What Nik Knows

Oh my friends this is a good one. Are you ready to be inspired and then jump off this podcast and get to work? Well get out your notebooks because this one is packed with amazing info. I actually interviewed Alexis Schulze, Co-founder and Chief Visionary officer of Nekter Juice Bar,  in January with hopes to have her interview go live before Jake was born.

Obviously it’s august and that didn’t happen so don’t be surprised if you hear me chat about pregnancy and mention the time of year- no i’m not crazy i’m just a solopreneur haha. Alexis and I get into the weeds of the mindset of growing a business. She shares that being vulnerable, true to yourself, and doing self work is at the utmost importance of scaling your business. She also mentions that as women we must get more comfortable with being in the CEO seat and leaning into our assertive and directness.

Raise your hand if you can relate to this? I mean how often are women deemed bitchy if they have any type of emotion that isn’t related to “nice” and polite? Most women feel they need to behave a certain way, that we must make sure to not make waves or keep the masses happy.

Here’s the thing tho- if you are an entrepreneur or a business owner with employees and you're living in a NICE world in order to make other people comfortable you’re not being authentic to yourself which in turn actually doesn’t help those around you grow. It’s kind of like when your significant other lies to you because they didn’t want to hurt you but in turn it only makes it worse. Learning how to communicate accurately as a business owner may be uncomfortable but it is absolutely vital to get your needs met and to be working from congruence.

As you can imagine I was stoked to interview Alexis. Not only am I a huge fan of all of Nekter’s goodness (the pink flamingo smoothie w/ almond butter) is my all time fav but I also just so admire what alexis has done in her career. Alexis is still extremely involved with all the creations and recipes. She leads the award-winning company’s research and development efforts, creating menu items to nourish America’s increasing appetite for plant-based, functional, and nutrient-rich foods that support various lifestyles and diet preferences. A certified health coach with a passion for integrative nutrition, Alexis has been at the forefront of developing accessible and healthier for you fast-casual alternatives.

With over 20 years of experience working with children in both preschool and elementary school settings and holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Adolescent Development, Alexis combined her education, expertise, and passion into a children’s book, Sneaky Spinach, with plans to author more. Alexis is a well-known face of the brand, often participating in speaking engagements and social media narrated videos on the power of nutrition and plant-based health. 

Alexis is also the founder of Sojourn Foundation, a nonprofit connecting people through mission-driven trips that focus on working with children in developing countries in an effort to shift perspective, encourage personal growth, and positively contribute as global citizens. Alexis is available to speak on nonprofit creation and leadership, philosophy of philanthropy, and global cultural competence.

Welcome back to the Leader of the Pax podcast! I’m your host, Dr. Nikki Sammet and MAN have I missed you guys!  For those who are new I ended season 1 of this amazing show to go have a baby! My son Jake is now almost 6 months old and I’ve just stepped back into my office after my self imposed maternity leave. I knew I was going to change when becoming a mother but I didn’t really know how. I may have shared my worry about balancing a career and motherhood and I can honestly say that it’s HARD but absolutely do-able.

Also- I couldn’t have imagined a global pandemic occurring when I left the show back in February. How are you guys doing out there? I know it’s been a lot to digest and it feels like everyday a new thing is happening. 2020 sure has been eventful. Walking into motherhood and into a pandemic has been quite the ride. I’ve had my ups and downs as I'm sure you have as well.

Lately, I’ve been “unbecoming” working on unraveling parts of me that are no longer fitting with where I currently am at. I’m in the middle of a mindset reset challenge like I did last year and I’m learning SO freaking much about myself. I will absolutely do a solo episode on how you can do your own mindset reset retreat too!

But, today I wanted to update you with both where this podcast is going and a little about me and what's new.

First, Hi! If we’ve never met, I’m a psychologist, mindset coach for female mompreneurs and host this podcast where I provide a space for experts in their field and female business owners to share their success stories and life lessons, expertise and then take details to help my clients AND YOU!!

I’ve done a ton of things that have led me to my own business and I use those experiences to help other people. In the past few years I’ve been a brand consultant, social media manager, social influencer, and done some corporate speaking about my doctoral research. I studied how social media impacts millennial women and now I’m using it to help individuals with personal branding and staying mindful and authentic in the creative process. 

