Elevate Your Career

Hosted by Nicole McMackin

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Aug 2026

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Welcome to "Elevate Your Career," the podcast dedicated to empowering individuals from all walks of life as they navigate the ever-changing landscape of their chosen fields. In this show, we'll be bringing on a diverse range of professionals from various career stages to uncover the secrets behind achieving success in any industry. We'll explore how they achieved their career goals and the paths they took to get there. You can benefit from the experiences of our guests by learning from their greatest mistakes, shortcomings, as well as success stories. Your host is none other than Nicole McMackin, CEO and founder of the Irvine Technology Corporation (ITC), an award-winning Information Technology Solutions and Staffing provider. Learn more: https://www.irvinetechcorp.com/

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August 11, 202659 min

77 | Lisa Merage and Matt Stewart | The Rise of the Female CEO

What if you really can have it all, just not all at once, and waiting to feel ready is the only thing stopping you? Nicole steps into the guest seat for this crossover. It originally aired as the 200th episode of The Edge of Excellence, where host Matt Stewart sat down with Nicole and Lisa Bhathal Merage. Nicole took over her technology staffing company at 29. Lisa built a global swimwear brand, sold it to private equity, and now co-owns professional sports teams. They get into fear versus positive thinking, the myth of being ready, why neither ever saw a glass ceiling, and how to prioritize when everything feels urgent. If you are waiting to feel qualified before you make your move, this will change how you think about that. Listen now. Timestamped Highlights [00:09:02] - The one habit behind Lisa's success, and it traces straight back to her parents [00:14:13] - Nicole's success habit, plus the one word she now says to almost everything [00:17:44] - The yes at 29 that rewrote Nicole's entire career, and what it cost her to say it [00:19:19] - Nobody is ever ready. Here is why waiting for that feeling keeps you stuck [00:23:09] - The night 26,000 fans in the stands convinced Lisa to bet on women's sports [00:25:16] - "I didn't know there was a glass ceiling" and what that belief quietly unlocked [00:34:23] - The prioritization move behind having it all without trying to do it all at once [00:45:24] - The barrier question flipped: why the real opportunity now belongs to women [00:52:43] - What most organizations get wrong when they try to show people a path up [00:55:00] - The two books these CEOs credit for how they lead today About The Guest Lisa Bhathal Merage is Managing Partner and Chief Impact Officer of Revitate, a Newport Beach investment platform focused on real estate, sports, and consumer brands. She and her brother worked their way up in the family business to become co-CEOs of women's swimwear company RAJ Swim, took it global, and sold it to private equity in what is regarded as the largest buyout in the swimwear industry. Today she serves as Governor of the Portland Thorns (NWSL) and the Portland Fire (WNBA), helping shape the future of women's professional sports. A USC Marshall graduate with a Certificate in Social Impact Strategy from the University of Pennsylvania, Lisa leads with fearless positivity and a deep belief in creating lasting community impact. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website About The Host of the Original Episode Matt Stewart is the host of The Edge of Excellence , an original podcast brought to you by College Works, where he interviews leaders, founders, and operators about the habits and decisions behind sustained high performance. 🔗 LinkedIn | YouTube Mentioned Resources The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger Revitate (real estate and sports investment platform) Portland Thorns FC (NWSL) Portland Fire (WNBA) University of Pennsylvania (Social Impact Strategy certificate) YPO (Young Presidents' Organization) Karina LeBlanc Megan Rapinoe Important Links 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 . This episode originally aired as the 200th episode of The Edge of Excellence , hosted by Matthew Stewart and brought to you by College Works. Shared with permission.

January 13, 202651 min

76 | Liz Zaborowska | Break the Mold: Entrepreneur Secrets to a Life You Really Want

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. Timestamped Highlights [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) About The Guest 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 Mentioned Resources Spring Catalyst Blue Ocean Strategy (book) Impact Players (book) Soren Kierkegaard’s Purity of Heart Is to Will One Thing Sandler Sales Training AngelGen Outward Bound Important Links 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 .

December 30, 202553 min

75 | Dan Van Tran | Breakthrough Mindsets: Unlocking Opportunity When the World Says “No”

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. Timestamped Highlights [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 About The Guest 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 Mentioned Resources “ Sriracha ” (Huy Fong Foods founder) Golden Books series RPI (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute) Five Elements of Effective Thinking (book) Women in Leadership program Sallie Mae MIT Binghamton University University at Albany AP Comp Sci ChatGPT Important Links 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 .

December 23, 20251 hr 0 min

74 | Sheryl Anjanette | Designing AI for Confidence, Trust, and Human Connection

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! Timestamped Highlights [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 About The Guest 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 Mentioned Resources Parsley 360 The Imposter Lies Within (book by Sheryl Anjanette) Gender Intelligence Group John Warden , Air Force strategist TEDx Talk (Sheryl Anjanette) Brené Brown on empathy vs. sympathy ChatGPT Grok Gemini Renoir Picasso Important Links 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 .

