seizing opportunities. The conversation further delves into the lessons learned from both industries, emphasizing the value of people skills and the necessity of adaptability in the face of uncertainty. As the episode unfolds, listeners are invited to reconsider their definitions of success and the paths they choose, ultimately reinforcing the idea that both personal and professional growth often emerge from embracing chaos and uncertainty. GLbkdq5KTbiTButeRXLMTakeaways:In the podcast episode, Dennis Keane discusses the necessity of adaptability in business, emphasizing that the ability to pivot is crucial for success in rapidly changing environments.A significant theme addressed in the interview is the importance of understanding financial metrics, which is essential for running any business effectively, including restaurants and startups.Dennis highlights that personal connections and people skills are indispensable, as they enhance communication and foster a productive workplace culture in both the restaurant and tech industries.The conversation reveals that fear of failure often inhibits individuals from pursuing their passions, and Dennis advocates for embracing risk as an integral part of the entrepreneurial journey.Dennis's journey illustrates how experiences in the restaurant industry can provide transferable skills that are extremely beneficial in the tech startup world, particularly in managing teams and understanding customer dynamics.The episode also touches upon the evolving role of AI in business, suggesting that those who adapt and learn to leverage technology will thrive, while those who resist will likely fall behind.About Denis Keane:Denis Keane is an entrepreneur and investor who has founded multiple businesses, backed early-stage startups, and advised companies on growth and business development. Most recently, he served as COO and investor in an AI startup that successfully exited through acquisition. Denis now works with founders and leadership teams to help scale operations and unlock new growth opportunities.

Two weeks before the Chicago Marathon, Maricella was terrified. Not just about the race—about what it would mean if she finished and felt destroyed, ashamed of her pace, not wanting to run again.In this deeply personal episode, she shares what it's like to show up to something hard while feeling like a fraud. She reads her raw journal entries about training anxiety, works through shame about being "too slow," and tells the story of race day—including the sign that changed everything.This isn't a story about hitting a time goal (she didn't). It's about discovering you're stronger than you thought. About the tools and reminders we need when we forget we're capable. About hope, shame, and doing hard things scared.Maricella shares a tattoo on her leg that says "Braver, Stronger, Smarter"—from Winnie the Pooh, gotten after the hardest moments of her life. She talks about the bracelets she wore during the race, her partner who believed in her when she didn't believe in herself, and what it means to find your strength not in the outcome, but in showing up.This is the final episode of 2025.In this episode:- Pre-race anxiety and the bonking pattern during training- Working through shame about pace and performance- Reading unfiltered journal entries from two weeks before the race- The difference between facts and fears- Hope as fuel vs. tying self-worth to outcomes- Race day: the sign, the nausea, the finish- Feeling strong instead of destroyed- The anchors we carry (bracelets, tattoos, people)- Feeling like a fraud even after accomplishing hard things- Using tools (therapy, journaling, friends, AI) to see clearly- Showing up scared and doing it anywayMentioned in this episode:Win the Inside Game by Steve MagnessSAFE methodology (created by guest Jaqueline Oliveira-Cella) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

