Tales From The Lane

We tend to think of courage as something dramatic—big leaps, bold declarations, or burning it all down and starting over. But most of the courage that actually changes your life is much quieter than that. In this episode of Tales from The Lane, Kate explores the non-obvious ways we flex our courage muscle—the small, often invisible decisions that compound over time and quietly reshape our careers, identities, and lives. You'll hear about: Why saying no to the easy win can be one of the bravest choices you make The courage it takes to resist performative busyness and do deep, invisible work What it means to stay open when you don't yet have a clean title or identity Why being a beginner is essential for growth (and why high-achievers resist it) When quitting is wisdom—not failure How to listen to your intuition without needing to justify it to everyone else This episode is for anyone who senses they're standing at the edge of their next chapter—and wants to build the courage to step forward, one intentional rep at a time. If this conversation resonates, you'll find these ideas explored more deeply in Kate's book, Beyond Potential. And if you want support applying this work to your own life or career, Kate is opening a limited number of 1:1 coaching spots for 2026. Book a free 30-minute consultation call to see if you're a good fit, or head to Instagram and DM "Coach" @KKayaian.  

In this episode of Tales from The Lane, Kate explores a question she's been asked repeatedly—especially in uncertain, chaotic times: Is it selfish to focus on your own growth when the world feels like it's on fire? Drawing on psychology, leadership, and her lived experience as both a conductor and a coach, Kate reframes self-actualization not as ego or individualism, but as responsibility. When individuals commit to becoming their best selves, they create stronger, more generous, and more resilient communities. In this episode, you'll hear: Why self-actualization was never meant to be about narcissism or personal gain How pursuing your own growth can directly strengthen your workplace, neighborhood, or industry Three practical ways individual excellence fuels collective thriving A powerful orchestra metaphor that reframes leadership, contribution, and responsibility If you've ever felt torn between personal ambition and caring deeply about the world around you, this episode offers a grounding, hopeful perspective—and a clear path forward. Mentioned in this episode: The concept of self-actualization (Abraham Maslow) Kate's Quarterly Retreat Planning Guide If this conversation resonated, share it with someone who's navigating their own next chapter. And if you'd like Kate's hugely popular (and free!) Quarterly Retreat Planning Guide, send her a DM on Instagram with the word RETREAT (@kkayaian). If you want some help in becoming your best self, be sure to get a copy of Kate's best-selling book, Beyond Potential: A Guide for Creatives Who Want to Re-Assess, Re-Define, and Re-Ignite Their Careers. 

In this solo episode, we talk about what is REALLY standing between you and your dreams, and how to remove the obstacles.  If you've been circling around the same goal for months (or years), telling yourself you'll begin "when you're less busy, when you're ready, or when you feel more confident about it," this conversation will hit home. Using the metaphor of a solid block of marble, Kate shares eight common beliefs that disguise the real obstacles—fear, overthinking, avoidance, perfectionism, friction, clutter, and outdated identity patterns. You'll learn: Why your dream doesn't require more time—but does require removing what's in the way How negative self-talk, uncertainty, and "busy brain" tasks masquerade as lack of motivation What Stoicism, hurricanes, and 75 Hard taught Kate about imperfect conditions The difference between rocking-chair tasks and true needle movers Why readiness, motivation, and discipline only show up after you begin How accountability, support, and reframing can help you start chiseling away Whether your goal is to write a book, launch a project, shift careers, or simply feel less overwhelmed, this episode will help you chip away at the noise and find the sculpture underneath. Connect with Kate: Instagram: @kkayaian Grab the book: Beyond Potential — your guide to building a life that fits who you've become. Subscribe to The Weekend List Work with Kate 1:1: Schedule a free discovery call today Book Kate to Speak: www.katekayaian.com

