Curious Monica
Why do we work the way we do? Is it possible to love any job no matter where we work? Hi, I’m Monica H. Kang, creative workplace expert and the Founder of InnovatorsBox. I’m on the mission to uncover how we can thrive at work—no matter our industry, title, or age. Join me as I interview friends in different fields about how and why they love what they do. Join us and get curious! InnovatorsBox is a creative global leadership firm launched in 2016. Our mission is to unlock creativity for all so everyone can thrive no matter where they work. Subscribe to our newsletter at innovatorsbox.com
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S3 E25: Always Create Opportunities with Tanzila Khan
07/30/2024
S3 E25: Always Create Opportunities with Tanzila Khan
Embark on an inspiring journey with , a trailblazing Pakistani entrepreneur, disability rights advocate, and author. From her early days hustling soap and friendship bracelets to her groundbreaking work as the creator of the Woopie Town board game, Tanzila's story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering determination. Born with disabilities, Tanzila defied expectations and transformed adversity into opportunity. Her experiences have fueled her passion for challenging societal norms and reshaping perceptions surrounding disability. Through her advocacy and global travels, she has become a powerful voice for inclusivity, empowering individuals to embrace their differences and celebrate their unique abilities. Join us this as we delve into Tanzila Khan's extraordinary journey. Explore her insights on why speaking up matters and discover how she continues to drive positive change while navigating the complexities of advocacy and entrepreneurship. Connect with Tanzila Khan on LinkedIn, explore her impactful work on her website, and dive deeper into her story on Wikipedia. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired and uplifted by Tanzila's unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive world. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E24: Rethink Inclusion Innovation as an Ally with Sandy Lacey
07/16/2024
S3 E24: Rethink Inclusion Innovation as an Ally with Sandy Lacey
was always passionate about innovation and community-building. In the first half of her career she was a renewable energy innovator. From starting companies, ecosystems, and innovation centers, she built a knack for bringing out the best in people and seeing the small to big picture to ignite new thinking across industries and communities. While she loved what she did, she was hungry to learn more. So when she came across an incredible opportunity at the Perskins School for the Blind, she dove all in. While she was new to the disability ecosystem, the leadership at Perkins made it clear - 'We have 200 years of experience in disability. What we need is your innovation and ecoystem experience to ignite disability technology and disability innovation.' Fast forward just two years as Lacey becomes the Executive Director of the Howe Innovation Center at Perkins, playing a central role in igniting innovation that serves 200 students and 1,400 kids in Massachusetts. She also helped redefine disability technology by mapping out over 1,400 companies working in disability technology. As we celebrate Disability Pride this July, we are thrilled to dive into Sandy's story as an ally to people with disabilities and her leadership in disability technology. Listen to the full conversation at Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox and Monica H. Kang for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E23: Design for Accessibility with Kevin H. Yoo
07/09/2024
S3 E23: Design for Accessibility with Kevin H. Yoo
When learned of his friend Marcus's impending blindness, he was inspired to make a difference. Drawing on his expertise in industrial and product design, Kevin embarked on a journey to address a crucial challenge in technology accessibility, revolutionizing navigation for the visually impaired. This journey led to the founding of Haptic (previously WearWorks), dedicated to crafting not only functional but visually-appealing products accessible to all. Through his innovative use of touch and elegant design principles, Kevin reimagined accessible navigation. Today, Haptic (previously WearWorks) stand as a pioneer in the field, having transformed the lives of countless individuals by enabling greater independence in navigation. Their impact was highlighted in 2017 when their wearable smart device assisted a blind runner in completing the NYC marathon, a testament to the transformative power of their technology. As we honor Disability Pride this July, we are thrilled to dive into Kevin H. Yoo's journey into becoming an accessibility tech innovator and ally for people with disabilities. Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang unfolds stories that inspire. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E22: Turning Adversity into Advantages. Why Self-Esteem Matters with Xian Horn
07/02/2024
S3 E22: Turning Adversity into Advantages. Why Self-Esteem Matters with Xian Horn
