I'd Tell Myself

Hosted by Danielle Frankel

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Dec 2024

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Have you ever wondered how the choices we make as young adults truly shape the path one takes in life? There's so much messaging about "making the right choices" or "setting yourself up for success", but what if you feel pulled in an unconventional direction? What if life takes you down an unexpected path? What if the opportunities available for you to pursue are limited by circumstance or responsibility? We often take for granted the perception that people in positions of influence or power got there through a clear-cut path. However, if you take the time to get to know them and hear their stories, you’ll find most people traveled a unique and interesting road that only makes sense in hindsight. The specific set of experiences, mistakes, lessons and support that made them qualified to do the work they are doing today could not have been planned. I’m conducting a series of interviews to bridge the difference between what we assume and what people’s experiences are really like. One of the goals is to normalize this reality, the other is to learn from the shared experiences of those who have already made it to a place on their journey that looks like success. What challenges and unusual experiences did people find along the way? How can their lessons be useful to others?

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18 recent

December 12, 20241 hr 8 min

17. Building The Mountain Higher with Jackie Summers

Today’s guest is Jackie Summers, founder of Jack from Brooklyn and creator of the highly awarded Sorel Liqueur. He’s not only a James Beard finalist and an extraordinary writer, but also the first licensed Black distiller in the U.S. Jackie shares his inspiring journey—from pursuing what you love to fostering community through shared values. His insights are a masterclass in turning passion into purpose.We dive into what it means to be a trailblazer. Jackie reflects on the responsibility of being “first,” not for self-glory but to pave the way for others. His story underscores the power of standing on the sacrifices of those before you and lifting others who follow.Jackie’s approach centers on community. He believes the key to success, especially for marginalized entrepreneurs, lies in collective strength. From childhood curiosity to overcoming a life-threatening illness, Jackie has consistently followed his passions. His journey from Wall Street to distilling exemplifies how life’s twists can unexpectedly align with your deeper purpose.In this episode, Jackie also highlights the importance of storytelling. For him, Sorel is more than a product—it’s a medium to share cultural narratives and amplify underrepresented voices. Jackie’s relentless pursuit of connection and impact deeply honors those who built the mountain higher for him, while he builds for those who will climb after. If you're looking to connect with Jackie, or for some amazing Sorel highlights, you can find them here: FB: https://www.facebook.com/JackFromBkln?mibextid=ZbWKwLInsta: https://www.instagram.com/theliquortarian?igsh=dXB5aTV5cGF3ZXgxor https://www.instagram.com/sorelofficial?igsh=MTZrbHFlcHVjZ2o5eA==Sorel: https://sorelofficial.com/Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeanettehurt/2024/01/29/sorel-continues-its-impressive-expansion-and-growth-after-its-relaunch/?sh=572f8c5d25e0Let's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make every effort to ensure I'm well informed beyond my bubble - I will make mistakes. It is never my intention to harm, and always my intention to repair and learn from mistakes I've made. While sometimes our mistakes are obvious, others need to be pointed out so that we can see and learn from them. I welcome your feedback on these issues and promise to do my best to be respectful, receptive and to continue learning from you. The best way to share direct feedback is via email: Hello@DanielleFrankel.com A Podcast Launch Bestie production. Please note, opinions and endorsements shared by guests are theirs alone and do not represent the opinions or endorsements of the host or show.