Book a 1:1 Strategy Session with Kate! limited spots available, click HERE to schedule yours.  This episode marks a major milestone: 100 episodes of Tales from The Lane! Instead of celebrating with highlights or a "greatest hits" reel, Kate uses this moment as a pause—a chance to reflect on the identity shifts of the past year and to look intentionally ahead to 2026. Coming on the heels of ThriveFest, the Quarterly Retreat, and a deeply personal 2025 Year in Review, this episode explores how goals evolve when they're set from clarity instead of pressure—and why Kate's word for 2026 is Amplify. Inside this episode, Kate shares: Why 2025 wasn't about achievement, but transformation How identity shifts quietly shape the goals we're capable of holding What it means to amplify work that already resonates, instead of constantly reinventing Her intentions for the podcast, speaking, coaching, and Beyond Potential in the year ahead A practical framework for setting goals that feel true—not performative If you're entering a new year craving alignment, agency, and momentum that doesn't come from burnout, this episode will help you ground your goals in who you've already become. Ready to design 2026 with intention? Kate is currently booking 1:1 2026 Strategy Sessions—focused, practical conversations to help you clarify priorities, build a realistic plan, and move forward with confidence. Want more? Sign up to receive my weekly newsletter, The Weekend List, full of behind-the-scenes action, additional insights, and what I'm watching, reading, listening to, and trying out. And be sure to come and say hello on Instagram! I'm @kkayaian

Get your free copy of my Quarterly Retreat Guide– it's the perfect time to plan out your next 90 Days.  In this episode of Tales from The Lane, I'm doing one of my favorite things of the year: a full, honest Year in Review. This isn't a highlight reel or a greatest-hits episode. It's a thoughtful reflection on what 2025 actually held—what worked, what didn't, where I surprised myself, where I had to let go, and what only became clear with hindsight. As I walk you through the year month by month, I share: The wins that mattered most (including publishing Beyond Potential) The lessons that came through challenge, rest, and recalibration Identity shifts that didn't make sense in the moment—but do now Why progress isn't always loud, linear, or visible And how rest, community, and trust compound over time As always, this episode isn't really about me—it's an invitation for you to reflect on your year alongside mine. Where did you grow? What surprised you? And what are you carrying forward into the next season of your life and work? If you're heading into a new year feeling reflective, thoughtful, or quietly proud of how far you've come—even if it doesn't all show up on paper—this episode is for you. Want more? Sign up to receive my weekly newsletter, The Weekend List, full of behind-the-scenes action, additional insights, and what I'm watching, reading, listening to, and trying out. And be sure to come and say hello on Instagram! I'm @kkayaian

Day 4 of the Quarterly Retreat Mini-Series: OPTIMIZE You've planned. You've created. You've organized. Today, we optimize. Day 4 is where we take everything you've built this week and make it smoother, lighter, more efficient, and far easier to sustain. This is where you move from "scrambling and reacting" to feeling supported by your tools, systems, and environment. Inside this episode, you'll: Refresh or update your website, LinkedIn, or public-facing profile so it matches who you are now Optimize your templates so you stop reinventing the wheel Clean up and clarify your social media presence Automate, streamline, and systematize the parts of life and work that drain your energy Design a workflow that frees up more time, space, and mental bandwidth By the end of Day 4, you'll feel clearer, calmer, and more supported by the structures around you. This is the day that creates ease. 🎧 Listen now, and then spend the day setting yourself up for success.  ✨ Want support and structure? Download my free Quarterly Retreat Planning Guide to follow along and use it every quarter. 📍 And if you want to do this LIVE with me, join the Stay-At-Home Retreat sessions happening December 29, 30, 31 & January 2 from 11am-12pm ET via Zoom. Sign up via Thrivefest. Let's optimize, together. Happy Quarterly Retreating, friends!  

Welcome to Day 3 of our Quarterly Retreat series inside Tales From The Lane! If you've been following along, you've already: Day 1: Planned Day 2: Created And today… We Organize. This is the quiet power day. The one most people skip. But it's also the one that creates peace, reduces overwhelm, and makes everything you've mapped out actually work. Because clarity loves order. In this episode, you'll learn: Why organizing isn't "busywork"—it's nervous system regulation How to create physical space so your ideas can thrive A simple approach for finally conquering your inbox The truth about digital clutter and decision fatigue Why that paper pile is draining your energy (and how to reclaim it) By the end of Day 3: Your space will support your work. Your brain will feel lighter. And your next 90 days will have room to breathe. 🎧 Listen now, and then spend the day setting yourself up for success.  ✨ Want support and structure? Download my free Quarterly Retreat Planning Guide to follow along and use it every quarter. 📍 And if you want to do this LIVE with me, join the Stay-At-Home Retreat sessions happening December 29, 30, 31 & January 2 from 11am-12pm ET via Zoom. Sign up via Thrivefest Let's build the next 90 days with purpose.

