Brilliantly Resilient

“If you don’t understand your value, no one else is going to understand it for you.” ~ Theresa Hummel Kralinger: Founder-High Five Performance, Author of Make Waves: A Career Pathing Guide to Stand Out, Stay Employable, and Sail Ahead, Professional Speaker and Comedian   How's your work-life looking? The world is changing at lightening speed, and it's no secret the workplace is changing almost as fast. With businesses scrambling to figure out how to use AI and new technologies, and the workforce doing the same, it can feel like the professional world is moving on--and you may be missing it. Workplace expert and High Five Performance founder Theresa Hummel Kralinger offers strategies and brings clarity to the confusion in her new book, Make Waves: A Career Pathing Guide to Stand Out, Stay Employable, and Sail Ahead. Theresa acknowledges how it feels to be stuck in your career — disconnected, uncertain, and wondering if the professional world has quietly moved on without you. But rather than panic or pressure, Theresa first advises awareness--not only giving value to clarity, but approaching everything with love. (Yeah, I didn't see it either, at first!) So many people feel irrelevant in their work — especially in these tumultous seasons of transition. Whether it’s returning to the workforce, changing industries, or simply realizing that what once fit no longer does, Theresa reminds us that relevance isn’t about chasing every trend. It’s about understanding your strengths, articulating your value, and staying awake to how the marketplace is evolving. That’s resilience in action. It’s not rigid survival — it’s responsive awareness. Back to the love part. When companies care about their workers (yep, it's a form of love) employees feel valued, in turn wanting to bring value to the organization by engaging in their work and learning continuously as new technologies and strategies are introduced. Everyone wins. Using sailing as a metaphor, Theresa breaks down the steps necessary to forging a life-long career path, leaning on inherent resilience and personal brilliance (skill sets) to raise visibility, build momentum, grow relationships, and foster credibility as you move forward with intention. At its heart, Make Waves is about reclaiming agency in a time when things may feel out of control. By approaching a professional life with curiosity instead of fear, we open the door to learning and growth, to navigate careers instead of drift with the tides. To hear more of Theresa's wisdom, tune into this episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast and pick up your copy of Make Waves here.   “People don’t feel stuck because they’re incapable. They feel stuck because they lack clarity.” “Relevance isn’t about doing everything — it’s about knowing what you do well and being able to articulate it.” “If you don’t understand your value, no one else is going to understand it for you.” “You have to stay aware of what’s happening around you, but you can’t lose yourself in the noise.” “Career management is not something you do once. It’s something you do continuously.” “When people approach their job search with fear, they shrink. When they approach it with love and curiosity, they expand.” “Clarity creates confidence.” “You don’t wait to be chosen. You position yourself to stand out.” “We all need to make waves at some point in our careers — otherwise we just drift.” Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

“Respect—of each other, of our team, of the process—was everything.” Andi Shaughnessy and Danielle Carter, Co-owners of ExpressIt   What would you do if you were suddenly in charge of running a business, despite having no experience doing so? Andi Shaughnessy and Danielle Carter were not business women--not by a long shot. But their father had built a business that they respected, and which they were handed after his untimely passing. After the death of their father, Andi and Danielle found their focus shifted in ways they weren't expecting. Grief clarified their priorities and deepened their commitment to continuing their father's legacy, and building something that reflected their, and his, values.  Neither of the sisters began with business plans, MBAs, or corporate blueprints. They started with a dedication to their father's work, a shared vision, and a willingness to move forward before they felt ready. Though they had no experience running a company, they chose imperfect action over paralysis--a Brilliantly Resilient strategy that involves examining what you can control, trusting your transferable skills, and taking the next step even when the path isn’t fully visible. Andi and Danielle leaned into faith and trust—not just in the process, but in the people around them. They respected expertise where they didn’t have it, brought in the right support, and built their business collaboratively rather than defensively, building a complementary tribe that worked with their personal skill sets. Resilience isn’t white-knuckled independence; it’s knowing when to ask for help and honoring the strengths others bring to the table. Andi and Danielle offer a powerful example of perception shaping possibility. Instead of seeing “We’ve never done this before” as a stop sign, they reframed it as a starting line, focusing on progress, not perfection. Adapting, trusting and evolving, they they revealed their brilliance—not because they had certainty, but because they had courage. Learn more about Andi and Danielle's journey, and about ExpressIt here. Follow them on Instagram on @unlikelybosses Tune in to this episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast for more of the sisters' wisdom, and be sure to listen for these additional bits of brilliance: “We had never run a business before. Not even close.” “We didn’t know what we didn’t know—but we knew we could figure it out." "We just kept taking the next right step.” “If someone knew more than we did, we listened.” “We had to trust the people we brought in to help us.” “It wasn’t about ego. It was about building something that worked.” “There were moments we thought, ‘What are we doing?’ But we kept going.” “Faith played a huge role. We believed it would unfold.” “Respect—of each other, of our team, of the process—was everything.”   Thank you, Andi and Danielle, for sharing your Brilliantly Resilient journey.  Let's all be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO,  Mary Fran  

“Resilience isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about aligning what you want with what your system feels safe enough to allow.” ~ Carol Looke: Therapist, Coach and Author of The Yes Code and Yes Thank You   Are you sabotaging yourself? The obvious question is, "Why would anyone do that?" The not so obvious answer is that you may not know you're doing it. Carol Looke is a renowned therapist, author and coach who explores how resilience and forward momentum can be blocked not by lack of effort, but by unconscious sabotage and unresolved nervous system stress. Carol (who grew up with two alcoholic parents) explains that we often live in survival mode--a mindset that focuses on keeping us safe and avoiding potential harm, whether the risk of harm is real or not. In an effort to avoid harm, the mind creates obstacles to risk, ultimately keeping us stuck. Our emotional stress, internal resistance, and self-sabotage also live in the body and nervous system, not just in our thoughts. So what to do? One helpful solution, consistently applied, relies on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), one portion of which relies on "tapping." Tapping relies on releasing stored emotional tension by tapping on points on the head and upper body while repeating positive affirmations. (On a personal aside, I thought tapping was downright silly--until I tried it!) A nervous-system-based approach, tapping creates safety, awareness and emotional alignment--encouraging momentum without forcing change. Carol's work and her book The Yes Code—help people identify the invisible “no’s” that keep them stuck and transform those patterns into forward momentum, building resilience through intentional action, clarity and self-permission. Living a Brilliantly Resilient life requires reflection as well as action. Once we recognize our internral resistance and yes, self-sabotage, we can move from frustration and burnout as we align our bodies and minds to allow our brilliance to shine.  