June 21, 20241 hr 9 min

16. Staying The Course And Building Your Empire With -LAZAR Favors

In this episode, we sit down with -LAZAR Favors, the innovative mind behind Everyday I'm Okay Apparel, Detroit's Motown Legacy Lounge, the Detroit Black Film Festival, and Black Spirits Legacy Liquor Festival. -LAZAR shares his multifaceted journey spanning over 30 years across various industries including apparel, spirits, and film. We dive into the founding principles of his ventures, the importance of mental health and positivity in his apparel line, the intricacies of managing film festivals, and navigating the spirit industry. With anecdotes about his daughter's influence on his brand and the strategies employed in cultivating a supportive team, Lazar provides valuable insights into entrepreneurship. You will also hear about his approach to leadership, overcoming mistakes, and the significant role of unexpected kindness in shaping his path.If you'd like to connect with -LAZAR, or learn more about one of the ventures mentioned here, you can find him in the following places. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lazar-favors-68626713bClothing : everydayimok.comFilm festival: @detroitblackfilmfesthttps://filmfreeway.com/DETROITBLACKFILMFESTIVALhttps://linktr.ee/TFEG21?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e2c34fb1-634f-439e-90d6-c6bf240d35b8Liquor festival: https://linktr.ee/blackspiritslegacyDocumentary synopsis: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1J2Vh3vW6ceqjKXyXtz9jx-dOqUxIhJL6/view?usp=drivesdkProngHorn: pronghorn.co@pronghorn Invest Tank: http://www.investtank.net/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZWpcgTBTl6jIjjdn1_FdFMGDRLeb3j3iiVZKwUbPKpy4DvYCCyxLac5tY_aem_AYQrnfthSN5LoLLoXtoxnxv2ch-LhkRxIG_jKPMiyoiy7xYqhJCVy0ET6PGckESwlQSvMAOAywEYqP5YD2VS551bLet's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make every effort to ensure I'm well informed beyond my bubble - I will make mistakes. It is never my intention to harm, and always my intention to repair and learn from mistakes I've made. While sometimes our mistakes are obvious, others need to be pointed out so that we can see and learn from them. I welcome your feedback on these...

May 10, 202451 min

15. The Value Of Trusting Yourself With Christopher Rico

In today's episode we're talking with Christopher Rico, who's in the unique position of having two successful careers at the same time. Christopher is a talented abstract artist with shows throughout the U S and upcoming international artist in residence positions. He has also developed a successful career in higher education and learning management.He had a lot to share with us about his journey from the importance of learning from being uncomfortable to the value of trusting yourself in the long run. I hope you find something here to support you on your journey as Christopher tells us what he would tell himself from where he is todaywebsite: https://www.christopherrico.com/galleriesPhoto credit: Will Crooks (@willcrooksphoto, www.willcrooksphoto.com) Website:  www.christopherrico.comInsta:  @christopherricoartistLinkedIn: @christopherricoartistSubstack: The Rico ActArtsy.net: Christopher RicoLet's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make every effort to ensure I'm well informed beyond my bubble - I will make mistakes. It is never my intention to harm, and always my intention to repair and learn from mistakes I've made. While sometimes our mistakes are obvious, others need to be pointed out so that we can see and learn from them. I welcome your feedback on these issues and promise to do my best to be respectful, receptive and to continue learning from you. The best way to share direct feedback is via email: Hello@DanielleFrankel.com A Podcast Launch Bestie production. Please note, opinions and endorsements shared by guests are theirs alone and do not represent the opinions or endorsements of the host or show.

May 2, 20241 hr 0 min

14. Following Your Curiosity with Brian Gaffney

Today, we’re talking with Brian Gaffney. The Chief Experience Officer at Caravela Coffee. He had a lot to share with us about his journey. From following his curiosity and passion, to leaving space for the possibilities that might open new doors - I hope you’ll find something here to support you on your journey as Brian shares what he’d tell himself from where he is today. Caravela's website: https://caravela.coffeeBrian's Social Media SitesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianagaffneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/coffee_alignedTwitter: https://twitter.com/coffee_alignedLet's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make every effort to ensure I'm well informed beyond my bubble - I will make mistakes. It is never my intention to harm, and always my intention to repair and learn from mistakes I've made. While sometimes our mistakes are obvious, others need to be pointed out so that we can see and learn from them. I welcome your feedback on these issues and promise to do my best to be respectful, receptive and to continue learning from you. The best way to share direct feedback is via email: Hello@DanielleFrankel.com A Podcast Launch Bestie production. Please note, opinions and endorsements shared by guests are theirs alone and do not represent the opinions or endorsements of the host or show.