The topics that I mostly talk about on this show are entrepreneurism, motherhood, and mindset/mental wellness.  This will be continuing on this podcast and I’ll be diving even deeper into the #mamapreneur world as I believe it to be of the utmost importance to empower women to turn their passions into profit- especially in today’s climate.

Yesterday, I read an article about more working mom’s having to leave the workforce because of school closures, lack of daycare, and layoffs due to COVID. I’m sure this is so upsetting for those it’s affected. Even stay at home moms are working significant overtime now with adding “teacher” on their resume.

If you are interested or have ever thought about working for yourself, I’d be happy to offer guidance on turning your passion(s) into profit by leveraging social media.I’ve always known I didn’t want to depend on an employer to dictate my career.

So we will be talking about the steps you can be taking to step into your power as an entrepreneur if that is something you are interested in doing!If taking on the business owner title isn’t part of your dream plan you might have other things you’re interested in pursuing. My goal is that you use this podcast as inspiration and the push you need to make your passions a reality. because I solely believe that a more fulfilled mama is a happier mama (and person all around.

You may have noticed that the Leader of the Pax podcast has been rebranded! So WELCOME to my new show- What Nik Knows! The guests we have on this show are experts in their field or business owners so I am always learning new information. From there I take what I learn and then teach you! So my hope is that you’ll tune into these episodes getting education and strategy as well as inspiration from what I know and share with you! I like to think of myself as a source of information and a connector. I’ve always loved being a teacher and researching everything about everything. So there you go- What Nik Knows. 

Additionally, I wanted to share something that is very important to me to create an inclusive experience so we will be learning and listening to stories from those with diverse backgrounds.

In other news, I want to send an invite out to all the mamas!  Back in January, I started a Facebook group called, becoming mama & beyond,  for my prenatal yoga group - just a way for us to stay in touch as we were all having babies and losing touch. But it ended up evolving into so much more! It has been a saving grace for me these past 6 months (and during my pregnancy).

After countless conversations with other moms and reading through hundreds of Instagram posts that shared overwhelm, comparison to other moms, and feeling lost, I felt called to provide a sanctuary for mamas to thrive. It was clear that these amazing mamas (including myself) were seeking a community of strong supportive women. My original hope was to do this in person, but with a crazy virus lurking around, social media was the place for me to connect with others.

With all that said, I decided to expand my FB group to outside my prenatal group of girls back in May. And we now have over 250 members!! My hope is that we can create a collaborative community and kick comparisons out the window! All I want is for other moms to feel like they are supported and empowered as they grow into themselves as mothers and beyond. Soon I will be creating an entire online platform and membership for this incredible community so if you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, or beyond you are cordially welcome to join that group! I believe it to be my sole purpose to support other moms and women in general in their journey and beyond!

Well that’s a quick recap on me and what’s next on the show. We have a freaking rockstar list of female founders coming in the following episodes! I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Make sure to take a screenshot when you’re listening, tag me on instagram, so that way we can connect even more! Alright y’all, see ya in there. Ciao!

The final countdown is on! I’m finishing my 36th week of pregnancy with a fantastic female founder interview. I couldn’t help but be inspired once I edited this bad boy. Today I also start official maternity leave. What a strange concept, especially as an entrepreneur. I will still have a few clients and be finishing up a few more episodes before the little guy arrives, but I have stopped working my consulting gigs and taking on any clients. I won’t lie. The transition feels a bit nerve-wracking, and at the same time, I know it’s time for me to begin moving to a new phase in my life.

So let’s get right into this episode, shall we?

I keep coming back to this quote that our guest, Beth Devine, shared on today’s episode which was “People are scared of success because they don’t feel they are worthy enough for it” that quote from my latest podcast episode has stuck with me since I heard it while editing.

People are scared of success because they don’t feel they are worthy enough for it…what a statement and a pretty accurate one at that. We all have dreams, and yet we don’t always act on them because becoming who we dream of being scares us. I genuinely believe that working on yourself FIRST is a crucial part of your entrepreneurial process. Once you get your mindset straight, the rest falls into place.