Learn more about Carol and The Yes Code here and use this link for bonuses. Tune into this episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast for more of Carol's wisdom and listen for these additional bits of brilliance: “Sabotage isn’t a character flaw—it’s an internal conflict that hasn’t been resolved yet.” “When people keep trying to push forward but can’t, it’s usually because part of them is saying no beneath the surface.” “The Yes Code is about finding those unconscious no’s and turning them into conscious yeses.” “Stress lives in the nervous system, not just in our thoughts, and it has to be released—not reasoned away.” “When you calm the nervous system, clarity and motivation follow naturally.” “Emotionally focused work helps people feel safe enough to change, instead of forcing themselves to change.” “Tapping allows the body to release emotional conflict so the mind doesn’t have to keep fighting itself.” “When internal resistance dissolves, success stops feeling like a battle.” “Resilience isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about aligning what you want with what your system feels safe enough to allow.” Thank you, Carol, for sharing your wisdom and encouragement with us. Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

“Resilience doesn’t mean you’re not broken—it means you keep going anyway.” ~ Andrea Wilson Woods, Author of Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days, Patient Advocate and Founder of Blue Faery   Grief. The loss of someone we love is likely the most devastating of human experiences. And while death is a part of life, the death of a young person proves particularly wrenching. Author of Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days, Andrea Wilson Woods suffered the loss of her younger sister Adrienne after a desperately critical and short illness due to a rare liver cancer. Adrienne's illness and death affected Andrea in countless ways, among them hopelessness leading to thoughts of suicide. Ultimately, Andrea began to channel her grief into advocacy, noting the lack of resources for patients and families during her sister's illness.  Refusing to let despair consume her, Andrea began to take intention, imperfect action to address the needs of families and patients and founded Blue Faery, an organization created to provide education, support, and hope to those affected by bile duct cancer. What began as a response to personal heartbreak evolved into a mission-driven community—one rooted in compassion, awareness, and resilience. Blue Faery exists not because the journey was easy, but because Andrea chose to respond rather than retreat. Andrea's journey personifies how to live a Brilliantly Resilient life--evolving and resetting in the midst of terrible challenges, rising through advocacy and action, and ultimately revealing brilliance through service to others. Her journey reminds us that resilience doesn’t erase grief—it gives us a way to move with it, transform it, and use it to light the path for others walking a similar road. To learn more, visit Andrea's website and tune into this episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast for more of Andrea's wisdom. Listen for these additional bits of Brilliance: “We were overwhelmed, scared, and grieving—but we also knew we had to do something.” “Advocacy became a lifeline for us when everything else felt out of control.” “Watching someone you love fight cancer takes an emotional toll you can’t fully explain.” “Adrienne wanted to help others even while she was fighting for her own life.” “Blue Faery’s mission is to educate, support, and bring hope to patients and families affected by bile duct cancer.” “There were days when resilience looked like simply getting through the day.” “We didn’t have a roadmap—we learned as we went.” “Taking action gave us a sense of purpose in the middle of so much pain.” “Grief and hope can exist at the same time.” “Resilience doesn’t mean you’re not broken—it means you keep going anyway.” “If our experience could help even one family feel less alone, then it mattered.” Thank you Andrea and Adrienne for your brave hearts. Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together. XO, Mary Fran

“Maybe we don’t need the new year to make us new— maybe we just need the courage to let go.”   ~ Jay Armstrong, Award winning writer, speaker, humorist. Author of A Good Calamity, Follow Your Dreams Down and other inspirational books   What if, instead of piling things on to improve ourselves over this new year, we simply let some things go? Award winning author and speaker Jay Armstrong has had to release much in his life, primarily due to his struggle with Ataxia, a neurological disease that causes a lack of muscle control affecting balance, walking speech and fine motor skills. As a result, Jay has found ways to create resilience every day in ways big, small and unexpected. In this episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast, Jay invites us to rethink resilience not as grit-your-teeth endurance, but as a daily, evolving practice rooted in presence. Jay notes that resilience isn’t about fixing ourselves or racing toward some imagined future version, it’s about showing up fully in the body and life we have right now. Whether it’s turning off distractions, focusing on the next step (literally or figuratively), or simply being present for the moment in front of us, resilience begins when we focus on the now. As a practitioner of active hope—the idea that hope grows through movement, action, and personal engagement—Jay subscribes to the belief that instead of waiting for circumstances to change or for motivation to magically appear, hope is built when we physically engage in our own saving. Even small actions (in Jay’s case, writing a paragraph, walking the dog, lifting a weight, making someone laugh) become life-saving behaviors. In choosing action over passivity, we choose momentum, dignity and forward motion, even on the hardest days. Further, Jay encourages us to release the burden of “shoulds” and comparisons to others. Jay recognizes that shoulds can morph into expectations that when unmet begin to create regret and bitterness, while comparison is the “thief of joy.” A central theme of living a Brilliantly Resilient life, releasing shoulds and comparisons and instead focusing on the impact of small actions always initiates forward growth. Jay’s barometer for a good life revolves around a simple question: If I were to die tonight, what would make my last day successful? The answer isn’t perfection or productivity, but connection, creativity, humor, movement, and love. By trading comparison and pressure for intention and meaning, resilience becomes less about surviving and more about living—one honest, imperfect day at a time. Follow Jay Armstrong, The (dis)Abled Writer on Substack and find his books on Amazon. Be sure to listen to Jay on this week’s episode of The Brilliantly Resilient podcast, and tune of these bits of Brilliance. “The more you physically engage in your own saving, the stronger hope becomes.” “When you engage in life-saving