This was my biggest talk to date to 200+ leaders and executives in-person. It’s interesting because attendees expected an exact formula for executive presence—like you need a certain percentage of extroversion or charisma (by the way you do NOT need both). Executive presence can be learned.In this replay I share tools and frameworks on how to create your own executive presence.In this talk I remind you to see your colleagues with curiosity vs. judgment, and to treat each interaction as a data point to understand someone else’s goals and perspectives.I shared personal stories, and I threw in some jokes because, honestly, I secretly dream of being a comedian ;)My favorite part of the talk? The beautiful coaching and support at the end.What We Cover in This Episode:My Conscious Conversations™ heart-led model on how to create your own, authentic executive presence which includes Passion, Pause, Perspectives, Prepare, Practice and Perform. This is the exact model that got me this talk; my courses with LinkedIn, Penn, and Brown; and closing 2 more speaking engagements this past week.A team template you can use to better understand how to showcase executive presence with team members and executives. This dashboard has helped my clients get VP roles.Word-to-word power phrases you can integrate at your next meeting including how to deal with the most difficult team members. This is a favorite for my clients.Frameworks to prepare for meetings and interactionsIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:https://www.nextupisnow.orgWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

I had the honor of speaking to over 200 leaders & executives on the topic of Executive Presence, and I had the pressure to also navigate tech sound issues...The room was packed – standing room only, with people sitting on the floor and lining the walls. At one point, the event staff had to close the doors and turn people away due to fire safety concerns.I shared more on how I prepared for this talk in my recent podcast episode. You can listen to this x-minute podcast episode on Apple or Spotify.I’m still reflecting on the energy and impact of that session. It was truly a powerful experience.During the talk, I shared an important reminder: executive presence isn’t about being the loudest and extroverted in the room. It’s about showing up authentically and confidently – and yes, that’s a skill anyone can LEARN.What We Cover in This Episode: Executive PresenceImposter Syndrome & Ties to Trauma ResponsesDealing with the tech issuesThe power of asking for help and coachingIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:https://www.nextupisnow.org Where We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

so i had a concussion 3 months agodont worry im perfectly fine nowI wanted to wait a couple of months before sharing the details.And if you think I’m going to share in this email, I won’t--  you’ll just have to listen to the episode (I know I’m a tease…)We all know that whenever post Labor Day hits everyone is always feeling SO overwhelmed.We think we can be superheroes and do everything, when the reality is that we can’t and we have to be realistic and honest with ourselves, our bodies and the people we love.Getting the concussion I had to readjust to my expectations in body, mind and health, and maybe you also have to readjust to realistic expectations as well.Like you, I often think, “I miss being in my 20s, I was able to do everything.”But now that I’m older the reality is, “I was able to LIE to myself in my 20s, and do everything when the reality is that I didn’t know how to hold boundaries, and didn’t listen to my body to identify what is my  realistic energetic capacity.This episode is different—I'm being interviewed by Keeley Antonio for her Feelswell Experiences podcast.Honestly, I was going to record a separate solo episode about what happened, but since I talked to Keeley about it first, I figured:Let's work smarter, not harder, and just reshare it.OR maybe I’m just lazy? lolWhat We Cover in This Episode:Why work-life balance is a LIEHow to identify your realistic capacityWhat to do when you are overwhelmedHow I got my concussionIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:feelswellexperiences.comlinkedin.com/in/keelyantonioPsychologytoday.comEpisode 54: Work-Life Balance: The Lie with Natalie KuhnWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

In the States, Labor Day which means summer is UNOFFICIALLY over…This means the real work is here --getting ready for Q4.Q4 is the busiest time of year for me and my clients where:Companies are working on hitting their numbersHolidays are coming up so getting ready to deal with triggering family membersAnd more importantly making sure to have enough time for sanity lolSo how do you get ready?For me I have been using all summer prepping myself for Q4 by: Updating my systems Improving my own knowledge and skills by obtaining my PCC coaching certification with the International Coaching Federation as I’ve been working with more companies and executives.Looking at my numbers and making changes. For example, I have deleted a bunch of expenses because I didn’t hit the numbers I wanted in the beginning of the year.There’s been loads of updates and changes I’ve been doing behind the scenes to get ready for Q4, and I share more in my podcast.What We Cover in This Episode:Review Goals: Revisit your yearly personal and business goalsThe importance of being self-aware and leaning into what’s making you feel uncomfortableHow to look at your numbers to create aligned changeIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Psychologytoday.comEpisode 95. How I reduced 50% of my Business Expenses and How You can too and a business updateEpisode 38. Part 2. One Year Later, How I Became Less Dependent on Social Media with Monica SchrockEpisode 61. How I Became #1 on Google, and how you can too with Andres AgueroWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