In this special episode, host Maricella Herrera introduces listener calls to the podcast for the first time. She sits down with Jaqueline Oliveira-Cella to test SAFE—an AI-powered emotional awareness tool—on two real workplace scenarios submitted by listeners.SAFE is a methodology that helps people pause and reframe in high-stakes emotional moments at work and in life. The framework stands for Set intentions, Acknowledge facts vs emotions, Frame and reframe, and Execute.In this episode, Maricella and Jackie work through two common workplace challenges:Scenario 1: Navigating a Company ReorgA listener shares their anxiety about job security after their group is acquired by a larger team. They're unsure whether to update their resume, network with the new team, or wait to see how leadership decisions unfold. Using SAFE, they separate facts from feelings, identify what's within their control, and develop concrete micro-actions like "building bridges, not safety nets."Scenario 2: Managing Uncertainty with a New BossAnother listener describes the discomfort of having a new manager who meets with the team before direct reports. They want to make a good first impression but don't know how to introduce themselves without overloading or being absent. SAFE helps them reframe the situation, consider the manager's perspective, and create a thoughtful introduction strategy.Throughout both scenarios, Maricella and Jackie discuss the importance of distinguishing facts from emotions, finding hope and agency in uncertain situations, and taking small, strategic actions rather than waiting passively. They also explore how AI tools like SAFE can augment critical thinking and emotional awareness—not replace human connection.This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Next week, Maricella shares her own experience using SAFE to navigate anxiety before running the Chicago Marathon in October 2024.Topics covered in this episode:Emotional awareness and workplace stressAI-powered tools for mental health and emotional regulationCompany reorganizations and job security anxietyManaging relationships with new managersSeparating facts from feelings in high-stakes situationsDesign thinking and AI as augmentationEvidence-based journaling and reflective practicesBuilding resilience during workplace uncertaintyTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] Cold open: The "fuck you" moment[01:00] Thanksgiving intro and gratitude[12:30] Conversation with Jackie begins[15:30] What is SAFE? The framework explained[20:30] Why Jackie created SAFE: personal experiences with workplace challenges[26:00] AI as augmentation vs. shortcut: critical thinking and design thinking[28:00] The future of emotional intelligence in an AI world[33:00] Listener Scenario #1: Company reorg and job security anxiety[35:00] Breaking down facts vs. emotions in the reorg scenario[39:00] Hope and agency: what the listener didn't mention[41:00] Micro-actions: Building bridges, not safety nets[46:00] Listener Scenario #2: New manager meeting the team first[48:00] Setting intentions for a first impression[50:00] Reframing: Could this be about fairness, not hierarchy?[52:00] Micro-actions: Draft an intro note, observe and listen[57:00] Asking SAFE about talking to the team[59:00] What's next for SAFE and closing thoughtsLINKS & RESOURCES:Try SAFE for yourself (free on ChatGPT): https://chatgpt.com/g/g-68c2e478cba88191b31bf8e906de103f-s-a-f-e-leadership-daily-reflectionsConnect with Jaqueline Oliveira-Cella on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaquelineoc/Previous episode with Jackie:

After 20 years in public child welfare, Angel Rodriguez thought she’d retire there. She was trying to revolutionize the system from the inside—building new programs, fighting bureaucracy, making change however she could. Then, at 40, an epilepsy diagnosis forced a different question: could she even keep going?In this conversation, we talk about what it’s like to go from trying to fix a broken system to realizing you first have to take care of yourself—and what it takes to start over when you thought you had it all figured out.Some highlights:* Her first thought after a grand mal seizure at 40: “I thought I was gonna go back to work the next week”* The realization that changed everything after applying to many jobs with no luck: “Maybe I’m not getting these jobs because there’s something else. I’m an expert. I should just say that.”* On untethering from her title after 23 years: “I am me whether I work for someone else, whether I work for myself, whether I am not working at all. I’m just me.”* What she’d tell herself looking back: “Be kind to yourself. You’re gonna be okay. And this is not everything about who you are.”✨ About Angel Rodriguez:Angel Rodriguez, MSSA Co-Founder & CEO, rfc21 Angel Rodriguez is an Expert Social Worker and Innovator with over 20 years of experience transforming public child welfare systems. As Co-Founder and CEO of rfc21, she leads with heart and strategy – offering leadership coaching, curriculum design, grant management support, and expert witness services. A proud Latina and fierce advocate for equity in communities of color, Angel also serves as the Vice President on a nonprofit board in Los Angeles. She is the Director of Circles for Lean In Latinas and finds great joy in serving her community by being a changemaker. Outside of work, she loves practicing Pilates, exploring new cities, eating local cuisine, and cheering on her favorite hockey team. She lives in Los Angeles with her wife and their two adorable dogs. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

