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Pause Before You Hit the Bottom with Dr. Shehzad Batliwala
Manage episode 468328871 series 3571455
Content provided by Ellen Williams. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Ellen Williams or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
In this episode of “Time to Press Pause,” Ellen Williams speaks with Dr. Shehzad Batliwala, an ophthalmologist, entrepreneur, and first-generation Indian American who grew up undocumented in the United States. Dr. Batliwala shares how his early struggles with belonging and external validation fueled his ambitious pursuit of success—becoming a doctor, doing research on vision in zero gravity, and even founding a cell phone repair franchise. Yet despite these achievements, he discovered that relentless drive came at the cost of his personal relationships. A turning point arrived when his wife left, prompting him to reflect on the difference between “pathological ambition” and purposeful ambition.
To rebuild, Dr. Batliwala took a 33-day retreat, disconnected from technology, and began unpacking childhood traumas and unhealthy coping mechanisms. He links this journey of self-awareness to the concept of the “overview effect,” a sense of unity and belonging astronauts often experience when observing Earth from space. He now emphasizes that genuine belonging isn’t found in external accomplishments but rather in recognizing our shared humanity. In advising entrepreneurs and leaders, Dr. Batliwala urges them not to wait for rock bottom but to press pause whenever they notice any part of their life declining, using honesty and self-reflection to reorient toward deeper purpose and meaningful connection.
To learn more about Dr. Batliwala, visit visionarydoc.com
To learn more about Ellen Williams, visit thesalientstrategist.com
51 episodes
ShareManage episode 468328871 series 3571455
Content provided by Ellen Williams. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Ellen Williams or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
In this episode of “Time to Press Pause,” Ellen Williams speaks with Dr. Shehzad Batliwala, an ophthalmologist, entrepreneur, and first-generation Indian American who grew up undocumented in the United States. Dr. Batliwala shares how his early struggles with belonging and external validation fueled his ambitious pursuit of success—becoming a doctor, doing research on vision in zero gravity, and even founding a cell phone repair franchise. Yet despite these achievements, he discovered that relentless drive came at the cost of his personal relationships. A turning point arrived when his wife left, prompting him to reflect on the difference between “pathological ambition” and purposeful ambition.
To rebuild, Dr. Batliwala took a 33-day retreat, disconnected from technology, and began unpacking childhood traumas and unhealthy coping mechanisms. He links this journey of self-awareness to the concept of the “overview effect,” a sense of unity and belonging astronauts often experience when observing Earth from space. He now emphasizes that genuine belonging isn’t found in external accomplishments but rather in recognizing our shared humanity. In advising entrepreneurs and leaders, Dr. Batliwala urges them not to wait for rock bottom but to press pause whenever they notice any part of their life declining, using honesty and self-reflection to reorient toward deeper purpose and meaningful connection.
To learn more about Dr. Batliwala, visit visionarydoc.com
To learn more about Ellen Williams, visit thesalientstrategist.com
51 episodes
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text In this heartfelt episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams speaks with Anne Sheu, CEO and founder of Mpowered Journey, about two pivotal moments in Anne’s life when she chose to "press pause" and radically re-evaluate how she was spending her time. The first pause came after the unexpected passing of her father, which led to deep regret over not being more present during his final days. Anne shared how this experience awakened her to the danger of assuming there will always be more time for the things—and people—that matter most. It sparked a journey of personal development and prompted her to re-center her priorities around presence, values, and meaningful relationships. The second major pause in Anne’s life was a career shift from practicing law to becoming a business and family coach. While she enjoyed aspects of being a lawyer, Anne realized that the work didn’t align with her natural talents or fulfill her at a deeper level. Taking time away from work—and her identity as a lawyer—allowed her to reflect and fully embrace a new path where she could lead, coach, and help others build not just successful companies, but strong, intentional families. She now helps couples treat their family as their most important team, bringing the same level of clarity, structure, and intentionality to home life as they do to work. Anne’s advice to other leaders is to trust the quiet nudge when it arises—to listen to their intuition and take a pause before burnout or regret sets in. She encourages doing the "ME work": understanding your core values, identifying what energizes or drains you, and crafting a long-term personal vision, what she calls your “decade dream.” This thoughtful and vulnerable conversation is a reminder that success isn’t just about achievement—it’s about alignment, purpose, and choosing how you spend your most valuable resource: time. To learn more about Ann, visit https://www.mpoweredfamilies.com/ To learn more about Ellen, visit https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 There's More to Life Than Your Business with Julie Niehoff 19:48
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this heartfelt episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams sits down with Julie Niehoff, co-founder of Distance Learning Media and a long-time advocate for small businesses and veteran support. Julie shares how her intended pause to start a new business with her husband turned into an unexpected and emotional journey when her father was suddenly diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. What began as a moment of planned professional reinvention quickly shifted into a deeply personal caregiving experience—one that reshaped her understanding of what really matters in life and business. Julie reflects on how this unplanned pause brought her family together and created a sacred sense of presence that continues to influence how she runs her company today. During the difficult weeks of hospice care, she and her husband would end each day on the back porch, dreaming and talking about the kind of business they wanted to build—one that served veterans, supported communities, and prioritized balance over burnout. This experience led them to form both a for-profit and a nonprofit organization with clearly defined values, and with operations designed to honor the calm clarity they discovered during their pause. Julie’s story is a powerful reminder that the most meaningful insights don’t always come during times of hustle, but in moments of stillness and connection. Her advice to other leaders: ride the wave you’re on, but know when to step back and prepare for the next, bigger wave. It’s about building the muscle of resilience while staying clear-eyed about what matters most. For Julie and her team, that means a business model built on service, intentionality, and the belief that work should be something you get to do, not something you have to do. To learn more about Julie, visit https://distancelearningmedia.com/ To learn more about Ellen, visit https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Observe Without Judgement with Elor Shem Tov 21:38