The beginning of the year, it was tough. I wasn’t hitting the revenue I needed, and my profit margins weren’t sexy at all. I had to put my ego in check and make some hard decisions and conversations.The result → I reduced 50% of my expenses and now this year I am projected to have the highest revenue, and more importantly PROFIT MARGINS!How am I celebrating this? Well, I was just with my dad for a week where I was able to help him with recovery after his 2nd knee surgery.His recovery is going so well especially with the love surrounding him. We even got my nephew to be his physical therapist lol.This past year, I've talked to more people—myself included—about how tight money has been cause of:InflationElectionsAnd for those of us who are Millennials and Gen Xers -- we're juggling finances with our kids and parents.We were taught to hustle, work a lot, THEN the money will come.But I want to challenge you -- hard work doesn't mean working more hours.The REAL hard work is building a better relationship with money.In my 95th podcast episode, I talk about, “How I reduced 50% of my expenses, how keeping up with the Jones’ was affecting me and business updates”Listen on AppleListen on SpotifyHere are the show notesSo you might be wondering what has been the results of reducing my expenses by 50% and simplifying my business?This past week while I was with my dad in surgery without even promoting anything on social media or emails I had 8 sales calls scheduled.Here's the receipts so you know I ain’t lyin.Also, don’t get it twisted despite getting all these sales calls in, we are selective with who we work with. We take great care in selecting clients who are genuinely committed to their results, and our reputation depends on the success of our clients. So if you are committed you can apply to work with me and my team by scheduling a call here.What We Cover in This Episode:The Importance of Going Back to BasicsHow to Adjust Your OfferHow to Simplify and Streamline Your Operations for Better Profit MarginsA Change in my BusinessIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Evolved FinanceWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on Linked

I’ve been noticing my clients, community and myself including feeling anxious maybe cause it’s August and the end of the year is creeping up.I’ve challenged my clients and myself -- what if anxiety can be good for us? What if we can embrace it.See…anxiety gets a bad rap.But this past summer, we’ve seen how anxiety can be (not always) good for us.Getting into a difficult conversation with a loved one, but how it helps us understand the other person.Inside Out 2 shows how anxiety can be good to help us plan for the future, and how it does protect us Watching the Olympics, we can see how athletes deal with anxiety. Whether it’s saying affirmations like what we see Suni Lee do, or meditating like Simone Biles.So how can anxiety help you -- what if I told you to stop ignoring it.That whenever anxiety shows up:DO NOT pick up your phone and scrollDO NOT put your headphones and start listening to music or a podcastWhat if anxiety is helping us uncover what we need to work and improve on?In this episode, I want to discuss how anxiety can be embraced. Not all aspects of anxiety are great; that's when you seek a therapist. But let's see what we can do about it. I have five tips, and five questions you can use when anxiety creeps up.What We Cover in This Episode:Defining Success for Yourself, and Overcoming BurnoutReflecting on Personal Growth5 Powerful Questions You Can Ask Yourself with Anxiety Creeps UpIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Psychology TodayRelated Podcast EpisodesEpisode 57. How to work when you or a friend is neurodivergent (ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety) with Monica SchrockEpisode 66. 4 Steps to Reduce Financial Anxiety with Claudia RuckerEpisode 25. Coaching vs. Therapy: Which One Do You Need? with Dr. Nazanin MoaliWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

I was coaching a doctor last week who wants to open up a bigger office.I asked why this was important.She shared,“When you stop growing, you start dying.”Then she sighed, and cried saying,“But at what expense to my husband, kids and my health?”I challenged her and asked,“What if growth doesn’t mean more and bigger, externally? What if growth means changing your business to work for you internally, so you can be a more present spouse and mother, and take care of your health?”The lightbulb sparked for her and we created a gameplan to create a more sustainable business AND life for herself, husband and kids.We unfortunately live in a society that tells us - more, bigger and better will guarantee success and happiness.IT’S A LIE.What if growth is taking time to pause and asking ourselves what is “enough”? I delve deeper in my most recent podcast episode.What We Cover in This Episode:How to get clear on your priorities in this current stage in lifeChallenging the concept of “growth” and “doing more”Embracing your definition of “enough” and “success”If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callRelated Podcast EpisodesEpisode 85: How to Honor Your Emotions and Protect Yourself from Others Emotions with Lidia GalvezEpisode 84: How I Redefined “Success” for Myself and How You can TooResources Mentioned:My LinkedIn CoursesRest is Resistance by Tricia HersheyWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