In this minisode, host Maricella Herrera explores the emotional aftermath of completing the Chicago Marathon and discusses the 'post-marathon blues'—a period of feeling lost and empty after achieving a big goal. She reflects on how training for the marathon served as an excuse to avoid various life decisions and commitments. As she questions her future and the direction of her career, Maricella turns to the book 'The Alchemist' by Paolo Coelho for inspiration on finding one's life purpose. She shares her inner conflict about multiple job roles, particularly her involvement with a startup, and how a pivotal decision sparked a realization about self-trust. Ultimately, Maricella emphasizes the importance of tuning into one's intuition and emotions as a guide for future decisions, encouraging listeners to do the same.00:00 Introduction: Rethinking Life Choices01:03 Post-Marathon Blues04:05 The Alchemist and Personal Legends07:15 Struggling with Busyness and Overwhelm12:22 Deciding on the Startup16:55 Trusting Your Intuition25:13 Conclusion: Listening to Your Heart This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

This week I’m back with my first repeat guest, author, speaker, and DEI advocate Hady Mendez. We’re talking about her new book Calladita No More. The title flips the saying “calladita te ves más bonita” (you’re prettier when you’re quiet), and so does our conversation.We get into Hady’s journey from leading DEI inside corporate America to carving her own entrepreneurial path, what it really means to advocate for yourself, and why ERGs and cultural identity matter more than ever. Hady also pulls back the curtain on writing and hybrid publishing her book, building a Latina-powered team to make it happen, and the refranes and stories that shaped her voice.With personal anecdotes, refranes, and heartfelt conversations, this episode offers a deep dive into rethinking identity and the power of speaking out.00:00 Intro clip01:03 Introducing Hady Menez01:36 Hady's Book: Calladita No More04:16 Understanding DEI and ERGs06:23 Cultural Reflections and Personal Growth10:50 Hady's Journey as an Author16:40 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Lessons17:32 The Evolution of DEI and ERGs21:43 Navigating Business and Personal Identity26:39 Power Sessions for Mujeres30:30 The Book: Calladita No More31:09 Sharing Stories and Wisdom32:00 Cultural Identity and Refranes32:41 The Book's Structure and Purpose35:35 Navigating Naysayers and Staying True42:56 Hybrid Publishing Journey48:09 Building a Supportive Team50:46 Personal Reflections and Challenges53:29 Final Thoughts and RecommendationsAbout Hady Mendez:Hady Mendez is a NY-based bestselling author, Latina speaker, and ERG coach. She currently serves as the Director of Programs for Lean In Latinas. She is also the founder and CEO of Boldly Speaking LLC, a company that is transforming the professional experiences of underestimated professionals by providing them with the skills to rise and thrive in the corporate world or in whatever path they choose. With a diverse career spanning over twenty-five years, Hady has served as head of equality for a major tech firm, held multiple customer-facing roles in high tech and financial services, served as a leader and advisor across various ERGs, dedicated two years to working with incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women internationally, and served as Community School Director at an elementary school in the South Bronx. Hady’s essays have been featured in Business Insider and #WeAllGrow Latina and her thought leadership has been leveraged by organizations such as Lean In Latinas, Power To Fly, Prospanica, and many others. Hady is a Latinas in Tech Luminarias 2022 honoree, a Women of ALPFA 2023 Latinas to Watch, a 2024 LinkedIn Top Coaching & Mentoring Voice, and the recipient of HACE’s 2025 Mujer Maravilla Award. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Is your self-worth tied to the job you hold, the craft you practice, or the results you deliver?In this episode, Maricella Herrera sits down with Kira Shishkin, serial entrepreneur and founder of informed, to explore how we measure who we are through our work, why outcomes don’t always equal worth, and what happens in the messy middle of building something new. We also dive into the mental health cost of “trigger news” and how informed is rethinking the way we consume information.Key Topics:* The difference between a “job” and a “craft,” and why that distinction matters for self-worth* How growing up in Ukraine, Israel, and the US shaped Kira’s perspective on truth, trust, and information warfare* The journey from high finance to entrepreneurship, and the lessons learned along the way* Frameworks for thinking about identity, self-worth, and the risks of tying them to career outcomes* The “messy middle” of building a company: pivots, doubt, and the blackout moments no one talks about* The origin story of Informed: why Kira set out to create a bias-free, minimalist news service* The impact of “trigger news” and clickbait on mental health and polarization* How Informed curates world-shaping news for everyday people, and the philosophy behind their editorial choices* The evolution of success: from personal achievement to empowering othersNotable Quotes:* “You date the solution, you marry the problem.”* “It’s not about you. It’s about your end customer, your end user, and how you can make their life better.”* “Trigger news corrupts the mind. It’s not just about information, it’s about how it’s delivered.”Connect with Us:* Instagram: @quitmyjobpod* Email: quitmyjobpod@gmail.com* Subscribe on Substack for updates and extrasIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow, subscribe, and leave a review! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

