Elevate Your Career

76 | Liz Zaborowska | Break the Mold: Entrepreneur Secrets to a Life You Really Want

What if your entire life could pivot on a bold decision you never saw coming? Join Nicole McMackin as she sits down with serial entrepreneur and visionary, Liz Zaborowska, a first-generation American whose family’s journey from communist Poland to her success in Silicon Valley is anything but ordinary. In this exclusive episode, Liz uncovers the mindsets, unexpected hardships and surprising “miracle moments” that fueled her rise, blending discipline with wild ambition and a heartfelt drive to help others. You’ll learn the real secrets behind risk-taking, creating meaningful momentum and building abundance, even when the odds are stacked against you. Listen now to escape career stagnation, shatter outdated rules and unlock powerful tools for growth. If you’re serious about upgrading your career and your life, the time is now. Don’t miss authentic strategies and truth bombs you won’t find anywhere else. TIMESTAMPED HIGHLIGHTS [00:00] – The “abundance mindset” her parents instilled and why giving wins over getting [00:05:01] – Running toward or away? How your upbringing shapes ambition [00:10:15] – Wild sacrifices of immigrant parents, and the untold risks behind starting over [00:18:02] – The dream derailed: How fainting in a veterinary clinic led to a business breakthrough [00:21:13] – The single Kierkegaard quote that transforms networking and your bank account [00:27:00] – Dot-com crash devastation: Losing everything, then learning the only lesson that matters [00:32:35] – Career “pivot points”: BMW or Outward Bound? The decisions that secretly set your destiny [00:38:34] – Crushing comfort zones: The pinky swear goal for 2026 that terrifies (and motivates) ABOUT THE GUEST Liz Zaborowska is a serial entrepreneur, executive advisor and high-impact consultant best known for helping companies, teams and individuals build category leadership. As founder and CEO of Bhava Communications, a top go-to-market agency, and Spring Catalyst, a business team optimization firm, she blends deep expertise in tech with an unwavering commitment to purpose-driven work. Liz’s story – from first-gen American to Silicon Valley leader – is full of unexpected pivots and has inspired thousands to think bigger, move faster and build careers (and lives) they love. 🔗 LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethzaborowska] | Bhava Communications [https://www.bhavacom.com/] | Spring Catalyst [http://www.springcatalyst.com] | X [https://x.com/LizSails] MENTIONED RESOURCES 1. Spring Catalyst [https://springcatalyst.com/] 2. Blue Ocean Strategy [https://www.blueoceanstrategy.com/books/blue-ocean-strategy-book/] (book) 3. Impact Players (book) [https://impactplayersbook.com/] 4. Soren Kierkegaard’s [https://books.google.com.ph/books/about/Purity_of_Heart_Is_to_Will_One_Thing.html?id=wY6cEQAAQBAJ&source=kp_book_description&redir_esc=y%E2%80%9D%20with%20%E2%80%9Chttps://a.co/d/0BvsDoX]Purity of Heart Is to Will One Thing [https://books.google.com.ph/books/about/Purity_of_Heart_Is_to_Will_One_Thing.html?id=wY6cEQAAQBAJ&source=kp_book_description&redir_esc=y%E2%80%9D%20with%20%E2%80%9Chttps://a.co/d/0BvsDoX] 5. Sandler Sales Training [https://sandler.com/] 6. AngelGen [https://www.angelgen.co/] 7. Outward Bound [https://www.outwardbound.org/] IMPORTANT LINKS 1. Irvine Technology Corporation [https://www.irvinetechcorp.com/] 2. Nicole McMackin on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemcmackin] Elevate Your Career is an original podcast hosted by Nicole McMackin. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand [https://podcastyourbrand.co/].

