The Humble Rising Podcast

What if history is not just something we inherit, but something we actively shape? Dominique Luster is a storyteller and advocate dedicated to illuminating the rich narratives of the Black diaspora. With more than a decade of experience in cultural heritage and archives, she works at the intersection of history, memory, and justice. After serving as the Teenie Harris Archivist at the Carnegie Museum of Art, Dominique founded The Luster Company in 2021 to help ensure that Black stories are not only preserved, but celebrated. Through her consulting and speaking, Dominique helps organizations uncover and share hidden histories while amplifying the voices of the Black community. Her clients have included The King Center, the J. Paul Getty Foundation, Denver Public Library, and numerous nonprofits. She is also known for her widely viewed TED Talk on the power of archives and is a sought-after keynote speaker at women's leadership conferences. In this conversation, Dominique and I unpack the true power of storytelling, memory, and legacy. What begins as a discussion about archives expands into a rich dialogue about identity, entrepreneurship, cultural narratives, and the courage to claim your own story. Dominique shares how she stumbled into archival work while working at the University of Kentucky, and how history is shaped by who tells the story. From oral histories with Black elders in the U.S. South to challenging the narratives we were taught in school, she explores the tension between fact, memory, and interpretation, and why critical thinking matters now more than ever. Together, the conversation moves beyond documentation into something even deeper. The "dash" between your birth date and death date represents the story you live and how it will be remembered. You will also hear an honest exploration of entrepreneurship, including the messy middle that no one talks about. Dominique opens up about doubting her own entrepreneurial identity, leaving her job, crashing, returning to traditional work, and building again with clarity and resilience. This episode weaves together archives, business, legacy, and mindset into one powerful reminder. If you do not participate in writing your story, someone else will. You will learn: Why history is more interpretation than we realize The difference between documented facts and lived memory How oral histories preserve dignity, identity, and truth Why critical thinking matters more than memorizing history The emotional weight of preserving stories from marginalized communities What entrepreneurship actually looks like behind the scenes How limiting beliefs disguise themselves as facts Why consistency, not intensity, creates real momentum The importance of protecting your incubation season as a founder How to intentionally shape your legacy before someone else does This episode is especially for: Women of color reclaiming and documenting their narratives Founders and aspiring entrepreneurs navigating self-doubt Leaders thinking about impact beyond titles and roles Anyone questioning the stories they were taught and the stories they tell themselves History does not just live in textbooks. It lives in recipes, protests, kitchen tables, contracts, businesses, and brave decisions. And the dash between your dates is yours to write. Show Notes: CONNECT WITH DOMINIQUE- Website: https://www.thelustercompany.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-luster-company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelustercompany?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Books: https://www.betterworldbooks.com/product/detail/relentless-pursuit-of-me-upending-the-unicorn-effect-9781967071982/new https://www.betterworldbooks.com/product/detail/brave-women-at-work-lessons-in-letting-go-9781737275190/new GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your Time To Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, Unleash Your Truest Self https://www.amazon.com/Your-Time-Rise-Unlearn-Limiting/dp/B0D7FNPHS2 Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's community to get inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies to your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/