April 25, 202440 min

13. Building on Values & Heart with Kim Roxie

Join us for a conversation with Kim Roxie, founder of LAMIK Beauty, as she shares a bit about love, kindness and how she's truly built a company with those values at the core. Kim often says that make-up is meant to help reveal your beauty, and the story of how and why she's built this brand reveals the beauty that's driving Kim. IG: @kimroxieLinkedIn: Kim RoxieFri FB link - https://talkshop.live/watch/9Gvf_vAouO1sWebsite: www.lamikbeauty.comYou can also find Lamik products at Ulta:  https://www.ulta.com/brand/lamik-beautyOther links you may be interested in: The W.E. Build Accelerator by Build in Tulsa and sponsored by Goldman Sachs empowered innovative and diverse early-stage startups led by women who have been historically denied access to resources and funding. The next program will run in 2024. As a result of being in Tulsa, Kim Roxie was able to open a pop-up store for the holidays with the help of the Downtown Tulsa Partnership. W.E. Build Niki Porshay's "Buy From A Black Woman" https://www.buyfromablackwomandirectory.org/discover/lamik-beautyAJAdd a commentLet's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make every effort to ensure I'm well informed beyond my bubble - I will make mistakes. It is never my intention to harm, and always my intention to repair and learn from mistakes I've made. While sometimes our mistakes are obvious, others need to be pointed out so that we can see and learn from them. I welcome your feedback on these issues and promise to do my best to be respectful, receptive and to continue learning from you. The best way to share direct feedback is via email: Hello@DanielleFrankel.com A Podcast Launch Bestie production. Please note, opinions and endorsements shared by guests are theirs alone and do not represent the opinions or endorsements of the host or show.

April 19, 202447 min

12. The Power Of Relationships With Prudence Pitter

In today's episode we are talking with Prudence Pitter. She's the Global Head of HR, Auto & Mfgr, at AWS . Prudence had a lot to share with us about her journey, from the importance of building relationships that support you, to the value of using transparency to build trust with your team. We dive into how Prudence got into HR, the various roles she has held, and how each of those roles have help shape her and her career. Prudence shares what she has learned from herself, her roles, and the people around her along the way. I hope you'll find something here to support you on your journey, as Prudence shares what she'd tell herself from where she is todayMore about our guest: Prudence Pitter, MBA, SPHR, GPHRPrudence Pitter is an experienced business executive with more than twenty years of broad Human Resource management expertise. Her expertise spans the hospitality, non-profit, retail, financial services, technology, health care and higher-education industries. She has worked extensively with Boards of Directors, executives, senior managers and various business leaders in optimizing the productivity, morale and culture of their workforces. In addition, she has successfully led globalization efforts, mergers and acquisitions, openings and closings, workplace crisis and disasters, union negotiations, building and relocating corporate headquarters operations, public and community relations as well as building HR departments. In addition to a progressive HR career Prudence taught Human Resource management for more than nine years and operated her own consulting practice where she assisted organizations in need of creating or enhancing their people practices. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Human Resources Management, a Master’s in Business Administration and the highest distinctions in the Human Resources profession; the Global Professional in Human Resources and the Senior Professional in Human Resources certifications. Prudence enjoys traveling, reading and spending quality time with her family.Connect with Prudence here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ppitterYouTube - https://youtu.be/UmHLuXWoLZ4?si=laLqYCVaRsVla34GPodcast - https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pearrm-services/episodes/Ethical-Leadership-e2625uiArticle -  https://pearrm.com/podcast-%26-articles-1/f/why-leaders-should-prioritize-employee-well-beingLet's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make every effort to ensure I'm well informed beyond my bubble - I will make mistakes. It is never my intention to harm, and always my intention to repair and learn from mistakes I've made. While sometimes our mistakes are obvious, others need to be pointed out so that we can see...