Our guest today, Beth Devine, even shares letting go of her old ways, made space to receive creativity, and allowed for her to be more productive and effective!

Beth Devine is the Founder and Principal of Devine Solutions Group. She is a digital marketing and business development expert and is one of the most sought-after marketing professionals in the nation!

Beth Devine is the Founder and Principal of Devine Solutions Group. She is a digital marketing and business development expert and is one of the most sought-after marketing professionals in the nation.

Beth founded the agency on the premise that business owners and entrepreneurs deserve to have a one-source solution to obtain the services required to achieve the financial independence they require and the work/life balance they deserve.

The team at Devine Solutions Group delivers top-tier digital marketing services to those who require and up-leveling of their brand and their business.

Beth believes that not only every business owner but specifically women entrepreneurs deserve to have a profitable business on their own terms and in the confines of their own time since time is the only asset we don’t get back. She is 100% committed to the success of others.

In addition to frequent public speaking engagements, training business owners on branding, marketing, and business strategies, she is a frequent contributor to publications including Fit Small Biz, Business Connection and Best Hosting Pro.

Business owners hire Devine Solutions Group to assist them specifically with digital marketing, website design, content writing, SEO, social media management and strategy implementation services because of our ability to deliver profitable results and our impeccable reputation.

Connect with Beth to discuss how she and her team can assist you with building your business and growing your profits. She’s here to support your goals so that you can begin turning your business potential into reality.

We talked about so many different topics today, but two that stood out to me were #1 how to figure out what the heck you want to do with your life and #2 once you know that how to create a business plan around it.

Beth also encourages entrepreneurs to build a network and invest in themselves, whether that is seminars, coaching, or opportunities that support growth. I completely agree with this- having an extensive support system as you build your business is essential. I am still offering consult calls if you are interested in learning more about coaching and if it’s the right fit for you.

If you'd like to get in touch with Beth here is her contact information:

• [email protected]
• devinesolutionsgroup.com
• 833-933-8465 (833-9DEVINE)
• IG @devinesolutionsgroupllc
• LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/devinesolutionsgroup/
• Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/devinesolutionsgroup/

Welcome back to the leader of the pax podcast I’m your host Dr. Nikki Sammet and can you believe we are just a day away from February? Some people say that January is the slowest month of the year but it just feels like time is FLYING. I’ve been up to my ears in baby prep and turning inward as I prepare for maternity leave. It’s been an interesting process slowing down business as an entrepreneur. I’ve kinda had to make it up as I go. I was asked the other day when I plan on returning and I realized I had all the power in my response. I’m interested in seeing when my career lightbulb turns back on once the baby is here.

The last few episodes coming up are super special and are jam packed with knowledge. Like really really good stuff. For example, Today’s guest is a super star! She’s  An old co-worker turned soul sister and was my inspiration in getting into the podcasting world! I feel so blessed to have someone who was in the same industry as me who saw me as a bright light rather than competition.

Man, if I was to document how many times people have said to me that they couldn’t do something because someone else had already done it I would be a fricken millionaire. 

Jillian Beth and I discuss WHY it’s ok to do what other people doing and WHY it’s so important that you break past those limiting beliefs and share your gift.

This week we have Jillian Beth a certified women’s empowerment coach who helps hundreds of individuals step into their power and craft their dream life. After working with so many clients, a pattern emerged: many women were limited in their growth in business and their personal lives. 

She found that the difference between women who are unsure or confused about their purpose are not feeling connected to themselves need to feel empowered to in their feminine side. When women are not in tune with their wants, needs, and desires, they have a hard time receiving and often settle for what they believe is good enough.

As someone who used to feel dis-empowered, Jillian recognized this pattern well. She considers herself fortunate to be a survivor of sexual, mental, emotional, and physical abuse because she now has the opportunity to show other women that it’s possible (even probable!) to come out the other side and live the life of your dreams.

Over the years, Jillian has learned that the highest form of empowerment is becoming the best version of ourselves. Now, her passion and purpose is to support women in going after the life of their dreams and living their soul’s purpose.

Throughout our conversation several themes came up. #1 asking for help and recognizing the power in mentorship. #2 being curious about our professional journey rather than being frustrated with the fact we “haven’t found it yet” and #3 that even if there are other people in the same career as you, YOU, bring something special to the table!

