In the latest episode of our podcast, we take a deep dive into the inspiring life of Kim Roberts, an entrepreneur and author who turned personal adversity into a beacon of hope and advocacy. Her journey from inmate to advocate is a testament to the power of resilience and transformation, providing a compelling narrative of hope and triumph.
Kim's entrepreneurial journey began with a gift from her father, who handed her the keys to one of his boutiques, thereby introducing her to the business world. This was a pivotal moment that shaped her into the successful businesswoman she is today, owning multiple ventures including a salon, a kids bar, and camps for young girls. Kim believes that entrepreneurship is all about the freedom to make decisions and express creativity, which are key elements to her success. However, Kim's journey has not been without its trials. A turning point in her life was her time in incarceration for a drug offense. This period marked a moment of realization and personal transformation for Kim, as she understood the importance of owning up to her choices and actions. Her time in prison also brought to light the significant role of transparency in her life. Emerging from this dark phase, Kim channeled her experiences into advocating for inmate rights and rehabilitation. Her appointment to a parole board led her to view inmates differently, recognizing their humanity and the importance of treating them with empathy. She believes in giving inmates a chance to change and providing them with the necessary resources and support for positive transformation. Kim's transparency about her past with her family and her role as Chair of the Treatment Offenders Board has brought her closer to her family. Her story of being open and transparent with her loved ones demonstrates the power of resilience and faith in shaping one's future. It's also a testament to the healing power of unconditional love and support from family and friends. Kim's faith has been a guiding force throughout her life, helping her to navigate through her darkest moments. She finds solace in her family and aspirations, as well as in her work on the parole board and her advocacy for inmate rights. Kim Robert's story is a reminder that adversity can be transformed into a source of strength and inspiration. Her unwavering resilience and triumph are a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome challenges and cultivate hope. Kim's story inspires us to view adversity in a new light and understand the importance of personal transformation, resilience, and advocacy. To conclude, Kim's journey from adversity to advocacy is a compelling narrative of hope and triumph. It reminds us of the power of resilience and the human spirit's ability to transform personal hardships into beacons of hope. As we follow her journey, we are inspired by her unwavering resilience, her work on the parole board, and her relentless fight for inmate rights and rehabilitation.
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In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Patrina O'Connor Paynter, better known as Power Girl Trina. Known for her work in the entertainment industry and her philanthropic endeavors with Big Brothers Big Sisters Bermuda, Patrina's journey is a true testament to the power of resilience and strength.
Patrina's career spans various facets of the entertainment industry, from radio and television to her involvement in community programs. Her involvement in one-on-one matches, Boys to Men, and Girl Power shows her commitment to the community and the positive impact she has had on numerous lives. The story also uncovers her robust bond with her sister, a significant source of strength and support in her life. Patrina's journey is not without its challenges. She has faced personal battles with depression and self-esteem and even survived a traumatic dog attack. Yet, it's her ability to rise above these adversities that truly sets her apart. She candidly shares her experiences, shedding light on the importance of seeking help and prioritizing self-care and mental health. An integral part of Patrina's life is her faith, which has guided her throughout her career. She emphasizes the role her faith has played in her resilience, offering insights into how it has helped her navigate through adversity. Patrina's faith journey is an inspiration to many, showing how faith can provide strength and guidance in challenging times. Patrina's candidness about her life experiences provides profound insights into her career path, her struggles, and her triumphs. Her journey illuminates the power of resilience and strength in adversity. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of self-care and mental health awareness, a topic close to Patrina's heart. She stresses the significance of seeking help, even in cultures where there's a stigma surrounding mental health. Throughout the episode, Patrina's honesty and openness about her life experiences are a testament to her strength and resilience. Her story serves as an inspiration, offering valuable insights into overcoming adversity and the power of resilience. In conclusion, the episode featuring Power Girl Trina offers a deep dive into her world, uncovering her journey through the entertainment industry, her philanthropic endeavors, and her personal battles. It's a story of resilience, strength, and the power of faith, providing valuable lessons for everyone. This enlightening journey with Power Girl Trina serves as a testament to the power of resilience in the face of adversity, highlighting the importance of self-care and mental health awareness. Leading a diverse team spread across multiple locations is no small feat. In our latest podcast episode, we had the privilege of hosting DeVika SVP and Head of Underwriting Operations at PartnerRe, who offered a wealth of insights into her leadership journey.