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this powerful episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams speaks with Elor Shem Tov, founder and CEO of Lucid Lev, about a deeply personal and professional moment that tested her identity and leadership. Elor recounts how unexpected accusations from colleagues in a leadership role prompted an internal investigation, threatening her reputation and sense of self. Instead of reacting defensively out of fear or anger, she consciously paused to observe her thoughts, emotions, and core values. This intentional reflection became a transformative exercise in self-awareness, resilience, and leadership under pressure. Throughout the two-and-a-half-month investigation, Elor remained grounded, resisting the urge to lash out or crumble under the weight of the situation. She explains how she leveraged her background in psychodrama and meditation to process the experience without judgment. By separating her identity from the accusations and reconnecting with her own truth, she was able to lead with clarity and composure. The experience not only cleared her name but reaffirmed her commitment to conscious leadership—ultimately inspiring her to start her own executive coaching practice. Elor offers profound advice to other leaders: listen to your body. When emotions like fear or anger surface physically, it's a sign to pause, even if just for a second, to avoid reactive patterns and choose a more intentional response. Her story is a testament to the power of self-reflection and pausing as a daily leadership tool, not just during crises, but anytime alignment and clarity are needed. To learn more about Elor, visit https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucidlev/ To learn more about Ellen, visit https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams welcomes Leah Salinas, former founder of a thriving beauty business and now Director at The Alexander Group. Leah shares her journey from early entrepreneurial success—launching a hair and makeup company that expanded to 14 artists and high-profile events—to burnout and the realization that her career no longer aligned with her values or family life. As weekends filled with weddings and long hours began to separate her from her children and husband, she faced the difficult but necessary decision to step back and reassess her future. Leah candidly recounts the two-year pause she took to explore new possibilities, acknowledging the uncertainty and discomfort of transitioning from business owner to job seeker. She reflects on the humbling experience of learning to operate in the corporate world after years of running her own business, eventually finding an entry-level sales role in tech thanks to a mentor who believed in her potential. That opportunity launched a second act in executive search, where Leah now helps others—both business owners and job seekers—identify transferable skills, navigate transitions, and build meaningful careers. Throughout the conversation, Leah emphasizes the importance of listening to your inner signals, leaning into your network, and having the humility to start over when necessary. She also credits the support of her husband as a crucial factor in her decision to pause. Her advice for other leaders: when you start feeling the misalignment, don’t wait too long to act. Visualize your future self—what will you regret more, taking the leap or staying stuck? That perspective shift, she says, can make all the difference. Would you say you’ve ever ignored your own signs that it’s time to pause? To learn more about Leah, please visit https://thealexandergroup.com/ or contact her at lsalinas at thealexandergroup dot com. To learn more about Ellen, please visit https://thesalientstrategist.com…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Pausing Can Be Easier Said Than Done - Anniversary Episode with Kim Poulos Lieberz 26:20
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this special one-year anniversary episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams welcomes guest Kim Poulos Lieberz, founder and CEO of KGI Design Group, for an open conversation about the challenges and importance of creating space to pause in the midst of a busy life. Instead of following the typical format where guests share a specific “press pause” story, Ellen and Kim discuss different types of pauses — from unexpected micro-pauses like gaining an extra hour in the day, to the larger, more intentional pauses that require planning and commitment. Kim shares how creatives, business owners, and caregivers alike often struggle with guilt when stepping back, feeling the pressure to always be available for their clients, family, and community. The conversation highlights how modern life’s constant connectivity, especially through cell phones and digital communication, makes pausing even more difficult. Kim shares her personal experiences, including caregiving for her late mother while running a business, and how the responsibilities of life seem to quickly fill any space left open. She reflects on the importance of intentionality in creating real pauses — consciously putting the phone down, resisting the pressure to respond immediately, and recognizing that taking time for oneself is not selfish but necessary for sustained energy, leadership clarity, and creativity. As the episode concludes, Kim and Ellen agree that pausing is not about stopping everything but about stepping back to gain a clearer, broader perspective. Kim shares her aspiration to take a true pause soon — not just to rest, but to evaluate her life and business decisions more thoughtfully. She commits to returning to the podcast to share her future "pause story," emphasizing the idea that intentional breaks can lead to new energy, better decisions, and a more vibrant path forward. Their conversation reinforces the core message of the podcast: pausing is not a luxury but a vital practice for meaningful living and leadership. To learn more about Kim, please visit kgidesigngroup.com To learn more about Ellen, please visit thesalientstrategist.com…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Feed the Soul and the Bottom Line with Kevin Bartram 18:06