What if the version of you that feels most aligned is also the one that requires the most courage? Simone Knego is an international speaker, award-winning author, and confidence expert who helps high achievers reconnect with their worth and lead more meaningful lives. Her best-selling book, The Extraordinary UnOrdinary You and her globally ranked podcast, Her Unshakeable Confidence, which she co-hosts with her daughter, have inspired audiences around the world. A two-time TEDx speaker featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, Entrepreneur, and Yahoo News, Simone is also the creator of the REAL Method—a framework for building lasting confidence from the inside out. Her second book, REAL Confidence, launched in February and offers a practical guide to quiet self-doubt and lead with clarity and self-respect. From summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro to raising six children and navigating the beautiful chaos of everyday life, she brings authenticity, perspective, and heart to everything she does. In this heartfelt and transformative conversation on the Humble Rising Podcast, Simone joins the show to explore faith, identity, personal growth, and the bravery it takes to evolve. Simone opens up about the seasons that stretched her, including moments of doubt, reinvention, and stepping away from expectations that no longer fit. She reflects on surrendering control allowed her to grow into a more grounded, confident version of herself. This episode moves beyond surface-level success and into the inner work of becoming. It is a conversation about shedding labels, healing old narratives, and understanding that growth often requires letting go before stepping forward. You will learn: Why personal evolution can feel lonely before it feels liberating How faith and discernment guide major life transitions The difference between external success and internal alignment Why obedience to your calling requires courage How to release identities that no longer serve you The role of community and mentorship during seasons of change Why becoming is an ongoing process, not a final destination This episode is especially for: Women navigating identity shifts and life transitions Leaders seeking deeper alignment between faith and ambition Professionals feeling called to something more Anyone learning to trust who they are becoming Because growth is not always loud. Sometimes it is quiet, intentional, and deeply personal. And becoming her is less about changing who you are, and more about fully stepping into who you were always meant to be. Show Notes: CONNECT WITH SIMONE- https://realconfidencebook.com Toolkit https://simoneknego.com FB- https://www.facebook.com/SpeakerSimoneKnego IG- https://www.instagram.com/simoneknego/ LI- https://www.linkedin.com/in/simoneknego Amazon - https://geni.us/ExtraordinaryYou https://www.youtube.com/@her_unshakeable_confidence GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your Time To Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, Unleash Your Truest Self https://www.amazon.com/Your-Time-Rise-Unlearn-Limiting/dp/B0D7FNPHS2 Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's community to get inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies to your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/

What does it really mean to lead as a woman of color in spaces that were not built with you in mind? Monisha Longacre is the founder and CEO of Productivity 101 and a productivity strategist who helps busy professionals and organizations get more done without burning out. After years balancing a demanding leadership role, a growing family, and the nonstop pressure of "doing it all," she began developing practical systems to manage her time, energy, and priorities more intentionally. Today, Monisha shares those lessons through her book Practical Productivity, keynote speaking, workshops, and consulting work. Her mission is simple: help people work smarter so they can accomplish what matters most and still have time for the life they love. In this powerful and honest conversation on the Humble Rising Podcast, Monisha joins the show to unpack leadership, ambition, identity, and the quiet strength it takes to rise without losing yourself. Her journey moves through corporate spaces, personal pivots, and the internal work required to claim authority in rooms where you may be underestimated or overlooked. Monisha shares the defining moments that shaped her leadership style, including navigating high expectations, "imposter syndrome", and the pressure to overperform. She speaks candidly about learning to separate external validation from internal confidence and how redefining success on her own terms transformed both her career and her well-being. This conversation goes beyond titles and promotions. It explores visibility, boundaries, self-trust, and what it takes to build a career rooted in alignment rather than approval. You will learn: How high-achieving women internalize pressure to prove themselves The difference between confidence and constant performance How to advocate for yourself without shrinking or apologizing Why boundaries are a leadership skill, not a liability How to navigate "imposter syndrome" in competitive environments The cost of tying your worth to productivity Why redefining success is essential for long-term fulfillment How to own your voice in rooms where you are the only one This episode is especially for: Women of color navigating corporate leadership Professionals balancing ambition with personal well-being Emerging leaders stepping into bigger visibility Anyone questioning whether their version of success truly belongs to them Because leadership is not about becoming who the room expects. It is about becoming fully who you are. And when you define success for yourself, you stop chasing it and start living it. Show Notes: CONNECT WITH MONISHA Read: Practical Productivity: A Guide to Surviving Life's Juggling Act Download: priorigami: the art of productivity LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/productivity-101 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivity101/ GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your Time To Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, Unleash Your Truest Self https://www.amazon.com/Your-Time-Rise-Unlearn-Limiting/dp/B0D7FNPHS2 Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's community to get inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies to your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/

