More Than Work

In this episode of 'More Than Work', host Rabiah Coon sits down with Yesim Nicholson, an author, podcast host, and career coach. They discuss Yesim's diverse career journey, managing career changes, and the important aspects of finding fulfillment beyond job titles. The conversation also delves into Yesim's book 'Ready to Quit Your Job?' and her insights on balancing financial concerns with career satisfaction. Tune in for inspiring stories, practical advice, and a fun Q&A segment.00:00 Introduction to More Than Work00:34 Meet Yesim: Author, Podcast Host, and Career Coach01:20 Navigating Career Changes and Challenges02:33 The Journey to Becoming a Career Coach07:37 Balancing Work and Personal Life12:14 Writing the Book: Ready to Quit Your Job?18:46 Finding Fulfillment in Your Career24:39 Reflecting on Career Lessons26:09 Identifying Positives in Your Job27:25 Introducing the Podcast28:51 The Concept of Toe Dippers31:34 Encouraging Career Changes32:45 Health and Decision Making35:39 The Fun Five Questions43:09 Channeling Confidence44:31 Where to Find Yesim Nicholson45:09 Closing RemarksNote from Host:Yesim and I met when I was a guest on her podcast. Either my SEO or her solid sleuthing brought us together. I’m nearly done with her book and finding it helpful as I consider what I’m doing in my life (or at least in one aspect of it). It is good to assess sometimes and see if you can align what you do with what you want. That’s really what “More Than Work” is about. We got along like old friend and Yesim is as authentic as it gets! I recommend the book, the podcast and a chat with her wholeheartedly. If you’re reading this, I’ve probably heard from her recently. Be well. +++++ Find YesimWebsite PodcastBook - Ready to Quit Your Job?  LinkedIn  +++++ More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of 'More Than Work,' host Rabiah engages in a profound conversation with Kileen Barry, founder of Kaizen Collective and a sex therapist. They dive into Kileen's journey from digital marketing to therapy, exploring her motivations, influences, and the pivotal books 'Come As You Are' and 'Maybe You Should Talk to Someone.' The discussion covers Kileen's academic path, her unique approach to therapy, which emphasizes a holistic and salutogenic model, and her passion for integrating mental, physical, and nutritional care. The episode also touches on the importance of boundaries, Kileen's self-care practices, and her aspirations for Kaizen Collective. Join Rabiah and Kileen as they uncover the layers of professional and personal evolution, making this more than just work.00:00 Introduction to More Than Work Podcast00:34 Meet Kileen Barry: Founder and Sex Therapist02:04 Kileen's Journey into Therapy02:20 From Digital Marketing to Therapy03:18 The Impact of Books on Kileen's Career04:16 Personal Experiences with Therapy09:21 Kileen's Nonprofit Work and Its Influence13:57 Understanding Salutogenic Model in Therapy24:26 The Importance of Discussing Sex in Therapy27:36 Generational Shifts in Attitudes Towards Sex30:34 The Wire Monkey Experiment31:42 Attachment Styles and Personal Growth32:31 Book Recommendations and Attachment Theory34:01 Transitioning Careers and Education39:27 Starting a Private Practice40:02 Holistic Mental Health Approach43:31 Maintaining Boundaries as a Therapist48:37 Fun and Personal Insights53:34 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationNote from Rabiah (host): It seems that though there are huge gaps between episodes lately, they are also somehow coming right on time, especially since I know what is coming next. Editing this one was a joy and gave me a sense of normalcy that I haven’t had in over a month. I broke my leg and left A&E at 2:30am on my birthday. That wasn’t how I planned to start my year of being 45. But in listening and editing, I appreciated the conversation that I’m now sharing with you because this is a conversation with a friend who I got to learn a lot about and who I wouldn’t have been able to engage with in the same way at 35 or 25. Kileen is full of grace and her career change more than made sense. I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did and am curious about what you, the listener, will take from it. +++++ Find KileenPHIIRST +++++ Mentioned in this episode:polysecure by Jessica FernDr. Aaron T BeckSalvador Minuchin, MDKaty MilkmanKatie Porter +++++ More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of 'More Than Work', a podcast on personal and professional fulfillment, host Rabiah engages in an insightful discussion with Jessica Berg. Berg is the founder of 'Moon Rock Wellness', a digital platform designed to help busy individuals, particularly working mothers, cultivate everyday habits of wellness. Jessica shares her personal journey leading to the creation of Moon Rock Wellness, including a life-altering encounter with burnout that led her to prioritize her well-being and set boundaries in her corporate job. She also discusses the importance of maintaining balance, practicing daily mindfulness, and investing time and energy into activities that genuinely fulfill us.