75 | Dan Van Tran | Breakthrough Mindsets: Unlocking Opportunity When the World Says “No”

What does real success look like when your journey starts with nothing and every win must be carved from grit, risk, and self-belief? On today’s episode, Nicole McMackin has an unfiltered conversation with tech leader Dan Van Tran, whose immigrant story, relentless drive, and radical authenticity reveal surprising lessons behind true career elevation. From teaching himself to read at age three, to becoming the parent-advocate for his family, to building a thriving tech career against the odds, his experiences illuminate why optimism and resourcefulness matter more than pedigree. You’ll learn exclusive, actionable strategies for conquering imposter syndrome, transforming adversity into innovation, and amplifying your impact, plus the urgent truths about why asking the right questions unlocks opportunity. Listen right now to avoid the pain of stagnation and unlock the rare playbook for lasting career growth. This episode delivers exclusive mindset breakthroughs you won’t find anywhere else. TIMESTAMPED HIGHLIGHTS [00:00] – A three-year-old “prodigy,” a cassette player, and the secret power of early self-advocacy [00:04:26] – Stolen wealth, refugee escapes, and meeting the founder of Sriracha—how a family survival story shapes resilience [00:08:43] – Why three strangers in Long Island became “family” and the real value behind radical generosity [00:12:02] – Becoming a parent in childhood, first-gen pressure, and the unspoken rules for immigrant success [00:14:30] – Growth mindsets, invention-from-necessity, and the unique freedom to fail forward [00:23:10] – From aspiring garbage man to tech innovator: How childhood dreams evolve and ignite professional ambition [00:31:27] – Grit, late-night buses, and work ethic: What really separates successful risk-takers from those who only “want to” [00:40:38] – Conquering imposter syndrome at the top—proven reframes and the toolkit for thriving under pressure ABOUT THE GUEST Dan Van Tran is a senior technology leader and executive known for his resilience-driven mindset and impactful career in software, fintech, and health tech. From immigrant roots and firsthand leadership as a first-generation American, he’s built his reputation on empowering teams, fostering innovation, and giving back. Dan Van Tran is deeply committed to social mission work and is recognized for championing mentorship and authentic professional growth in the tech industry. 🔗 LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantran] MENTIONED RESOURCES 1. “Sriracha [https://www.forbes.com/profile/david-tran/]” (Huy Fong Foods founder) 2. Golden Books [https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/series/LGB/little-golden-book/] series 3. RPI [https://www.rpi.edu/] (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute) 4. Five Elements of Effective Thinking [https://www.amazon.com/5-Elements-Effective-Thinking/dp/0691156662](book) 5. Women in Leadership program [https://professional.dce.harvard.edu/programs/women-in-leadership-online-program-for-emerging-leaders/] 6. Sallie Mae [https://www.salliemae.com/] 7. MIT [https://www.mit.edu/] 8. Binghamton University [https://www.binghamton.edu/] 9. University at Albany [https://www.albany.edu/] 10. AP Comp Sci [https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-computer-science-a] 11. ChatGPT [https://chatgpt.com/] IMPORTANT LINKS 1. Irvine Technology Corporation [https://www.irvinetechcorp.com/] 2. Nicole McMackin on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemcmackin] Elevate Your Career is an original podcast hosted by Nicole McMackin. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand [https://podcastyourbrand.co/].