behavior, you engage in hope.” “Hope alone isn’t enough. Hope needs movement.” “My body isn’t a problem to solve—it’s a story to listen to.” “Presence means saying: I’m here right now, and that’s enough.” “Passive hope is the fantasy that one day I’ll wake up upgraded.” “The ‘should-bes’ lead to maybes and might-bes—and then one day they turn into regret and bitterness.” “Comparison is the thief of joy—and it’s completely unproductive.” “Every choice leads to a result. You have to ask yourself: what good will come from this?” “Little movements create active hope because they create momentum.” “If I were to die tonight, what would make my last day successful?” “Maybe we don’t need the new year to make us new—maybe we just need the courage to let go.” Let’s be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"Faith isn't just believing for something—it's believing through something. Real faith is resilient faith." ~ Bishop Kevin Foreman, "The People's Bishop," Founder of Harvest Church, Author of Sins of the Fathers, Evolutionaries and History Makers   What if every challenge was an invitation to grow closer to your purpose? Collectively, the world isn't in the best shape right now. Challenges abound, both on global and individual fronts. Yet Bishop Kevin Foreman reminds us that these are precisely the opportunities that allow us to build our resilience through faith and service, to help us rise from our lowest moments, guiding us to uncover brilliance even in the darkest times. Known as "the people's bishop," Bishop Foreman encourages us to turn to faith as a guide when times seem bleak, especially when there are no obvious solutions to problems. Bishop Foreman sees faith as the foundation of resilience, reminding us that resilience isn't passive endurance—it's active faith, where we learn to trust in something bigger than ourselves even when the outcome is uncertain. Through his words, we're reminded that strength is born not from having all the answers, but from the belief that every challenge carries meaning and movement toward something greater. As founder of Harvest Church and author of several books, Bishop Foreman has made service a hallmark of his work. He notes that rising isn't about climbing higher for ourselves—it's about lifting others as we go. That's the heart of being Brilliantly Resilient--using our transferable strengths to build community and impact. As we serve through struggle, we demonstrate how resilience becomes richer when it's shared, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and hope. As Bishop Foreman reflects on pain, purpose, and light, we're reminded that brilliance isn't about perfection—it's about allowing our faith, scars, and growth to illuminate the path for others. When we share our stories and serve from our healed places, we not only rise—we shine. Learn more about Bishop Foreman here, and tune into this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast for more of his wisdom. Be sure to listen for these additional bits of brilliance: "Faith isn't just believing for something—it's believing through something. Real faith is resilient faith." "You can't rise without serving. The higher you go, the more people you're called to lift with you." "If you want to be a light in the dark, you have to first walk through the darkness yourself." "Resilience doesn't mean pretending everything's okay—it means trusting that even this will work together for your good." "Don't curse the season you're in. Every challenge is a setup for your next elevation." "You discover brilliance when you realize that your story isn't just yours—it's someone else's survival guide." "God doesn't waste pain. Every trial has purpose, and every scar shines light." "Your brilliance is revealed when your faith produces fruit that feeds others." "I literally say that on a daily basis, I am shalom, nothing is missing, nothing is broken, nothing is lacking, all is well. "I am a light… You are a light. Whatever area you're in, you are a light. And being a light for other people makes it so much easier for you to be resilient." "We are constantly evolving… Some areas you're flying… some areas you're in the cocoon… No matter what, you're evolving. But the principle? Keep it moving." Thank you, Bishop Foreman, for sharing your light. Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"You have to give yourself permission to suck — that's how we grow and develop. Resilience is built in the messy middle." ~ Pia Mailhot-Leichter, Founder of The Kollektiv Studio and Author of Welcome to the Creative Club Pia Mailhot-Leichter, founder of The Kollektiv Studio and author of Welcome to the Creative Club, joins the Brilliantly Resilient Podcast to explore how creativity is one of the most powerful tools for resilience and self-discovery. Pia reminds us that creativity isn't reserved for artists — it's a life skill. Whether you're building a business, solving a problem, or reimagining your next chapter, creativity allows us to reset our thinking, rise from challenges, and reveal the brilliance that's already within us. Through her stories and insights, Pia shows how creativity thrives through connection — with others, with ideas, and with life itself. She challenges us to let go of perfection, embrace play, and give ourselves permission to create — not because it's perfect, but because it's possible. In that permission lies true resilience, as we grow, evolve, and experience resilience through those changes. By rediscovering our creative spirits, we reset, allowing new ideas, processes and paths to emerge. As we open our creativity to collaboration, we rise, allowing for imperfections along the way. And brilliance shines through as we dare to design the next scene of life on our own terms. As Pia says, "You're the creative director of your own story — and it's time to call, 'Action!'" Learn more about Pia and her work here, and tune into this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast for more of Pia's wisdom. Be sure to listen in for these additional bits of Brilliance: "Creativity is a practice — we have to keep showing up and reminding ourselves to play. It's just as important as ticking something off a to-do list." "When we're able to imagine, dream, and create space for play, we can shape a very different reality — for ourselves and for others." "In a time of destruction, creativity and creatives are needed more than ever. We all have that innate creativity — it's time to reclaim it." "You have to give yourself permission to suck — that's how we grow and develop. Resilience is built in the messy middle." "Logic and magic work together. Creativity isn't separate from structure — it's the partnership between both that lets ideas thrive." "Creativity is how we find novel and delightful ways of solving everyday challenges. It's how we've always survived — it's part of being human." "There's no such thing as a lone creative genius. Everything is co-created — with people, ideas, and even life itself." "The best way to become resilient is to do it — to keep creating, sharing, and learning through the process." "Be the creative director of your life. You get to choose the next scene and how you want it to look." Thank you, PIa, for sharing the joy of creativity! Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"These courses are a roadmap — they guide you to not only uncover your resilience but to rise, thrive, and ultimately find your brilliance within life's challenges." ~ Mary Fran Bontempo, Creator of the Brilliantly Resilient Mini-Course Series   Today it's me--sharing the story behind the creation of the Brilliantly Resilient Mini-Course Series — Reset with Resilience, Rise and Thrive, and Reveal Your Brilliance. After years of helping people bounce back from life's challenges through her books, speaking, and podcast, I wanted to create a hands-on way for anyone to learn and live the Brilliantly Resilient process at their own pace. Through short, powerful video lessons and guided workbooks, these mini-courses will  take learners from simply surviving to thriving — one intentional step at a time. Reset with Resilience helps you uncover your core values and reclaim control over what truly matters. Rise and Thrive guides you to identify transferable strengths, build supportive tribes, and take imperfect action toward progress. And finally, Reveal Your Brilliance leads you to discover your unique gifts and let go of rigid outcomes so your brilliance can shine in every area of life. These courses were born from a desire to make resilience doable. Whether you're facing a major life shift or simply ready to grow, this series offers practical, heartfelt guidance for anyone ready to reset, rise, and reveal their brilliance — one brilliantly imperfect step at a time. Tune into this podcast to learn more, and access the courses through this link: https://brilliantlyresilient.mvsite.app/pages/view/11354/. Be sure to use Promo Code EARLY BIRD for big discounts!   "Nobody really tells us how to become resilient. Well, that's what I've been able to do with the Brilliantly Resilient process and the new mini-course series." "Reset with Resilience teaches you quite literally how to tap into your inherent resilience through your value system, your perception of challenges, and controlling your controllables." "These courses are a roadmap — they guide you to not only uncover your resilience but to rise, thrive, and ultimately find your brilliance within life's challenges." "The good news about these courses is not only do they teach you to find your resilience, but how to rise and thrive beyond the initial crisis and continue to move forward." "When we lead with our hearts, the best of us comes through — we can discover our brilliance through service." "The places where we think we're going to find our brilliance aren't always where we end up — and yet, there's always brilliance to share wherever we land." "I really believe these courses are the perfect way to help individuals and organizations reset, rise, and reveal their brilliance — in the easiest, most personal way possible."   I know these mini-courses will be a great tool to help you live a Brilliantly Resilient life.  Let's learn to be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"Sometimes resilience looks like showing up. That's it. Just being here, trying again, and refusing to give up." ~ Jake Weiner--Founder, Zooz Fitness   Everyone knows that exercise and movement are important to health, both mental and physical. But can exercise help build strength in other ways--like resilience?  Jake Weiner thinks so. Jake is the founder of Zooz Fitness, an inclusive fitness community in Los Angeles dedicated to making health and movement accessible to individuals of all abilities. Jake has witnessed the transformative power of movement, and shares how resilience, inclusivity, and empowerment drive his mission to make movement accessible to all. Zooz is more than a fitness space — it's a community where individuals of all abilities discover confidence and capability through movement. Jake's belief that "movement is a universal language" allows him to reach individuals regardless of ability or self-perception to help them reframe limits and redefine what's possible. Jake's approach exemplifies taking intentional, often imperfect action and building community. He helps clients focus on what they can do, building small victories into major transformations. Jake's work demonstrates that resilience is often rooted in consistency, compassion, and community — not in perfection. Each session at Zooz reinforces the idea that progress is personal, and every step forward is worth celebrating. Jake's leadership helps others see their innate strength and potential--even when they can't see it themselves. By creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity in ability and experience, he helps people reveal their brilliance through movement, self-belief, and connection. Jake's story reminds us that true brilliance is not about doing more — it's about being more, right where you are. For more of Jake's wisdom, and to learn from Zooz Fitness member (and awesome lady!) Mary Bella, tune into this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast. Learn more about Jake and Zooz here, and be sure to listen for these additional bits of Brilliance:    "Movement is a universal language — everyone deserves the chance to experience what their body can do." "At Zooz, we don't focus on what people can't do. We start with what they can — and we build from there." "When someone walks through our doors, it's not about perfection or performance. It's about participation." "We all have barriers, but when you move beyond them — physically or mentally — that's where growth happens." "Inclusivity isn't just about access. It's about creating a space where everyone feels seen, capable, and celebrated." "Sometimes resilience looks like showing up. That's it. Just being here, trying again, and refusing to give up." "The biggest transformation I see isn't in muscle or strength. It's in confidence." "Everyone has their own version of brilliance. At Zooz, our job is to help people uncover it through movement." "Zooz isn't just a gym — it's a community of people redefining what strength and success look like." Thank you, Jake (and former guest Allison Norlian--episode here) for caring and doing what you do! Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"I realized I was battling in a system that valued the system over the child — and that was a big wake-up call." ~Victoria Lenormand, Former Police Detective, Founder of Gemini Directions and Author of The Magic of Not Fitting In   Have you ever felt like you just didn't fit in? Occasionally, and especially during the teenage years, everyone feels like they don't belong. But how would you manage feeling like that every day? And if you were a parent watching your child struggling with such feelings, how would you help them (and you) through it? Victoria Lenormand is a former police detective from the U.K. who has used her acute skill set to help her autistic son navigate a world where he doesn't always "fit" within the systems society has in place.  Victoria's journey from investigation to advocacy revealed the cracks in systems designed to serve but not always to see the individuals they are meant to help. Once her son was diagnosed with autism, Victoria found herself confronting institutions that valued rules and systems over people. That moment became a call to tap into resilience with courage as she began to ask questions and challenge the status quo with compassion and clarity. Recognizing an ever evolving diverse population within her community, Victoria pushed for growth and change through flexiblity, observation and adaptation. Further, she openly advocated modeling mistakes for children and embracing imperfection, thus empowering parents, educators, and leaders to take small, intentional steps toward changing systems to better serve communities. Victoria reminds us that "we're better when we're together," offering everyone the chance to shine their own brilliant light through differences to build vibrant communities. Her book, The Magic of Not Fitting In, invites us to celebrate diversity as a source of strength. By shifting focus from fixing those who are different to understanding, adapting and learning, she shows how true brilliance is revealed not in conformity, but in compassion, curiosity, connection and the willingness to institute change. Learn more about Victoria here and tune in for more of her wisdom on this episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast. Be sure to listen for these additional bits of Brilliance:    "I realized I was battling in a system that valued the system over the child — and that was a big wake-up call." "Our children don't fit the narrative, so we have to create another narrative." "When the community shows itself to be diverse, the system can't respond if it remains the way it is." "If a child is in trauma in that environment, it's not for us to critique their resilience — it's for us to meet the need." "Resilience...is the ability to flex, to step back, and to ask better questions." "We don't develop resilience from the comfort place — we develop it through the rough stuff." "Let me model mistakes for you. Learn to laugh at yourself. You don't have to measure everything as a pass or fail." "Maybe if we focus first on helping children discover who they are — and make that okay — we'll start to see real growth." "We're better when we're together. Diversity should be echoed in our systems, not othered by them." Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"Habituelle is rooted in the belief that leadership isn't a title—it's how we show up, again and again." ~ Jessi Sheridan, Founder of Habituelle   When you think of habits, what comes to mind? Often, when we think of a habit, it's in a critical way--as in a bad habit we want to break. But Habituelle founder Jessi Sheridan believes that making something a habit is a positive way to create powerful, lasting change.  In this episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast, Jessi Sheridan shares how her approach to leadership grew from the belief that leadership is a habit--one that can be cultivated with small, intentional practices that reflect who women truly are—rather than conforming to systems designed by someone else. To begin her practice, Jessi asks the question, "What is the impact I want to have?" which serves as a daily reset for leaders seeking purpose and alignment in both their personal and professional lives. Jessi's approach also aligns with the Brilliantly Resilient practice of taking imperfect action while not being married to outcomes. She didn't start with a fully formed plan; instead, she moved forward with curiosity, reflection, and imperfect action. Much like resilience itself, Jessi's path evolved step by step, grounded in consistent habits and guided by values. Her reminder that women are often "climbing a ladder built by and for someone else" challenges us to redefine success and build our own structure for growth. Here at Brilliantly Resilient, we know the power of imperfect action, especially when it aligns with our values. By staying grounded in values, we are able to, in Jessi's words, "take up more space" releasing perfectionism and embracing the art of being present. In this way, we design our own habits of leadership, providing a personal path for growth. Learn more about Jessi and Habituelle here, and listen to this week's Brilliantly Resilient podcast for more of Jessi's wisdom. Be sure to listen for these additional bits of Billiance:   "Leadership is a habit—something we practice daily through small, intentional choices." "I always ask myself, 'What is the impact I want to have?' That question keeps me grounded and focused." "So many women find themselves climbing a ladder that was built by and for someone else." "We need to take up more space—not just physically, but in our voices, our ideas, and the way we lead." "Habituelle is rooted in the belief that leadership isn't a title—it's how we show up, again and again." "I didn't come to this work with a fully formed plan. It evolved slowly, with each imperfect step." "Perfection isn't the goal—consistency is. Leadership and growth happen through repetition and reflection." "Resilience isn't about avoiding failure—it's about learning, adjusting, and trying again with intention." "When we lead from authenticity instead of expectation, we make space for brilliance to emerge naturally."   Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"We have to reshape how we talk about neurodivergence in the workplace--shift from it being a disability that needs to be accomodated to a form of cognitive diversity we can cultivate and harness to drive success." Rita Ramakrishnan ~ Founder and CEO of Iksana Consulting   What if the very things you've seen as challenges are actually your greatest strengths?  Rita Ramakrishnan was diagnosed as neurodivergent and autistic as a young adult, but she always knew she was different. Getting her diagnosis proved to be the proverbial light bulb, explaining much of what made Rita wonder about how she functioned in the world. But labels like neurodivergence and autism can be scary--at least at first. The idea of a brain that operates differently can be difficult to understand by those who are neurodivergent as well as others, who may see different as a liability, especially in the workplace. As founder of Iksana Consulting, Rita works with neurodivergent leaders as well as corporations and shares her powerful perspective that neurodivergence is not a flaw but a different operating system—one that often brings extraordinary gifts like creativity, rapid problem-solving, and unique pattern recognition. She reminds us that resilience isn't about bouncing back, but about "bouncing forward" by experimenting, adapting, and embracing flexibility--a message relevant to us all. (In Sanskrit, "Iksana" means thoughtful observation, including a mindful and attentive presence to truly see and understand the needs and potential of a person or situation.)  Here at Brilliantly Resilient, we know that Brilliance and Resilience come in all shapes and sizes--and there's room for everyone. Rita reminds us that brilliance doesn't come from sameness—it comes from authenticity, diversity, and the courage to rise in your own way. As we recognize differences and treat them with openness and respect, we become open to sharing the knowledge and wisdom of others, expanding our tribes, and our power to solve problems and build a better world, opening the door to grace and possibility rather than shame. Find out more about Rita's important work at Iksana Consulting here, and tune into this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast to hear more of Rita's wisdom. Be sure to listen for these additional bits of Brilliance: "For a lot of neurodivergent folks, you spend a lot of your life feeling like a square peg in a round hole… and getting a diagnosis or some understanding is really helpful to put that into context." "I like to think of most neurodivergence as an operating system that processes inputs differently, and therefore the outputs look different too." "I want us to stop labeling these things as different. Let's have a holistic view about how you process information." "Resilience for a neurodivergent person isn't just about bouncing back—it's about bouncing forward." "To me, the resilient aspect of neurodivergence is acknowledging that you're not broken. We are brilliant in our own respect. I love my brain." "My clients have gifts that are going to be transformative for their organizations… this isn't something to be tolerated, it's something to be harnessed." "Neurodivergent brains often see patterns much faster, process information more quickly, and generate creative alternative solutions." "Half the time, all people want is to be understood… simply saying, 'Tell me more,' creates room for brilliance to emerge." "The best definition of happiness I've seen is the intersection of peacefulness and productivity. Imagine if workplaces valued both equally." Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran P.S. I just LOVED this episode! Thank you, Rita!!!