February 22, 20241 hr 0 min

11. Know Yourself & Take a Leap of Faith: Creating Your Own Path With Adam Drawas

In this episode of "I'd Tell Myself," we had the pleasure of speaking with Adam Drawas, the dynamic owner of the brand marketing agency Walker Drawas. Adam shared his journey from an artistic teenager with dreams of becoming a fashion designer to becoming a leading figure in the intersection of celebrity, influencer, and brand marketing.Adam's story is one of passion, perseverance, and the power of pivoting. He recounted his early days of hustling in London's fashion scene, where he worked for free to gain experience and build connections. His relentless drive and willingness to take risks led him to significant opportunities, such as working on Madonna's tour and with celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe.Adam's move to Los Angeles marked a turning point in his career, where he embraced the rise of celebrity culture in marketing. He discussed the challenges and triumphs of starting his agency, highlighting the importance of adapting to industry shifts and the value of collaboration.One of the most compelling aspects of our conversation was Adam's approach to leadership and team building. He emphasized the importance of nurturing talent, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering a collaborative environment. Adam's commitment to his team's growth and well-being is a testament to his belief in the "whole self" approach to business success.Throughout the episode, Adam's story served as a powerful reminder that success is not a linear path. It's about seizing opportunities, learning from every experience, and never being afraid to trust yourself. His journey is a lesson in entrepreneurship, leadership, and the art of the hustle.When asked what he’d tell his younger self Adam said, “Pace yourself.  It's not a sprint, it's a marathon. Be wise with your money,  and continue to make sure you're having fun.  You have to be in love with this life. You have to be in love with this career. So just always  have that gut check. Are you having fun?”I hope you'll find something here to support you on your journey as Adam shares what he would tell himself from where he is today.You can find Adam and the Walker Drawas team in the following places: Website: www.walkerdrawas.comInsta: @walkerdrawasForbes: https://www-forbes-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.forbes.com/sites/oliviaperez/2018/07/23/meet-walker-drawas-the-marketing-agency-behind-fashions-most-coveted-brands/amp/?amp_js_v=0.1&usqp=mq331AQGCAEoATgA#origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&exp=dLA Times: https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2020-12-11/commentary-black-lives-matter-messages-and-fashion-brands-what-nowLet's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make...

February 15, 202442 min

10. Turning Struggles Into Strengths to Build a Life You Love with Nicole Barham

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nicole Barham, the founder of Design Your Wealth and the creator of the 5-Minute Bookkeeper. Nicole shared her incredible journey with us, starting from her early days in rural Jamaica to becoming a successful entrepreneur.Nicole's story is one of resilience and determination. She spoke about her initial dreams of becoming a lawyer and how her grandmother's suggestion to pursue accounting instead planted a seed that would later flourish into her career. Despite her grandmother's humorous distrust of lawyers, Nicole found her passion in numbers and finance.She detailed her path through education in Jamaica, where she chose the business track in high school and later worked with the Jamaican government in their accounting department. After moving to the United States, Nicole's career took a slight detour, but she eventually found her way back to finance and entrepreneurship.Nicole candidly shared the challenges she faced, including a period of financial distress that led to bankruptcy. This experience, while difficult, became a turning point in her life. It inspired her to take control of her finances and eventually led to the creation of the 5-Minute Bookkeeper, a tool designed to help entrepreneurs manage their finances with ease.Her journey wasn't just about financial success; it was also deeply personal. Nicole opened up about how building a successful business has allowed her to provide for her family in new ways that better meet their needs, while getting to spend more time with them instead of sitting in traffic. Nicole's story is a testament to the power of turning one's struggles into strengths. Her ability to bounce back from bankruptcy and build a successful business that has helped countless entrepreneurs is truly inspiring. She reminds us that with the right mindset and support, it's possible to design a life you love. When asked what she’d tell her younger self Nicole said “It’s better than you imagined”.I hope you’ll find something here to support you on your journey as Nicole shares what she would tell herself from where she is today If you'd like more info about Nicole, or her services, you can find her here: FB: https://www.facebook.com/nabarhamInsta: https://www.instagram.com/5minutebookkeeper?fbclid=IwAR0BZpx-KPSPj13AknUcmjAFVTJyMvMmZtilBJRcqk4jBFHEQ1nD7JlCb_UWebsite: https://designyourwealth.netLet's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make every effort to ensure I'm well informed beyond my bubble - I will make mistakes. It is never my intention to harm, and always my intention to repair and learn from mistakes I've made. While sometimes our mistakes are obvious, others need to be pointed out so that we can see and learn from them. I welcome your feedback on these issues and promise to do my best to be respectful, receptive and to continue learning from you. The best way to share direct feedback is via email: Hello@DanielleFrankel.com A Podcast Launch Bestie production. Please note, opinions