74 | Sheryl Anjanette | Designing AI for Confidence, Trust, and Human Connection

Are you tired of feeling undervalued, burned out, or disconnected at work, wondering if technology can actually help you feel seen, empowered, and inspired? This electrifying episode features Nicole McMackin in conversation with award-winning author and AI innovator Sheryl Anjanette. They explore the game-changing launch of Parsley 360, a revolutionary, emotionally intelligent AI "pocket coach" with the power to reshape workplace wellness and personal growth. From conquering imposter syndrome to building authentic human-to-human connections, you'll discover proven, practical techniques and Sheryl’s unfiltered take on creative leadership that go way beyond today’s typical AI hype. Don’t miss this urgent, exclusive download if you want to break through career stagnation, avoid self-doubt spirals, and tap into next-level strategies for both immediate impact and lasting transformation. Tune in NOW for insights you truly won’t find anywhere else! TIMESTAMPED HIGHLIGHTS [00:00] – The mysterious “pocket coach” that could revolutionize your daily work life—what is it really? [00:01:38] – Sheryl’s secret: How an artist’s creative drive becomes a surprising superpower in business [00:07:14] – Human-centered AI exposed: The twist that will shatter your old beliefs about tech and emotion 00:09:13] – The breakthrough moment every leader needs: Why helping others unleash hidden potential changes everything [00:14:09] – A crushing story of lost human connection at work—and the unseen cost leaders can’t ignore [00:22:08] – What happens when AI becomes “omnipresent”—the wild vision that just might work [00:26:13] – Real empathy, not robots: The difference between feel-good feedback and true transformational coaching [00:43:43] – Why trust in AI is shaky—and the bold steps you must take to win hearts, minds, and futureproof your organization ABOUT THE GUEST Sheryl Anjanette is the CEO and Co-Founder of Parsley 360, a pioneering performance optimization platform bringing emotionally intelligent AI coaching to organizations and individuals. An award-winning author, acclaimed public speaker, and expert in cognitive behavioral neuroscience, Sheryl blends deep business leadership with a passion for authentic, human-centered technology solutions. Her book, "The Imposter Lies Within," has become a go-to resource for professionals seeking real-world strategies to conquer self-doubt and thrive. 🔗 LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheryl-anjanette/] | Website [https://www.sherylanjanette.com/] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/sherylanjanette1] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/sherylanjanette] MENTIONED RESOURCES 1. Parsley 360 [https://www.parsley360.com/] 2. The Imposter Lies Within [https://www.amazon.com/Imposter-Lies-Within-Silence-Badassery/dp/B09TZM6RDJ] (book by Sheryl Anjanette) 3. Gender Intelligence Group [https://genderintelligence.com/] 4. John Warden [https://goefoundation.org/eagles/warden-john-a-iii/], Air Force strategist 5. TEDx Talk [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EE6cKnugnWY&si=ujsl4g4EDeaSGS9u%5C] (Sheryl Anjanette) 6. Brené Brown on empathy vs. sympathy [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZBTYViDPlQ] 7. ChatGPT [https://chatgpt.com/] 8. Grok [https://grok.com/] 9. Gemini [https://gemini.google.com/] 10. Renoir [https://www.britannica.com/biography/Pierre-Auguste-Renoir] 11. Picasso [https://www.britannica.com/biography/Pablo-Picasso] IMPORTANT LINKS 1. Irvine Technology Corporation [https://www.irvinetechcorp.com/] 2. Nicole McMackin on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemcmackin] Elevate Your Career is an original podcast hosted by Nicole McMackin. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand [https://podcastyourbrand.co/].

73 | Dr. Lovelie Moore | Secrets to Resilient Leadership: Cybersecurity’s Against-All-Odds Victory

What if every setback you face is a launching pad to unstoppable strength? In this episode, Nicole McMackin sits down with Dr. Lovelie Moore, a trailblazing cybersecurity leader who journeyed from foster care and profound adversity to national impact and thought leadership. Through hard-won lessons, faith, and the surprising wisdom of Whitney Houston, Lovelie reveals how she rewired her mindset from surviving every form of abuse to setting daring goals and breaking industry barriers as a woman of color. Stop letting your past restrict your future. Tune in now for the real secrets to resilience, optimism, and powerful self-advocacy, because the cost of waiting—staying stuck, disconnected, unseen—is too high. Today’s episode delivers practical breakthroughs and personal truth bombs you won’t find anywhere else. TIMESTAMPED HIGHLIGHTS [00:00] – A foster child’s vow: What surviving every form of abuse really teaches about ambition [00:01:50] – “Jesus and Whitney Houston carried me through”—the faith and voices behind resilience [00:04:47] – Jewelry, ribs, and self-reinvention: The unlikely hobbies that sparked Lovelie’s leadership style [00:07:38] – Cooking on a radiator and teaching siblings to braid: Finding purpose and skills in chaos [00:13:12] – Forgiving her father, caring for her abuser, and freeing herself from “anger” labels [00:16:21] – The breakthrough moment: On sticky floors, glass ceilings, and relentless pursuit of “the best that can happen” [00:23:28] – “My Vulnerabilities are Patched”—Applying cybersecurity lessons to emotional healing [00:38:03] – For anyone stuck in an abusive or unfulfilling career: Lovelie’s urgent advice to break cycles today ABOUT THE GUEST Lovelie Moore is an award-winning cybersecurity leader, educator, and author, currently writing and speaking nationwide on resilience, faith, and representation for women of color in tech. Her journey—from surviving the foster system and overcoming personal trauma to rising as a US Navy officer and becoming a doctoral expert in cybersecurity—defines uncommon leadership. Lovelie’s new book, My Vulnerabilities are Patched, reframes personal challenges as code to break, empowering every reader to transform setbacks into strength. 🔗 LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherelle-lovelie-moore-2836a7131/] MENTIONED RESOURCES * My Vulnerabilities are Patched (Book, launching February 2026) * Whitney Houston [https://www.whitneyhouston.com/] * Glass Ceiling or Sticky Floor [https://www.amazon.com/Glass-Ceilings-Sticky-Floors-Possibilities/dp/1637559445] (Book) * Barnes & Noble [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/] IMPORTANT LINKS * Irvine Technology Corporation [https://www.irvinetechcorp.com/] * Nicole McMackin on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemcmackin] Elevate Your Career is an original podcast hosted by Nicole McMackin. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand [https://podcastyourbrand.co/].