DeVika's professional path is a testament to her dedication, adaptability, and perseverance. She made an unexpected transition into leadership, revealing the unpredictability of professional journeys. One of the crucial elements of DeVika's leadership style is understanding the unique personalities and cultures of her team members. This is especially relevant given the diversity of her team, which spans eight different locations worldwide. Balancing a demanding career and family life is a challenge faced by many leaders. DeVika candidly discussed how she manages this delicate balance. For her, setting boundaries and prioritizing tasks are essential strategies. While it is essential to be dedicated to your career, DeVika emphasized the importance of carving out time for loved ones and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. One of the fascinating aspects of DeVika's leadership journey is her commitment to workplace equity and fairness. She advocates for breaking barriers and making significant strides towards equality. DeVika emphasizes the need for translating conversations about equity and fairness into tangible actions. She acknowledges that the progress may be slow, but the importance of continuing the conversation and taking action cannot be overstated. Training and development are critical aspects of leadership. DeVika firmly believes in the responsibility of leaders to train their team members and equip them with the necessary resources for success. According to her, leaders must set a standard and be accountable for their actions to foster a successful team. Reflecting on her leadership journey, DeVika shared how motherhood has fueled her ambitions. She views her role as a leader not merely as a position of authority but as an opportunity to guide and inspire others. DeVika's story offers a fresh perspective on leadership and provides valuable insights for anyone on their leadership journey. In a world where leadership styles can be as diverse as the teams they guide, DeVika's approach stands out. Her story serves as a reminder that effective leadership goes beyond merely managing tasks - it involves understanding people, promoting growth, and setting a standard for success. It's about making tough decisions, standing by them, and above all, leading with empathy and integrity. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting on your leadership journey, there's something to learn from DeVika's experiences. From her initial ambitions of becoming a lawyer to leading a global team at PartnerRe, her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to growth and development. In the latest episode of our podcast, we sit down with Juanae Crockwell, the new Executive Director of the Women's Resource Center, for a candid and thought-provoking conversation. The discussion ranges from her personal experiences, life's obstacles, her inspiring journey to her role in reshaping the Women's Resource Center.
Juanae takes us on an emotional rollercoaster as she peels back the layers of her life, from fun personal favorites to intense life challenges. Among the laughter and skincare routine talk, she shares her past experiences with an older boyfriend, brushes with the law, and the struggle to rebuild her life after. This raw narrative is a testament to her strength and resilience. As the conversation deepens, we delve into the issues of incompatibility in relationships and the challenge of co-parenting after separation. Juanae candidly shares her personal experiences with these issues, underlining the importance of prioritizing the needs of children and staying true to oneself, even in less than ideal circumstances. Moving from the personal to the professional, the focus shifts to the Women's Resource Center. We explore the center's rebranding, the influence it has had on our lives, and the exciting new developments in store under Juanae's leadership. She provides insight into her vision for the center and how her personal experiences have shaped her approach. This episode is not just a casual chat, but a profound exploration of life's highs and lows, the process of healing, and the strength required to overcome adversity. It provides listeners with a raw glimpse into real lives and the challenges that come with them. Through Juanae's journey, we gain an understanding of the resilience and determination it takes to overcome life's obstacles and emerge stronger. Juanae Crockwell's journey from past scars to future triumphs is a testament to her strength and resilience. Her candor and openness in sharing her story serve as a source of inspiration and encouragement for all. This episode serves as a powerful reminder that no matter what life throws at us, we have the capacity to rise above and create a life we are proud of. As Juanae aptly puts it, life does "life", and sometimes it can take us down paths we never imagined. But it is how we navigate these paths and learn from our experiences that truly define us. We hope that this episode will inspire you, as it has us, to face life's challenges head-on, with resilience and determination. Stay tuned for more episodes featuring inspiring individuals like Juanae Crockwell, who continue to make a difference in our communities and inspire us with their stories of triumph over adversity. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the inspiring life story of Dr. Carmen Rabain, a renowned dentist and entrepreneur, who exudes an unshakeable spirit. This is a narrative of resilience, heartbreak, healing, and a quest for purpose after experiencing a profound personal loss.