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams speaks with Kevin Bartram, founder and principal of Bartram Partnerships, about the pivotal moments that reshaped his career and life. Kevin reflects on his early years growing up in a challenging home environment, entering the workforce at 13, and how he built a thriving career in corporate sponsorships and sustainability-focused marketing. A turning point came after the 9/11 attacks, when Kevin found himself far from home and questioning the deeper meaning of his work. That moment of reflection in a quiet Vermont town ultimately led him to step away from high-profile corporate deals to pursue work that was more aligned with his values. Kevin shares how his decision to “press pause” wasn't immediate or easy—it required him to walk away from financial security and rebuild from the ground up. Yet by doing so, he found renewed purpose, shifting his focus toward partnerships that drive social and environmental impact. From launching campaigns with iconic brands like Impossible Foods to collaborating with sustainability-driven organizations, Kevin rebuilt his business to reflect both his personal convictions and professional strengths. His work evolved into something that not only supported his family but also contributed meaningfully to causes he cared deeply about. As the conversation closes, Kevin offers valuable advice to other leaders: listen to your inner voice, create space for reflection, and don’t be afraid to talk to others who have made similar changes. He emphasizes the importance of trusting your intuition while balancing it with thoughtful planning. Kevin’s story is a reminder that taking a pause—whether brief or bold—can open doors to a more fulfilling, purpose-driven path, personally and professionally. To learn more about Kevin, visit https://www.bartrampartnerships.com/ To learn more about Ellen, visit https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text In this heartfelt episode of Time to Press Pause , Ellen Williams speaks with Andrea Schiavone, a seasoned operations and finance executive, about how even the most intentional pauses can be derailed by life’s unpredictability. Andrea shares her journey from leading a high-growth marketing agency through its acquisition, to planning a deliberate break for self-reflection—only to have it interrupted by the sudden loss of a family member. Her story is one of resilience, as her planned pause to rest and recalibrate became a period of mourning and caregiving. Rather than the solitude she expected, Andrea found herself supporting others through grief, extending her pause and transforming it into something much deeper. Andrea reflects on how this unexpected shift in her pause gave her new clarity about what she truly needs in her next chapter. Hiring a career coach allowed her to evaluate six different career paths, ultimately realizing that she needs stability and community—choosing not to build something on her own right now, but instead contribute to growing someone else’s vision. Along the way, she rediscovered her passion for coaching and mentoring, recognizing these as non-negotiables in her next role. She also speaks about the importance of staying open to chance—sharing how unexpected conversations and serendipitous moments have shaped opportunities for both herself and others. The conversation closes with powerful insights on the fear that often accompanies pressing pause—fear of stagnation, of change, of the unknown. Andrea emphasizes that it’s in those moments of stepping back, no matter how difficult, that clarity often emerges. Her advice to leaders is to honor the instinct to pause, especially when fear or burnout surfaces, and to remember that life is too short to live on autopilot. Her story is a moving reminder that even interrupted pauses can become transformative when we remain open, intentional, and courageous. Learn more about Andrea at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andschiavone/ Learn more about Ellen at https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Allow Yourself to Evolve with Jenn Gulbrand 18:40
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode, Ellen Williams interviews Jennifer Gulbrand, founder of Embody Your Essence , who shares her journey of breaking free from burnout and discovering authenticity. After 35 years in the health and wellness industry, Jennifer realized that her business success did not equate to personal fulfillment. Despite her achievements, she felt disconnected from her own truth. Through mindfulness, meditation, energy work, and intentional stillness, Jennifer reconnected with herself and shifted her focus toward promoting self-care and authenticity, eventually founding the SheBreathes Balance Women's Collaborative and later expanding it to the We Breathe Wellness Center . Jennifer highlights the importance of listening to oneself and recognizing when life no longer aligns with one's deeper purpose. She emphasizes that pausing is not about giving up but rather about realigning with one’s authentic self. Her advice for leaders and entrepreneurs is to recognize signs of burnout and exhaustion as signals to press pause, reflect, and realign. Jennifer concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace introspection and courageously pursue their own evolution, as true transformation begins within. To learn more about Jennifer, visit https://jenngulbrand.com/ To learn more about Ellen, visit https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text In this episode, Rajen Sheth, formerly a vice president at Google Cloud AI and industry solutions, shares with host, Ellen Williams, how he took a bold step after nearly two decades at Google. Motivated by a desire to make a positive social impact, he pressed pause on his career, leaving behind the familiar security of his role to explore how technology could improve educational equity. During this hiatus, Rajen reconnected with personal interests—like recording music—and spoke with numerous teachers and experts to better understand educational needs. These conversations, he explains, offered valuable insights and shaped the founding vision for KyronLearning, a public benefit company using AI to provide students with more interactive and accessible instruction. In describing his journey, Rajen emphasizes two key reflections that propelled him forward: the importance of waking up every day with a clear sense of purpose, and looking decades ahead to determine whether his work would genuinely leave a positive mark on the world. He also addresses the idea of “mental cement,” the feeling of being stuck in a comfortable career path. By deliberately creating a space to pause—rather than leaping from one role to the next—he found both clarity and courage. With KtronLearning now three years old, Rajen maintains a clear commitment to its mission, demonstrating how pivotal it can be for leaders to step away, reevaluate, and ultimately chart a more meaningful course. To learn more about Rajen, visit https://kyronlearning.com/ To learn more about Ellen, visit https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Pay Attention to Pets and Pet Projects with Mei-Yung Lee 19:27