72 | Carmella Cassetta | Elevate Against the Odds: Unconventional Paths to Powerful Careers

Ever wonder what it takes to excel as a leader when your path is unconventional? In this episode, Nicole McMackin interviews Carmella Cassetta, an accomplished healthcare CIO, to explore the realities behind career advancement, overcoming internal challenges, and the true meaning of giving back. Carmella’s journey from humble beginnings challenges the idea that success requires a traditional background, a linear trajectory, or permission from gatekeepers. If you are seeking inspiration to move beyond self-doubt and embrace new perspectives on leadership in technology, healthcare, and beyond, this conversation offers valuable insights. Discover the mindset shifts that drive impactful leadership because the most important lessons are not taught, but revealed. Listen now to join the discussion. TIMESTAMPED HIGHLIGHTS [00:02:22] – A murder mystery author puts Carmella’s name in his novel… what did this teach her about leaving an impression? [00:04:49] – Grit, scarcity, and invisible obstacles: The untold story behind Carmella’s tough Connecticut upbringing—and the power of “happy, but challenging.” [00:13:47] – “You can’t, you can’t, you can’t…” How to flip rejection and make doubters your biggest fans [00:17:19] – Starting in retail, pivoting to technology: The surprising ‘aha’ moments that nobody saw coming [00:23:33] – The hidden technique that gets projects approved… and why “the meeting before the meeting” is the real boardroom superpower [00:28:02] – Turning critics into advocates: How Carmella wins over the toughest personalities (and you can, too) [00:36:14] – Facing imposter syndrome, even at the top: Real talk about self-worth and how high-achievers shatter insecurity [00:46:00] – 4 pillars most leaders overlook: Why being current, mastering business, and building relationships spell victory ABOUT THE GUEST Carmella Cassetta is the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian, one of Southern California’s most respected healthcare institutions. With more than two decades in technology leadership, Carmella’s reputation is built on relentless advocacy for women, pioneering operational transformation, and her rare blend of compassion and business grit. She’s an active board member for the Association of Women in Technology, sits on multiple leadership groups, and is a sought-after influencer in both healthcare and tech. 🔗 LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmellacassetta/] | Website [http://www.hoag.org] MENTIONED RESOURCES * Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian [https://hcai.ca.gov/facility/hoag-memorial-hospital-presbyterian/] * Association of Women in Technology [http://awtca.org/] (AWT) * SIM Southern California [https://chapter.simnet.org/southerncalifornia/home%5C] * University of Connecticut [https://uconn.edu/] * StrengthsFinder [https://www.amazon.com/StrengthsFinder-2-0-Tom-Rath/dp/159562015X] (book) * Barnes & Noble [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/%5C] * Brooks Brothers [https://www.brooksbrothers.com/] * Toastmasters [https://www.toastmasters.org/] * Ruth Bader Ginsburg [https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/19/movies/rbg-movies.html] (documentary) * Margaret Thatcher [https://www.britannica.com/biography/Margaret-Thatcher] * Kate Middleton [https://www.royal.uk/the-princess-of-wales] (Princess of Wales) IMPORTANT LINKS * Irvine Technology Corporation [https://www.irvinetechcorp.com/] * Nicole McMackin on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemcmackin] Elevate Your Career is an original podcast hosted by Nicole McMackin. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand [https://podcastyourbrand.co/].