Are you considering a career change or dreaming of pursuing your creative passions later in life? In this inspiring episode of Your American Dream, host Anisha Jennings sits down with Maria Imbalzano, an award-winning contemporary romance author who transformed her career from divorce lawyer to bestselling novelist. Maria shares her journey of discovering a love for storytelling after years in the legal profession, offering insights into creative reinvention, crafting strong and independent heroines, and building a successful career in contemporary romance publishing.

About the Guest

Maria Imbalzano is an award-winning contemporary romance author whose career transformation story is nothing short of remarkable. After practicing as a divorce lawyer, Maria pursued her lifelong dream of writing, penning captivating novels that feature strong, independent heroines and emotionally rich storylines. Today, she is celebrated for her contributions to contemporary romance and women’s fiction, inspiring others to embrace their creativity and take bold steps toward reinvention.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

How Maria transitioned from law to bestselling romance writing

The inspiration behind her strong, independent heroines

Strategies for breaking into contemporary romance publishing

The challenges and rewards of reinventing your career later in life

Practical advice for aspiring authors and creatives

Episode Outline

From Immigrant Roots to Literary Success (0:00) The Journey from Law to Literature (9:03) Building a Career and Finding Love (18:20) Reflections on Family and Legacy (21:32) The Journey of Becoming an Author (26:27) Advice for Aspiring Writers (33:45)

Connect with Maria Imbalzano

Want to learn more about Maria’s work or connect with her directly?

🌐 Website → https://mariaimbalzano.com/

📚 Check Out Her Books → Amazon & Barnes & Noble

Closing Inspiration

Maria’s story reminds us that it’s never too late to pursue your passion. Whether you’re stuck in a career that no longer fulfills you or simply yearning to explore your creative side, her journey proves that reinvention is always possible. Success comes when you align your talents with your true calling — and have the courage to share it with the world.

✨ Ways to Work with Me (Anisha Jennings)

🌐 Website → https://jenningstechcorner.com/packages/

📅 Book a Free Strategy Call → https://cal.com/anishajennings

📧 Email → jenningstechcorner@gmail.com

📸 Follow me on Instagram → @jenningstechcorner

⭐ Loved this episode?

Your reviews help this podcast grow and reach more amazing women! If today’s conversation inspired you, please leave a quick rating & review — it means the world to us. 💛

Have you ever achieved career success but still felt like you didn’t belong? In this inspiring episode of Your American Dream, host Anisha Jennings sits down with Constance Howard, a four-time Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist turned transformational executive coach. After spending over 40 years in television news, Constance reveals how she went from feeling voiceless despite professional success to helping women overcome self-doubt, break through limiting beliefs, and unlock their true potential.

About the Guest

Constance Howard is a trailblazing African American news director, Emmy Award-winning journalist, and transformational executive coach. After four decades in broadcast journalism, she now empowers women to navigate career transitions, step into leadership, and embrace their full power with confidence.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

How Constance overcame impostor syndrome at the peak of her career

The mindset shifts that helped her move from self-doubt to self-empowerment

Strategies for breaking through career plateaus and finding purpose-driven success

Why leadership begins with confidence, self-awareness, and emotional resilience

How Constance now helps women redefine their “American Dream” on their own terms

Episode Outline: Introduction to Constance Howard (0:00) Early Journey in Journalism (1:36) Transition to TV News Reporting (3:44) Growth in the TV Industry (7:34) Navigating Racial Dynamics in Media (9:36) Career Advancement and Executive Roles (15:38) Faith and Personal Growth (16:11) The Influence of Family and Faith (19:18) Recognizing the Need for Change (21:43) Embracing the Second Act (26:29) The Coaching Process and Its Impact (30:00) Empowering Women to Define Success (33:09)

Connect with Constance Howard

Want to learn more about Constance’s work or connect with her directly? Here’s where to find her:

🌐 Website → https://www.constancehowardllc.com/

Closing Inspiration

This episode is a reminder that success isn’t just about titles or accolades — it’s about owning your voice and believing in your worth. Whether you’re navigating a career change, seeking leadership growth, or simply tired of feeling “not enough,” Constance’s story will inspire you to rise above fear and step boldly into your power.