I can’t believe I’m celebrating 7 years in business this Sunday, July 14!Trust me when I say I made all the mistakes and failures.There have been nights when my anxiety was high (also have you watched Inside Out 2 yet?!, crying on the floor like a starfish, debt, and dealing with difficult situations where I had to involve my lawyer.My hope for my 92nd episode is to unveil my 7 lessons in the past 7 years in business.The first lesson I share in the podcast is being sure to celebrate wins.So here are wins my team and I are celebrating in the past 7 years including :Hitting 7-figures in revenue 4k+ clients in 58 different countries2 courses with LinkedInOnline courses with 20+ institutions and local governments including Penn State, Brown University and University of Southern California50% email open rateHosting events and retreats annuallyHaving a business that’s NOT dependent on social media (Years ago I was burned out creating content everyday)This past year reducing 50% of our business expenses Getting more tools in my toolbox as a coach by being Trauma-Informed Certified, a Certified Executive Coach, and being an ICF Professional Certified Coach through the Center for Executive Coaching by the end of this summerOur hundreds of 5-Star client testimonials on our website, Google Business Page, Yelp, YouTube, LinkedIn and InstagramWhat We Cover in This Episode:A raw and vulnerable share of my mistakesWhat I wish I knew before I startedHow I created a business that honors me, and not dependent on social mediaIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:My LinkedIn CoursesWhat is EMDR TherapyFind a psychologist through Psychology TodayEpisode 66. 4 Steps to Reduce Financial Anxiety with Claudia RuckerEpisode 23: Get Clients Through Referrals and RenewalsEpisode 38. Part 2: One Year Later, How I Became Less Dependent on Social Media with Monica SchrockCenter for Executive CoachingWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn:

Summer is in full swing! Which means…Heat waves here in Los AngelesAlready having my 1st week of vacation! I just got back from a California Road tripAnd still having to work cause we got bills to pay!So the question everyone has with a summer of wanting to play and rest -- how do we balance having a fun summer, while also working?Maybe you’re…Working full time and realize you are unhappy with how things are going at your job and you realize you need to leave and find another job or even another industry!A business owner and know that summer is slow, but you want to work on things in the summer like updating your systemsWanting to just edit your WHOLE life, but where do you begin!?In my recent podcast episode we are talking about how to have summer, while making sure we chill.If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinEpisode 45. How You Can Have a Fulfilling Job and Life with Mac PrichardEpisode 21: 7 Tips for Sustainable RevenueWhat is EMDR TherapyFind a psychologist through Psychology TodayWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