What if stability isn’t the goal? What if instability is actually where growth happens?This week on Sh*t I Just Quit My Job, host Maricella Herrera talks with Dr. Tarul Kode — a pharmacist turned health tech co-founder, venture partner, advisor, nonprofit leader, and mom — about what it means to stop chasing stability and instead lean into the wobble.After 15 years in the same company and 15 years in a marriage, Tarul found herself starting over. At the same time, her daughter faced a serious health crisis, pushing her to rebuild both personally and professionally. Instead of clinging to the familiar, she embraced change, reframed her leadership, and discovered what she calls her “destiny of instability.”In this episode, Maricella and Tarul dive into:What it means to stop living in the “shoulds”How to recognize when you’re climbing the wrong ladderThe difference between peace-time and crisis leadershipDivorce, parenting, and modeling healthy choices for your kidsWhy instability doesn’t have to be a crisis, but a callingWhether you’re navigating a career pivot, rebuilding after loss, or just figuring out what’s next, this episode is a reminder that the wobble can be where you find your strength. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

In this minisode of Sh*t I Just Quit My Job, host Maricella Herrera shares how reading Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky sparked a question she can’t shake: Make time… for what? Juggling four “jobs,” marathon training, and an endless stream of ideas, Maricella reflects on how she’s spending her time and introduces a simple experiment to figure out what’s truly worth the effort. Listeners will hear practical takeaways from the Make Time framework, insights on focus and productivity, and an invitation to join her in testing a daily “highlight” practice. Perfect for anyone feeling busy but unsure if it’s adding up to what matters most. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

In this episode of Sh*t I Just Quit My Job, host Maricella Herrera sits down with serial entrepreneur, community builder, and podcast host Raven O’Neal for a conversation about fear, consistency, and what it really takes to follow through on big ideas.They talk about how fear evolves with experience, what it looks like to walk away from a business idea even when it has real potential, and why consistency is often more powerful than inspiration.Listeners will also hear Raven reflect on her journey from corporate marketing to launching multiple ventures, helping hundreds of entrepreneurs as a startup advisor, and running her podcast Hacking the Patriarchy.Whether you're wrestling with self-doubt, struggling to finish what you started, or wondering how to know when it’s time to quit — this episode offers thoughtful, no-BS insight from someone who’s been on both sides of the table.Key Takeaways:- Why fear often gets louder, not quieter, with age and responsibility- How to know when to walk away from an idea — and when to come back- What women need to unlearn about sales and negotiation- The connection between visibility, self-doubt, and consistency- Why messy progress still counts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Heidi Monika Romer shares her transformative journey from aspiring actress to a dedicated community advocate and entrepreneur. She reflects on her childhood dreams, the impact of COVID-19 on her career, and the importance of community service. Heidi emphasizes the healing power of words and storytelling, leading to her creation of H.O.L.A. Books, a platform celebrating Latino and Caribbean voices. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the significance of adaptability, resilience, and mentorship in personal and professional growth.TakeawaysHeidi's childhood aspirations evolved through personal experiences.The lack of flexible education options shaped her career path.COVID-19 served as a turning point for Heidi's life and career.Community service and wellness became central to her work.Words and storytelling have a profound healing power.Heidi's journey reflects the importance of adaptability and resilience.The creation of OLA Books aims to celebrate Latino and Caribbean voices.Heidi emphasizes the significance of mentorship and elevating others.Personal growth often comes from challenging experiences and reflections.Education and passion can coexist in a fulfilling career.Chapters00:00 From Aspirations to Reality: A Journey of Change05:55 Navigating the Business World: Early Career Experiences12:20 The Impact of COVID-19: A Catalyst for Change24:26 Reframing Life's Challenges: Living in the Present31:47 Embracing New Opportunities: The Path to Ola Books33:38 The Power of Words and Storytelling38:09 Celebrating Latino and Caribbean Voices41:57 Building Community Through Literature45:10 Overcoming Personal Barriers49:43 The Intersection of Business and Kindness54:53 Reflections on Life's Journey and Lessons LearnedKeywordscareer journey, COVID-19 impact, community service, storytelling, personal growth, education, entrepreneurship, Latino voices, healing through words, OLA Books This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