✨ Ways to Work with Me (Anisha Jennings)

🌐 Website → https://jenningstechcorner.com/packages/ 📅 Book a Free Strategy Call → https://cal.com/anishajennings 📧 Email → jenningstechcorner@gmail.com 📸 Follow me on Instagram → @jenningstechcorner

⭐ Loved this episode?

Your reviews help this podcast grow and reach more amazing women! If today’s conversation inspired you, please leave a quick rating & review - it means the world to us. 💛

Are you thriving professionally but feeling disconnected, exhausted, or unfulfilled? In this transformative episode of Your American Dream, host Anisha Jennings sits down with Marina Zakharova, an ICF-certified professional coach (PCC) from Toronto who specializes in helping high-achieving professionals reconnect with themselves without burning out. Marina shares her unique approach to guiding successful individuals who appear to “have it all” externally but struggle internally — offering powerful insights on authentic leadership, purpose alignment, and sustainable success.

About the Guest

Marina Zakharova is an ICF-certified professional coach (PCC) passionate about helping corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and high-performing professionals create deeper fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. Through her coaching, Marina empowers her clients to overcome burnout, rediscover their purpose, and build lasting success that aligns with their authentic selves.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Why high-achieving professionals often struggle with burnout and disconnection

Marina’s strategies for maintaining peak performance while staying true to your values

How to align your personal purpose with your professional goals

Practical steps to cultivate authentic leadership and emotional resilience

How redefining success beyond external achievements can lead to greater fulfillment

Episode Outline:

Marina’s Journey: From Ukraine to Canada (0:00)

Navigating Change: Embracing New Beginnings (2:10)

The Importance of Values in Life Decisions (4:27)

Building a New Life: Challenges of Immigration (6:54)

The Role of Coaching in Personal Transformation (9:09)

Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability (11:33)

Work-Life Alignment: Balancing Ambition and Well-being (13:57)

Prioritizing Self-Care and Boundaries (16:19)

Finding Purpose and Values (18:41)

Strategies for High Achievers (21:02)

Connecting with Your Inner Self (23:25)

The Power of Delegation and Saying No (25:43)

Assessing Your Life: Red, Yellow, and Green Zones (28:10)

Creating a Life of Purpose and Fulfillment (30:31)

How to Connect with Marina for Coaching (32:51)

Connect with Marina Zakharova

Want to learn more about Marina’s work or connect with her directly?

🌐 Website → https://marinalifegroup.com/ 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/marinalifegroup/ 🎙 Coaching Offer: https://marinalifegroup.com/breakthrough-session

Closing Inspiration

Success isn’t just about climbing higher - it’s about feeling whole while you do it. Marina’s insights remind us that true achievement comes when your goals and values align. If you’ve been chasing milestones but still feel unfulfilled, this episode will inspire you to pause, reconnect with yourself, and lead from a place of authenticity and balance.

✨ Ways to Work with Me (Anisha Jennings)

🌐 Website → https://jenningstechcorner.com/packages/ 📅 Book a Free Strategy Call → https://cal.com/anishajennings 📧 Email → jenningstechcorner@gmail.com 📸 Follow me on Instagram → @jenningstechcorner

⭐ Loved this episode?

Your reviews help this podcast grow and reach more amazing women! If today’s conversation inspired you, please leave a quick rating & review - it means the world to us. 💛

In this episode of Your American Dream, get ready to be inspired by the story of Vicki Wright Hamilton - a 40-year corporate technology veteran turned multi-faceted entrepreneur whose journey is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and purpose-led leadership. After facing the challenges of balancing caregiving with a high-powered career, Vicki transformed her life and created VWH Consulting, a seven-figure consulting firm that became the foundation for her diverse entrepreneurial empire spanning skincare, educational games, and documentary filmmaking. Through her work as a CEO, 7x author, and certified business coach, she helps corporate professionals and multi-passionate entrepreneurs transform decades of expertise into thriving, purpose-driven businesses. Whether you’re a corporate professional seeking your entrepreneurial transition, a technology consultant, or a multi-passionate entrepreneur ready to build diverse revenue streams, this episode offers practical takeaways and soul-fueled encouragement to take your next bold step.