Welcome back to Day 2 of our Stay-at-Home Quarterly Retreat mini-series! If yesterday was about reflection, clarity, and direction, today is about rolling up your sleeves and building the things your next 90 days will need. Today is all about Creation Mode. Most of us do planning beautifully. But then life happens…and suddenly everything becomes last-minute: graphics, promo posts, emails, outreach, content, requests, rehearsals prep – you name it. Today we break that cycle. In this mini-episode, I walk you step-by-step through how to: • Create assets that save you time later • Stock your "visibility pantry" • Build social posts, captions, emails + ideas • Gather testimonials + proof of excellence • Design graphics + templates to reuse • Send bold outreach to move your career forward This is the day where momentum begins. This is where you build ease into your next quarter. 🎧 Listen now, and then spend the day creating what Future-You will be so grateful to have. ✨ Want support and structure? Download my free Quarterly Retreat Planning Guide to follow along and use it every quarter. 📍 And if you want to do this LIVE with me, join the Stay-At-Home Retreat sessions happening December 29, 30, 31 & January 2 from 11am-12pm ET via Zoom. Sign up via Thrivefest Let's build the next 90 days with purpose.

Ready to step out of reaction mode and into intention? Today we're kicking off a special 4-part mini-series walking you through my Quarterly Retreat Strategy so you can step into the next 90 days grounded, organized, creative, and clear. Most of us spend our lives reacting—putting out fires, responding to whatever shows up, and getting swept into urgency instead of alignment. This retreat is about reclaiming agency over your time, your energy, and your life—without needing to disappear to a fancy spa resort. You can do this right at home. In this episode (Day 1: PLAN), you'll learn: • How to create a "retreat environment" at home that signals your brain to slow down and think deeply • The reflective questions that reveal what worked, what didn't, and what needs to shift • How to design the next 90 days intentionally instead of reactively • How to map goals realistically so life supports you—not overwhelms you • Why how you want to feel matters more than what you accomplish This is the foundation. Today we prep, we reflect, and we design the quarter ahead with clarity and intention. ✨ Want support and structure? Download my free Quarterly Retreat Planning Guide to follow along and use it every quarter. 📍 And if you want to do this LIVE with me, join the Stay-At-Home Retreat sessions happening December 29, 30, 31 & January 2 from 11am-12pm ET via Zoom. Sign up via Thrivefest Let's build the next 90 days with purpose.  

How to be the Change You Want to See with Mari Manoogian Today on Tales from the Lane, I'm joined by the Honourable Mari Manoogian—former Michigan State Representative and now Executive Director of The Next 50, an organization dedicated to empowering and equipping the next generation of leaders to shape the future they want to live in. This conversation is honest, energizing, and deeply grounding. Mari pulls back the curtain on what leadership actually feels like when you're the youngest person in the room, when the stakes are high, and when stepping forward requires vulnerability, conviction, and courage. We talk about: What courage really feels like (hint: it's rarely glamorous) Claiming leadership instead of waiting to be "granted" it Navigating power dynamics, criticism, and visibility Reinvention and knowing when it's time to evolve Why showing up—even when you're unsure—changes everything Mari is smart, warm, grounded, and deeply committed to helping people lead with purpose and impact. You're going to walk away feeling inspired—and far more capable than you may realize. Learn more about The Next 50 here: 👉 https://www.thenext50.us Connect with Mari on social: 📸 Instagram: @marimanoogian 🔗 LinkedIn: @MariManoogian Want more? grab a copy of my book, Beyond Potential: A Guide for Creatives Who Want to Re-Assess, Re-Define, and Re-Ignite Their Career.  And if you're craving structure, clarity, and a grounded sense of direction for the coming months, don't forget to download my Quarterly Retreat Planning Guide—your free roadmap to reflect, reset, and realign with what matters most. Thank you for listening, friends. If this episode moved you, please share it with someone who needs encouragement to take the lead in their own life.