A multifaceted personality, Dr. Rabain has an infectious love for food, good conversation, jazz music, and painting. She opens up about her vibrant life, her journey as a female entrepreneur, her experiences as part of a mixed couple in Bermuda, and her fierce love for her Promethean husband. This fascinating journey of her personal and professional life is a testament to her indomitable spirit. The podcast takes a courageous turn as we delve into the painful topic of loss and healing. Dr. Rabain shares the heartbreaking experience of losing her baby at 41 weeks. It is a tale of navigating through emotional turmoil and finding a path to healing. This personal tragedy brought about a profound change in her life, inspiring her to start a support group for women who have faced similar experiences. Despite the pain of her loss, Dr. Rabain found a way to celebrate life, cherish the moments she shares with her children, and honor the memory of the child she lost. She discusses the importance of speaking about such losses, and the crucial role her husband played in her healing process. This conversation underscores the importance of open dialogue about loss and the healing that comes from it. Dr. Rabain’s journey is a beacon of inspiration for anyone facing adversity. She exemplifies resilience, strength, and the determination to find joy and purpose amidst sorrow. Her story leaves us truly inspired, underscoring the human capacity to transform the deepest sorrows into sources of strength and support for others. As we continue to navigate our own journeys, Dr. Rabain’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength that lies within us all. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of healing. Whether you are facing personal loss or other forms of adversity, Dr. Rabain’s journey offers a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to resilience, healing, and purpose. As we move forward in our lives, let us remember the power of resilience, the strength of the human spirit, and the potential for healing. As Dr. Rabain’s story illustrates, it is through our struggles that we often find our greatest strength, purpose, and joy. So, let us not shy away from the challenges life throws at us, but instead, let us embrace them, learn from them, and use them to grow stronger, wiser, and more resilient. In our latest podcast episode, we welcomed Kirsten Beasley, the head of office for WTW Bermuda, for a candid conversation. We delved into her unusual skincare routine, her first big paycheck, and her celebrity crushes.
In one of the most humid climates on earth, Bermuda, Kirsten made a fascinating choice to forego moisturizer, which significantly improved her skin health. This unusual skincare regimen has been an intriguing part of her daily routine and underscores her inclination to challenge the norm. When it comes to her professional life, Kirsten doesn't shy away from addressing the lack of gender and racial diversity in Bermuda's insurance and reinsurance space. She believes that challenging the status quo and altering the narrative is necessary for fostering an inclusive environment. She continuously calls out biases, ensuring diverse representation in hiring, and embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in performance appraisals. Work-life balance is a common challenge for many professionals, and Kirsten is no exception. With a demanding job and two sons, she shares her strategies for achieving balance. One critical aspect she mentioned is the importance of asking for help when needed. This openness about her struggles and her pragmatic approach towards balancing career and family life provide valuable insights for others in similar situations. An interesting facet of the conversation revolved around Kirsten's upbringing and its impact on her parenting style. Raised by two police officers, Kirsten experienced a unique family dynamic that shaped her approach to parenting. She shared how her father's advice about going to university undecided had a profound influence on her own journey. Kirsten is not just a leader in the corporate world; she's also a co-founder of We Speak, an organization aimed at empowering women by helping them overcome their fear of public speaking. Over the past two years, We Speak has been instrumental in creating lasting connections between participants and even assisted someone in securing a job in the insurance industry. Kirsten's commitment to fostering diversity and helping others is truly inspiring. The podcast episode is an enlightening exploration of Kirsten Basley's personal and professional journey. It serves as an inspiration for women who strive to balance their careers, personal life, and commitment to fostering diversity. It also highlights the importance of challenging the status quo, empowering others, and embracing unique approaches, whether it's in skincare or professional endeavors. Amy Ponnampalam, CEO of Athora Life Re Ltd , took an unconventional path to reach her current position. She shared her intriguing journey from a hotel waitress to leading a major company in the world of insurance on the Hustle Her Podcast.