Here’s what you’ll walk away with: • How Vicki turned caregiving challenges and corporate transitions into a catalyst for change • What inspired the creation of VWH Consulting and her seven-figure business empire • Strategies to increase revenue and leverage technology for business growth • Powerful mindset shifts around entrepreneurship, faith, and legacy-building • Encouragement to embrace your multi-passions and build generational wealth

This conversation is a reminder that the “American Dream” is yours to define and redefine.

🎧 Episode Outline Introduction to Vicki Wright-Hamilton (0:00) Career Journey and Transformation (2:40) Balancing Caregiving and Business (5:27) Advice for Caregivers (8:22) Faith and Strength in Caregiving (11:03) Conversations with God: Finding Strength in Faith (17:13) Navigating Job Loss: Upskilling and Networking (18:27) Digital Acceleration: Strategy vs. Execution (21:29) Coaching: Sharing Wisdom and Experience (25:12) Increasing Revenue: Strategies for Small Business CEOs (27:28) Legacy and Generational Wealth: Building for the Future (29:36) Advice for Entrepreneurs: Timing, Funding, and Market Awareness (31:15)

🔗 Connect with Vicki Wright Hamilton IG https://www.instagram.com/vickiwhamilton/?hl=en Website https://vickiwrighthamilton.com/

✨ Ways to Work with Me (Anisha Jennings) Website: https://jenningstechcorner.com/packages/ Or Book a Free Strategy Call: https://cal.com/anishajennings Follow me on IG @jenningstechcorner or email me at jenningstechcorner@gmail.com to share your thoughts and feedback. I love hearing from you!

⭐ Loved this episode? Your reviews help this podcast grow and reach more amazing humans! If today’s convo inspired you, it would mean the world if you’d leave a quick rating & review. 💛

#TechEntrepreneur #BusinessTransformation #MultiPassionateEntrepreneur #CorporateToEntrepreneur #TechnologyConsulting #SevenFigureBusiness #BusinessCoaching #DisruptiveTechnology

🎙In this episode of Your American Dream, get ready to be inspired by the story of Kavita Melwani—a Master Certified Jungian Success Coach and second-generation immigrant whose journey is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and purpose-led leadership. After facing burnout, Kavita transformed her life and created an intuitive leadership coaching framework designed to help heart-centered women of color discover their soulful purpose and embrace their empathic gifts. Through her work, she helps highly-sensitive professionals and entrepreneurs create aligned success and meaningful impact. Whether you're a woman of color seeking authentic success, a highly-sensitive professional, or an entrepreneur interested in purpose-driven business approaches, this episode offers practical takeaways and soul-fueled encouragement to take your next bold step. Here’s what you’ll walk away with: • How Kavita turned burnout into a catalyst for change • What inspired the creation of her intuitive leadership coaching approach • Strategies to embrace your intuitive gifts for aligned business success • Powerful mindset shifts around success, sensitivity, and leadership • Encouragement to reconnect with your soulful purpose and create meaningful impact This conversation is a reminder that the “American Dream” is yours to define—and redefine. 🎧 Episode Outline Introduction to Kavita Melwani (0:00) Kavita's Early Life and Cultural Background (1:11) Education and Early Career Challenges (2:27) Understanding Sensitivity and Motherhood (4:09) Transforming from Brick-and-Mortar to Home-Based Business (5:16) The Evolution of Kavita's Entrepreneurial Journey (6:46) Discovering Coaching and Personal Growth (9:02) Common Themes in Kavita's Business Ventures (11:44) Burnout and the Journey to Fulfillment (14:23) Navigating Burnout and Health Challenges (16:20) Grounding Techniques for Emotional Awareness (18:16) Listening to Your Body: Understanding Sensations (20:27) The Journey of Self-Discovery and Coaching (21:40) Exploring Jungian Coaching and Emotional Blocks (23:35) Patterns of High Achieving Women (26:01) Heart-Centered Coaching for Women of Color (28:48) Redefining Success in Business (29:52) Connecting with Kavita: Coaching Opportunities (31:21) 🔗 Connect with Kavita Melwani Website: https://alignedandsoulful.com/ ✨ Ways to Work with Me (Anisha Jennings) Website: https://jenningstechcorner.com/packages/ Or Book a Free Strategy Call: https://cal.com/anishajennings Follow me on IG @jenningstechcorner or email me at jenningstechcorner@gmail.com to share your thoughts and feedback. I love hearing from you! ⭐ Loved this episode? Your reviews help this podcast grow and reach more amazing humans! If today’s convo inspired you, it would mean the world if you’d leave a quick rating & review. 💛 #WomenOfColor #JungianCoaching #IntuitiveLeadership #HighlySensitive #PurposeDrivenBusiness #SoulfulSuccess #BurnoutRecovery #EmpathEntrepreneur