As we head into a new year, many of us are thinking about goals—what we want to do, accomplish, or finally finish. But what if the real work starts somewhere deeper? In this episode of Tales from The Lane, Kate Kayaian explores the idea of identity shifts, and why before you can start talking about building better habits, or finding more discipline, we need to figure out WHO you need to be in order to reach those goals.  You'll learn: Why behavior always follows identity A simple framework that can help you through the process.  The difference between evolution and identity "death" The three phases of an identity shift How to create your own Identity Blueprint for the year ahead Kate also shares journaling prompts, mini case studies, and practical mantras with small actions to help you step into your next-level self—without risk of burnout or crippling perfectionism. This episode is especially powerful if you're setting intentions for the new year, navigating reinvention, or feeling called toward something bigger, but unsure how to get there. 🎁 Download the free Identity Blueprint worksheet to go deeper with this episode. 📘 Learn more inside Beyond Potential: A Guide for Creatives Who Want to Re-Assess, Re-Define, and Re-Ignite Their Career. ✨ Join ThriveFest: Holiday Edition for daily momentum-building actions. 👋🏼 Come say hello on Instagram:  @KKayaian

In a world where everyone is shouting for attention online, how do you share your story in a way that actually connects, and doesn't just add to the noise? Today's guest has built an entire career around answering that question. In this episode, I'm joined by Michelle Glogovac—podcast publicist, host of multiple shows (including Read the Damn Book), and author of How to Get on Podcasts. Known as THE podcast matchmaker, Michelle helps authors, entrepreneurs, and change-makers use podcast guesting as a strategic, human way to grow their visibility and impact. We talk about: Why podcasts are one of the most powerful visibility tools for high achievers right now How to pitch yourself in a way that actually respects a host's time and energy Common mistakes people make when trying to get on podcasts (and what to do instead) How to craft and repeat your core stories without feeling like a broken record Reinvention, "failure," and what it really looks like to pivot into a new chapter Building community, saying yes to opportunities, and starting small—even if you're scared no one will show up If you've been feeling the nudge to get more visible, start a show, or finally pitch yourself as a guest, this conversation will give you both mindset shifts and practical next steps. Mentioned in this episode: How to Get on Podcasts by Michelle Glogovac Michelle's shows, including Read the Damn Book My book, Beyond Potential: A Guide for Creatives Who Want to Re-Assess, Re-Define, and Re-Ignite Their Career.  If this episode resonates, will you share it with a friend who's sitting on a powerful story and needs a little push to put it out into the world? Want more? Join us inside ThriveFest: Holiday Edition, grab your copy of Beyond Potential, and subscribe to The Weekend List for weekly behind-the-scenes stories and practical insights. Follow Michelle: Instagram: @michelleglogovac TikTok: @thepodcastmatchmaker Threads: @michelleglogovac YouTube: @thepodcastmatchmaker  

In a world that's speeding up, sloppier than ever, and overflowing with noise, excellence can feel like a lost art. But what if small, intentional acts of care are exactly what bring you back to yourself? In this solo episode, Kate unpacks the idea of Finding Excellence in the Small Moments—not as a perfectionist mandate, but as a powerful form of self-respect, identity-building, and rebellion against mediocrity. Inside, you'll learn: ✨ Why "how you do anything is how you do everything" is dangeroulsy unrealistic ✨ The real difference between excellence and perfectionism ✨ The psychology behind small, intentional habits ✨ How tiny acts—making your bed beautifully, writing a human email, completing a task all the way through—can change the way you feel in your life ✨ Why moments of beauty, care, and presence matter now more than ever If you're craving grounding, clarity, and a sense of control amid the chaos, this episode will feel like a deep exhale. Want more? Join us inside ThriveFest: Holiday Edition, grab your copy of Beyond Potential, and subscribe to The Weekend List for weekly behind-the-scenes stories and practical insights.