In this episode of Sh*t I Just Quit My Job, host Maricella Herrera delves into the profound impact of long-term employment on personal development. Joined by Carla Siegel, a graphic designer and hospitality branding expert, they explore the journey of spending years at a single company and how it shapes one's career and life choices. Carla shares her experiences of working at Daniel Boulud's restaurant group for eight years, highlighting the growth, challenges, and eventual decision to pursue a more fulfilling path. Tune in to discover how staying in one place can lead to unexpected opportunities and personal growth. Key Highlights:Carla's early career aspirations and how they evolved over time. The pivotal moments that led Carla to leave a secure job for new opportunities. Insights into balancing creativity with practicality in career decisions. The role of mentorship and networking in Carla's professional growth. Carla's reflections on the importance of patience and self-kindness during transitions.Guest Bio: Carla Siegel is the Founder of Agentsie, a boutique creative studio offering design and marketing services to clients in the hospitality industry. From establishing restaurant brand identities to crafting creative, on-brand communications in digital and in print, Agentsie provides smart, sustainable communications solutions with an intimate understanding of operational and budgetary constraints unique to the hospitality realm.Connect with Us:Email: quitmyjobpod@gmail.com Follow us on social media for updates and more inspiring stories.Hashtags: #CareerPivot #GraphicDesign #HospitalityBranding #CareerDevelopment #LongTermEmployment #PersonalGrowth This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Two years after quitting her job, Maricella Herrera checks in — not with a polished reflection or a big announcement, but with a real-time look at what it means to keep showing up as the version of yourself you worked hard to reclaim. In this solo minisode, she revisits the same postmortem questions she asked at the one-year mark (what she did, what she’s proud of, what didn’t go well, and what she’s learned) — and finds the answers are harder, murkier, and maybe more honest.This is an episode about integration, pacing, and trying not to lose yourself once the break is over and life picks back up. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