🎙 Your American Dream Podcast Guest: Susan Leger-Ferraro

In this episode of Your American Dream, be inspired by Susan Leger-Ferraro — a visionary leader whose lifelong work bridges child development, education, and social justice. A granddaughter of Canadian immigrants, Susan grew up with strong values of community, resilience, and service. Those values fueled her journey to build a multi-million-dollar social justice enterprise that has positively impacted children, families, and organizations worldwide.

Now the Chief Transformation Officer of G3, your Learning and Development Specialists, Susan brings 45 years of expertise in child development, education, and organizational transformation. Her groundbreaking SuperLoop methodology equips leaders, educators, and communities with the tools to create environments where children — and the adults guiding them — can truly thrive.

Whether you’re an educator, a parent, a leader in child-focused initiatives, or an entrepreneur committed to equity and inclusion, this episode offers proven strategies for creating systemic change while fostering human potential from the earliest years.

Here’s what you’ll walk away with:

How Susan’s dedication to child development shaped her leadership and business journey

The inspiration and purpose behind the SuperLoop methodology

Strategies for building supportive, inclusive systems for children, families, and communities

Mindset shifts around conscious leadership, equity, and inclusion

Encouragement to create organizations that fuel both success and positive social impact

This conversation is a reminder that the “American Dream” is yours to define — and redefine.

🎧 Episode Outline

Introduction to Susan Leger-Ferraro (0:00)

Susan’s Early Life and Family Background (1:46)

Starting a Business at 17 (5:24)

Education and Career Development (12:00)

Challenges in Early Childhood Education (13:58)

Navigating Parenting in Modern Times (15:46)

Supporting Parents and Community Engagement (20:07)

Addressing Literacy Gaps in Education (23:22)

Supporting Parents Through Various Stages (27:38)

Understanding the Mental Health Crisis Among Youth (29:55)

Insights from Susan’s Book on Conscious Leadership (31:10)

Supporting Neurodivergent Children and Relationships (36:49)

🔗 Connect with Susan Leger-Ferraro

Website: https://www.g3works.com/

✨ Ways to Work with Me (Anisha Jennings)

Website: jenningstechcorner.com/packages/

Book a Free Strategy Call: cal.com/anishajennings

Instagram: @jenningstechcorner

Email: jenningstechcorner@gmail.com

⭐ Loved this episode? Your reviews help the podcast reach more listeners. If today’s conversation inspired you, please leave a quick rating and review — it means the world.

#SocialJustice #OrganizationalTransformation #EquityInBusiness #InclusionLeadership #BusinessForGood #SystemicChange #SocialEntrepreneur #TransformationLeadership #ChildDevelopment #EducationLeadership #ConsciousParenting

In this episode of Your American Dream, get ready to be inspired by the story of Le Anne Harper—Co-Founder & COO of Unlock and Founder of Harper Consulting LLC—whose journey from adoptee immigrant to talent operations innovator is a testament to resilience, vision, and leadership excellence.

After navigating the challenges of building a career as an immigrant in the competitive entertainment industry, Le Anne Harper transformed her passion for people and workplace culture into award-winning programs at Sony Pictures, Eventbrite, and DreamWorks. Through her work, she helps HR professionals, talent operations leaders, and executives create cultures where people thrive, innovation flourishes, and business success follows.

Whether you’re looking to strengthen workplace culture, develop high-impact talent programs, or enhance leadership effectiveness, this episode offers proven strategies and practical insights to unlock your organization’s potential.

Here’s what you’ll walk away with:

How Le Anne Harper turned her personal journey into a catalyst for innovation in talent operations

What inspired the creation of Unlock and her consulting practice

Strategies to build exceptional workplace cultures and leadership programs

Powerful mindset shifts around diversity, inclusion, and operational excellence

Encouragement to lead with purpose and foster meaningful change

This conversation is a reminder that the “American Dream” can be defined—and redefined—through the work you do and the impact you create.