What if financial stress isn't really about money—but about the stories we've been carrying for years? In this deeply honest and empowering conversation, Arivee sits down with Erika Dox-Martinez, Financial Wellness Coach and founder of Blissful Vida, to unpack the emotional, cultural, and psychological layers behind how we earn, spend, save, and avoid money. Erika shares her personal journey—from earning six figures while living paycheck to paycheck, to becoming debt-free, building wealth, and ultimately betting on herself as an entrepreneur. Together, Arivee and Erika explore how money trauma, childhood experiences, cultural beliefs, and shame quietly shape our financial decisions—often without us realizing it. This episode goes far beyond budgets and spreadsheets. It's a conversation about healing your relationship with money, reclaiming financial agency, and understanding that financial wellness is deeply connected to self-worth, safety, and freedom. You'll learn: Why high-achieving women can still feel anxious and avoidant about money How money stories and money trauma are formed—and how to rewrite them The difference between "good money habits" and true financial peace Why investing in yourself isn't an expense, but a long-term strategy How financial clarity creates real choice—in careers, relationships, and life What it means to build a Blissful Vida rooted in values, not guilt or scarcity This episode is especially for professional women—particularly Latinas and women of color—who make good money but still feel stressed, uncertain, or disconnected from their finances. If you've ever thought "I should be further along," felt shame around your spending, or avoided looking at your accounts altogether—this conversation will meet you with compassion, truth, and practical wisdom. Because you don't just deserve more money. You deserve peace, choice, and a life that feels fully yours. Complimentary Shift Your Money Mindset Workbook:www.myblissfulvida.com/arivee CONNECT WITH ERIKA Schedule a Free Financial Clarity call with Erika here: https://thehub-api.mastermind.com/widget/bookings/blissful-vida-call LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-dox-martinez Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myblissfulvida/ GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your Time To Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, Unleash Your Truest Self https://www.amazon.com/Your-Time-Rise-Unlearn-Limiting/dp/B0D7FNPHS2 Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's community to get inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies to your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/

As we begin a new season of The Humble Rising Podcast, I want to acknowledge something that feels impossible to ignore: we are living through deeply unsettling times. What's happening in the United States right now is painful, alarming, and disorienting. And while this podcast has always been a space for growth, clarity, and empowerment, it's also a space for honesty. We can hold joy and grief at the same time. We can celebrate cultural wins, community resilience, and personal growth—and name the fear, anger, and exhaustion many of us are carrying. This solo episode is for those of you who feel like you're standing at a quiet crossroads. Maybe you're in between seasons of your career or life. Maybe you've achieved what you once worked so hard for—and now you're asking yourself, "What am I doing all this for?" Maybe nothing is "wrong," but something feels off. In this episode, I talk about what change really looks like when it's not dramatic or obvious—when it shows up as restlessness, numbness, dissatisfaction, or a growing sense that what once fit… doesn't anymore. You'll also hear: Why feeling unsettled doesn't mean something is wrong with you How to assess where you actually are (without rushing to fix it) The difference between external validation and internal alignment Small, practical actions you can take to begin moving forward—without burning it all down This episode is an invitation to pause, tell yourself the truth, and take one intentional step toward alignment—even if clarity hasn't fully arrived yet. If you're in the messy middle, questioning what's next, or quietly craving something different, this conversation will meet you right where you are. SIGN UP FOR ARIVEE'S YOUR TIME TO RISE RESET - a 4-week interactive experience that starts MARCH 4th, 2026. Learn more here: https://cart.ariveevargas.com/time-to-rise-reset GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your Time To Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, Unleash Your Truest Self https://www.amazon.com/Your-Time-Rise-Unlearn-Limiting/dp/B0D7FNPHS2 Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's community to get inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies to your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/