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:36 Guest Introduction: Jessica Berg00:55 Getting to Know Jessica: Personal Life and Location01:46 Introduction to Moon Rock Wellness01:56 The Importance of Consistent Wellness Practices02:56 Personal Wellness Journeys and Challenges03:44 The Impact of Motherhood on Wellness07:28 The Role of Mindfulness in Everyday Life10:59 Exploring Moon Rock Wellness: Services and Impact14:32 The Journey to Founding Moon Rock Wellness18:53 Balancing Corporate Life and Passion Projects24:06 Addressing Burnout: A Personal Experience25:40 The Impact of Burnout on Personal Life26:34 Taking Action: Setting Boundaries at Work26:56 The Importance of Communication in Setting Boundaries27:30 The Struggle of Balancing Work and Personal Life30:20 The Power of Doing Nothing: Embracing Breaks32:40 The Influence of Passion Projects on Work33:34 The Power of Scheduling and Time Management42:08 The Joy and Inspiration from Children43:34 Connecting with Moon Rock Wellness45:01 Conclusion: The Importance of Kindness to SelfNote from Rabiah (Host): It has been a while. For personal reasons and comedy reasons I had to put a pause on the pod until I was ready to commit the time and effort again but now, More Than Work is back! Thank you for checking out this episode. Jessica was easy to talk to and may inspire you to take 5 minutes for yourself. She has done that for me. I’ll leave you to it, listener. Be sure to check out other episodes too. I’m happy to have you here! +++++ Find JessicaWebsite: www.moonrockwellness.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moon_rock_wellness  +++++ More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of 'More Than Work', Rabiah, an IT professional and stand-up comedian, talks to guest Sean Arkless about his journey from low self-confidence and working in retail to becoming the co-founder of Sjark Limited and vocalist of the London based band, 'Hello Amnesia'. Sean shares his experiences as a freelancer and his decision to start his own music production company. He also discusses his ongoing Master's degree in Musical Theater, the role of mentors in his career development, the value of being assertive and possessing a 'learn and seek' mindset. Sean's advice is to 'live fearlessly and choose your own adventures', encouraging others to pursue their dreams and never give up despite challenges. The podcast ends with Sean providing information on where listeners can find more about his work.00:08 Introduction to the Podcast00:37 Guest Introduction: Sean Arkless01:04 Sean's Journey to London01:45 Sean's Educational Background and Career Path03:15 Sean's Passion for Musical Theater04:49 The Art of Storytelling through Musical Theater06:09 Sean's Journey into Sound Engineering10:25 The Birth of Sjark Limited13:08 Solving Industry Problems through Sjark Limited20:12 The Story of Hello Amnesia22:47 The Band's First Gig and the Impact23:16 The Story Behind the Band's Name25:36 Musical Influences and Discoveries29:22 The Journey from New Zealand to England30:01 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Inspiration32:28 The Turning Point: A Concert Experience33:55 The Power of Determination and Dreams34:58 Fun Five: Getting to Know More About Sean41:03 Where to Find Sean and His Music42:17 Wrapping Up the ConversationNote from Rabiah (Host): So, I’ll be honest, this is the first time I’ve used AI to write the bulk of my show notes and I’m super impressed but this part is me, the HI (human intelligence entity, Rabiah). Sean and I met at a gig I was doing which was a variety show with super talented people he went to school with. He was cool and we went to a concert together (which we talk about here) and then another concert and I’ve seen him perform, and I’m so glad you get to hear him now.There have been some gaps in me posting so if you’ve been waiting a while, I’m sorry. I needed a break, again. I’m trying to get the great interviews I have in the can out to you sooner than later though. Thanks for sticking with me! And if you’re new, don’t stop listening at this episode. There really many great ones to come and over a hundred from the past. Thanks for being here.  +++++ Find SeanSjark Limited: www.sjark.co.uk Sean’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanarklessmusicHello, Amnesia: https://www.instagram.com/Hello_Amnesia  +++++ Mentioned in this episode:Rock the Rock Records (Hawaii): https://rocktherockrecords.com/ Scotty Rockstar: https://www.instagram.com/scottyrockstar/ Lasse Corus: https://www.lassecorus.com/  +++++ More Than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