"Every disagreement is an invitation to pause, reflect, and reset before we respond." Ursula Taylor ~ Founder, Conflict Reimagined   The legal profession is basically founded on conflict. One side tries to prove the other wrong in order to "win." A former commercial litigator with 17 years of experience, Ursula Taylor has seen her share of conflict, and she's committed to changing the idea of conflict as a battle to be won into an opportunity to clarify values, adjust perspective and focus on solutions instead of blame. By working with corporations and individuals through Conflict Reimagined, Ursula helps resolve conflicts with holistic strategies not found within traditional dispute resolution. In this episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast, Ursula Taylor invites us to reframe the way we view conflict, redefining it as an opportunity uncover what truly matters. Conflict, when met with resilience, then becomes a tool for clarity rather than battle and chaos. When we focus less on blame and more on solutions, we can lean into our strengths, involving our supportive tribe, and taking even small, imperfect steps toward understanding other points of view. We can turn disagreements into pathways for growth where conflict becomes less about winning and losing, and more about building momentum, connection, and deeper resilience. Echoing the Brilliliantly Resilient method, Ursula urges us to release outcomes and expectations while we lead with heart, allowing space for unexpected solutions and stronger relationships. She notes that conflict doesn't just shape outcomes—it shapes us. By embracing that truth, we don't just survive difficult conversations, we rise stronger and shine brighter. Learn more about Ursula at Conflict Resolution For more of Ursula's wisdom, tune into this week's episode of the Billiantly Resilient podcast and be sure listen for these additional bits of Brilliance:    "Conflict doesn't have to be destructive; it can be the spark that helps us see what really matters." "When we reset our perspective, we begin to see conflict not as chaos, but as a chance to clarify values." "Every disagreement is an invitation to pause, reflect, and reset before we respond." "Rising through conflict means focusing on solutions, not blame—and leaning into the strengths we bring to the table." "We build resilience in conflict when we take imperfect steps toward understanding instead of waiting for the perfect answer." "When you involve your tribe in resolution, you find support, perspective, and the courage to keep going." "The brilliance in conflict is revealed when we allow it to shape us—teaching flexibility, empathy, and new ways forward." "Letting go of rigid outcomes in conflict opens space for unexpected, brilliant solutions to emerge." "Conflict handled with heart and purpose doesn't just solve problems—it strengthens relationships and resilience." Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"The very thing you're afraid to say is often what will inspire someone else to keep going." ~ Sara Connell, Best-selling Author and Founder of Thought Leader Academy   Have you ever thought about writing a book but believe you have nothing to say? For those of us living "ordinary" lives, it's easy to feel our stories have little meaning beyond our own lives. Yet Sara Connell holds the opposite to be true.  As founder of the Thought Leader Academy and a 5x Bestselling author, Sara knows that even everyday stories can have profound impact. In fact, the experiences that test us but which we often overlook as meaningless to others can be the very ones that inspire people to uncover their own resilience and reclaim their power.  Sharing our stories enables us to give voice to our own truth, find meaning, and heal as we rise from challenges. Each time we share our journey--the messy parts--the vulnerable parts, we strengthen our own resilience and provide a roadmap for someone else to rise. Ultimately, Sara notes that Brilliance is not about a perfect story, but about sharing authenticity. Our stories, no matter their scope, hold the potential to heal, connect, and inspire, becoming catalysts for resilience, transformation, and brilliance that ripple outward into the world. Learn more about Sara and the Thought Leader Academy where she helps coaches, experts and entrepreneurs scale impact + create 6-7 figures by becoming bestselling authors and in demand/TEDx speakers. Tune in for more of her wisdom on this week's Brilliantly Resilient podcast and be sure to listen for these additional bits of Brilliance and check out Sara's FREE GIFTS BELOW:   "Stories are the bridges that connect us—we heal ourselves and others every time we tell them." "You don't need a blockbuster story to make an impact. Your everyday story can be the light someone else needs." "When we give voice to our story, we reclaim our power." "Your story isn't what happened to you—it's the meaning you choose to create from it." "Stories are proof that we survived, and they become roadmaps for others to rise too." "The very thing you're afraid to say is often what will inspire someone else to keep going." "Sharing your story doesn't just free you—it gives others permission to share theirs." "Every time you tell your story, you expand the possibility of what's available—for yourself and for others." "Brilliance isn't about perfection—it's about showing up in your truth, story and all." Check out these FREE GIFTS from Sara! 7 Steps to Write a Revenue Generating Bestselling Book (in as little as 2 months even if you've never written before) PLUS: Sara's bonus templates and worksheets that have generated hundreds of bestsellers: https://www.saraconnell.com/7-steps-to-write-a-revenue-generating-bestselling-book 6-Step Pitch Power Training: In this training, Sara shows you her 6-Step Pitch- which has resulted in thousands of podcasts, conferences, virtual events, and media appearances: https://saraconnellcoaching.lpages.co/pitch-process/ Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"We get addicted to achievement because it's how we prove we matter." ~ Dr. Toni Warner, Certified Trauma Therapist and Author of The Reset, A High Achiever's Guide to Freedom and Fulfillment: Your Step-By-Step  Roadmap for Getting Unstuck   Achievement. Do more. Be more. Check off more boxes.  UGH. Most women feel the need to achieve, which is not a bad thing in itself. But when that need keeps us spinning, working, accomplishing, but still feeling drained, and unfulfilled, somethin' ain't working. Dr. Toni Warner's has walked the walk, achieving by all of society's standards but feeling something missing. Her work centers on redefining success for high-achieving women as she lifts the veil on what it feels like to "do all the things" and still feel unfulfilled—a reality that resonates deeply with many listeners who wear their productivity as proof of worth. Her story of outward success masking an inward mess is the starting point for a Reset—a call to pause, check in, and create space to feel, not just function. With a clear yet compassionate voice, Dr. Toni invites women to Rise not by doing more, but by being more present. She challenges the myth that ambition must come with constant burnout and shows how tiny, intentional practices—like asking how you want to be today—can shift the trajectory of your day and life. Through the use of simple tools like her "intentional scheduler," she offers a framework for integrating flow into structure, showing that ambition and alignment are not mutually exclusive. Ultimately, her message is an invitation to Reveal Your Brilliance by letting go of rigid identities and reconnecting to core values. Whether you're a mother, a leader, a healer—or all three—Dr. Warner reminds us that fulfillment is not found in a title or to-do list, but in how we show up for ourselves and others. Her wisdom isn't just motivational—it's actionable and deeply needed for a generation of women ready to thrive without sacrificing themselves in the process. At times, the best way we can navigate our Reset, Rise and Reveal of our Brilliance is by doing less, and being highly intentional about what we choose to do--keeping an ear tuned to how we feel and what we truly want.   