This week on Tales from The Lane, I'm joined by Dr. Kristen Strom — speaker, author, former English professor turned transformational wellness coach — for a deeply real, encouraging conversation about what it actually takes to stop surviving and start thriving. Kristen built the career she thought she always wanted: PhD, professor, teacher educator, mom of three, leadership roles—all the boxes checked. But behind the scenes? She was exhausted, burned out, and increasingly disconnected from herself. A single photo of her on a walk with her kids changed everything. In this episode, Kristen shares: ✨ How success on paper can mask deep misalignment ✨ The moment she realized no one was coming to save her ✨ The 3 pieces of the wellness puzzle ✨ The Be–Do–Have framework and how it can change everything ✨ One small, smart step you can take today to shift your momentum We also talk about the lies we tell ourselves ("later, later, later…"), the danger of thinking being busy means being fulfilled, and how to rebuild a life that aligns with who you've become—not who you were five years ago. This is the perfect episode to listen to during Thrive Fest, where hundreds of us are taking small steps every day to reset our energy and reclaim our clarity. (Join us anytime!) Resources & Links: Join Thrive Fest: Holiday Edition Get my book Beyond Potential: A Guide for Creatives Who Want to Re-Assess, Re-Define, and Re-Ignite Their Career Connect with Kristen: IG: @dr_kristenstrom and @lifewithdrkristen, FBk: Dr. Kristen Strom; Linkedin: Dr. Kristen Strom If you've been feeling stretched thin, stuck, or out of sync with your own life, this episode will feel like a deep breath. Kristen's story is proof that change doesn't require an overhaul—just one small, smart step at a time.

Does life feel louder lately? Not just audibly, but mentally? Between the news cycle, nonstop notifications, the group chats, and the never-ending list of micro-decisions—we're all running on cognitive overload. In today's episode, Kate breaks down five powerful, practical strategies to help you turn down the volume, reclaim your mental space, and get your focus back. You'll learn how to: • Be intentional about the news you consume • Reduce context switching and reclaim hours of lost time • Build deep-focus "sauna time" into your day • Decrease decision fatigue with systems and rituals • Try a game-changing content-deprivation week These tools will help you create more calm, clarity, and control—not by escaping your life, but by designing it more intentionally. ✨ Thrive Fest is officially underway!If you haven't joined yet, there's still time to hop in and start your 6-week reset. Join here: https://mailchi.mp/katekayaian/dzlvsmt90k 📘 Get the book: Beyond Potential: A Guide for Creatives Who Aant to Re-Assess, Re-Define, and Re-Ignite Their Careers. Amazon, B&N, or wherever you buy books. 💬 Work with Kate 1:1  Book a free 30-minute consult call today.

Register for Thrivefest (it's free!) We begin on November 17th! What does it really mean to show up—on stage, on camera, online—and feel authentic instead of performative? Certified coach, speaker, writer, and retreat leader Dayna Del Val joins Kate to unpack "audacious visibility": the blend of presence, clarity, and courage that helps leaders and creatives communicate with impact. We get into: How to become audaciously visible without feeling salesy The #1 shift that makes talks and high-stakes conversations land (hello, audience-first delivery) Why storytelling rewires the stories we tell about ourselves—and how to change them Practical, theater-tested tips for on-camera confidence (Zoom and stage) The power of retreats and intentional time away to reconnect with your spark Navigating polarization with nuance (Dayna's podcast Brave Middle Ground) and building real connection again If you're crafting a keynote, prepping for a TED-style talk, or simply want to feel more you in the room, this one's a masterclass in presence. Resources mentioned: Dana's "10 Quick Tips to Be Confident & Camera-Ready," Rediscover Your Spark retreats (Edinburgh!) links to Dana's website and podcast Plus Kate's Thrive Fest (Holiday Edition) free community-wide advent calendar!

Most high achievers spend their lives mastering their side of the table—preparing, polishing, striving. But what happens when you switch sides? When you stop practicing only for the audition, for the interview, for the presentation…and step into the seat of the person on the other side? This week, we're exploring one of the most underrated tools for accelerating your growth, confidence, and clarity: perspective-shifting. From sitting on audition panels to interviewing other candidates, teaching what you're still learning, and even walking through your own audience or customer experience—putting yourself on the other side gives you information, insight, and confidence you cannot get any other way. If you're serious about mastery, momentum, and meaningful success, this episode is your blueprint. In this episode you'll learn: Why your brain learns faster when you switch roles How sitting on the decision-making side sharpens your instincts 5 strategies to immediately adopt "the other side" perspective The psychological and neuroscience research behind perspective-taking How this simple shift builds humility, confidence, and emotional intelligence This isn't about doing more—it's about seeing more. Resources & Links Mentioned: 📘 Get my book Beyond Potential — a roadmap to building a life and career of sustainable excellence 🗓️ Book a free 1:1 call to explore what doors working with a coach might open for you!  📩 Subscribe to The Weekend List — your weekly dose of grounded inspiration & strategy https://katekayaian.com/newsletter 🎉 Register for Thrive Fest — Holiday Edition Your daily, calm-but-powerful accountability ritual for a season that actually feels good