This chickadee is a powerhouse radio host of Soul Purpose, coach, and intuitive being. Our conversations always spark interesting conversation and female empowerment. I cannot wait for you to hear today’s episode - there are so many take aways for you to snag and implement in your own life.

Also I have 5 spots available for coaching beginning June 2020! If you’re ready or interested in learning more about my services and understanding how a coach and support you reach out to me at [email protected]!

Alright I don’t want to give too much away so let’s head on in to the show! 

Let’s be real here...checking off your entire to-do list in one day is something we all want but it rarely something that happens. But what if we looked at accomplishing tasks differently? What if we looked at crushing our to do list by acknowledging the activities that bring us JOY?

You might think this episode is going to teach you how to check off your to-do’s but it’s actually going to help you re-align your priorities and remind you to find gratitude in EVERYTHING that you do throughout the day, including the activities that you poo-poo.

This week I have balance queen, April Mosebrook, on the podcast. This gal does it ALL. She’s a mom, life partner, volunteer, girl scout leader, yoga teacher, lead singer/manager of her own band, a Musical Theater fanatic, works part-time in marketing, is in the middle of a remodel and still has time to work out and meditate…LITERAL ROCKSTAR.

This courageous mama started her very own company called Bucket List Broadway! Which is a weekend workshop where people can practice their musical theater ability. At the end of the workshop, the participants put on a performance for friends and family! April started her passion project, Bucket List Broadway, after many years of working as a pharma rep. She had a burning desire to launch a business that combined her love of music, theater, performing, and inspiring others.

April and I talked about a lot of good stuff. But one of my biggest takeaways from the episode was about how April looks at her day’s accomplishments. Like HOW DOES SHE MANAGE ALL OF THIS STUFF!? When I asked her about managing her daily to do’s, she responded with, ”you have to consider what you mean by accomplishing things, it might not be on the to list, but it might be something that popped up that brought you joy, and that can be considered an accomplishment.”

WOW. When’s the last time you recognized JOYFUL tasks like taking your dog for a walk, cooking a delicious meal, having a meaningful conversation as an ACCOMPLISHMENT?

We also discussed how to make your dreams happen while having a full plate. She mentions evaluating your current activity list. What are the things that bring joy? Keep them. What are the things that are taking up space and no longer serve you? Let them go. So then you can carve out time to start doing whatever you’re passionate about.

Want to step on stage with April? She is offering 20% off JUST FOR YOU! Mention Leader of the Pax at checkout! The next event is on 1/25-1/26. You can get in touch with April by emailing her at [email protected]! 

HAPPY 2020 friends! & welcome back to the leader of the pax podcast. Today is the PERFECT episode for us to jump into as we start the new year. My guest today is a spiritual gangster and will provide you all the micro-ways you can become  more in tune with yourself and your purpose…i guarantee most of you have big ambition for this upcoming year and doing self work is KEY to opening opportunities.

It’s always fun when someone you know comes back into your life but in a different context.  It’s so fun where the journey started when she took the leap - walk forward - and how your life shifts and changes and then the universe supports us.

Danielle is SUCH a spiritual gift and I had a great time editing this podcast. I love when I edit them the same week as i’m going through something that relates to what we talk about on the show. 

So who is Danielle? Danielle is a devotee to leadership coaching and training. She has acquired knowledge and certifications in the world of strategic goal-setting, relationship building, influential communication, conflict resolution, energetic healing and bodywork practices.

She has managed award-winning sales teams, advised hundreds of clients on how to create the business of their dreams, and cultivated impactful corporate events for a decade.

In the midst of her journey, she became a certified Reiki master, a student of Healing Touch and a registered yoga teacher. All of these modalities, plus her background in management and leadership, influence her work now and she loves integrating the abundant world of higher connection and grounded practical tools. In her work she helps you create a crystal clear strategy on how to stay powerfully present.

UGH isn’t she amazing? I’m so excited for you to learn from her today. We had so many magical moments that actually gave me goosebumps either because I could relate in my own life or by what she was teaching me in today’s show.