This week’s guest is Dr. Jeanne Retief, founder of FIGGI. FIGGI a community created out of career change and wanting to share with others and be a support system, and self-care products.Dr. Retief earned a PhD in Human Rights and Criminal Law. And ran a Human Rights consultancy in South Africa for 13 years. After moving to her current location in Portugal, things changed for her, in more ways than one, including a diagnosis with panic disorder and founding a new company. Having already earned a PhD, she even went back to school to learn about cosmetic chemistry! In this chat we talk about:Getting diagnosed with panic disorderManaging mental healthCareer changeFIGGI the community and skincare line she foundedThe FIGGI blog and podcastRooibosTW: abuseNote from Rabiah (Host): I took a bit of a break. And it is almost too appropriate that my first episode back is this one given the openness around mental health that Dr. Retief brought to the conversation. Why did I take a break? Overwhelm. And other things. I would say it was a choice but it was a necessity. For those listening for the first time, thank you for being here. And to those who checked in because they didn’t hear a new episode in a while or those who are back after time passed, thank you too! There are over 100 more episodes in the backlog with fantastic guests and more to come!  +++++ Find Dr. RetiefWebsite: https://www.figgilife.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanne_figgilife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075876828370  +++++ Mentioned in this episode:Dr. Edith Eger: https://dreditheger.com/  +++++ More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

This week’s guest is John El-Maraghy, non-profit professional, and Director at Archangel Raphael's Mission (ARM).John is was born and raised in New Jersey where he is currently based. He started his career in impact consulting and then transitioned into non-profit. He made the move when during a time of self-discovery, he he realised he wanted to be of service. For John, it is important for him to believe in the mission of the organization that he is working for whether it is non-profit or for profit and in both his full-time job and his volunteering with ARM he has found that. ARM was founded to be a support system for people in need. After starting out as a food service organisation, they shifted their focus to health and hygiene interventions providing mobile showers and a mobile barbershop. Topics covered:Career transitionService to othersFinding your purposeTreating others with humanity and dignityImportance of being aligned with an organization’s mission in any type of workHow to get into volunteeringNote from Rabiah (Host): You won’t hear it but I had SO much trouble saying the name of the organization! Thank goodness for acronyms. I learned that Archangel Rafael is the patron saint of healing and the work that ARM does definitely serves that purpose. John and I spoke about ARM’s affiliation with a church but how the involvement of the church doesn’t extend to evangelism. It is so important that when any of us set out to do charitable work as individuals or organisations, that we remove personal gain from the objectives and that’s just what happens here. I mention it to John but one thing I really appreciated in our talk, besides how he is going about giving, is the respect he has for the people he is serving in the way he talks about them. It is something I’ve thought about again in editing. I volunteer for a charity that serves the homeless in London and often think about how people are treated depending on their social status.Sorry it has been so long since the last episode. If you’re listening for the first time, I hope you’ll go back and listen to the 100+ episodes that have been published and join us next time! +++++ Find ARMTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/armgivesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/armgivesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/armgivesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@armgivesWebsite: https://arm.gives/ +++++ Mentioned in this episode:Lava Mae https://lavamaex.org/ +++++ More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