Trinnette Faint is a writer, award-winning actress, model, author, and creative entrepreneur whose work spans storytelling, filmmaking, and community building. She is the founder of Floor 51 Productions and Chez Faint, and the author of two novels, Collette's Caleb and MidCoast Star. A lifelong creative with a dynamic, multidisciplinary career, Trinnette is committed to telling bold, emotionally resonant stories that center women living fully, freely, and on their own terms. Her career reflects a blend of artistry, reinvention, and deep self-trust. Most recently, Trinnette wrote, produced, co-directed, and stars in her short film Party Pants—a sharp, heartfelt exploration of aging, identity, and the expectations placed on women. The film has already earned her the Best Actress award from the Berlin Indie Film Festival and continues to position her as a storyteller offering depth, humor, and a refreshing honesty about the realities of womanhood. In my conversation with Trinette, she takes us through her nonlinear journey—from navigating racism and impossible beauty standards as a model in the 80s fashion world, to working as Matt Damon's assistant, to building a career in photography, writing, and ultimately filmmaking. Her story is a masterclass in staying open, following your curiosity, and allowing one experience to lead to the next—even when the outcome doesn't look like what you could have imagined. We explore the power of saying yes, what it's like when things don't unfold they way you planned, and the magic that emerges when you refuse to let rejection define you. Trinnette shares how leaving a toxic tech job, surviving personal loss, and investing in herself—financially, emotionally, and creatively—led her to reclaim her voice and step fully into her artistry in her fifties. For any woman who has ever questioned her path, felt "behind," or wondered whether it's too late to begin again, this episode offers both grounding and revelation: you can choose differently at any time. Trinnette's journey is powerful reminder that the life you're meant to live often sits on the other side of a single brave step. -SHOW NOTES- GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AriveeVargas -CONNECT WITH TRINETTE- Award-winning "Party Pants": https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38219223/?ref_=nm_ov_bio_lk https://trinettefaint.com/ Instagram: @Trinette.faint YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trinettefaint

In this episode, I talk with Michelle Niemeyer—speaker, coach, and former attorney—about how high achievers can work with their energy instead of against it. After more than 30 years in law, running her own firm, and serving in public office, Michelle faced a rare autoimmune diagnosis that forced her to slow down and rethink everything about success, productivity, and well-being. That turning point led her to create The Art of Bending Time, a framework that helps professionals stay sharp and successful without sacrificing their health or joy. Michelle now helps leaders and teams prevent burnout, strengthen focus, and find sustainable ways to thrive. In this conversation, we get real about what burnout actually is (and isn't), why overworking isn't the same as achieving, and how to shift from constant doing to intentional, energized flow. What You'll Learn: How to recognize burnout before it breaks you – The subtle signs high performers often miss, like losing joy in your work, feeling detached, or resenting what once lit you up. How to make flow your time multiplier – The health, rest, and mindset shifts that help you do in two focused hours what used to take two distracted days. How to protect your focus and your hours – Simple, realistic ways to eliminate distractions, reduce "time sucks," and reclaim your creative or billable energy. How to rebuild joy on purpose – Using Michelle's clarity exercise and daily "wins" practice to retrain your mind to notice what's good, fuel motivation, and reconnect with what makes you feel alive. If you are a lawyer at a law firm or a professional in a very high pressure environment, please pay close attention to what Michelle shares. Listen twice if you need to. Here is my conversation with Michelle Show Notes: GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/ CONNECT WITH MICHELLE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-melin-niemeyer/ Signup for The Art of Bending Time FREE community to find clarity exercise and other tools: https://www.michelleniemeyer.com/offers/dmNrobgd/checkout OR Text CLARITY to 33777

In this episode I brought in Alejandra Rojas—a finance expert and founder, certified TRAUMA OF MONEY™ practitioner, and founder of Brown Way To Money, who is on a mission to advocate for women's voices in reclaiming their financial narratives so they can achieve financial independence. In this episode, Alejandra goes straight to the heart of why so many professional women (especially women of color) feel stuck with money despite "doing everything right." Alejandra shares her path from corporate and burnout to reclaiming her health, clearing debt, and helping others transform their relationship with money through context, culture, and compassion—not shame. We unpack what traditional financial advice gets wrong for so many, especially communities of color, how financial trauma quietly shapes our decisions, and the subtle signs to watch for. Alejandra walks us through her B.R.O.W.N. framework and you'll learn Why tools (budgets, goals, investing) though important, are unlikely to work without cultural and generational context Everyday signs of financial trauma and how to start tracking your money stories with voice notes or journaling What it actually means to "own your voice" in business and in money How to design a step-by-step strategy your brain can follow Ways to normalize and sustain success If you've ever thought, "I'll just make more so I never have to think about money," this one will lovingly call you in—and show you what to do next. Show Notes: GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/ CONNECT WITH ALEJANDRA Website: www.brownwaytomoney.com and www.alejandrar.com Moving thorough mindset layers: https://stan.store/Moneymindsetexpert/p/moving-through-beliefs-with-money-sequence LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandrar2019 IG: @moneymindsetexpert