Find Dr. Warner's book here, and download her free Intentional Scheduler Template-  https://courses.boldandbalancedcoaching.com/intentionalscheduler, and be sure to check out her upcoming RESET Group Experience for professional women navigating parenting, intimate partnership and purpose as they seek continued success growth: http://courses.boldandbalancedcoaching.com/workingwomenreset, starting in September.  Tune into this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast for more of Dr. Warner's wisdom and be sure to listen for these additional bits of Brilliance:  "Outward success, inward mess—that was my reality." "I looked strong, but I didn't always feel strong. That disconnect wore me down." "When you've done all the things and still don't feel fulfilled—that's your signal to reset." "You cannot live for only action. It completely takes away from who we are." "We get addicted to achievement because it's how we prove we matter." "Start small. And acknowledge that small is enough." "Your core values aren't just what you love—they're how you want to be." "Structure allows for flow, not rigidity." "Burnout doesn't always look like collapse. Sometimes it's completing every task and still feeling empty." "Grace creates space for adaptation, which is the heart of resilience." Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"The happiest people in retirement are the ones who stay curious." Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons ~ Retirement Transition Expert, Former Attorney and Author of Encore, a High Achievers Guide to Thriving in Retirement.    When you began your work life, do you remember thinking about retirement?  For many decades, retirement was the 65-year-old's goal: the end of the "job" and the entry into leisure and relaxation until...um...the end??? Too often, though, the relaxation didn't materialize--at least not in the way it was intended, especially for those who not only enjoyed working, but whose work life seemed to define them. Too many retirements seemed less than satisfying, maybe downright boring. Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons challenges the traditional narrative of retirement. Using a Brilliantly Resilient mindset and adjusting perspective, Elizabeth advises viewing retirement as a "graduation" instead of a final chapter. She reframes retirement as a vibrant reset—a time to step into freedom, creativity, and self-defined purpose. With warmth and humor, she reminds us that "nobody really wants 365 Saturdays," because lasting fulfillment comes from living with intention, not just endless leisure. By encouraging curosity, Elizabeth offers those in retirement the opportunity to explore passions they may have set aside during their working years, and see retirement as a season for growth rather than retreat. Whether that growth comes from volunteering, traveling, starting a new venture, or learning a skill just for fun, she proves that energy and excitement aren't bound by age or career stage. Here at Brilliantly Resilient, we know that our Brilliance is always available to us. As Elizabeth notes, it doesn't "retire when we do." Our knowledge, experiences and passions can be transferred into this life phase, creating excitement and repurposing our lives with possibilty, resilience and joy.  Get your copy of Encore, a High Achievers Guide to Thriving in Retirement. here, and tune into this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast to hear more of Elizabeth's wisdom. Be sure to listen for these additional bits of Brilliance (note the relationship of the quotes to the Brilliantly Resilient method):   Retirement isn't the end of your story—it's the start of a whole new chapter you get to write." Reset: See it as a fresh beginning, not a closing door. "If you wait for life to slow down before you start living, you'll wait forever." Rise: Take action toward the life you want now. "The goal isn't to stop working—it's to start living with more freedom and joy." Reveal: Redefine what work and purpose mean to you. "Your identity isn't your job title. Who you are goes far deeper." Reset: Separate self-worth from professional labels. "You can bring your brilliance into retirement—it doesn't retire with you." Rise: Use your skills and wisdom in new, meaningful ways. "The happiest people in retirement are the ones who stay curious." Reveal: Curiosity keeps you engaged, joyful, and resilient. "It's not about filling your time, it's about fulfilling your soul." Reset: Align your days with your core values. "Retirement is your opportunity to finally create without constraint." Rise: Give yourself permission to explore bold new ideas. "Every transition is an invitation to grow—even the ones we think should be all rest and relaxation." Reveal: Brilliance evolves through every life stage. "Nobody really wants 365 Saturdays in a row." Reset: True happiness blends leisure with purpose.   Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"Please don't assume you'll just talk yourself out of dark places. Help is there—and there's a reason for it." ~ Mary Fran Bontempo: Brilliantly Resilient podcast host and author of "From Broken to Brilliant: How to Live a Brilliantly Resilient Life"   This week on the Brilliantly Resilient Podcast, I'm getting personal. I recorded a solo episode about something we all face—but rarely talk about: knowing when it's time to ask for help. Lately, I've felt overwhelmed, anxious, and just plain out of juice. So I did something both difficult and powerful—I went back to therapy. In this episode, I talk about how I knew it was time, why vulnerability doesn't make us weak, and how admitting you're not okay is actually one of the most resilient things you can do. Living a Brilliantly Resilient life is a process--one that I repeat over and over. No one becomes Brilliantly Resilient and stays there; life's challenges don't allow it.  Putting up your hand to ask for help, along with building your tribe of support, are two of the most important pillars of the Brilliantly Resilient process. But when we're in a good place and breezing along, asking for help and support are rarely uppermost in anyone's mind. Further, asking for help makes us feel vulernable, and I'd rather run a marathon than feel vulnerable. (P.S. I hate running.) But when the cost is too high, as when anxiety takes hold, it's essential to embrace humility, recognize our own humanity, and ask for help when we need it. If you're carrying more than you were built to hold right now, I hope this episode gives you permission to reset—and reminds you that help is not only available, it's brilliantly necessary. Be sure to tune in to this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast and listen for these additional bits of Brilliance (if I do say so myself!). (Please note how each of these quotes relates to the Brilliantly Resilient process. Full disclosure, AI provided the quotes' relationship to the process--and I'll take it!)   "There are times when you just have to put up your hand and say, 'I need some extra help.'" → Reset: Acknowledging the need for support is strength, not weakness. "You learn how to not only feel when anxiety is coming on, but also recognize when it's becoming too much for the tools you already have." → Rise: Recognize when your resilience needs reinforcement. "I needed someone to hear me. I needed to acknowledge that I was being someone I didn't want to be." → Reveal: Brilliance comes from radical honesty with yourself. "You don't always get what you need from those closest to you—and that's okay. Sometimes you need a neutral, kind, third party." → Reset: Your support system can extend beyond family. "My anxiety didn't disappear, but I was reminded of tools I already had and ways I could make things better—not perfect, just better." → Rise: Resilience is about better, not perfection. "I hate feeling vulnerable. But looking at hard things is the only way to grow." → Reveal: Brilliance lives on the other side of discomfort. "It's okay to let the 'little black dog' follow you around. But don't let it sit in your lap." → Reset: Live with awareness, not control by your emotions. "I needed to get back to someone who didn't judge me and had no expectations of who I should be." → Rise: Safe spaces are essential to becoming your best self. "You don't have to know everything. You just need to be willing to say, 'I'm out of juice right now.'" → Reveal: Admitting you're depleted is an act of courage. "Please don't assume you'll just talk yourself out of dark places. Help is there—and there's a reason for it." → Reset and Rise: Don't go it alone when there's a lifeline available. Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! With love and resilience, Mary Fran