This week’s guest is Christopher Kenna, founder and CEO North America at Brand Advance Group. In this open and honest chat we get into Chris’s life growing up in Northern England in care homes, his time in the Army, working as a TV presenter and then founding his own company. Listen for details. The story is best told by him!In discussing the important work of Brand Advance Group which seeks to expand representation in advertising and companies’ reach to underrepresented communities, Chris is generous in talking about the reality of being a person of colour and an LGBTQ+ person both inside and outside corporate spaces. We also talk about inclusion of people with different abilities in this dynamic chat. In this episode we dig into:Representation of everyone in advertisingDEI for brands and companiesWhat it means to really be inclusive. Hint: it isn’t just hiring someonePink, green, etc. “-washing” by brandsAllyship and advocacy Taking care of yourself and othersCreating opportunities where people can be successful from any backgroundChris’ own experiences and getting to where he is todayNote from Rabiah (Host):Firstly, it has been a while. For quite a few reasons, I couldn’t get an episode edited or out for a while. I think I’ve sorted all of that. Thank you for being here whether you have been waiting a while or it is your first time.I mention it in the episode but need to say more about the experience of meeting Chris for the first time. We both spoke at an event for a company that is actually under the same Groupe as where I work. I’d say it was by chance but I don’t think that much happens just by chance. I was added as a speaker last minute. Though I perform comedy a few times a week, I don’t give talks about me, about Multiple Sclerosis or about ableism but with a day to prepare, I did. It was clunky but ok. Then, I witnessed Chris talk about his life, his work and the world we are all living in. I was taken aback and had to have him on the podcast. I wanted more people to hear him. I wanted you to hear him, whoever you are. I’d love to hear what you think if you want to share.  +++++ Find ChrisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriskenna/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.kenna/ Brand Advanced Group: https://www.wearebrandadvance.com/  +++++ More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

This week’s guest is Rich Wilson, stand up comedian and host of the podcast Insane in the Men Brain.Rich did everything before he became a stand up comic having wanted to be a chef and then a mechanic. Eventually, he was a barman at Up the Creek and after some encouragement, took the stage. After about 20 years, he hasn’t stopped yet. The story is more entertaining with told by Rich so listen for more!In fact, the entire episode is funnier and more poignant than I can make it in this write up. We chat about:Rich’s career in comedyComedic influencesLouis CKInsane in the Men Brain and mental healthLearning from doing the podcastSaying yesMusic, television and TK MaxxAgingAnd more…Note from Rabiah (Host): I laughed while editing this episode…a lot. It was so cool to sit down with Rich, virtually, and have this chat. I have a bad track record when it comes to the people I put up on a pedestal sometimes but since a lot of times, Rich is already on a stage, the pedestal isn’t too far a reach and he is really great. I’m excited that listeners will get to know him and also, a few interactions with his wife, fellow comedian Kate McGann added to the levity. I think sometimes things got more serious than expected but if you’ve listened before, you know that’s part of it. And do let us know what you said “yes” to after listening!  +++++ Find RichInstagram: https://instagram.com/iamrichwilson Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamrichwilson Website: https://www.richwilsoncomedian.com/  +++++ Mentioned in this episode:Kate McGann: https://www.instagram.com/katemcgannarang/ Eddie Murphy: https://www.facebook.com/EddieMurphy Richard Pryor: https://www.richardpryor.com/ Louis CK: https://www.instagram.com/louisckx/The Artist’s Way: https://www.theartistswaybook.com/ Insane in the Men Brain: https://play.acast.com/s/insaneinthemenbrain Islington Radio: https://islingtonradio.co.uk/ Shazam: https://www.shazam.com/ Philip Simon: https://www.philipsimon.co.uk Vix Leyton: https://www.vixleyton.co.uk/  +++++ More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!