About 7 years ago (2017), I graduated from my Masters in Leadership and Management cause I was getting ready to be an Executive Director for a nonprofit.The day I graduated for some reason I wasn’t happy or excited. It finally dawned on me,I’ve been listening to what everyone else wants, and not what I want. I’ve been people pleasing doing what others want for me, but what do I want?! And I realize, “I want a business where I can actually serve other women of color AND make a living from it.”Here’s a graduation pic of me with my two queens, my grandmothers.I knew I wanted to start a Career Coaching business for women of color cause of my own personal experiences.A reason why clients love working with me is cause I’ve done ALL the failures, and overcame them.Was a director at 22 and learned how to manage 5 people at a young age, while dealing with being so young, a woman and a minority (a trifecta to go through…)Got fired, quit and laid off. And each time, I navigated and was able to get a new job.Negotiated to get a 20% salary increaseSwitched complete industries successfully and got my first 6-figure salaryI also noticed friends and family members constantly asking me for advice so the day I graduated from my Masters I realized I wanted to do my own thing.I started my career coaching business one month later and landed my first 3 paying clients.How did I do it? I used my experience as a former fundraiser in political campaigns and the nonprofit sector and I share all my secrets.What We Cover in This Episode:The exact steps on how I got my first paying clients with no websiteThe scripts to use to reach outHow to test and get feedback on your possible services/productsIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinScripts to get your first paying clients: elainelou.com/scriptsMr. Bear's Budget BangersWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Remember when millennials were called, “Lazy and entitled”?With the new “Quiet Quitting” and “Lazy Girl Job” trends, Gen Z is now getting stereotyped with the new, “Lazy and Entitled” title.I have clients who are Millennials and Gen Xers who always ask, “How do I work with Gen Z?”And I also have clients who are Gen Z who ask, “How do I communicate and work with these old paradigms of work?In my recent WOC & Allies: Business & Career Realtalk Podcast episode, I'm joined by my friend Keely Antonio, co-founder of FeelSwell Experiences, is an expert in Gen Z workforce integration and future of work innovation. Her work has been featured in CNBC and the Today Show.Shocking fact about Keely who is a Gen Zer herself, she doesn’t have TikTok and Instagram on her phone.What We Cover in This Episode:Why having new generations question how we work and live is a GOOD thing How to actually lead and communicate across ALL generationsHow building relationships have changed because of social media and the pandemic, and what to do about itIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinEpisode 43. Leading change + managing overwhelm for you and your team with Juliana Wise5 Easy Scripts to Have Challenging Conversations with Your Bossfeelswellexperiences.comlinkedin.com/in/keelyantonioUnderstanding + Connecting With Gen Z WorksheetWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Being a leader isn’t just about creating strategic decisions and hitting goals.It’s also about leading and managing your team, and learning how to manage up.It’s about the “soft skills” like teamwork, communication and conflict resolution. (On a side note, I hate that it’s called “soft skills” cause it’s these skills that are actually hard).This past month, I’ve been hearing from all my clients who are finding working in a team to be challenging.For example, the other day one client said, “Elaine, my boss just gave me 3 more projects to work on when I barely have capacity to work on my current projects. I also don’t have the resources, manpower and budget to do what they want me and my department to do. What should I do!?”Good thing for you, I share all my secrets on, “Episode 88. How to Manage Your Boss and Team as a WOC Leader.”Regardless if you are a Middle-Manager, Director, VP, C-Suite, Fortune 500 C-Suite Leader or Small Business Owner (I’ve worked with all levels), it is important to learn how to deal with different stakeholders -- whether it’s with your team, clients, or board.I often hear from gurus that “leaders are born.”I disagree -- I think leadership can be taught.I remember when I was young people called me a pushover. Thankfully, I hired my own therapist, coach and even learned Muay Thai (Thai Kickboxing) to gain my confidence and voice  ;)If you listen till the end of the podcast —I'll be sharing more word-to-word scripts you can download straight from your inbox to help you handle challenging conversations with your boss and team.What We Cover in This Episode:The script to encourage your team to problem solveHow to work through different departmentsHow breathing can actually help with conflictsIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinEpisode 43. Leading change + managing overwhelm for you and your team with Juliana WiseEpisode 47. Scripts and strategies for boundaries and negotiations for WOC leaders5 Easy Scripts to Have Challenging Conversations with Your BossWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou Cartas

In 2017, I “failed.”I got let go from my dream job working as a Fundraiser at Pasadena City College where I raised $1.1 million in student scholarships.I was lying on my bedroom floor crying like a starfish.Unfortunately, I didn’t look as cute like Patrick from Spongebob…Despite getting let go from my dream job, it motivated me to take my part-time coaching business to full-time.To date, I’ve now worked with 2,000+ clients in 58 different countries :)I’m sure you can think of all your past failures and how it’s worked towards your favor when looking at it 20/20.My other “career failures” include:Getting FiredQuitting a JobAnd Changing CareersDespite these failures, it’s helped me coach my clients when they go through a tough time.In my 87th WOC & Allies: Business & Career Realtalk Podcast Episode I’m in the hot seat this time reflecting on all my failures, and interviewed by Lisa Gillette.What We Cover in This Episode:My failuresHow difficult conversations create beautiful transformationsHow I needed a village of help - a therapist and coachIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinGrace, Grit and Getting It Done PodcastLisa Gillette’s LinkedInWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