🎧 Episode Outline

Introduction to Le Anne Harper (0:00)

Le Anne Harper's Origin Story (1:07)

Professional Journey and Early Career (4:13)

Finding Purpose in Entertainment (10:47)

Pivotal Career Decisions (13:37)

Health and Work-Life Balance (20:23)

Co-Founding Unlock (26:59)

Unlock: A New Era of Connection (30:36)

Coaching and Consulting Insights (31:58)

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Professionals (33:30)

🔗 Connect with Le Anne Harper Website: https://ourunlock.com/ Le Anne's Coaching Services: https://harperconsulting.com/ Email: leanne@harperconsulting.com

✨ Ways to Work with Me (Anisha Jennings) Website: https://jenningstechcorner.com/packages/ Book a Free Strategy Call: https://cal.com/anishajennings Follow me on IG @jenningstechcorner or email me at jenningstechcorner@gmail.com to share your thoughts and feedback. I love hearing from you!

⭐ Loved this episode? Your reviews help this podcast grow and reach more amazing humans! If today’s conversation inspired you, it would mean the world if you’d leave a quick rating & review. 💛

#TalentOperations #WorkplaceCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #HRInnovation #TalentManagement #DiversityInclusion #OperationalExcellence #CorporateCulture

🎙 Your American Dream Podcast Guest: Andrea McLean

In this episode of Your American Dream, get ready to be inspired by the story of Andrea McLean—a first-generation Jamaican immigrant, board-certified coach, and corporate leader turned empowerment advocate—whose journey is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and purpose-led leadership. After facing the challenges of navigating corporate politics and relocation while building her career at major companies like Nestlé, Andrea transformed her life and created The S.O.A.R. Method™, a framework designed to help diverse women achieve their aspirations and embrace their authentic power. Through her work, she empowers women in corporate environments to turn decades of experience into meaningful impact and advancement for the next generation of diverse leaders.

Whether you’re a woman of color in corporate America, a professional seeking advancement, or simply craving evidence-based strategies to define your next chapter, this episode offers actionable tools and soul-fueled encouragement to take your next bold step.

✨ Here’s what you’ll walk away with:

How Andrea turned her immigrant experience and corporate challenges into a catalyst for change

What inspired the creation of The S.O.A.R. Method™

Strategies to navigate corporate politics and build confidence as a diverse leader

Powerful mindset shifts around leadership, authenticity, and defining success on your terms

Encouragement to embrace your future self and inspire others through your journey

This conversation is a reminder that the “American Dream” is yours to define—and redefine.

🎧 Episode Outline Journey of Transformation: From Immigrant to Empowerment Coach (0:00)

Navigating Corporate America: Challenges and Triumphs (3:19)

Resilience in Relocation: Balancing Career and Family (10:17)

Politics in Corporate America: Strategies for Success (15:40)

Transitioning to Coaching: Finding Your True Calling (17:57)

The S.O.A.R. Method: A Framework for Empowerment (21:08)

Building Confidence in Diverse Women (23:45)

Decide to Be Your Future Self: Insights from the Book (25:34)

Advice for Young Women of Color: Embrace Your Authenticity (28:21)

🔗 Connect with Andrea McLean Website: https://www.andreacmclean.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreacmclean/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreacmclean/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andreacmcleanauthor/ Free Mini Course Fearless Self-Promotion for Women: https://acmcoachinggroup.thinkific.com/courses/fearlessselfpromotionforwomen

✨ Ways to Work with Me (Anisha Jennings) Website: https://jenningstechcorner.com/packages/ Or Book a Free Strategy Call: https://cal.com/anishajennings Follow me on IG @jenningstechcorner or email me at jenningstechcorner@gmail.com to share your thoughts and feedback. I love hearing from you!

⭐ Loved this episode? Your reviews help this podcast grow and reach more amazing humans! If today’s convo inspired you, it would mean the world if you’d leave a quick rating & review. 💛

#diversewomen #corporatesuccess #womenempowerment #jamaicanamerican #executivecoaching #womenincorporate #careeradvancement #leadershipdevelopment #immigrantstories #thesoarmethod #authenticleadership #futureleaders #diversityandinclusion #mentorshipmatters #careercoaching #resilientwomen #professionalgrowth #americanDreamPodcast #empowermentcoach #defineyourdream