Becoming The Voice For Underrepresented Communities with Dena Mekawi
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
Release Date: 08/07/2019
Transforming Trauma into Triumph
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In our second episode with Dr. Sandra Primiano, we discuss the nuances of trauma, emphasizing that it is not solely defined by major life events but can also stem from repeated minor experiences. The conversation explores how these traumas shape behaviors and relationships, the importance of self-awareness, and the journey towards transforming learned behaviors. Dr. Primiano highlights the significance of neuroplasticity in changing emotional pathways, the necessity of embracing all emotions, and the power of self-compassion and gratitude in personal development. Connect with me here: • ...
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The Emotional Landscape of Family Wealth and Navigating Burnout
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In this episode of Safe Space, Dr. Sandra Primiano discusses the complexities of mental health, particularly focusing on burnout within the context of family businesses. She explores the various forms of burnout, its causes, and its impact on individuals and systems. The conversation delves into the importance of emotional awareness, the influence of ancestral traditions, and the necessity of mindfulness in daily life. Dr. Primiano emphasizes the power of choice in emotional responses and the significance of understanding one's values for personal transformation. Connect with me here: • ...
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Navigating New Wealth and Identity
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In this episode, Jen Risher shares her journey from a middle-class background to sudden wealth due to unimaginable success for her and her husband early in their careers. She discusses the emotional complexities that come with newfound wealth, including feelings of shame and guilt, and the importance of understanding one's money story. Jen emphasizes the need for open conversations about money to foster connection and purpose, and she advocates for using wealth to create equity and support others. The discussion highlights the significance of vulnerability and listening across generations in...
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Empathy in Family Wealth Transfer
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In this episode, Francesco Lombardo and Dave Specht discuss the dynamics of family businesses, focusing on the importance of empathy, communication, and understanding between generations. They explore how the rising generation is often misunderstood and the need for them to find their own identity separate from family expectations. The conversation emphasizes the significance of relationships over financial capital and the necessity for open dialogue about wealth transfer and family dynamics. They also touch on the evolving landscape of financial advisory services and the importance of...
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Legacy of Values: The Carvajal Family Business
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In this episode, Francesco Lombardo interviews Ana Maria Guerrero Carvajal, a sixth-generation leader of the Carvajal family business in Colombia. They discuss the importance of family values in sustaining a business across generations, the role of innovation in adapting to market changes, and the initiatives taken to foster entrepreneurship within the family. Ana Maria emphasizes the significance of living the values they preach, showcasing how the family actively engages in social responsibility and community development. The conversation concludes with advice for future generations on...
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Navigating the Complex World of Family Offices and Family Wealth
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In this episode, Tom McCullough, co-founder, chairman and CEO of Northwood Family Office, joins Francesco to discuss the evolution of family offices, the challenges faced by wealthy families, and the importance of preparing both parents and children for wealth transition. He emphasizes the need for integrated advice and the emotional aspects of wealth management, providing insights into how families can navigate these complexities for better outcomes. Connect with me here: • • • •
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Wealth Education for Future Generations
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In this episode, Vicki Furnish of Wellspring Family Group shares her insights on managing family dynamics within a family business, particularly focusing on the transition to a single family office. She discusses the importance of educating the next generation about wealth, fostering motivation, and the necessity of open communication. Vicki emphasizes the role of emotional intelligence in navigating family relationships and the impact of creating safe spaces for discussions. The conversation highlights the balance between business responsibilities and family connections, ultimately aiming to...
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Creating a Meaningful Legacy with Craig Kielburger
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In this episode, Francesco Lombardo interviews Craig Kielburger, a renowned social entrepreneur and co-founder of WE Charity. They discuss Craig's journey from starting Free the Children at a young age to his collaboration with Oprah Winfrey, which significantly impacted his work in social impact. The conversation delves into the concept of legacy, exploring how families can create meaningful legacies and the importance of self-reflection and accountability in this process. They also touch on the emotional traditions that families pass down, both positive and negative, and how these affect...
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Building Trust to Ensure Sibling Unity
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In this episode of Safe Space, the Fidanza siblings—Paolo, Adrian, and Carmen—share their journey of navigating the complexities of family dynamics after the sale of their family business, Salerno Dairy. They discuss the identity crisis they faced, the importance of self-discovery, and how they transformed their relationships through trust and emotional intelligence. The siblings emphasize the significance of changing their mindsets about money and the value of investing in themselves as individuals and as a family unit. They offer insights and advice for others in similar situations,...
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The Power of Vulnerability in Personal Growth
Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo
In this episode of Safe Space, host Francesco Lombardo speaks with personal coach, therapist, and healer, Ashley Best. Ashley shares her journey from being a CPA to embracing her true self and helping others do the same. The conversation delves into the importance of listening to one's internal compass, the courage to be vulnerable, and the significance of self-love. They discuss the shift in family offices towards recognizing human capital and the impact of shame on personal and familial relationships. The episode concludes with practical advice for the next generation on embracing change and...
info_outlineDena Mekawi is a first generation Egyptian Muslim American living in New York. She ran for Miss Arab USA 2013 when she realized she wanted to be the voice for underrepresented communities. Dena then went on to work at Oprah Magazine, where she was able to use self-expression of fashion and editorial to celebrate her individuality. Ms. Mekawi has struggled with her own identity, as well as self-esteem issues that stemmed from the media that she consumed. She now uses her experience of self-discovery as an Arab American to work collectively, creating space for culture diversity. Dena has been chosen as a representative to the United Nations NGO, DGC which compliments her work as a Social Entrepreneur.
Dena Mekawi curates creative communication strategies, & partnerships to engage brands, advertisers and high profile individuals to create impact messages, using the power of their influence with a creative approach through her company, Style & Resilience. Ms.Mekawi works with family offices on identifying projects that have impact on the economy, as well as for humanity.
Ms. Mekawi has advised several United Nations Agencies, and has worked with private sector to create strategic communication strategies and partnerships. Ms.Mekawi was chosen to moderate International Day Of Peace 2016 along side notable Goodwill ambassadors, DiCaprio, Stevie Wonder, and former Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki Moon, Ms. Mekawi was also personally recognized by Michael Douglas.