If you are looking to take the leap from your corporate job and navigate the world of entrepreneurship this will be a great show for you. Danielle covers what made her actually go for her dreams, how she did it, and what happened once she surrendered into it. 

So let’s head on in!

2020? That’s what I wrote in the steam of my shower door last night. I started thinking about that question mark after the final zero...What a year of transformation it will be…and what 10 years of transformation it has been.

A few weeks ago my yoga teacher asked us what do you want to leave behind in this decade?

Instantly my mind went to, “self-criticism, anxiety about the future, perfectionist qualities, and self doubt.”

Her next question was, who do you want to be in the next decade?

As I sat there eyes closed I envisioned her.. the woman I know I am in my core. The woman without fear, the one who trusts herself and is ready to take on the world. The woman entering the new decade was bold, bright, powerful, and confident. She believed in herself. I saw her doing all the thing she hoped to accomplish.

I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. What do I want to leave in this decade and what do I want to do in the next one?

When I entered this decade I was 21 years old.  I felt lost in terms of what I wanted to do with my life and was unsure of my nest step. I was wrapping up my final semester in college and had no clue what the next 10 years were gong to involve.  There has been so much learning, SO MUCH LEARNING that I thought I would share with you!

So here are 10 things I’ve learned from this decade. 

1. Passion rules all. 
2. Your friendship circle will get smaller and that’s an awesome thing.
3. Expectations are everything. 
4. Hard work, consistency, discipline are how you grow a biz & into who you want to be. ( I would know I’ve tried 3 times)
5. Perfection DOES NOT exist. Imperfection and vulnerability is where it’s at.
6. Mindset shapes how you look at life and yourself.
7. Your partner is key in your success and commitment to your goals.
8. Boundaries and breaks are very important to your success
9. Collaboration and community over competition!! 
10. Good and bad things are happening simultaneously - you deserve the life you do. Embrace it. 

These are lessons that have weaved throughout my 20’s but it wasn’t until my 30’s I really began to understand, embrace, and embody them. As much as we try to avoid aging with serums, creams, and botox; it truly is a blessing to age and gain more wisdom about life and insight into yourself.

I’d love to know what you’ve discovered this past decade- so please leave me a word or sentence that describes that for you!

To hear the whole podcast & dive into each of those 10 lessons listen in to my latest podcast episode live on iTunes now! 

One of the coolest things on the planet is growing up with your friends. I've known today's guest for an entire decade! I've known her so long I still call her by her maiden name. Erica was one of the first people that I met when I moved back to my home town of Orange county right after college. She and I have always had a bond. Whether it was over champagne, dancing all night, or having long drawn out chats about our dreams.

Today we have my dear friend and BADASS entrepreneurs, event planner extraordinaire Erica Sacco!

So who is this elusive broad? Erica Sacco is the Founder & Creative Director of Erica Marie Events, a full-service event planning and design firm specializing in weddings and private events throughout the world!

For more than a decade, Erica has been planning and designing weddings and events throughout the country. Her passion for design, style, and all things hospitality initially led her to the event industry. Erica feels the attention to detail, and the guest experience are the keys to creating and running dream-like events. After working with some of the top companies in the world like LVMH and AEG, Erica hung up her corporate suits and launched Erica Marie Events.

Erica is sought after for creating personalized, memorable events that feel intimate and effortless. Erica's work has been featured in industry-leading publications, including Martha Stewart Weddings, Wedding Chicks, Us Weekly, and many more.

So here's what you're going to hear on today's show: how to find a work-life balance using time blocking, setting up systems from the very beginning, setting boundaries with spouses, friends, and clients for you to successfully hit your business goals.

I also asked Erica about finding your ideal client, and I absolutely loved her answer. Erica shares to start recognizing your energy when working with different people. Ask your self, why did I enjoy working with this client…was it because they fully trusted me, because it was collaborative, what was it that just lit you up. She mentions building a good pattern of what that is to find the right client for YOU.

At the end of our session, we talk a lot of systems and setting ourselves up in the beginning- documenting as we go. A big theme from Erica's episode was finding clarity around her role as CEO. She learned that she had to delegate certain aspects of the business to scale and that setting boundaries during her day to respect her working time was absolutely vital, and above all else, she just works so damn hard! It's awe-inspiring to know someone as gracious and hard-working as she is- I can't wait for you to get to know her today!