"I was standing there in front of this half-eaten birthday cake realizing like... what am I doing? This is not success." No Half Cakes Founder and Podcast Host Jim Sabellico   How do you define success? Most of us are or were under the impression that success means money, status, and stuff--all obtained through a brutal amount of work and time. Jim Sabellico thought so too. At least until the night his wife had to relight the candles on his six-year-old son's half-eaten birthday cake so he could sing Happy Birthday to his boy. Jim missed the family moment because he was "busy working." Men have generally been tasked with being "successful" to provide for their families. Unfortunately, the definition of success has too often focused on money and materialism while leaving out family, relationships, presence and purpose. Jim's wake-up moment changed that for him. He began to reset by owning his situation clarifying his values (family, honor and integrity), and taking action to rise and rebuild his definition of success. Jim's commitment to reshaping his life served as a model for not only himself, but his children and others, particularly men who have sacrificed their relationships and sense of self to "success." That's when the No Half Cakes podcast was born. Since then, Jim has made it his mission to share his strategies for genuine personal and professional success through the No Half Cakes podcast and his HeartCore Program. Here at Brilliantly Resilient, we recognize the power of perspective and taking the time to know and be true to your values to live a Brilliantly Resilient life. Learn more about Jim's work here, and be sure to listen to the No Half Cakes podcast. Tune into this episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast to hear more of Jim's wisdom and listen for these additional bits of Brilliance:   "I had no relationship with my kids, no relationship with my wife... and by every other metric, I was a total failure." "After I made the promise to myself, I started the hard part—recognizing that it's not everyone else's fault. I had to stop placing blame." "If you don't know where you are, no instructions will get you where you're going. You need to know your starting point." "You can't be good for other people if you're not good for yourself first." "Your kids need to see you struggle. They need to understand that mom and dad are not perfect—and how we handle that matters." "Children cannot be what they cannot see... you have to model the life you want them to emulate." "I now live like there's a documentary crew following me—I act with honor and integrity so there's nothing to hide." "Start journaling, talking, or even just voicing your feelings to yourself. That's how you find the real you underneath it all." "This isn't an on/off switch. It's a 0.2% shift every day. I'm a totally different person than I was five years ago—and that's the goal." Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran

"The 20s are not the best days of your life. It is a myth that needs to be busted." ~ Kate Berski, Author: 30 Phobia: Why Your 20s Suck and How to Get Unstuck Ah, to be 20 again, right? After all, the 20s are supposed to be the best time of our lives, right? Not so fast.  Kate Berski, author of 30 Phobia: Why Your 20s Suck and How to Get Unstuck notes that despite the myth, the 20's are a "tumultuous decade" full of self-doubt, unhealthy comparisons and societal pressure.  Saddled with a demanding timeline that prescribes benchmarks that "should" be achieved, Kate recognizes that the To-do list for 20-somethings is not one-size-fits-all. She advises young people to take the time to reflect on what fits them, choosing to reset old standards with intention to fit their own values, skills and wants.  With small, purposeful steps, 20-somethings can Rise to create a life that fits not predetermined milestones--get the corporate job, get married, buy the house, have the kids--but individual ones that evolve with a changing mindset and changing goals. The 20's can be a starting line fo discovery, provided we support young people who choose to forge a path that fits them. Here at Brilliantly Resilient, we're firm believers in ditching what "should be" to make room for what "could be." In this case, a fulfilling life that allows individual Brilliance and Resilience to shine, without comparisons. Be sure to pick up a copy of 30 Phobia and tune in to hear more of Kate's brilliance on this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast. Listen for these additional bits of brilliance: "I started to question the internal societal timeline I had internalized to the point of panic." "Uncertainty is just a flag for opportunity." "You don't have to wedge yourself into a particular life path at 18." "Stop looking out. Start looking in." "You're not failing. You're not stuck. You're just on someone else's timeline." "There are no deadlines on dreams." The 20's can be a time rife with opportunity--as long as young people have the courage to set their own goals and timeline. Let's support our young adults, and... Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran     

"Great leadership starts by leading with a mindset that's scalable—being willing to see things bigger. What would this look like if...?" ~ Ivy Slater, CEO of Slater Success and Author of Best of the Best: Lead Boldly, Scale Rapidly, Create Your Legacy What does the word "scalable" mean to you? If you are an entrepreneur, or work with an organization seeking to build (aren't we all?), the word "scalable" should motivate and inspire. Yet, "scalable" also holds some weight, and can be intimidating. Slater Success CEO and author Ivy Slater reminds us that all businesses are scalable. And if the word intimidates, Ivy says, "Scaling is intimidating to you? Throw the word out. Just say: I'm going to grow." Grow. Yes; that we can do. Ivy reminds us that growth takes intention, flexibility, the willingness to pause, reevaluate and accept that scaling often comes not in giant leaps but in grounded, thoughtful steps.  One of the most basic steps is intentional alignment with values-driven leadership, thus providing a strong foundation for present and future growth. Followed by imperfect but intentional action, scaling becomes a manageable process that also begins to create a legacy for a sustainable, growth-oriented organization. Ivy also reminds us to build relationships--one former client returned to her years later with a new project based upon their past relationship. Values, tribe, imperfect intentional action--all foundations of the Brilliantly Resilient method, useful in business and in life. Be sure to pick up your copy of Best of the Best: Lead Boldly, Scale Rapidly, Create Your Legacy. Tune into this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast to hear more of Ivy's wisdom and be sure to listen for these additional bits of Brilliance:  "When you're faced with an obstacle and you're just looking at the obstacle, it doesn't disappear." "It is not easy. When you're dealing with things that are spinning… what we want to do is ground it. And you ground it by stepping away, shifting your perspective, and asking: what is actually possible right now?" "Stop and take a breath. Walk away from your desk. Shift your environment, because when we stay in the same environment, we are a horse in a horse race running with blinders." "If you're scaling a company and you don't know your values, it reflects in your hiring. It reflects in your clients. There has to be alignment or there's no opportunity to scale." "Great leadership starts with leading with a mindset that's scalable—being willing to see things bigger. What would this look like if...?" "When you respond with an emotional reaction, you're doing a disservice to yourself. You don't get to look as brilliant as you truly are." "Your best resources show up with an open mind and an open heart to see things from an unbiased opportunity." Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together! XO, Mary Fran