So get this, I am watching The View on ABC, and I see my ex-boss, Mark Daley, talking about his book, Safe, a book about his experience becoming a foster care parent.Mark was my first boss right after college. He was a Campaign Manager for a candidate in Iowa. And I got a fellowship from Yale to work on the campaign he was managing as a Field Organizer. Mark was the former Communications Director for Hillary Clinton in her 2008 elections, has worked with 30 members of Congress, owned and sold a digital agency here in LA, and worked with various celebrities like Bradley Cooper and John Legend. I’ve always known him as always focused on his career.And when Mark turned 40, Mark and his husband knew they wanted to be parents. I loved seeing this side of him come out. They considered IVF, private adoption and ultimately decided to become a Foster Care parent. In my most recent podcast episode, Mark shares his journey.In today's episode we will be talking about his new book; "Safe" where he shares his journey about foster care and how regardless if you want to be a foster care parent or not, the foster care system does impact us.Mark has shared with me that everyday, 700 children enter the foster care system. That’s 1 child every 2 minutes. And most children are from Indigenous, and Black families.What We Cover in This Episode:Understanding the Foster Care System to see if it’s the right fit for youThe Impact of Foster Care on SocietyMark’s personal story of having 2 boys come into their lives, and their challenges with foster parenting including reunification and making sure they do what’s best for the kids’ safetyResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinMark Daley’s Book, SafeMark’s Instagram: @markdaley00Mark Daley WebsiteWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

I remember I used to have such a huge problem honoring what I needed, but as we get older we relearn to trust ourselves and our voice.In my latest podcast episode, I talk with Lidia Galvez, about Reiki, Somatic healing and theta healing. Lidia is a former client and friend, and she does reiki and sound bowl sessions at my retreats.What We Cover in This Episode: A somatic healing exercise you can do on yourselfUnderstanding Different Coping MechanismsExploring Personal and Professional GrowthIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callRelated Podcast EpisodesEpisode 47. Scripts and Strategies for Boundaries and Negotiation for WOC Leaders with Accion Opportunity FundEpisode 37. Dealing with Stress and Burnout as a BIPOC Leader with Nicole CaruthResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinThe Pink Crow ShopFollow Lidia @thepinkcrowshopWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Some anxiety is survival, but most of my anxiety isn’t that. I have the most anxiety when I’m living a life that doesn’t align with my goals, hopes, and energy. It isn’t about what I’m doing. It’s about what I’m NOT doing.“Do you like anxiety? Cause I don’t…”I shared this with Matt Story, Visa VP when he interviewed me about how I’m always brave enough to ask for help and make tough decisions.I feel like once a decade, I go through an “identity crisis” of wanting to change my definition of success and saying…BYE BYE BYE to others expectations.You too?After graduating college during the recession, I became the youngest director for an organization at the age of 22.Not only was I the youngest, but I was also the ONLY person of color at the decision-making table.Eventually, I transitioned from working in politics to the nonprofit sector, with the goal of leading a nonprofit organization. That's why I pursued my Master’s in Leadership and Management. However, on the day I graduated, I realized that I actually wanted to start my own coaching business to support women of color and allies.Even in the past few years, my definition of success and happiness has continued to evolve. I've come to understand that my current definition of “success” is more than just work.Even on Monday, I went over my numbers (which I do weekly), and I got more clarity on how I just want to bring in 2-4 new clients per month.This episode is slightly different because I'm being interviewed for my friend's podcast, Matt Story. Matt is the VP of Visa, and his podcast is called "What's Your Story?" It would be a great opportunity to showcase myself and share my story in this interview.What We Cover in This Episode:The Impact of Representation in LeadershipAdapting Business Strategies in Changing TimesThe Importance of Storytelling in Legacy BuildingIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

I had my first business from 2012 to 2016 as a Fundraising Consultant. I ended it after 4 years because I was done with the ups and downs of owning a business.Sure, there was shame, BUT my nervous system was so calm that I manifested my dream job and dream boss, with whom I am still good friends to this day.Maybe YOU are also thinking of ending your business or doing it on the side, and as someone who ended their first business, there’s NO shame in it. It’s about honoring where you’re at.I’ve been talking to more people who are getting frustrated with their business right now. And there can be different reasons:The economyElection yearBeing overwhelmed Things that were once working are no longer workingLower cash flow this year than normalHere’s the reality no one is talking about: 2020 and 2021 were an anomaly. Many businesses grew, but it was because we were stuck at home from the pandemic, including mine, that doubled.But many of us are reevaluating. I want to emphasize that if you feel like it’s only you feeling this way, it’s not. It's rough out here now, and shifting feels like a must.Even for me, here are some shifts I’m doing:I’m simplifying my business by only working with 24 clients at one timeLooking for more corporate contracts with companies like LinkedIn with my courses.Recently, I’ve also been approached by a couple of Fortune 500 companies to do executive coaching with their leaders.Whether you're thinking of closing your business, simplifying it, pivoting, or having it on the side, remember, we're all evolving. Life is more than work; it's about experiences and making memories.This is why my friend and Marketing Strategist Monica Schrock and I had a vulnerable talk about why there were times when we went back to the workforce.We discuss the impacts of the economy, personal well-being, shifting personal priorities, and honoring each stage of life.What We Cover in This Episode:Navigating Business and Personal ChallengesThe Business of Balancing: From Full-Time Jobs to FreelancingBoosting Credibility and Skills in BusinessIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