In this conversation, I sit down with two of my besties and fellow Boston College alumni, Carla Breton and Diana Isern. They joined the podcast (episodes 65 and 66: Women Sharing Life Lessons) a few years ago, and they're back! We've been with each other for years through careers, motherhood, creative work, and everything in between—and this conversation felt like being back at one of our retiros/retreats. There's plenty of laughter and fun, and there's real talk about what life has been like for us. We talk about what it really looks like to chase your dreams and honor your values & your season of life, while parenting and growing as people. How do you know when to say yes or no to opportunities? How do you tell the difference between resistance and a true need for rest? How do you keep showing up for your passions, even when life feels full? How do you really stop the productivity chase and focus on being in the process? We discuss the importance of friendship, community, and family— and the resourcefulness of our Latino culture. This conversations reminded me how powerful it is to grow alongside people who really know you—the ones who've seen every version of you and still call you higher. It's about friendship that holds you accountable and gives you grace. I hope this episode feels like a reminder that you don't have to rise alone—and that the best kind of success is the one rooted in connection, joy, and staying true to yourself. Show Notes GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargasLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/ CONNECT WITH DIANA ISERN https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianaisern/ CONNECT WITH CARLA BRETON https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-breton-3024522a/

Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in NYC, Yesenia Bello helps professionals redefine success. Her 22-year career in media at companies like NBCUniversal, Hulu, Google, and iHeartMedia taught her the corporate world from the inside out. But it was a personal battle with burnout in 2018 that reshaped her definition of success. She now believes that well-being is paramount to a fulfilling career. Her mission is to empower individuals and teams to reconnect with their purpose and bring love and compassion back to the workplace. This is where The 'Mujeres Create' Podcast comes in. It's her creative playground and a vital part of her purpose, where she fosters meaningful conversations that empower women to embrace their creativity, push boundaries, and create a life that reflects their unique dreams. At the heart of everything she does is a fierce commitment to helping people reconnect with themselves, activate their purpose, and thrive—in work and in life. In this episode, Yesenia shares her journey from the Dominican Republic to becoming a successful professional in media and tech. We talk about her career and the pressure you feel when you're the first to have a corporate career in your family – the pressure to push through, keep going even if it's not what you want anymore or it's not sustainable anymore. Yesenia walks us through the pivotal decision to leave her corporate job to pursue a path more in alignment with her well-being and her purpose. She opens up about her experience with burnout and the health challenges she faced, including developing rheumatoid arthritis and undergoing a partial hysterectomy, and how these experiences led to her embracing holistic wellness and her mission to support Black and Brown women on their own wellness and career journeys. GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your Time to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self GRAB YOUR FREE BOUNDARY TOOLKIT: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. FOR MORE FREE resources: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. CONNECT WITH ARIVEE Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/ CONNECT WITH YESENIA The Mujeres Create Podcast (available on all major podcast platforms): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mujeres-create-podcast/id1826124449 Email: yesenia@themujerescreatepodcast.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yesenia-bello-72a0a63/

Have you ever found yourself asking, "Is this really it?" You've built the career, earned the salary, gained the title—and yet, something feels missing. Or maybe you're exhausted, running on empty, and realizing you can't keep going like this. If you've ever felt stuck in a role that no longer excites or fulfills you, this episode is for you. I'm breaking down four of the most common limiting beliefs that keep high-achieving women in jobs that drain them: The Golden Handcuffs ("I can't afford to walk away from this salary and lifestyle.") The Sunk Cost Fallacy ("I've worked so hard for this. I can't throw it all away now.") The Identity Trap ("This is who I am—the lawyer, the executive, the achiever.") The Perfectionist's Paralysis ("I can't make a move unless I know it will work out.") These beliefs may have fueled your success, but they can also keep you stuck in cycles that no longer serve you. In this episode, I share stories, coaching insights, and reflection questions to help you begin loosening their grip so you can make space for what you truly want. GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ Instagram: @ariveevargasLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/