Amy's early days were spent outdoors, working as a banqueting waitress at a hotel. An unexpected turn in her career trajectory led her to actuarial science, ultimately leading her to become a training actuary and eventually, the CEO of Thorough Life Rea. Her leadership journey doesn't stop at her impressive list of titles. She's a firm believer in creating high-performance cultures and shifting the archaic perceptions of CEO roles. She shared her experiences leading diverse teams and the challenges associated with it. Embracing introspection and appreciating the individual motivations of team members are key factors in her leadership style. Amy also opened up about her struggle with 'imposter syndrome', a common phenomenon that affects even the most accomplished professionals. She stressed the importance of identifying it, seeking supportive communities, and realizing that sometimes, all you need is a good listener. The podcast episode wasn't just about business. They pushed boundaries, challenged societal norms, and asked big questions. How does family culture shape our choices? What pressures do we feel to make an impact? And how can we combat the stigma around choosing not to have children? Amy's personal experiences and insightful reflections provided new perspectives on these topics. Amy's technical background has been a significant part of her brand, proving that technical training can be a great asset for a leader in a life insurance company. It helps them understand the industry and the needs of their organization. They also explored the classic gender conditioning issues that women face, and how to break out of those roles. They emphasized the importance of self-awareness and organizational leadership to support women in breaking out of those roles. Lastly, they explored the power of family culture and societal expectations, and their potential influence on our personal choices. Amy shared her own experience of her parents, both having very different backgrounds, and how that has shaped the way she views the world. They also discussed how to combat imposter syndrome, recognizing it, talking to other people about it, and creating a support system. Amy Ponnampalam's story is a testament to the audacity of veering off the well-trodden path. Her journey, insights, and reflections are a source of inspiration and motivation for everyone, especially those who are navigating their own path to success. The insurance industry can often be perceived as an intense and competitive environment. However, Suzanne Williams, Director of Policy, Regulation, Corporate Secretary and Data Privacy Officer for the Association of Insurers and Reinsurers in Bermuda, manages to navigate this demanding world with grace and ease.
In the latest episode of the Hustle Her podcast, Suzanne provides an insightful look into her life and career. She shares the strategies she uses to balance her demanding job with her family life and personal passions. Her experience demonstrates that it is possible to achieve success without sacrificing other areas of life. One of the key topics of discussion was Suzanne's approach to handling multiple responsibilities. She attributes her ability to multitask and work well under pressure to her love for ballet, which she says has significantly shaped her work ethic. She also emphasized the importance of focusing on one or two activities during high school to cultivate commitment and drive. Suzanne also delves into her career transitions, offering valuable insights into how she found purpose in her work. Her varied experience has enabled her to bridge the gap between the global regulatory environment and the local Bermuda context, a skill that is invaluable in her current role. Professional challenges are part and parcel of any career, and Suzanne is no stranger to them. She discusses the importance of networking and turning uncomfortable situations into opportunities for meaningful connections. She also highlights the importance of Bermudians holding key positions within international business settings and shares strategies to overcome these challenges. A significant part of the episode is dedicated to discussing self-doubt and workplace discrimination. Suzanne recounts her first professional correspondence and the advice she received from her father, which significantly shaped her career approach. She also emphasizes the importance of understanding our worth and being comfortable with our decision-making abilities, regardless of our age, race, or gender. The episode concludes with an exploration of the balancing act of parenthood and career, and a discussion on how to find happiness in your career and create a positive legacy. It is a potent reminder of the importance of being clear on why you're doing what you're doing, striving for contentment over material things, and creating a legacy that extends beyond your professional accomplishments.<br><br>Overall, this episode offers a wealth of insights for anyone looking to navigate a demanding career while maintaining balance in other areas of life. It underscores the importance of resilience, purpose, and balance, providing listeners with a roadmap to achieving success on their own terms. Empathy and success might seem like contrasting concepts at first glance. However, in the latest episode of our podcast, Shira, the marketing and communications director for One Communications, seamlessly blends the two in an inspiring and heartfelt conversation. A successful woman in the competitive telecommunications industry, Shira provides an insightful look into her life, demonstrating the intertwined relationship between empathy and success.