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode, host Ellen Williams speaks with entrepreneur and philanthropist Mei-Yung Lee about her unique approach to taking a “pause” when burnout loomed. Mei-Yung, CEO of Ageless Zen—a natural skincare research and manufacturing company—found herself overwhelmed by the demands of building her organization from the ground up. Instead of stepping away entirely, she joined her local Rotary club. This simple shift in focus gave her both a mental break and a new community of like-minded individuals who share her passion for service. The volunteer work not only revitalized Mei-Yung’s energy, but also sparked fresh insights into how she could integrate philanthropy into her for-profit ventures. As a result, she founded the AZ Circle of Giving Foundation, which teaches other nonprofits to use creative, sustainable methods of generating consistent revenue, rather than relying solely on occasional fundraising efforts. Through these ongoing “pauses” of community engagement and service, Mei-Yung discovered that helping others energized her and brought renewed perspective to her own business challenges. She emphasizes that leaders can recognize the need for a pause when they find themselves becoming impatient or short-tempered with those around them. By stepping outside of daily pressures, whether to serve others or simply find personal respite, leaders return to their work with greater clarity and a more innovative spirit. Mei-Yung’s story underscores the power of recharging through service projects and community involvement, showing how these experiences can both prevent burnout and become a wellspring of new ideas. To learn more about Mei, visit https://agelesszen.com/ To learn more about Ellen, visit https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text In this podcast episode of Time to Press Pause, host Ellen Williams welcomes guest Johanne Brierre, CEO of Brooklyn Commons and New York Beauty Suites. Johanne recounts her transition from working in the fast-paced New York City hospitality industry to founding co-working spaces in her Brooklyn neighborhood. She explains how she recognized a need for supportive, community-oriented resources for entrepreneurs, especially outside Manhattan’s usual tech and business hubs. With minimal funds, she took a leap of faith—pressing pause for a year to identify the right partnerships, incubator-style supports, and a sense of purpose in serving her local community. Through dedication and persistence, Brooklyn Commons has grown into a dynamic environment that empowers over 350 small businesses and “beauty-preneurs,” offering shared offices, event venues, and a network of fellow founders. Johanne reflects on the challenges of navigating COVID as the owner of a shared workspace, sharing how community spirit sustained many of her members and helped them adapt to new circumstances. She highlights the power of pausing to regain clarity, emphasizing that true progress and impact rely on stepping back to align with personal values and collective goals. Throughout the conversation, both Ellen and Johanne stress the significance of building authentic relationships, embracing a long-term vision for success, and recognizing that pausing does not mean losing momentum—it can be the key to achieving deeper impact. To learn more about Johanne, visit https://bklyncommons.com/ To learn more about Ellen, visit https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text Ellen Williams host of Time To Press Pause and CEO of The Salient Strategist, Inc. welcomes Paige Arnof-Fenn, founder and CEO of the global branding firm Mavens and Moguls. Paige describes how a six-year period of family caregiving and estate responsibilities forced her to step away from the demanding pace she had maintained early in her entrepreneurial journey. Despite initial fears that scaling back would harm her thriving business, Paige found the opposite to be true: taking time away for personal priorities revealed that “less could be more.” Rather than constantly networking and chasing clients, she shifted her focus to deeper and more meaningful conversations with fewer contacts. This approach allowed her to maintain strong client relationships, secure new business more organically, and improve her own well-being. Additionally, Paige reflects on the lessons learned from both her family crisis pause and the collective pause of the recent pandemic. She emphasizes that genuine self-care—such as prioritizing exercise, building quality relationships, and dedicating time to activities aligned with one’s values—can lead to stronger professional outcomes and a more fulfilling life. For other business leaders and entrepreneurs, she recommends proactively creating space for these pauses rather than waiting for a crisis, urging them to remain clear on their core values and long-term goals. To learn more about Paige, visit mavensandmoguls.com To learn more about Ellen, visit thesalientstrategist.com…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Trust Your Feelings with Jeffrey P. McNulty 19:01
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams interviews Jeffrey P. McNulty, CEO and Founder of New Retail Ethos Consultancy. Jeffrey recounts two major "press pause" moments in his life that spurred him to step away from a long career in retail leadership. First, after nearly three decades in executive roles with companies like The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Publix, Jeffrey felt he had lost his signature energy and passion, prompting him to question his path. It took him three years of reflection to finally leave retail management and pivot to consulting—offering his expertise as a retail research analyst to global clients in finance and investment. His second major pause came in 2017, when peers and friends encouraged him to share his industry insights through a book. This led to The Ultimate Retail Manual , which has become a bestseller and is now available in 27 countries. Jeffrey credits his success and well-being to strong support from loved ones, spiritual grounding, and a personal commitment to helping others grow as leaders. He also highlights the importance of discernment and self-awareness, urging executives and leaders to check in regularly with family and friends for honest feedback when burnout or disillusionment sets in. Overall, Jeffrey’s story illustrates how embracing the need to pause—whether through changes in career or by taking on new creative pursuits—can unlock fresh perspectives and renewed passion in both professional and personal life. Here are links to learn more about Jeffrey: New Retail Ethos Website Link: www.newretailethos.com The Ultimate Retail Manual: Strategies for Retailers to Thrive & Succeed in the Digital World: https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Retail-Manual-Strategies-Retailers/dp/1732565414 The Ultimate Retail Course Link: www.theultimateretailcourse.com Here is where to find information about Ellen https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Pause Before You Hit the Bottom with Dr. Shehzad Batliwala 21:24