In this episode of the podcast, Arivee sits down with Yeve Chitiga, a lawyer and executive coach to women lawyers. Over the last 18 years, through her internal audit and legal experience, Yeve has honed a unique ability to discover what is hidden beneath the surface and hear the unspoken. She began her professional career in banking working for international institutions in the U.S. and in the United Kingdom. As an attorney, Yeve rose through the ranks to Counsel at the law firm of WilmerHale before pivoting to a late stage financial technology startup. Yeve is also a workshop facilitator, moderator and experienced speaker with a gift for captivating audiences. Through her blend of wit and warmth she delivers thought-provoking speeches that resonate with diverse audiences. Her gift for storytelling extends into literature as a published children's book author. She has also been featured in Forbes as a Black woman redefining entrepreneurship. In this conversation, Yeve shares her personal journey from the legal profession to becoming a coach, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by women in law. Arivee and Yeve discuss the societal and professional conditioning that influences women's career choices and self-worth, and the importance of unlearning these limiting beliefs. The conversation delves into strategies for navigating career transitions, finding fulfillment, and the concept of self-worth as an innate quality rather than one tied to achievements. They also discuss motherhood in the context of being a high achiever as a lawyer, the attachment to parts of our identities, and what enoughness means for high-achievers where nothing feels like it's ever good enough. This episode is an exploration of personal growth and the power of agency in shaping your career and life. CONNECT WITH ARIVEE Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/ GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your Time to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self FREE BOUNDARY TOOLKIT: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. JOIN THE COMMUNITY: Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. Grab more FREE RESOURCE and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ CONNECT WITH YEVE Website: https://www.yevedzo.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yevedzo-yeve-c-72994426/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_yevedzo/

Adriana Vaccaro is the founder and CEO of Culture Redesigned, a data-driven culture and change management consulting company. With a deep expertise in people analytics, organizational behavior, and leadership development, Adriana helps businesses build high-performance cultures that drive engagement, innovation, and sustainable growth. She was born in Colombia and currently lives in Massachusetts with her husband and three sons. In this episode, Adriana Vaccaro shares her journey from Colombia where she was born and raised and had her career, to coming to the U.S. and working as a Human Resources executive and eventually starting her firm, Culture Redesigned. We explore what it takes to create workplaces where people feel recognized and supported–not just in theory but through daily behaviors and leadership practices. We dive into organizational culture, and Adriana's unique approach to measuring and improving culture through assessments that identify four levels of culture: from fixed and reactive, to evolving, and empowered. We talk about why one-off culture or DEI events fail to create lasting change, how direct managers shape team climate more than any program or policy, and the importance of trust, psychological safety, and meaningful relationships at work. She provides valuable insights and practical advice for leaders on how to cultivate a healthy work environment, the significance of introspection, and the importance of knowing oneself as a leader. This conversation is essential for anyone stewarding culture in their team or organization—or simply aspiring to work in a space that feels aligned, humane, and inspired. CONNECT WITH ARIVEE GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE BOUNDARY TOOLKIT: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ CONNECT WITH ADRIANA https://culture-minded.com/ https://www.cultureredesigned.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianavaccaro/