Shira's story is a captivating mix of the mundane and the meaningful, featuring her love for gummies and Bruce Willis, and the struggles of balancing work and family life. Her journey encompasses transformation, risk-taking, and redefinition of success. It showcases a resilient woman who evolved from a rebellious child to a diligent leader, a loving mother, and a successful professional, demonstrating that life is a constant journey of self-improvement and growth. One of the most poignant topics discussed in the episode is the emotional terrain of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and pregnancy loss. As a woman who has navigated these challenging experiences, Shira opens up about the heartbreaking realities and the unexpected stigmas. Her conversation isn't just a personal narrative; it's a story that reaches out to every woman who has experienced, or is experiencing, similar situations. By sharing her journey, Shira makes a profound impact, helping to make the path a little less lonely for others. In the ruthless telecommunications industry, being a woman comes with its own set of challenges. The episode explores the story of a woman who pursued a marketing career despite facing sexism and discusses the barriers women encounter in leadership roles. It underlines the importance of staying on top of trends in marketing and presents a candid picture of what it's like to be a woman in this competitive industry. Work and family challenges are another central theme in the conversation. Switching from work mode to home mode, the pressure placed on women to have children, and the difficulty of navigating the challenges of infertility while being successful at work are among the topics addressed. The discussion is a powerful reminder of the struggles women face in achieving a successful career while also balancing family life. The podcast episode also touches on motherhood challenges and the importance of supportive relationships. It explores the highs and lows of motherhood, from the struggles of breastfeeding to the joy of seeing your child's smile. It emphasizes the power of a supportive system and the crucial role it plays in a mother's life. Ultimately, Shira's story is about the importance of empathy in action. It's about understanding and sharing the feelings of others, about reaching out, and about creating connections based on shared experiences. It's about redefining success not in terms of material accomplishments but in terms of being a good person and raising good people. This episode serves as a valuable resource for those facing similar struggles and provides valuable life lessons, heartfelt stories, and inspiring moments. It's a reminder that success isn't just about the ups and downs; it's about transformation, risk-taking, and redefinition. Shira's story is a testament to the power of empathy and resilience, making this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and motivation. In this inspiring episode of our podcast, we have an enlightening conversation with Lorene Phillips, the founder and CEO of Clarendon Wallace. Lorene shares her journey from being a waitress to becoming a leader in the insurance industry and ultimately establishing her own company.
Her tale is a testimony to perseverance and ambition. She began her professional life in the insurance sector with no prior experience, but she rose through the ranks to establish her firm. Lorene reveals how her insurance qualifications played a crucial role in progressing her career and the struggles and victories she faced along the way. Throughout her journey, Lorene faced professional oppression and took it upon herself to change the narrative. She was driven by the ambition to see more Bermudians attain influential positions in the industry. Lorene strongly believes in the power of investing in the younger generation, and she shared her conviction that this is the key to breaking down the ceilings that have long hindered success. Lorene’s upbringing played a significant role in shaping her perspective on balancing a career and motherhood. Raised by independent women, she has developed her own understanding of womanhood and how to create a family. She emphasizes the importance of asking for help and support, a lesson that many independent women often struggle with. The final act of our conversation with Lorene focuses on her bold move into entrepreneurship. Despite transitioning from a corporate role to entrepreneurship during a global pandemic, Lorene found ways to stay connected with clients and adapt to new situations. She underscores the importance of mastering her craft and the role her family’s support played in her entrepreneurial journey. This episode is a must-listen for budding entrepreneurs and established professionals seeking inspiration. Lorene’s story is not just about her successful transition from corporate to entrepreneurship; it’s about maintaining one’s identity while adapting to different situations, the role of mentorship in professional growth, and the importance of investing in the younger generation. Her journey serves as a testament to the fact that with perseverance, determination, and the right support, it is possible to transition from a corporate role to entrepreneurship successfully. Her story is a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone looking to make a similar transition. |
Season 4Key takeaways from season 4 episodes. Archives
November 2023
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