In this conversation, Miriam Simon shares her inspiring journey from a creative child dreaming of working in New York to a successful career in transportation and HR. She discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood with her career, the importance of mentorship, and the transformative power of writing. Miriam reflects on her past traumas and the lessons learned through unlearning negative patterns, emphasizing resilience and self-love. Her story is a testament to the strength of community and the importance of lifting others as we rise.TakeawaysMiriam always dreamed of working in New York, inspired by her childhood.Her career in transportation led her to HR, showcasing her adaptability.Balancing motherhood and career was a significant challenge for Miriam.A pivotal moment for Miriam was realizing the need to unlearn negative patterns.Trauma from her past shaped her resilience and drive for success.Survival mode pushed Miriam to prioritize her basic needs and self-care.Miriam's peak career moment led her to seek new opportunities and growth.Writing became a therapeutic outlet for Miriam, allowing her to share her story.Mentorship played a crucial role in Miriam's journey, helping her navigate challenges.Miriam emphasizes the importance of self-love and resilience in overcoming obstacles.00:00 Introduction and Host's Personal Reflection02:32 Introducing Miriam Simon: A Story of Resilience05:10 Miriam's Early Aspirations and Career Journey09:51 Challenges and Triumphs in Miriam's Career15:39 Balancing Motherhood and Career19:56 Overcoming Personal and Professional Hurdles32:18 The Turning Point: Prioritizing Self-Care33:09 Balancing Family and Self: The Struggle of Saying No33:40 The Weight of Burnout and the Journey to Self-Discovery34:54 Coaching and Career Transformation36:20 Reaching the Peak: Career Achievements and Reflections37:28 Discovering Writing and Embracing Leadership41:47 The Power of Sharing Your Story46:47 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Visibility49:44 Empowering Others and Building Movements54:08 Reflections and Advice to Younger Self56:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

What happens when the work you love starts to break you? In this episode of Sh*t I Just Quit My Job, Dr. Miriam Zylberglait—triple-board-certified physician, educator, and advocate—shares her journey of leaving the U.S. healthcare system in order to practice medicine with integrity and compassion.Dr. Z started her medical career in Peru and rebuilt it from the ground up when she moved to the U.S.—a testament to her passion and purpose. But despite her deep love for medicine, she found herself burned out, exhausted, and emotionally depleted by a healthcare system that prioritized profit over people. With honesty and heart, she talks about what led her to quit the system (not the profession), and how she created a path that allowed her to stay aligned with her values.This conversation dives into the emotional toll of working in misaligned systems, the difference between empathy and true compassion, the growing mental health crisis among healthcare workers, and the legacy we leave behind when we stop living for everyone else.If you’ve ever felt like you were sacrificing yourself to succeed, or like your job no longer reflects who you are, this episode will resonate. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Ever wonder what it's like to build a tech startup with zero traditional business background? In this episode, we dive deep with Jereme Holiman, a serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Urban Stems, who stumbled into the startup world from a fine arts background. Jereme shares his gripping journey from imagining a new floral gifting service with friends to navigating the highs and terrifying lows of running a VC-funded startup. He candidly discusses the humbling experience of failing spectacularly on Valentine's Day and the crucial lessons learned in scaling a business. Whether you're a passionate builder, considering the startup life, or just love a good success story mixed with hard-earned wisdom, this episode is packed with insights on resilience, adaptability, and the true cost of entrepreneurship. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

What if you're not riding the highs or drowning in the lows—but just kind of... here? In this minisode, I talk about a feeling I’ve been sitting with lately: something that looks like calm but sometimes feels like avoidance, something that might be peace but also feels a little weird. I’m calling it neutral.I’ll walk through how it’s been showing up in my life, why it felt so unfamiliar at first, and what I learned when I went down a rabbit hole of psychology, Buddhism, and my own messy reflections. Spoiler: this might actually be growth.If you’ve ever been in that quiet in-between, where nothing’s “wrong” but everything feels a little off—or maybe just still—this one’s for you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Entrepreneur and Navy vet David Franklin joins me to talk about grief, burnout, and what happens when purpose and passion start to drift. We dive into career pivots, mindful leadership, building healthtech with meaning, and the hard work of reconnecting with your why—especially after loss. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Michelle Moffitt spent 25 years as a pastor’s wife in a conservative church, doing everything “right” — until the system she trusted told her to repent for telling the truth. The conversation delves into her battle with spiritual disillusionment, burnout, and the complex process of finding her voice after years of living within an oppressive system. Michelle discusses her book 'Cracked Open,' which combines her personal story with scientific methods to help readers overcome limiting beliefs. The episode also touches on the importance of having a supportive personal board of directors and the journey of self-discovery through small, incremental steps.Lessons learned, full show notes, and bonus content at https://maricellaherrera.substack.com/ — subscribe for weekly extras. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com