Ilhiana Rojas is a bestselling author, an executive coach and strategist with over 20 years of executive experience leading in Fortune 500 companies like P&G, Hasbro, and Hanesbrands and coaching professionals and businesses to success. As the founder of BeLIVE Coaching & Consulting and Co-President of UNITED LATINAS, Ilhiana is a certified expert in leadership and DEI best practices that help build resilient, collaborative, and high-performing leaders and cultures. She brings a grounded, real-world perspective to leadership, self-advocacy, and navigating change—and in this episode, she's back on the podcast to help us meet this moment. Right now, so many of us are feeling stretched thin—emotionally, mentally, professionally. The world feels heavy. Work feels nonstop. And showing up with intention can feel harder than ever. In this episode, Ilhiana and I talk about: 🔹 Why emotional intelligence and engagement are dropping—and what we can do about it 🔹 How to advocate for ourselves in ways that feel real, not performative 🔹 The tension between humility and visibility (especially in communities of color) 🔹 How to take back control of our narrative 🔹 Practical ways to lead, speak up, and hold space for others—even when things feel hard Whether you're managing a team or managing your own energy, this conversation offers powerful reminders that how we show up—intentionally and courageously—can shift everything. CONNECT WITH ARIVEE GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ CONNECT WITH ILHIANA https://www.belivecoach.com/ United Latinas: https://www.unitedlatinas.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilhiana-rojas7/

Bizzie Gold is a pioneering force in the mental health world. She's the founder of Break Method—a data-driven system for emotional rewiring—and the author of the upcoming book Your Brain is a Filthy Liar, which explores how subconscious programming hijacks behavior and keeps us stuck in painful cycles. In this episode, Bizzie shares her own powerful story—from growing up with a parent diagnosed with borderline personality disorder to a "Fight Club moment" that changed everything. We talk about anxiety, ADHD, burnout, parenting, identity, and why traditional therapy often misses the mark when it comes to real, sustainable change. If you've ever found yourself repeating the same patterns and wondering why, this conversation is for you. It's disruptive in the best way possible, illuminating, and could very well change how you see your own behavior—and your healing. CONNECT WITH BIZZIE Website: https://bizziegold.com/bg-welcome Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/bizziegold/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bizziegold/ https://x.com/bizziegold https://www.youtube.com/@BizzieGoldOfficial Learn More About The Break Method: https://breakmethod.com/ https://www.instagram.com/breakmethod/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/break-method/ CONNECT WITH ARIVEE GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/ Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/

Diana Maldonado is back on the podcast. Diana was a guest on episode 132 of the podcast so go back and listen to that episode to learn more about Diana's background as a best-selling author, business strategist, founder of the Candidate School, and her journey to becoming the first Latina elected to represent Williamson County in the Texas state legislature. If you listen to that episode, you will also understand why she is so focused on helping women get elected to public office and how she's doing it through her course the Candidate School. In the Candidate School, she shares everything she wished she'd known during her own campaign journey. From mastering your candidate identity to managing money, policy and power strategically and ethically, this program helps you navigate the political arena with confidence. By completing Candidate School, participants gain the skills, strategy, and clarity to run a successful, purpose-driven campaign – and win. I brought Diana back on the podcast to delve into the exact process of running for office. We weren't able to delve too deep into the process in our previous conversation. In this episode, Diana and I talk about the nuts and bolts of running for office. We dive into essential steps, from understanding your 'why' to navigating the logistics and financial aspects of campaigning. Whether you're considering a bid for a local school board seat or aiming for Congress, this conversation is packed with practical advice and motivation. ENROLL IN CANDIDATE SCHOOL:https://www.dianamaldonado.com/ Use code WOMEN150 for $150 off the current fee of $795. CONNECT WITH DIANA https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-maldonado/ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Diana-Maldonado/author/B0C1TBBRMQ?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true CONNECT WITH ARIVEE GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/

Diana Isern is a passionate assistant principal, financial educator, and presenter whose financial course seeks to transform how students think about wealth. Through nationwide presentations for educators, she equips teachers with inclusive, practical strategies to make financial literacy accessible and empowering. Drawing inspiration from her family stories, Diana believes generational wealth extends beyond money to include cultural values and resilience. With nearly two decades in the New York City Public School system, Diana started as an ESL teacher supporting immigrant communities and has grown into a school leader who continues teaching because she believes being in the classroom with students is at the heart of leading with empathy. Her approach to financial education centers women and people of color, helping students envision themselves belonging in financial spaces. Diana is an Accredited Financial Counselor, and her expertise has been recognized by Intuit for Education and the Council for Economic Education. She is currently writing a book for financial educators about making money topics more accessible. When not teaching or writing, she is traveling, boxing, and playing fútbol with her kids. In this episode, Diana and I talk about the importance of addressing financial avoidance and gaining control over your personal finances. Diana shares her experiences working with clients and students, highlighting how confronting spending habits and understanding your own money stories–and your relationship with money– can lead to better financial health. We delve into overcoming the psychological barriers to financial planning, the aftermath of parental influences on money mindset, and the value of creating a budget that reflects your values. Diana also introduces her upcoming book aimed at financial educators and the practical strategies it offers. This conversation sheds light on actionable steps for financial independence and the critical role of mindset in achieving your money goals. CONNECT WITH ARIVEE GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your Time to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self also available on Audible. Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/ Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/ CONNECT WITH DIANA: Instagram: @dianadinero_edu LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianaisern/