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of “Time to Press Pause,” Ellen Williams speaks with Dr. Shehzad Batliwala, an ophthalmologist, entrepreneur, and first-generation Indian American who grew up undocumented in the United States. Dr. Batliwala shares how his early struggles with belonging and external validation fueled his ambitious pursuit of success—becoming a doctor, doing research on vision in zero gravity, and even founding a cell phone repair franchise. Yet despite these achievements, he discovered that relentless drive came at the cost of his personal relationships. A turning point arrived when his wife left, prompting him to reflect on the difference between “pathological ambition” and purposeful ambition. To rebuild, Dr. Batliwala took a 33-day retreat, disconnected from technology, and began unpacking childhood traumas and unhealthy coping mechanisms. He links this journey of self-awareness to the concept of the “overview effect,” a sense of unity and belonging astronauts often experience when observing Earth from space. He now emphasizes that genuine belonging isn’t found in external accomplishments but rather in recognizing our shared humanity. In advising entrepreneurs and leaders, Dr. Batliwala urges them not to wait for rock bottom but to press pause whenever they notice any part of their life declining, using honesty and self-reflection to reorient toward deeper purpose and meaningful connection. To learn more about Dr. Batliwala, visit visionarydoc.com To learn more about Ellen Williams, visit thesalientstrategist.com…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text In this episode, host Ellen Williams interviews Erin Mote, CEO of InnovateEDU and co-founder of Brooklyn Laboratory Charter School, as she recounts her transformative moment of realizing she felt detached from her work’s impact. Once working at the intersection of technology and national security, she found herself in boardrooms advising tech giants but missing the direct connection with communities. It was only after an emotional epiphany—crying during a flight while watching a children's movie—that she acknowledged how much she wanted to be back in a role serving people more directly. This led to launching Brooklyn Lab in downtown Brooklyn, with a mission centered on equity, personal connections, and supporting students furthest from opportunity. Through InnovateEDU, Erin now strives to bridge practice and policy in the education sector, placing empathy, vulnerability, and generosity at the core of her leadership. She underscores the necessity of checking in with oneself to ensure authenticity and alignment with personal values, and she advocates for a “slow start” each morning to pause, reflect, and approach each day with intention. Her story is a reminder that sometimes “pressing pause” can steer you toward work that aligns more closely with both passion and purpose. To learn more about Erin visit innovateedunyc.org To learn more about Ellen visit thesalientstrategist.com…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Secure Your Mask Before Helping Others with Megan Steckly 18:22
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time To Press Pause, host Ellen Williams speaks with CEO Megan Steckly of CompuDopt. She shares how she dramatically grew the nonprofit—from a shoestring budget and three-person staff to a multimillion-dollar organization serving hundreds of thousands across 24 states. Amid the rapid expansion, Megan realized she was burning out: working around-the-clock and feeling stuck in a cycle of constant urgency. She describes how she “pressed pause” by seeking therapy, enrolling in a drawing class, embracing yoga, and hiring a COO. These steps helped her let go of micromanaging, reduce stress, and create room for other leadership voices to thrive. Megan’s key takeaway is that leaders should watch for signals of overwhelm—such as irritability and fatigue—and proactively pause, even with a short break, to reconnect with themselves and lead more effectively. To learn more about Megan, please visit computdopt.com To learn more about Ellen, please visit thesalientstrategist.com…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Identify Your Transferable Skills with Ruchi Pinniger 17:31
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , Ellen Williams interviews Ruchi Pinniger, founder and CEO of Watch Her Prosper. Ruchi recounts her background on Wall Street, where she excelled in leadership and team-building, yet felt unfulfilled. She took a sabbatical hoping to discover her true passion, dabbling in nonprofit work, baking, and decorating. Although she temporarily returned to the corporate world, Ruchi soon decided to leave permanently, realizing she found more joy in mentoring others than in climbing the corporate ladder. With encouragement from a coach and her husband, Ruchi listened to what her network repeatedly told her: they needed help with their numbers. This led her to launch Watch Her Prosper, where she provides financial guidance, bookkeeping services, and “money mindset” support to women-led businesses. Ruchi’s story underscores the power of pressing pause, trusting one’s instincts, and blending skills with genuine passion. She encourages leaders to recognize when fear and a desire for control may be blocking growth—both personally and within a team. Her approach centers on separating emotion from data, helping clients transform financial confusion into clarity, and using visualization to reframe limiting beliefs. Through her work, Ruchi empowers entrepreneurs to pause, evaluate, and make confident, informed decisions that fuel both professional and personal prosperity. To learn more about Ruchi, visit watchherprosper.com . To learn more about Ellen, visit TheSalientStrategist.com .…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Let Go of Things You No Longer Need with Donna Cravotta 18:57
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams, CEO of The Salient Strategist, interviews Donna Cravotta, CEO and founder of Cravotta Media Group. Donna shares how, after 18 years running a virtual agency that managed everything from PR to technical fixes, she realized she had built a business she no longer loved. By taking stock of her 40-year professional journey, Donna recognized she was devoting precious time and energy to services that drained her—such as constant website fixes and juggling multiple social media accounts—rather than the strategic visibility work she excelled at. To address this, she decided to let go of tasks that didn’t light her up, offloading or discontinuing them so she could refocus on her strengths: guiding clients toward meaningful, intentional visibility. Donna’s advice to leaders or entrepreneurs at a crossroads is to pay attention to the signals—both mental and physical—indicating it’s time for a reset. In her experience, the key is giving yourself permission to prune away responsibilities that no longer serve you, thereby freeing up space for the work that truly aligns with your goals and expertise. To learn more about Donna, visit https://cravottamediagroup.com/ To learn more about Ellen, visit https://thesalientstrategist.com/…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Enagage in Honest Assessments to Avoid Regret with Urs Koenig 19:49
