Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

17: Steph's Diary: Motivation will Follow Commitment

I believe in the importance of commitment in achieving our goals, so when I saw this quote "Motivation will follow commitment," it resonated with me, particularly as I continue on this journey of building Pamoja. This episode is a reflection and celebration of the commitments we make for ourselves. The sky is the limit and anything is possible! Topics Covered: * Reflection of our biggest accomplishment * Little by little, a little becomes a lot * Drawing inspiration from Beyonce Knowles Carter * Preparing for Pamoja's first collection launch Follow Us: * Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer Blog [http://bit.ly/3O5CIX3] * Follow us on Instagram  [https://www.instagram.com/pamojabags] Sponsors: Thanks to Pamoja [https://www.pamojabags.com/]for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

16: Kamilah Thomas: A Conversation on Resilience and Self-Care

In this episode of "Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer," I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Kamilah Thomas, a licensed mental health therapist, motivational coach, and women empowerment advocate. Together, we delved into Kamilah's inspiring journey, from her initial aspirations of becoming an attorney to her transformative shift into social work and entrepreneurship. Kamilah shared her personal experiences and insights, reflecting on the challenges she faced and the pivotal moments that led her to where she is today. We explored the concept of being a Strong Black Woman, discussing the characteristics and struggles that often come with this identity. Kamilah emphasized the importance of self-care and total wellness, highlighting the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical health. Throughout our conversation, Kamilah shared practical tips and advice for prioritizing self-care and maintaining well-being, from deep breathing exercises to the power of stillness and mindfulness. We discussed the significance of addressing emotional baggage and the impact it can have on our overall health and success. Looking ahead, Kamilah expressed her excitement for expanding her therapy practice, coaching female entrepreneurs, and engaging in more speaking engagements. She emphasized the importance of resilience and perseverance, encouraging us to embrace the unexpected twists and turns of life with an open mind and a positive attitude. Overall, this episode was a heartfelt and empowering conversation, filled with valuable insights and encouragement for anyone on their journey to personal growth and fulfillment. Join us as we navigate the path to success and well-being, one step at a time! Topics Covered: * My transformative shift into private practice as a therapist * The Strong Black Woman * Prioritizing total wellness for sustainable success * The practice of deep breathing to reduce anxiety * The surprising things you'll learn about yourself by sitting in silence * Embracing life's unpredictability Guest Info: * KBT Counseling and Consulting [https://www.kbtcounseling.com/] * Boss Up Wellness Coaching and Consulting [https://kamilahthomas.com/meet-kamilah] * She Can Work - Rooted Workshop (Feb 23rd) [https://www.shecanwork.org/event-details/rooted-cultivating-inner-wellness-for-sustainable-success-2] * Kamilah's Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/_kamilahthomas/] * Kamilah's Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamilahthomas/] Follow Us: * Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer Blog [http://bit.ly/3O5CIX3] * Follow us on Instagram  [https://www.instagram.com/pamojabags] Sponsors: Thanks to Pamoja [https://www.pamojabags.com/]for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

15: Steph's Diary: Operating in Abundance

This year I'm operating on abundance, and as we wrap up the first month of the year I'm sharing what that means to me.  Sometimes it can be scary to have big dreams and put yourself out there. But for me, what's the worst that can happen if I continue to push through, doing something that I love and enjoy? Topics Covered: * Recognize the Power of Your Thoughts * Surround Yourself with People with an Abundance Mentality * Create Win-Win Situations * Incorporate Gratitude in Your Life * Recognize Opportunities Around You Follow Us: * Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer Blog [http://bit.ly/3O5CIX3] * Follow us on Instagram  [https://www.instagram.com/pamojabags] Sponsors: Thanks to Pamoja [https://www.pamojabags.com/]for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

14: Jovanna Youssef Hill: The Power to Write Your Own Story

Born in Cairo, Egypt with aspirations to become an archaeologist, Jovanna later shifted focus stepping into the world of business launching a career in consulting, eventually merging her interest in technology and retail leading teams at Apple and Rent The Runway. In addition to being a highly motivated career driven individual, Jovanna shares how she entered a new phase in life in 2023, becoming a mother while being intentional with prioritizing self and family. Jovanna is a woman of many hats that will leave you motivated to explore your untapped potential. Topics Covered: * How my American and Egyptian upbringing molded me * Career: Following the impact and the importance of sponsors * Transitioning into motherhood * My Partner/Husband is my secret weapon in balancing life * Utilizing systems to measure personal goals and outcomes * Fitness for longevity, stamina, and mental health * Acknowledging it’s ok if I didn't achieve the goal as long as I made progress * Importance of keeping receipt of your wins * Leaving space for the unknown/untapped opportunities in your life Guest Info: * Jovanna's Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/byjojoyo] * Jovanna's LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jovannayoussef/] Organizational Resources/Tools: * Google Spreadsheets [https://www.google.com/sheets/about/] * Apple Notes [https://www.icloud.com/notes] * Notion [https://www.notion.so/] Follow Us: * Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer Blog [http://bit.ly/3O5CIX3] * Follow us on Instagram  [https://www.instagram.com/pamojabags] Sponsors: Thanks to Pamoja [https://www.pamojabags.com/]for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

13: Steph's Diary: Greatness Takes a While

I recorded this episode on my Birthday, November 27th. As I celebrate my birthday today, I reflect on where I was a year ago and where I am today. I have a lot to be thankful for. Life is not black and white, and it's never going to be a straightforward path to achieve what you want. I'm learning to appreciate the hurdles because it's growth at the end of the day. And that's what makes my story unique, but yet relatable. And I truly hope that you're able to take tidbits of what I'm sharing and apply it to your life. Topics Covered: * What I'm Thankful For * Not Falling Into The Trap of Self Sabotage * Celebrating The Growth & Wins - Design Patent * Your Door is a Platform for Others Follow Us: * Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer Blog [http://bit.ly/3O5CIX3] * Follow us on Instagram  [https://www.instagram.com/pamojabags] Sponsors: Thanks to Pamoja [https://www.pamojabags.com/]for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer