Bold Hearted

What a way to wrap up the year. Not on a hustle culture note touting accomplishments and stats, but with a grounded conversation about our messy middle process that often goes unnoticed. Our guest today is Lindsey Lerner - a Bronx-based photographer, documentarian, and creative director behind Field Notes from the Work (and the Wild) — a storytelling project that captures the unseen labor, rituals, and quiet persistence that shape creativity, community, and change. Rooted in anthropology and portraiture, her work blends image, sound, and live performance to create spaces where people feel fully seen and deeply understood. Before launching Field Notes, Lindsey spent over a decade building creative ecosystems — founding a Rhode Island music hub that hosted over a thousand community events and fifty music videos, tour managing nationally recognized musicians, and helping startups raise more than $4 million. Across every setting — stage, street, or strategy room — her focus has remained the same: translating the invisible work that makes transformation possible. Now, through Field Notes LIVE, she’s expanding that practice into participatory performance. Each event weaves projected portraits, layered sound, and live narration into a shared experience that turns documentation into dialogue — inviting audiences to slow down, look closer, and recognize the art in everyday life. Join Sabahat and Lindsey as they unpack hustle culture, talk about we are at risk of losing our humanity, and how we can build the muscle to slow down, in a world that tells us not to. Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this solo episode of Bold Hearted, I dismantle one of the most overused—and misunderstood—labels in modern self-development: imposter syndrome. And I say it plainly — imposter syndrome is a lie. Building on the perspective shared by leaders like Reshma Saujani, I share how imposter syndrome isn’t a personal flaw to diagnose—it's simply the feeling of being in new, unfamiliar territory. I break down why discomfort shouldn't be a diagnosis, how unfamiliarity is part of growth, and why labeling yourself an “imposter” only keeps you stuck. I also talk about the power of suggestion and how the stories we feed our minds shape the direction of our thoughts. Positive suggestion can pull us out of negative spirals and anchor us in truth. Negative suggestion, on the other hand, can trap us into believing the very narratives—like imposter syndrome—that hold us back. This episode is an invitation to rethink what you’ve been taught, to stop pathologizing your growth, and to see new experiences for what they are: proof that you’re expanding and levelling up. If you’ve ever questioned whether you belong in the room, I think this episode will help you see yourself—and your journey—in a more empowering light. Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Trigger warning: This episode discusses suicide] What happens when the person who shares your DNA, your face, and your shared identity — suddenly isn’t there anymore? In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with my former IE Business School professor, Balvinder Singh Powar — a global leader, mentor, and entrepreneur who has spent decades teaching others how to lead, collaborate, and innovate. But this time, the conversation isn’t about business strategy or leadership frameworks — it’s about humanity. Balvinder shares the story of losing his identical twin brother to suicide, and the profound journey of grief, spirituality, and rediscovery that followed. From a formative psychology lens, twins often form a bond deeper than even that with their biological parents — making this kind of loss not just emotional, but existential. Through his healing process, including traditional plant medicine, Balvinder came to see that life is energy — and energy never dies. Together, we explore the stigma around mental health, suicide prevention and the cultural silence around emotions. In cultures where parents weren’t taught emotional intelligence — and children were told to follow the straight and narrow — breaking the cycle takes extraordinary courage. We also touch on the beauty of non-linear careers, and what it means to lead and live with empathy in an increasingly disconnected world. Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Stories are how people remember us" We live in a world that rewards the NOW, the instant gratification — the next milestone, the next win, the next announcement. But legacy? That’s the slow burn, the series of small moments and choices that leave an impact on the lives around you. That's the stuff that make up the stories that transcend time, and stays forever. In this solo episode, Sabahat reflects on the lessons her father left behind — quiet, powerful reminders of what it really means to live a life that leaves an imprint. From humility and bravery to kindness, storytelling, and trust, this episode is a gentle reminder that legacy isn’t something you leave behind after you’re gone — it’s something you live, every single day. Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to rebuild your life from the ground up - after being told you don’t have one? In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with Dr. Samra Zafar, award-winning keynote speaker, doctor, charity founder, author and WXN Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women - to talk about her journey from being a child bride to becoming one of Canada’s most powerful voices. Samra shares what it was like to live under control and isolation, how she fought her way back to education, and why it took nearly a decade to finally stand in her own power. We talk about how patriarchy is systemic — baked into how girls are raised, how women are treated, and how cultures (especially South Asian ones) groom us to stay small. We also talk about the dangerous glamorization of the “tradwife” movement in North America - and why, from someone who actually lived that life, it’s nothing but a rebranded form of control. This is one of those conversations that will leave you in awe. Samra is the very definition of Bold Hearted. She didn’t just survive - she rewrote the script, and inspires you to do the same. Her new book, Unconditional, is out now - a story of liberation, resilience, and reclaiming your voice. You can learn more about Dr Samra Zafar here: https://www.samrazafar.com/ Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Bold Hearted, we dive into grief and loss, and how you can show up for yourself and your work through it all. Through a deeply personal and vulnerable story, Sabahat takes you through the journey of processing the loss of a loved one. We go through The five stages of grief How to transform grief through somatic experiences Giving yourself grace as you process this Leaning on your support system How to ask for space and time when it comes to work and deadlines The shift in perspective to make the most of your limited time on earth One of the great certainties in life is dealing with death and losing a loved one. This episode is not meant to be a morbid episode, but a call to action for us to live the rest of our lives intentionally. Have you lost a loved one? If so, how did you process the grief and loss? Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we wrap up 2024, join me for a special end-of-year and season finale episode of Bold Hearted. I recap the incredible guests and inspiring stories that shaped the podcast this season, sharing the key lessons learned from bold entrepreneurs and changemakers. The biggest takeaway: If you are wanting to live more in alignment with your values, good news is that all these guests are doing just that. You dont have to follow the prescribed path. You can blaze your own own trail. Tune in for reflections on the season, a look ahead at what’s coming next, and reflections on living a bold authentic life true to yourself. Whether you’re a loyal listener or just joining us, this episode is all about celebrating bold moves and bold hearts. Make sure to hit subscribe! We will be back March 2025! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Bold Hearted, I sit down with Ted Fleming, the founder of Partake Brewing—the leading non-alcoholic beer company in North America. Ted’s journey started with a life-changing diagnosis, leading him to slow down and rethink his path. Now, he’s built a business with heart and purpose, and he’s here to share it with us! Here’s what you can expect: Turning a challenge into opportunity: How Ted’s chronic illness (Crohn's disease) inspired him to start Partake Brewing. Building a purpose-driven brand: The story behind creating a non-alcoholic beer company that’s transforming the industry. The power of empathy in business: Why leading with compassion can make all the difference. Tune in for an episode full of wisdom, heart, and game-changing insights! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Bold Hearted, we unpack the valuable lessons learned from taking part in a recent hackathon, focusing on three key takeaways: confidence curiosity community But this episode is about much more than hackathons, it's for anyone willing to step out of their comfort zone. You’ll discover how pushing yourself to pitch new ideas can build lasting confidence, why staying curious is essential for finding innovative solutions and working with diverse teams, and how the right community can uplift and fuel your growth. Whether you’re facing a big challenge, launching a project, or stepping into something new, these lessons will help you approach it with a bold, empowered mindset and remind you that: YES, you can. ----------- Have you subscribed to the Bold Hearted newsletter? SIGN UP HERE so you can be notified when a new episode drops! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever heard of trauma-informed leadership? Our guest Danielle Smeltzer breaks down how leaders can use trauma-informed practices to better show up for their people. We also dive into how our nervous system can get affected by trauma, and how to quit your dream job, when it is time to. Danielle Smeltzer is an advocate for trauma-informed leadership and progressive workplace well-being. As the founder of Awarely Embodied Leadership, she's on a mission to help leaders reclaim their well-being as they rise while challenging organizations to consider more sustainable paths to growth.  By drawing on her 16+ years of leadership expertise and over 500 hours of training in trauma-informed practices, coaching, mindfulness, and somatics, she inspires high-performing women and organizations to transform how they lead (and live) through embodied leadership coaching, workshops, and thought leadership. Social links:  Website - https://www.awarely.ca LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-smeltzer-89202018/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danielle.awarelyleadership/ -- Have you subscribed to the Bold Hearted newsletter? SIGN UP HERE so you can be notified when a new episode drops! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Bold Hearted, we dive deep into the powerful connection between identity and habits. Have you ever wondered why some habits stick while others fade away? It’s not just about willpower or goals—it’s about who you believe you are. We explore the concept of identity-based habits, popularized by James Clear, and how focusing on the type of person you want to become is the key to lasting transformation. Through real-life stories, practical tips, and a fresh perspective, I’ll show you how to break free from limiting identities and build habits that align with the version of yourself you’ve always wanted to be. Whether you're trying to improve your health, write a bestseller, become a more successful business owner, or create positive change in any area of your life, this episode will empower you to start from within. Listen in to learn how small, consistent actions can shift your identity and lead to big results. It’s time to stop chasing outcomes and start becoming the person who achieves them. Grab James Clear's workbook on identity-based habits here: https://jamesclear.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/CU-Identity-Based-Habits.pdf Have you subscribed to the newsletter? SIGN UP HERE so you can be notified when a new episode drops! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest today is fellow podcaster and somatic breathwork practitioner Rose Khun. Rose and I talk about stepping outside our comfort zone at open mic (yikes!) or public speaking, growing through feedback and self-acceptance, understanding the power of self-love, and somatic healing. Enjoy! Find Rose Kuhn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rosie_rose_/ Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, we dive REAL deep into the concept of External Validation. Where it shows up... Where it stems from... The antidote... Trying to get love vs acting from a place of love Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, our guest is Elinor Moshe, a 3x published author, founder of Construction Coach, and now co-founder of Truth of You. Together, we dive deep into how societal conditioning shapes our views and actions, often in ways we’re not even aware of. From breaking away from ingrained paradigms to embracing personal empowerment, this conversation offers a blueprint for those looking to rewrite their own narrative and build a future by design—not default. Find Elinor Moshe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elinor-moshe/ Discover Elinor's newest company Truth of You: https://www.truthofyou.com.au/ Subscribe to the Bold Hearted newsletter here HERE so you can be notified when a new episode drops. Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Follow us on Instagram! @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

(Trigger warning: This episode discusses bullying and sexual assault) Welcome to Season 2! On this episode, I welcome Denise Conroy, a 3x time CEO and one of the most respectable and authentic leaders I have encountered. We discuss empowering women leaders, intersectional feminism, power, politics (!!), anti-racism, surviving trauma, and being an empath - and SO much more. Denise is a force of nature and one of the most powerful voices in the business world today, in my opinion. If you are a woman leader, you must listen to this. And then send it to all the other women leaders in your life. Denise's website: https://www.themyllc.com/ Denise on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conroydenise/ Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

IT'S A WRAP! With this episode, we are concluding Season 1! Thank you so much for listening. In this episode I share our new direction and the 3 lessons I learned during the last few months of podcasting. We will be BACK with SEASON 2 on September 10th! Mark your calendars!! Meanwhile, please subscribe to the newsletter here HERE so you can be notified when a new episode drops, leave a review/rating and follow us on Instagram! @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest today is Marissa McNeelands, the founder and CEO of Toast, a collective that connects and supports women in tech. Marissa has a Master's degree in Management with a focus on Artificial Intelligence from Queen's University, Canada, and hosts the Dear Data Podcast. Marissa is an incredible leader, an advocate and vocal ally for women from all backgrounds, and I am thrilled to have her on Bold Hearted today! 6:10 Our true and scary stories about being the 'lonely only' in tech and engineering 10:22 The issue with lack of women representation in the making of digital products and models 14:30 When Marissa realized the extent of the problem in her Product teams not having any women... and how Toast was born! 17:14 How Toast helps organizations hire more women and build diversity 23:37 Having a 'personal board of directors' 27:25 Networking tips for introverts 33:48 My funniest networking story 36:20 Intersectionality in allyship 38:49 'Allyship should cost you something' and how white men and women can be better allies (<<<<----POWERFUL!) 43:16 What does Bold Hearted mean to Marissa? You can find Marissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissamcneelands/ Check out Toast here: trytoast.community Use code FRIENDOFTOAST to get 10% off the first month! Have you subscribed to the newsletter? SIGN UP HERE so you can be notified when a new episode drops! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SEND ME A MESSAGE! In this episode, we discuss what being a multi-passionate means. How you can spot one in the wild, what a multi-passionate looks like in the corporate world, the challenges and the gifts of being a multi-passionate. I also share how and when I realized I was one! Have you subscribed to the newsletter? SIGN UP HERE so you can be notified when a new episode drops! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recovering overachiever? (Me too, friend.) This episode is for you. In today's episode, we speak to Sara Powell. Sara is the founder of Impactury, a company that provides career fulfillment coaching for women executives, who are seeking more purpose and less stress at work. Prior to Impactury, she worked in consulting (Accenture), serving mission-based organizations globally, and co-founded a clean water social enterprise. Over the past 6 years, she has guest lectured executive MBAs at IE University in Spain. Sara has a bachelor in industrial engineering from the US, an MBA from IE Business School in Spain, and is a certified mindset coach. We talk about: Going from 'shiny office' consulting in the US to wanting to start social enterprises Listening to that voice inside your head when it says you are meant to do something different Being a recovering overachiever, and how doing all the things can lead to burnout and health repercussions Living in Spain and India as an American, and why travelling to different parts of the world can be so powerful to bring perspective Sara's favourite Michael Jordan quote. Find Sara Powell on LinkedIn, or on impactury.com SIGN UP HERE so you can be notified when a new episode drops! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you get laid off, or go through a career setback, and are feeling panic and low self-esteem? This episode is for you. Today, I share the 4 steps to get your mind right during this tough time, and get your perspective shifted: Allow yourself the space to process, and then dive into data gathering mode Separate yourself from this event (by separating your identity from your job) Rejection is redirection Craft a new narrative (no more victim mindset!) We also chat about Why feeling terrible is a justified feeling right now, but you can make it through How your support network and community can help How you can make this season of your career one of your best seasons yet. SIGN UP HERE so you can be notified when a new episode drops! Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Liked this episode? Leave a rating or review, and share with a friend! Find me on Instagram @boldheartedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.