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams speaks with Urs Koenig, founder of the Radical Humility Leadership Institute and author of Radical Humility: Be a Badass Leader and a Good Human . Urs shares his powerful story of “pressing pause” on his life at age 50 to rejoin the Swiss military as a United Nations and NATO peacekeeper. Inspired by his father’s volunteer work in Somalia decades earlier, Urs felt a deep call to take on meaningful international service—despite the personal and professional sacrifices required. He explains how stepping away from his coaching business for nearly two years, and leaving his family behind during his deployments was both challenging and transformative. Upon returning, Urs shifted his career from full-time executive coaching to keynote speaking, illustrating how pressing pause can open doors to new possibilities. Throughout the conversation, Urs and Ellen discuss the importance of honest self-assessment and reflection, recognizing self-talk and doubts, and being prepared for potential pushback when making life changes. Urs emphasizes that realigning one’s work and relationships with personal values can be profoundly rewarding, even when it’s difficult. To learn more about Urs, visit www.urskoenig.com . To learn more about Ellen, visit www.thesalientstrategist.com .…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Discover What You Really Want with Andrea Chilcote & Stephanie Borsari 18:05
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams welcomes two guests: executive coach and Morningstar Ventures CEO Andrea Chilcote, and philanthropic advisor Stephanie Borsari. Andrea explains three common reasons professionals “press pause” in their careers: being involuntarily forced into change (such as restructuring), retiring without clarity on the next chapter, or experiencing a slow values or lifestyle clash. Stephanie falls into the last category; though she had a successful career in executive management, she discovered her role was unfulfilling and misaligned with her deeper values. With Andrea’s guidance, Stephanie decided to leave her position and step back to rediscover what mattered most. During her professional sabbatical, Stephanie tried out various creative pursuits—writing poetry, considering new hobbies, and reevaluating her work identity. Eventually, she discovered she wanted to return to philanthropy on her own terms, establishing an independent consulting practice that allows her to focus on connecting private foundations and donors to meaningful causes. Andrea notes that not everyone must become a business owner; what’s important is to discover the path that authentically aligns with one’s strengths and values. Both Andrea and Stephanie emphasize the privilege of taking a reflective pause, underlining the honesty and integrity needed to answer difficult questions about one’s true calling. Modern leadership, Andrea adds, acknowledges no individual can have all the answers. Stephanie now embraces vulnerability and emotional connection as key to her identity, and they both advise leaders to press pause the moment they discover they are no longer their best selves or are working for the wrong reasons.…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Creating Your Point of View with Henry Poydar 17:03
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams speaks with Henry Poydar, founder and CEO of Steady, a predictive coordination platform that grew out of his earlier venture, Status Hero. Henry describes two pivotal moments when he paused to reconsider his next steps. After co-founding Bantam CRM and joining Constant Contact post-acquisition, he spent three years working on a major systems integration project—a process he likens to open-heart surgery. Longing to return to hands-on product development, he created Status Hero, a tool that addressed the challenges of large teams trying to stay aligned asynchronously. Eventually, he built Status Hero to a seven-figure ARR before realizing he needed additional capital to scale beyond his solo efforts. Choosing investors who shared his commitment to sustainable growth allowed him to assemble an elite distributed team and rebrand as Steady, expanding the product’s capacity to serve entire organizations. Throughout the conversation, Henry highlights how his technical background fueled fast, iterative development and let him adapt Status Hero to user feedback almost instantly. He also underscores the value of maintaining strong networks, crediting connections from Constant Contact and elsewhere with helping him raise the kind of funding that aligns with his vision. Finally, he emphasizes the importance of transparent communication and context-sharing so that everyone on a team understands the “why” behind decisions. According to Henry, leaders should be deliberate about taking time to reflect, ensure the entire organization remains curious and informed, and continuously reinforce the mission and values that guide the work.…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text In this special New Year’s episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams compiles lessons from several Season 1 guests to help leaders make 2025 a purposeful and growth-oriented year. Each guest highlights a key insight for personal and professional development: Stay Open to Possibilities DC Glenn , half of hip-hop duo Tag Team and CEO of CLG Investments Inc., discusses the importance of setting aside ego and embracing every opportunity as it arises. He compares past experiences to a “language model” that informs future decisions, emphasizing continual learning and evolution. Lead Authentically on Social Media Jaci Clement , CEO of Fair Media Council, underscores the need for leaders to be visible online. She recommends sharing enough personal insights to humanize yourself without overexposure, reinforcing that people want to see the real face behind the brand. Accept Life’s Uncertainty Alan Furlong , CEO of The Growth Doctors, recalls a life-altering injury at 16 to illustrate how quickly circumstances can change. He reminds leaders that there’s never a full guarantee of certainty, and that sitting with “unknowing” often reveals new opportunities that align more closely with market needs. Root Decisions in Core Values Barbara Fonti , founder of The Fonti Group and chief business coach at Big Dream Executive Coaching, emphasizes creating a personal “root document” of non-negotiable values. By aligning decisions with these core values, leaders can bring authenticity and consistency to every role they play. Plan Your Pause Dr. Marie-Helene Pelletier , leadership psychologist and author of The Resilience Plan , stresses the importance of scheduling pauses just as strategically as you schedule other organizational activities. Building “pause time” into your routines safeguards resilience and mental well-being. Pause for Collective Good Carol Silva Moralez , CEO of Upskill NWA, advocates not only for personal pauses but also for team-wide reflection. By giving everyone thinking space and involving them in critical decisions, organizations foster a culture of collaboration, well-being, and continuous improvement. These insights form a powerful blueprint for stepping into 2025. Ellen invites listeners to begin the new year by pressing pause more deliberately—allowing space to focus on what truly matters, stay open to possibility, and stay grounded in personal values. Season 2 of Time to Press Pause promises more real-life C-Suite stories, offering further inspiration for leaders ready to thrive in the year ahead.…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Learn From Your Customers with Robert Levin 17:01