How do you rebuild momentum after a big change — in your work, your business, or your identity? This week on Tales from The Lane, I'm joined by entrepreneur, coach, and leadership expert John T. Meyer (@johntmeyer_ on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram). We dig into what it really takes to create — and sustain — forward motion when life and work evolve. John shares the story of rebuilding after selling his company, the power of discipline and consistency, and why true confidence doesn't come from results — it comes from becoming the kind of person who does what they say they'll do. You'll learn: How to rebuild momentum after a big transition or pivot Why confidence and courage are different (and how to build both) How to design daily "non-negotiables" that actually work The surprising role of boredom in long-term success What it means to "filter the noise" and focus on what really matters If you've ever felt like you're starting over — or stuck waiting for inspiration to strike — this conversation will help you take that next small step that leads to big momentum. 🎧 Listen now to Episode 86: Building Momentum — Identity, Confidence, and Doing the Boring Work with John T. Meyer. 🌟 Let's stay connected! If this episode resonates, I'd love to hear your thoughts — tag me on Instagram @kkayaian and tell me your biggest takeaway. For more ideas and behind-the-scenes insights on building a fulfilling, high-performing life, grab a copy of my book Beyond Potential — and be sure to subscribe to my free Friday newsletter, The Weekend List, where I share stories, strategies, and curated recommendations to help you thrive.

Do you ever end the day feeling like you were busy nonstop… but somehow didn't really get anything done? Between the texts, the quick favors, the emails, the "just a minute" tasks—it's no wonder our focus feels shredded. Research from UC Irvine shows that after each interruption, it takes an average of 23 minutes to fully return to your original task. Multiply that by a few dozen interruptions, and there goes your deep work. In this solo episode, Kate shares the simple system she uses to protect her focus without letting the rest of life fall apart. It's a daily practice that corrals distractions, clears mental clutter, and helps you end the day feeling both productive and peaceful. You'll learn: Why "just a quick reply" can secretly cost you half an hour of focus What context switching does to your brain (and how to stop it) How to separate what's urgent from what's important The hidden power of batching micro-tasks How to close the workday with clarity and calm This small mindset shift can change the way you work, lead, and live—no assistant required. Mentioned: Gloria Mark's research on interruptions (UC Irvine) American Psychological Association on multitasking Cal Newport's Deep Work David Allen's Getting Things Done The Eisenhower Matrix Keep going: 📘 Beyond Potential: A Guide for Creatives Who Want to Re-Assess, Re-Define, and Re-Ignite Their Careers ✉️ Sign up for The Weekend List, Kate's free Friday newsletter of stories, tools, and ideas to help you thrive 📲 Connect on Instagram: @kkayaian

Get your copy of Kate's book, Beyond Potential:  A Guide for Creatives Who Want to Re-Assess, Re-Define, and Re-Ignite Their Career.  In today's episode, Kate sits down with author and executive coach Charlie Gilkey, founder of Productive Flourishing, to unpack the truth about why teams struggle — and how to fix it. Charlie explains how small, everyday team habits can make or break performance, belonging, and joy at work. Together, he and Kate explore how power dynamics show up in every team (from Fortune 100 companies to small nonprofits), why "broken printers" are the real enemy, and how leaders can stop being the bottleneck in their own organizations. Whether you lead a team or are part of one, this episode will help you build healthier, more productive relationships that actually make work work. You'll learn: Why every dysfunctional team is doing something to each other — not to them. The three kinds of power that exist in every organization. How to use "interpersonal power" to make things better — even if you're not the boss. Why meetings aren't really the problem. How belonging habits create happier, more resilient teams. Resources Mentioned: Team Habits: How Small Actions Lead to Extraordinary Results — by Charlie Gilkey Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done — by Charlie Gilkey Take the free Team Habits Quiz at productiveflourishing.com Sign up for The Weekend List: Your perfect Friday pick-me-up: smart insights, fresh finds, and a dose of creative inspiration—delivered every week And come and say hello on Instagram or LinkedIn Grab my free Quarterly Retreat Planning Guide to Plan out Your Next 90 Days