February 8, 20241 hr 5 min

9. The Courage to Pivot: Taking Risks as You Make Your Own Path with Angie Jordan

In this episode of "I'd Tell Myself," we sit down with Angie Jordan, a multifaceted entrepreneur who shares her dynamic journey through various industries, including retail, HR, and ultimately, podcast production and coaching. Angie's story is one of courage, adaptability, and the power of listening to life's nudges.Angie candidly discusses her early career struggles, including her time in apparel design and her leap into retail management. She reflects on the valuable lessons learned from a mentor who taught her the importance of caring for people while maintaining structure and vision in leadership.We delve into Angie's bold decision to quit her retail job on a subway platform, a moment that propelled her into the world of entrepreneurship. Despite the challenges and perceived mistakes, such as an unsuccessful online clothing store funded by her grandmother, Angie views these experiences as crucial steps in her growth.Angie's venture into life coaching and podcasting began with a poolside epiphany, leading her to launch a successful podcast and coaching business simultaneously. She emphasizes the impact of her podcast, "Get Happy AF with Angie Jordan," which not only garnered a significant audience but also became a source of client acquisition for her coaching services.Throughout the episode, Angie highlights the importance of understanding individual work styles and the need for personalization when helping clients launch their podcasts. Her approach to podcast production is informed by her life coaching skills, as she assists clients in overcoming the vulnerability and fear associated with sharing their stories.Angie's entrepreneurial spirit is evident as she shares her philosophy on taking risks, embracing adventure, and the significance of community. Her journey is a testament to the idea that what may seem like mistakes are often valuable learning opportunities that shape our paths.When asked what she’d tell her younger self Angie said "It's working. You're doing it. Keep being courageous. Keep taking risks. Keep following those nudges like we talked about. Keep putting yourself out there. Keep wanting more. Keep being open. Keep exploring. Keep learning”. I hope you'll find something here to support you on your journey as Angie shares what she would tell herself from where she is today.If you'd like to connect with Angie or learn more about her work, you can find her in the following places: FB: https://www.facebook.com/angiemjordanwebsite: https://www.angiemjordan.com/podcast-launch-bestieLet's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make every effort to ensure I'm well informed beyond my bubble - I will make mistakes. It is never my intention to harm, and always my intention to repair and learn from mistakes I've made. While sometimes our mistakes are obvious, others need to be pointed out so that we can see and learn from them. I welcome your feedback on these issues and promise to do my best to be respectful, receptive and to continue learning from you. The best way to share direct feedback is via email: Hello@DanielleFrankel.com A...

February 1, 202444 min

8. Working as a Team to Tackle Challenges and Make Change with Shreya Prakash

Today we're talking with Shreya Prakash, co founder and CEO of Flexibees, an organization focused on connecting businesses with underutilized talent pools by enabling flexible working arrangements that serve both parties. Shreya had a lot to share with us about her journey, from lessons in leadership learned in sales, to the importance of finding the right partners and making your own roles.Shreya shared about how she transitioned from a role that she loved into doing meaningful work in her own organization. She explained her view that entrepreneurs should try to solve problems that they really care about so when times get hard you have the motivation and purpose to keep going. We also dove into what it’s like to have partners on your journey and how that has been instrumental in being able to achieve so much and doing it without running yourself into the ground.I hope you'll find something here to support you on your journey as Shreya shares what she would tell herself from where she is today.If you'd like to connect with Shreya, you can find her here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shreya-prakash-6562b24/You can find out more about FlexiBees here: www.flexibees.comFlexiBees is a vetted talent platform for part-time, project-based and remote work, that helps businesses hire experienced professionals via affordable and on-demand models, and enables women professionals work flexibly to balance their professional and personal priorities. They have now given talent to 700+ organizations around the world, and are committed to creating a better way to live and work for businesses and people. Let's Get Connected:Instagram: https://instagram.com/idtellmyself?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellefrankelWebsite:idtellmyself.comEmail: Hello@DanielleFrankel.comI also want to acknowledge that my perspective is one of privilege as a cis, hetero, white woman. While I make every effort to ensure I'm well informed beyond my bubble - I will make mistakes. It is never my intention to harm, and always my intention to repair and learn from mistakes I've made. While sometimes our mistakes are obvious, others need to be pointed out so that we can see and learn from them. I welcome your feedback on these issues and promise to do my best to be respectful, receptive and to continue learning from you. The best way to share direct feedback is via email: Hello@DanielleFrankel.com A Podcast Launch Bestie production.