December 16, 202552 min

73 | Dr. Lovelie Moore | Secrets to Resilient Leadership: Cybersecurity’s Against-All-Odds Victory

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. Timestamped Highlights [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 About The Guest 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 Mentioned Resources My Vulnerabilities are Patched (Book, launching February 2026) Whitney Houston Glass Ceiling or Sticky Floor (Book) Barnes & Noble Important Links 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 .

December 11, 202558 min

72 | Carmella Cassetta | Elevate Against the Odds: Unconventional Paths to Powerful Careers

Ever wonder what it takes to excel as a leader when your path is unconventional? In this episode, Nicole McMackin interviews Carmella Cassetta, an accomplished healthcare CIO, to explore the realities behind career advancement, overcoming internal challenges, and the true meaning of giving back. Carmella’s journey from humble beginnings challenges the idea that success requires a traditional background, a linear trajectory, or permission from gatekeepers. If you are seeking inspiration to move beyond self-doubt and embrace new perspectives on leadership in technology, healthcare, and beyond, this conversation offers valuable insights. Discover the mindset shifts that drive impactful leadership because the most important lessons are not taught, but revealed. Listen now to join the discussion. Timestamped Highlights [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 About The Guest 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 Mentioned Resources 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 (documentary) Margaret Thatcher Kate Middleton (Princess of Wales) Important Links 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 .

August 26, 202552 min

71 | George Bock - How to Cultivate Forward-Thinking Leadership Skills

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 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.

August 19, 20251 hr 3 min

70 | Kenny Hall and Nikki Myers - Ripples of Kindness in a Broken World

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.

August 12, 202556 min

69 | Alison Fragale - How One Setback Turned Into a Life-Changing Breakthrough

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 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.

August 5, 20251 hr 0 min

68 | Recast: The Edge of Excellence Podcast - The Surprising Truth About Redefining Excellence With Genuine Connections

Today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast is a recast of an episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, in which Nicole joined entrepreneurs Shawn Baldwin, Michael Caito and host Matt Stewart as they explore the lessons learned from their personal and professional journeys. Nicole, Micahel and Shawn reflect on the importance of finding your voice, embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth, and the often surprising compounding effects of daily decisions. Through humor and heartfelt stories, the group shares insights about leadership, self-awareness, and the value of authenticity. The conversation also explores the nuances of mentorship and preparation—whether it’s approaching a mentor, landing a job, or making a first impression. They emphasize the significance of being open to learning, showing gratitude, and doing the necessary homework to truly connect with others. Along the way, they reveal amusing anecdotes that bring warmth and humanity to the challenges faced by anyone trying to carve their path in a rapidly changing world. Through shared experiences and practical wisdom, this episode invites you to reflect on your own journey and how you might embrace both the chaos and the beauty of building a life and career worth living. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy! Key takeaways: The importance of storytelling in learning and the unique stories provided by Micheal and Shawn. Michael's involvement with the EO (Entrepreneurs' Organization) accelerator program and his passion for entrepreneurship and influencing young people. Shawn's experience with imposter syndrome and how being in YPO (Young Presidents' Organization) helped him gain confidence. The value of knowing your audience and doing research before meeting with mentors. The opportunities in trade industries and the need for young people to develop technical and people skills. And much more... Guest Bios: Michael Caito is the owner and CEO of Management Action Programs, Inc. (MAP), bringing decades of entrepreneurial experience and strategic leadership to the role. Beginning his journey in the early 1990s, Michael co-founded Restaurants on the Run with just $6,000 and grew it over 20 years to a $40 million business across 10 markets before its sale in 2015. A self-taught business strategist known as a “metrics guy,” he leverages data-driven management to drive results and continuous improvement. Active in the Entrepreneurs’ Organization for over 20 years and the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), Michael has traveled extensively to engage with business leaders worldwide. Since acquiring MAP in 2017, he has focused on developing talent and expanding the company’s global reach. Shawn Baldwin is the President of Baldwin & Sons, bringing extensive expertise in residential real estate development and progressively responsible leadership roles within the Baldwin Companies. He specializes in single-family and master-planned communities, expertly managing the planning, design, construction, and marketing of a wide range of housing products—from entry-level to luxury segments. Shawn’s long-term vision includes expanding the Baldwin brand into complementary development sectors such as retail, office, and high-density apartments. He is an active member of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) and the Young Presidents Organization (YPO), reflecting his commitment to professional growth and industry leadership. Shawn holds a degree from the University of Southern California, underscoring his strong educational foundation in real estate and business. Resources: Michael's LinkedIn MAP Consulting Shawn's LinkedIn Baldwin & Sons 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.