What do people say about you when you leave a Zoom call or physical room?Why should you even care?First, you shouldn’t care what other people think.I’m not talking about being liked. I’m talking about your personal brand. And you might be thinking… Elaine, I have (or want) a full-time job. Why do I need a personal brand?Personal brands aren’t necessarily social media lifestyle shots and brand partnerships. Although, you know I would take a Target partnership in a heartbeat ;)A personal brand is the intersection of your skills, your values, and the impression you leave on people everywhere you go. When you have a strong personal brand, your name comes up when you aren’t in the room, and the opportunities start stacking up.When it comes to your career, a personal brand makes an impact when you’re:Looking to get a raise/promotionFinding a new job/industryOr getting a new clientFor example, personal branding has led to:My client getting a $25k raise because she put together a memo of all the things she’s done and exceeded within a year and had colleagues who raved about herWhen another client changed industries, he got a job cause of a referralAnd for my own business, the majority of my clients are referrals AND renewalsI recently interviewed my friend, #GIRLDAD, and Visa's Vice President of Global Brand Partnerships and Advocacy, Matt Story.Matt is a dedicated husband to an entrepreneur, father, podcast host, investor, and marketer. He is a sneakerhead and loves Peloton and basketball.In this podcast, Matt shares how:He used his personal brand to transition from working at P&G (a consumer company whose brands include the deodorant Secret and soaps like Dawn) to working in the financial industry with Visa.He was intentionally finding companies with the right mentors, sponsors, advocates, and peers to help him where he is now, especially as a person of colorHe uses his personal brand to connect with his colleagues and clientsWhat We Cover in This Episode:Understanding Personal BrandingThe Power of Personal Branding in Building RelationshipsHow the Role of Mentorship and Sponsorship Can Help Build Career ProgressionIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_

I had just got a Director position at 24. I was doing 2 jobs and increased fundraising numbers by 500%... I knew I deserved a raise.I asked my immigrant parents, “How do you ask for a raise?”They responded, “Just work hard. You’ll get a raise.”I knew that was not how it worked, so I learned to ask for a raise using these 7 steps.And guess what!? I got my $12k raise!Even better, these steps have helped clients land anywhere from $25k salaries to a $300k job!Asking for a raise is like the DTR talk (Define the Relationship) talk with your employer.Do they see your worth and value?And if you don't receive the raise, it will empower you to realize it’s time to leave.What We Cover in This Episode:The 7-Step Guide to Asking for a RaiseWhat to Do If You Don't Get a RaiseThe Importance of Advocating for YourselfIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

“Elaine, back in the Philippines, as a family of 6, we had to share 1 fish.”As a first-gen immigrant, my parents always reminded me of the privilege I have to be born and raised in this country.And I agree, what a privilege it is to type on my laptop right now and email you!This privilege almost feels like a buffet - OVERWHELMING!In the past, I’ve ended up doing the most and feeling like asking for help would equal “failure.”I used to find it hard to ask for help, but when I did, great things happened. Like when I got support on…How to apply for college → I worked with my high school counselor.How to ask for a raise → After being frustrated for doing more than my job description, I asked my parents how to ask for one, they said to work hard and I would get it. I knew it was different in this country, so I hired my first coach at 26 and got a raise!How to deal with difficult family members → I was over my anxiety and boundaries that were being crossed, so I read books and got great therapists.In my most recent podcast episode, my client, Dominick Morales, and I discuss how to build up the courage to ask for help, like how the Power Rangers had each other, lol.Dominick owns Pamana Plantas, a plant shop in Berkeley, California, that honors her Uncle who passed away.Dominick shares her personal growth story of asking for help, particularly as a person of color, due to societal and cultural pressures, and the benefits when help is sought - such as:Improved decision makingIncreased support from communityAnd breaking societal norms about entrepreneurship.What We Cover in This Episode:The Legacy Behind Pamana PlantasDom’s Journey of Unlearning and Seeking HelpLessons from Plants and Applying Them in BusinessIf you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/callResources Mentioned:Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/joinWhere We Can Connect:Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermindSchedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callFollow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career RealtalkFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color