So please, without further ado, let me introduce you to my long-time friend, Erica Sacco.

“Start before you’re ready,” I can’t begin to tell you how many times I’ve heard that sentiment from successful entrepreneurs. Jeannie North is no different. She and I had a great conversation about growing your brand and being confident about trying new things. Jeannie recently has been kicking so much ass that she was able to move into an office space from her basement AND was able to hire a team to help her scale! Go girl!

Jeannie North is a dog mom of two, designer, and the owner of Ripley & Rue, a national clothing brand specializing in dog goods for obsessed dog parents. Ripley & Rue products are handcrafted with love in their shop based on Omaha, NE!

I asked Jeannie about hiring and when to know you’re ready and she responded that NOW is the time…even if you think money is a limiting factor. 

Many clients tell me “I NEED an assistant but I can’t afford it” or “I need help with marketing but the investment is too grand.” Jeannie and I share the same philosophy when it comes to expansion…start before you’re ready. Hiring someone to help you scale your business can be impactful in two ways 1) help you generate money or 2) help you save money. Additionally, hiring team members can benefit you, especially if they have a specific skill set or background. Teams can be so effective because everyone plays a different role - which offers you as the business owner fresh ideas and more lanes to work with.

Starting before you’re ready does not just apply to hiring a team of people, …it applies to ALL ASPECTS OF YOUR BUSINESS. You’re never going to feel ready, so why not start anyways?

Beyond expanding her team, Jeannie talks about how social media has been impactful in her business- that she’s had the opportunity to connect with her customers and understand their retail desires. It’s important to note that although Jeannie loves feedback from her community, she stays true to herself and follows her gut instincts.

If you’re looking to be inspired by a boss lady, then you gotta tune in to today’s episode as we get real about managing a work-life balance, understanding our ideal client, and how to stay engaged in your business day in and day out.

Additionally, as the year is ending, I’d love to grab your feedback on the episodes so far. What do you like? What do you want to hear more of? Are there specific people you’d like to hear from or topics you’d like to break down?

I have big plans for 2020…one example that I am super excited about is that I plan on sharing my findings from my research on how social media impacts us on the reg. Along with providing you tools to be more mindful while using it.

So, leave me a review on iTunes, send me a message, connect with me, I really want to hear from you! Happy listening!

p.s. Make sure to check out @ripleyandrue on Instagram and their website www.ripleyandrue.com!

When things are good do you believe something bad is going to follow?

If you’re traveling today I have the perfect 20 minute episode to keep ya occupied. Today on the LOTP podcast we get into mental health. Specifically regarding anxiety. I share a short story that recently happened to me that almost left me in a panic attack in the cheese section of Trader Joe’s (no joke). But, instead of completely crumbing. I combatted my anxiety and kept on shopping.

I’ll keep it a short caption and just tell you this…I was having the most wonderful day and whammy an incident occurred which instantly knocked the wind out of me and all my old tendencies and behaviors started to crawl (it felt more like a whoosh tbh) to the surface.

I use to believe that when good things happened a bad thing would follow. But the truth is, these two things are running side by side. Life is always happening around us.

Did you know that it’s actually not unusual to feel anxious following good news or when life is good. Psychologists like myself call this happiness anxiety. A lot of the time our emotions get mixed together.

Think of the movie Inside Out…you know at the end when the girl is feeling both happy and sad and the glass ball has mixed colors of blue and yellow?  These emotions can get tied together based on the situation presented to us.

This mix bag of emotions can make it challenging for us later on… our brain may not be able to shout “HAPPY ONLY” to us while experiencing something different because we now may associate happy things with sadness, fear, or another emotion.

Additionally, you may have experienced events in the past like sharing wonderful news only to have it clouded by a family tragedy the same day or getting a job promotion only for your house to flood the following morning. Life is always happening around us but sometimes we believe that when this good thing happens this bad thing will follow…and this is where I sat for awhile until I learned how to manage my anxiety and understand my emotions.

Tune into day to hear the whole story. My hope is that you grab some tips on how to self-sooth, regain clarity, and take control of your anxiety.