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , host Ellen Williams interviews Rob Levin , a long-time friend and business colleague, about the pivotal moments in his entrepreneurial journey that stemmed from deliberately taking time to pause and reflect. Rob shares two main “press pause” stories : New York Enterprise Report : Rob launched this media venture in 2003, featuring a magazine and business events for small business owners. Although it gained reputable national advertisers and high-profile features (including two stars from Shark Tank ), it never became financially robust. After a decade of grinding , he finally paused to evaluate the magazine’s actual viability. This reflection led to his decision to sell the business—a move that, while not lucrative, allowed him to pivot and pursue more sustainable opportunities. Work Better Now : In 2018, Rob co-founded a company providing remote executive assistants from Latin America to U.S. businesses. Initially focused solely on placing assistants, a client’s unexpected success with multiple hires prompted Rob to pause and rethink the broader possibilities. Realizing the talent’s varied skill sets, Work Better Now expanded from offering just EAs to filling 40+ different roles . This pivot required retooling the entire business model but proved far more impactful for clients and for the company’s growth. Throughout the conversation, Rob emphasizes the importance of pausing —whether to determine when to exit a struggling venture or to glean deeper insights from client feedback. He credits meditation , intentional journaling, and delegating administrative tasks (by having his own assistant) as crucial ways to create mental and strategic space. Both Ellen and Rob underscore how reflective time helps entrepreneurs distinguish between customer suggestions worth pursuing and those best set aside . Ultimately, Rob’s experience illustrates that methodical pauses and openness to feedback can catalyze stronger, more resilient business models and leadership approaches.…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text In this special Thanksgiving episode of "Time to Press Pause," host Ellen Williams reflects on the themes of gratitude, togetherness, and reflection amid a year marked by global conflicts and challenges. She emphasizes the importance of "pressing pause" to foster unity, understanding, and resilience within ourselves and our communities, starting at our own Thanksgiving tables. Ellen revisits transformative conversations from Season 1 that are particularly relevant during the holiday season: Stephen Foster (Episode 1) : Founder of One Golden Nugget, Steven discusses the significance of slowing down and being present. He highlights that true leadership involves pausing to listen and embracing stillness to elevate oneself amid a fast-paced digital world. Ben Renshaw (Episode 3) : A leadership specialist and author, Ben emphasizes energy management across physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. He advocates for finding meaning in work and life, suggesting that pressing pause helps identify what is truly important and impactful. Julie Thomas (Episode 26) : President and CEO of ValueSelling Associates, Julie talks about the critical nature of time management and delegation. She encourages leaders to empower their teams, focus on strategic priorities, and avoid micromanagement to maximize effectiveness. Paul Dupuis (Episode 13) : CEO of Take 5 Global, Paul shares insights on leadership centered around making team members feel safe. He introduces the concept of the "enabling leader" who fosters an environment where everyone can be their best selves. Bridgette Smith (Episode 10) : Founder and CEO of Purpose Led Ventures, Bridgette speaks on resilience and perseverance. She shares her personal journey of overcoming professional setbacks by staying true to herself and not giving up. Hilary Topper (Episode 5) : CEO of HJMT Public Relations, Hilary discusses the importance of pursuing what brings joy. She recounts how embracing her passion for endurance sports led to personal happiness and a more balanced life, even if it meant scaling back her business. Brynn Gibbs (Episode 24) : CEO of Consumer Fusion, Brynn highlights the shift from self-comparison to self-appreciation. Inspired by the book "The Gap and The Gain" by Dan Sullivan, she emphasizes celebrating personal progress and being the architect of one's own life. Charles Gaudet (Episode 9) : CEO of Predictable Profits, Charles underscores the transformative power of gratitude, even in the face of profound loss. He shares how finding gratitude during his father's passing helped him develop a stronger mindset and personal growth. Ellen announces that Season 2 of the podcast will expand its focus beyond CEOs to include diverse leaders from various sectors like education, healthcare, and community organizations. The upcoming season aims to explore broader themes such as emotional intelligence, leading through crises, and the importance of vulnerability. As the episode concludes, Ellen encourages listeners to bring gratitude and presence to their Thanksgiving celebrations. She urges everyone to pause their worries and embrace the small moments of connection and appreciation with loved ones. Expressing her gratitude for the listeners and the journey so far, she looks forward to the next season and wishes everyone a peaceful and joyful Thanksgiving.…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Season One Finale - Everyone Pauses with Ellen Williams 3:03
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In the Season 1 finale of Time to Press Pause , Ellen Williams, CEO of The Salient Strategist, reflects on the journey of launching the podcast in April and emphasizes that pausing is crucial for everyone, not just CEOs or business leaders. Whether for personal or business reasons, taking time to pause can help people think things through and find new perspectives. Ellen announces that the podcast itself will take a short pause before returning for Season 2, thanking all her guests and listeners for their support in this experimental journey.…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Be Agile and Focus on the "What" Not the "How" with Julie Thomas 21:50
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time To Press Pause, Ellen Williams interviews Julie Thomas, President and CEO of Value Selling Associates, who shares her journey of career transformation and entrepreneurship. Julie begins by recounting her experience at Gartner, a large IT research and advisory company, where she had a successful career in sales and training. However, in 2002, after a leadership change, her position was eliminated. Following this unexpected turn, Julie decided to pause her career to focus on herself and her family, even spending time playing tennis before reassessing her next steps. Through career coaching provided by her severance package, she explored entrepreneurship, eventually leading her to take over a business from a friend and colleague. In 2003, she acquired ValueSelling Associates and became its President and CEO, a role she has held for over 20 years. Julie describes herself as an “accidental entrepreneur” and reflects on the challenges of running a small business, emphasizing the importance of agility, strategic prioritization, and empowering her team. The conversation also touches on leadership insights, including the necessity for CEOs to press pause when clarity is lacking, the value of learning from mistakes, and the importance of prioritizing time effectively. Julie highlights that entrepreneurship involves risk, but it also offers freedom and flexibility, which are particularly crucial when balancing work and personal life.…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Be Present to Unleash Creative New Opportunities with Dr. Marie-Hellene Pelletier 18:11
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause , Ellen Williams, CEO of The Salient Strategist, interviews Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier (MH), a leadership psychologist, executive coach, and workplace mental health expert. Dr. Peltier discusses the importance of taking strategic pauses in life and leadership, sharing her own experience of pressing pause during the lead-up to her book launch, The Resilience Plan . She emphasizes how proactively managing her time before, during, and after the book's publication allowed her to be fully present and creative during key moments, something she attributes to the success of her launch. Dr. Pelletier explains that pressing pause doesn’t always mean a complete stop, but rather adjusting the usual pace to focus on what matters most. She also highlights the importance of integrating pauses into one’s strategic planning for resilience, ensuring leaders have the mental space and energy to seize new opportunities. Ellen and Dr. Pelletier discuss how taking breaks enables better performance and creativity, offering advice to CEOs and leaders to plan for pauses as part of their leadership strategies. The conversation concludes with the reminder that leaders should be intentional about their resilience, just as they are about other business goals.…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Delegate and Elevate Your Team with Brynn Gibbs 17:07
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time To Press Pause, Brynn Gibbs shares her experiences as a CEO and the pivotal moments when she realized she needed to "press pause" to improve her leadership and company culture. About three years ago, she recognized that her controlling nature was hindering the growth of her company, Consumer Fusion. To address this, she implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), which helped her delegate responsibilities, empower her team, and foster a healthier work-life balance. The EOS tools, particularly the People Analyzer, allowed her to align her team with the company's core values and restructure roles for better efficiency and satisfaction. Brynn also discussed the importance of understanding and maintaining the "why" behind her business, which stems from her personal experience with cyberbullying in high school. This passion for reputation management continues to drive her work today. Brynn shared a second "press pause" moment related to her tendency to compare herself to other successful companies, which caused her stress and detracted from her enjoyment of work. Her business coach introduced her to the book *The Gap and The Gain* by Dan Sullivan, which helped her shift her mindset to focus on celebrating her own progress rather than comparing herself to others. This change in perspective allowed her to better appreciate her achievements and set a healthier long-term vision for her life and business. Overall, Brynn’s advice to CEOs is to recognize when it's time to pause and reassess, avoid unhealthy comparisons, and focus on empowering their teams for sustainable growth. To learn more about Brynn Gibbs, go to www.consumerfusion.com. To learn more about Ellen Williams, go to www.thesalientstrategist.com .…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
1 Get Grounded and Build Resilience with Julie Christiansen 20:32
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSend us a text In this episode of Time to Press Pause, host Ellen Williams, CEO of The Salient Strategist, interviews Julie Christiansen, known as the "Anger Lady," who is the president and CEO of Leverage U and author of 15 books on leadership and mental health. Julie shares her personal story of burnout and pressing pause after her father suffered two strokes, and she experienced a severe bout of vertigo due to stress. She discusses the importance of recognizing the signs of burnout, grounding oneself, and practicing intentional self-care strategies. Julie emphasizes the value of delegating tasks with purpose, building resilience, and balancing work with personal well-being. She also offers practical advice on identifying when to pause, using methods like the "fun and money" exercise to evaluate which tasks to prioritize, and checking in daily on emotional well-being. Julie’s experiences serve as a reminder for CEOs and entrepreneurs to prioritize mental health and avoid pushing through stress at the expense of long-term well-being.…
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Time To Press Pause - Real-Life Stories from the C-Suite
Send us a text In this episode of "Time to Press Pause," host Ellen Williams speaks with Melinda F. Emerson, CEO of Quintessence Group and America's #1 Small Business Expert, also known as the "Small Biz Lady." Melinda shares her personal "pause" story, recounting how a high-risk pregnancy in 2005 forced her to step away from her workaholic tendencies and rethink her life and business. She reflects on how this unexpected break led to soul-searching and a realization that her business and marriage were broken. Through this period of rest and reflection, Melinda began a journey of reinvention, ultimately creating a new path as the "Small Biz Lady." Melinda explains how she used her business experiences, especially her mistakes, to write her bestselling book, *Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months*. Despite facing setbacks, such as the 2008 financial crash, she embraced faith, which guided her toward success. Melinda also emphasizes the power of reinvention, advising CEOs to take time to pause and reflect on what they truly love, as it can lead to new and unexpected business opportunities. Throughout the podcast, Melinda speaks candidly about the challenges of entrepreneurship, faith, and finding balance, highlighting the importance of using one's experiences to inspire and guide others.…
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