Light Up! With Val

Episode 31: Voice, Presence, Impact: The Power of Speaking Your Way to Leadership

What does it take to go from a promising engineering career to becoming a nationally recognized motivational speaker and leadership coach? In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with Lasada Pippen, a first-generation college graduate who rose from humble beginnings to transform not only his own life but also the lives of executive leaders and aspiring speakers across the country. Lasada shares his journey of self-reinvention, from pivoting away from engineering to embracing his calling on stage. He reveals how structured thinking, drawn from his engineering background, blends with the art of human connection to create powerful communication. Together, we explore why voice and presence are essential leadership tools in today’s digital world, the most common fears that hold people back from speaking, and how to overcome visibility blocks. You’ll also discover: * The 4 Cs of impactful speaking and the key questions to ask before stepping on stage. * How to manage nerves and negative feedback—and even turn them into strengths. * Practical tips to be more present, confident, and influential in any room. * Why mastering your voice is not just for executives, but for entrepreneurs, founders, and anyone ready to make an impact. Lasada’s story is proof that your voice can change not only your career but your destiny. If you’ve been waiting for the moment to step forward, speak up, and light up the room—this episode is for you. To connect with Lasada: https://www.lasadapippen.com/ [https://www.lasadapippen.com/] Become part of the SilknWay Roadshow: https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/ [https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/] Want to become an international speaker, expand your business and mind, join us for 3-days Business Summit in a breathtaking Cappadocia:  https://ispeakuplightup.com/isulu-summit/ [https://ispeakuplightup.com/isulu-summit/]

Episode 30: Success in the Gulf: Thriving Through Cultural Intelligence And What Western Entrepreneurs Keep Getting Wrong

Join The Silk Way Roadshow [https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/] Today, we dive into one of the most dynamic and culturally layered regions in the world: the Gulf. From the futuristic skyline of Dubai to the deeply rooted traditions of Riyadh and the strategic diplomacy of Doha—doing business in the GCC requires more than ambition. It demands cultural fluency. My guest is Corina Goetz, a trusted advisor and expert in Middle Eastern business culture who has spent over a decade helping international companies enter the region with impact, integrity, and deep respect. Together, we unpack: * Why your handshake, dress, or choice of words could open doors—or silently close them * How wasta (relationship capital) works, and how to build trust ethically in the GCC * The key differences between Dubai, Riyadh, and Doha that brands must understand * Crucial insights for women entering leadership or entrepreneurship in the Gulf * Why hospitality isn’t just tradition—it’s strategy Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or global citizen ready to engage with the Middle East, this episode offers a real-world roadmap to navigating the Gulf with grace and cultural intelligence. Tune in, take notes, and leave empowered to connect deeper and lead wiser. Connect with Corina:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinagoetz/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinagoetz/] Learn about the Silk Way Roadshow: https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/ [https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/] Join us on this unique journey! Some tools for Entrepreneurs to scale, as well as in-person events to join:  https://ispeakuplightup.com/ [https://ispeakuplightup.com/] Get my Self-Mastery Journal To Master Your Mind And Shape Your Reality [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D7F13FKT] Join me in IG: https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/ [https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/] LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/]

Episode 29: One Thing That Will Change Your Life Forever

Join The Silk Way Roadshow [ https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/] What if there was one skill that could unlock every door — in business, relationships, and even your health? In this episode, we sit down with Ben Chai — serial entrepreneur, global property investor, TEDx speaker, and master of social magnetism. Raised between worlds and cultures, Ben shares how growing up without a fixed identity led him to discover one of the most underestimated success tools of our time: the ability to connect — deeply, authentically, and across boundaries. We explore: * Why your social energy is more important than your resume * How to speak so people actually listen — and remember * The hidden link between visibility, confidence, and personal healing * What it means to be a “global misfit” — and turn that into your greatest strength Whether you're building a business, navigating cross-cultural identity, or simply wanting to show up more powerfully — this conversation will shift how you think about human connection, influence, and your own voice. Tedx Talks: One Thing That Will Change Your Life Forever: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdYyioAXod0 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdYyioAXod0] How To Be Socially Magnetic: https://www.ted.com/talks/ben_chai_how_to_be_socially_magnetic [https://www.ted.com/talks/ben_chai_how_to_be_socially_magnetic] Cowardice, courage and how extreme reading made me fearless: https://www.ted.com/talks/ben_chai_cowardice_courage_and_how_extreme_reading_made_me_fearless [https://www.ted.com/talks/ben_chai_cowardice_courage_and_how_extreme_reading_made_me_fearless] Learn about the Silk Way Roadshow: https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/ [https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/] Join us on this unique journey! Some tools for Entrepreneurs to scale, as well as in-person events to join:  https://ispeakuplightup.com/ [https://ispeakuplightup.com/] Get my Self-Mastery Journal To Master Your Mind And Shape Your Reality [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D7F13FKT] Join me in IG: https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/ [https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/] LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/]

Episode 28: Resilience in Motion: Women, Power & the Path Ahead

In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the resilience women are called to embody in today’s world—from emotional endurance to purpose-driven leadership. Joined by Teresa Fracasso, we explore the shifting landscape of women’s needs, the silent battles many face, and how inner strength is cultivated, not inherited. We also talk about the Silk Way Roadshow— our joint project, a multicity platform that connects East And West, uniting cultures, mindsets and nations, opens the doors for trading and opportunities for women entrepreneurs. This isn’t just events—it’s a call to all changemakers, entrepreneurs, and creatives who feel ready to rise. To connect with Teresa: https://www.instagram.com/teresa.fracasso/ [https://www.instagram.com/teresa.fracasso/] Learn about the Silk Way Roadshow: https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/ [https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/] Join us on this unique journey! Some tools for Entrepreneurs to scale, as well as in-person events to join:  https://ispeakuplightup.com/ [https://ispeakuplightup.com/] Get my Self-Mastery Journal To Master Your Mind And Shape Your Reality [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D7F13FKT] Join me in IG: https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/ [https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/] LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/]

Episode 27: Rooted in Truth: Healing Shame, Reclaiming Sexual Energy & Creating Deep Connection

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Magda Kay — intimacy expert, Tantra teacher, speaker, and best-selling author — for a deeply honest conversation about how we can heal shame and guilt around sexuality, and how reconnecting with our own sexual energy can lead to more fulfilling relationships, aligned life choices, and lasting partnership. We dive into the emotional roots of disconnection — from self, others, and our desires — and explore how unprocessed shame around intimacy can limit our creativity, confidence, and capacity to love. Magda shares her own raw journey of sexual healing and gives us a new way to think about sensuality as a source of personal power, clarity, and freedom. This episode is for anyone ready to move beyond performance and perfection… and into truth, pleasure, and meaningful intimacy — within and without. To connect with Magda: https://magdakay.com/ [https://magdakay.com/] Magda's book that is mentioned in the episode: https://www.amazon.com/NO-MORE-FAKING-pleasure-fulfillment/dp/B0C6NZGJP3/ [https://www.amazon.com/NO-MORE-FAKING-pleasure-fulfillment/dp/B0C6NZGJP3/] Some tools for Entrepreneurs to scale, as well as in-person events to join:  https://ispeakuplightup.com/ [https://ispeakuplightup.com/] Get my Self-Mastery Journal To Master Your Mind And Shape Your Reality [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D7F13FKT] Join me in IG: https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/ [https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/] LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/]