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 Listen now to escape career stagnation, shatter outdated rules and unlock powerful tools for growth.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.

[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)

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 | Bhava Communications | Spring Catalyst | X

1. Spring Catalyst
2. Blue Ocean Strategy (book)
3. Impact Players (book)
4. Soren Kierkegaard’s

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.

[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

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

1. “Sriracha” (Huy Fong Foods founder)
2. Golden Books series
3. RPI (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute)
4. Five Elements of Effective Thinking (book)
5. Women in Leadership program

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!

[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

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 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

1. Parsley 360
2. The Imposter Lies Within (book by Sheryl Anjanette)
3. Gender Intelligence Group
4. John Warden, Air Force strategist...

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.

[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

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

• My Vulnerabilities are Patched (Book, launching February 2026)
• Whitney Houston
• Glass Ceiling or Sticky Floor (Book)
• Barnes & Noble

• Irvine Technology Corporation
• Nicole McMackin on LinkedIn

Elevate Your Career is an original podcast hosted by Nicole McMackin. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Ever wondered why some leaders rise in unlikely places, defy the “rules” and find true impact, love, and happiness doing it?

Nicole McMackin sits down with Carmella Cassetta, a trailblazing healthcare CIO, to unpack the gritty reality behind career breakthroughs, internal battles, and what “giving back” really means. From surviving single-parent poverty to starring as a character in a bestselling novel, Carmella’s story smashes the idea that success needs a perfect pedigree, a linear path, or permission from the gatekeepers. If you’re battling doubt, facing “not enough” moments, or hungry for proof that there’s more to your story, press play now.

You’ll instantly avoid the pain of career stagnation and self-sabotage and discover the urgent, exclusive mindset shifts for leaders in tech, healthcare, and beyond. Listen now, not later, because the real secrets to victory aren’t taught, they’re revealed.

[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

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 | Website

• Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian
• Association of Women in Technology (AWT)
• SIM Southern California
• University of Connecticut
• StrengthsFinder (book)
• Barnes & Noble
• Brooks Brothers
• Toastmasters
• Ruth Bader Ginsburg...

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by George Bock, Chief Information Officer for Generali Global Assistance.

You're invited into a conversation about navigating change, innovation, and uncertainty in today’s evolving world. The discussion touches on the importance of resilience, forward-thinking leadership, and the ability to see challenges not as roadblocks but as opportunities for growth. Themes of adaptability and vision run throughout, highlighting how embracing new perspectives can shape both personal and professional success.

Nicole and George explore the influence of technology, emerging trends, and the ways individuals and organizations can prepare for the future. By considering diverse ways of thinking, from creative problem-solving to philosophical insights, the conversation encourages reflection on how different approaches can spark progress and new opportunities.

This episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom for anyone looking to grow, adapt, and thrive in a world of constant change. Learn why George believes AI and adaptability will define the next era of leadership, and what you can do to stay ahead.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• Why George believes that his psychology degree is more relevant to his career as a CIO than a computer science degree.

• His career path starting in financial sales, accounting, and auditing before transitioning to IT.

• The importance of taking risks and not being afraid to fail.

• The value of networking and forming personal connections in a competitive job market.

• George's experience with Toastmasters and how it has helped him become a better communicator.

• And much more...

Guest Bio:

George Bock is the Chief Information Officer for Generali Global Assistance. With over 30 years of experience, George is a proven leader in delivering $20M+ in value through digital transformation, automation, AI innovation, and global M&A for large and mid-sized companies, including many PE-backed firms. He specializes in uniting business and technology teams to achieve consensus and alignment, driving both strategic and tactical decisions that enhance ROI and operational excellence. George's expertise spans strategic IT leadership, global ERP/CRM transformations, and M&A strategy, due diligence, and integration. He brings deep knowledge in digital transformation, AI innovation, governance, risk management, and cybersecurity, as well as budget optimization and ROI analysis. Known for decisive leadership in high-stakes environments, he excels at guiding organizations through complex change with clarity and impact.

Resources:

George's LinkedIn

Generali Global Assistance

Irvine Technology Corporation

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Elevate Your Career podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no...

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Nikki Myers, entrepreneur and founder of Loushia, and Kenny Hall, a former homeless drug addict and now the founder of Carts for Christ, a business repairing and selling go-karts.

In this heartfelt conversation, Kenny shares his deeply personal story of struggle, resilience, and transformation. He reflects on moments of fear and uncertainty, as well as the surprising kindness he's encountered in unexpected places. Through candid dialogue, Nicole, Nikki, and Kenny explore how taking small, courageous steps can gradually shift one’s circumstances and outlook on life.

The conversation covers themes of faith, connection, and the power of human compassion. You're invited into an honest and often vulnerable exchange, where the discussion examines the impact of approaching others with openness instead of judgment. These moments of mutual understanding reveal how even brief encounters can leave a profound and lasting mark.

Ready to hear how small acts of compassion can completely alter the course of a life? This episode will leave you with a sense of possibility, as well as a reminder that small seeds of kindness and courage can grow into life-changing outcomes.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• Kenny's struggles with drug addiction, which began at age 15, and how it affected his attempts to get his life together.

• The inefficiency and inhumanity of homeless shelters, and why they are often more like prisons than places of help.

• How Kenny met Nikki's Aunt Betty, who became a significant figure in his life and helped him get off the streets.

• The importance of faith and God's role in Kenny's transformation and success.

• Kenny's remarkable meeting with former First Lady Barbara Bush, a woman he had admired since childhood.

• And much more...

Resources:

Kenny's YouTube Channel

Follow Kenny Hall on TikTok

Nikki's LinkedIn

Loushia

Irvine Technology Corporation

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Elevate Your Career podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Alison Fragale, professor at the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina, an organizational psychologist, speaker, and author of Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve.

In this conversation, Alison recounts an unexpected moment from her past that reshaped how she viewed a personal challenge. The discussion moves through moments of vulnerability, resilience, and the surprising ways our circumstances can force us into growth. Along the way, you'll get glimpses of practical steps and mental shifts that helped turn what could have been a long-term setback into a defining turning point.

They explore both the emotional impact and the strategic thinking that emerged from the experience. You'll be drawn into the process of reframing obstacles as opportunities and leveraging them to build something greater than before. Alison offers insights on shifting perspective, finding balance, and maintaining determination when facing adversity.

This episode offers a mix of personal story, mindset evolution, and actionable wisdom, woven together in a way that encourages curiosity about the full scope of the experience and its surprising outcomes.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• How Alison's experience with a senior colleague at McKinsey, who was a self-promoter but lacked actual competence, sparked a career shift to organizational psychology.

• The idea of being both likable and competent to gain respect and status, and how small actions can demonstrate both warmth and competence.

• Practical tips for navigating status issues and building influence in the workplace.

• How to handle rejections and use them as opportunities to learn and improve future negotiations.

• The importance of being strategic and intentional in one's actions and interactions.

• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Alison Fragale is a professor at the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina, an organizational psychologist, speaker, and author of Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve. With over 20 years of experience, she empowers ambitious women to confidently advocate for their needs, navigate career advancement, and build authentic personal brands using science-based strategies. Known for her engaging style that blends education with humor, Alison speaks on topics including gaining status and influence, negotiation, leadership, and networking. She holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior from Stanford and a B.A. in Math and Economics from Dartmouth. Formerly a McKinsey consultant, her insights have been featured in major publications like The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post.

Resources:

Alison's website

Alison's LinkedIn

Likeable Badass book

Irvine Technology Corporation

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not...