In this episode of The Humble Rising Podcast, host Arivee Vargas delves into the concept of hedonic adaptation—the brain's tendency to normalize even the most positive changes in our lives, leading to a sense of restlessness or dissatisfaction despite external success. She explores why achieving milestones like promotions or new homes may not bring lasting fulfillment and offers three strategies to counteract this phenomenon: Reignite inspiration: Identify activities or interests that energize you beyond productivity. Redefine "enough": Establish personal benchmarks for success that align with your current values and season of life. Expand your identity: Recognize and embrace aspects of yourself beyond professional titles and achievements. Arivee emphasizes that feeling unfulfilled doesn't indicate failure but may signal a need for realignment with one's evolving self. She encourages listeners to gently disrupt autopilot modes and reconnect with what truly brings joy and meaning. For more insights and resources, visit ariveevargas.com or follow Arivee on LINKEDIN or Instagram at @ariveevargas. CONNECT WITH ARIVEE GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your Time to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/ Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/

In this episode of The Humble Rising Podcast, we're shifting the conversation from traditional time management to something more powerful: alignment. If you're constantly feeling overwhelmed by everything on your plate—plus what's about to be added—this episode is for you. Arivee explains why managing your time more efficiently won't solve the root problem, and what will. We dive into how clarity, boundaries, and priorities help you create more time freedom and reduce stress—without needing to overhaul your life. You'll walk away with a fresh, practical way of thinking about your time and energy—one rooted in alignment with what matters most. Topics covered: Why time management won't solve your overwhelm What real time freedom actually looks like How to define and protect your personal priorities What it takes to set boundaries that stick How your environment affects your energy—and what's actually within your control CONNECT WITH ARIVEE GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/

Most high-achieving women don't realize they're burning out until it's too late—because burnout isn't always loud. Sometimes, it's quiet. It creeps in while you're still performing, still holding it all together, still showing up for everyone else… except yourself. In this episode, I share 5 subtle signs of burnout that many women—especially women of color—overlook or dismiss. These are the signs I missed in myself years ago. These are the same patterns I now see in the powerhouse lawyers and corporate leaders I coach. We'll talk about: Why numbness, not exhaustion, might be your biggest red flag How your "low tolerance" isn't a personality flaw—it's a signal The burnout-success paradox: when productivity is high but fulfillment is low What your body is trying to tell you (that your brain keeps ignoring) The internal voice whispering "I should…" and why it's draining your energy You'll also get 3 powerful self-reflection questions you can use right now to reconnect with your body, your truth, and your boundaries—before burnout forces you to stop. If you've been feeling off but can't quite name it… If you're crushing your goals but feel increasingly disconnected… If you're tired of carrying it all in silence... This conversation is for you. GET ARIVEE'S BOOK: Your TIme to Rise: Unlearn Limiting Beliefs, Unlock Your Power, and Unleash Your Truest Self Grab your FREE Boundary Toolkit: 3 Proven Strategies to Reclaim Your Time, Boost Your Energy and Feel in Control in just 7 Days. Click here to get it now. Join Arivee's women empowering women email community for inspiration, motivation, and actionable strategies from Arivee in your inbox. This community gets first access to all of Arivee's coaching programs. We're focusing on how to live that one beautiful precious life that you were meant to live- with meaning, joy, aliveness, and fulfillment. Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/Grab more FREE resources and learn more about Arivee's coaching programs: https://www.ariveevargas.com/