Low points, adversities, and feeling stuck are all challenges we sometimes face as innovators. It's part of the process of doing something new and living life as a human being. The key is what you do when you face these moments and how you get back up. Meet , national disability advocate leader and founder of Give Beauty Wings, who is changing how we engage with self-esteem and understand disability. Xian grew up loved and supported as a half-Asian woman with cerebral palsy. In-fact, the first time she felt hurt for being different wasn't because she was disabled but rather because she was feeling self-conscious about all the surrounding excellences her fellow teenagers were achieving compared to her. As she looked back at why she felt stuck when she didn't have to, she realized the journey to self-love and self-esteem is something many of us need help with. Today, she uses her many platforms, writings, and community efforts to advocate for disability and self-esteem learning opportunities. As we honor Disability Pride this July, we are thrilled to dive into Xian Horn's humbling and inspiring journey into disability advocacy and leadership in empowerment. She wants to remind you that no matter what challenge you have, you can get through this. Connect with Xian Horn on LinkedIn and her website at xianhorn.com. Ready for be inspired by new stories? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang unfolds stories that inspire. Visit curiousmonica.com for more empowering interviews. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E21: Be Willing to Reinvent Yourself to Grow with Erica Vogel
06/25/2024
S3 E21: Be Willing to Reinvent Yourself to Grow with Erica Vogel
You can't do anything about an opportunity you do not take. This is the mantra that gave the courage to always reinvent and adapt herself - professionally and personally. Erica is an award-winning Senior Product Manager with 20+ years of experience in design, strategy and product management, currently working at Kforce Inc. She is also a queer, transgender woman who is passionate about cultivating safe, inclusive spaces for LGTQIA+ people to thrive. It wasn't always easy reinventing yourself, but it taught Erica an important lesson in life that helps her thrive as an innovator today - you won't know what you don't seek out! Today she lives in Washington D.C. with her partner and family. This June, as we celebrate Pride Month, we are excited to learn from Erica’s courage to reinvent her career and personal journey. We also learn how you can be a better ally to transgender people, how to agilely adapt in your career journey, and more. We welcome you to this space of learning and growing. Erica can be found on her website and . Ready to be inspired by more stories? Subscribe to by , where host Monica H. Kang shares empowering interviews. Visit curiousmonica.com for more. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E20: Be True to Yourself and Follow Your Curiosity with Trung T. Tieu
06/18/2024
S3 E20: Be True to Yourself and Follow Your Curiosity with Trung T. Tieu
Find your tribe and surround yourself with positive, supportive people. Growing up gay in a traditional Catholic, Asian household, faced challenges in expressing his identity. It took time for him to come out to his family and loved ones. But once he did, he embraced his truth wholeheartedly. Throughout his career journey, Trung found alignment between his passion for representation and his interest in supply chain and business while actively participating in LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Networks (ERNs). Today, as the supplier diversity manager at Wells Fargo, Trung is a sought-after leader driving innovative approaches to diversity and inclusion in the supply chain. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity, open-mindedness, and authenticity in effecting positive change. This June, as we celebrate Pride Month, we are excited to explore Trung's inspiring journey in supplier diversity and corporate leadership. He encourages everyone to embrace curiosity and authenticity, believing that we all have the power to make a difference in our own lives and the lives of others. Connect with Trung T. Tieu on and learn more about his work in . Ready to be inspired by more stories? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang shares empowering interviews. Visit curiousmonica.com for more. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E19: Love the Story You Live in By Looking Forward Instead of Dwelling in the Past with Yao Zhao
06/11/2024
S3 E19: Love the Story You Live in By Looking Forward Instead of Dwelling in the Past with Yao Zhao
Growing up in a very traditional Chinese family in Chongqing, China as a gay man brought both happiness and difficulties. Still, Yao Zhao learned early on how important it is to focus on seeing every moment as an opportunity to learn and rewriting the narrative to growth. From how he became passionate about renewable energy to becoming the Founder and CEO of 50Hertz Tingly Foods, Yao never lets the challenges and changes stop him from pursuing what he wants to do. When he rediscovered his favorite flavor in a pasta dish, a green pepper oil that his mother often used, he realized he was onto something. Today 50Hertz Tingly Foods products are available in local stores in Washington D.C., New York, Boston, San Francisco, and online. His innovative work was quoted numerous times by major publications like the New York Times and The Guardian. Zhao is just getting started but he isn't going to stop until everyone gets to enjoy the 'tingly' and his passion for good life. Tune into Curious Monica as we celebrate Pride Month and LGBTQ+ innovators. Learn more about his inspiring journey at Curious Monica. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E18: Write Your Own Story and Claim Your Seat at the Table with Jenn T. Grace
06/04/2024
S3 E18: Write Your Own Story and Claim Your Seat at the Table with Jenn T. Grace
has always been drawn to the transformative power of storytelling. Her affinity for communication and marketing, intertwined with her passion for storytelling, wasn't merely coincidental. Friends and family often sought her out to navigate explanations or bridge communication gaps during conflicts, finding solace and guidance in her ability to connect the dots. However, embracing her own narrative didn't happen overnight. Today, Jenn stands as the Founder & CEO of , a thriving independent publishing brand that has facilitated the sharing of voices from over 200 individuals worldwide by redefining the publishing process. Yet, Jenn's journey into this realm began with a desire to leave behind a toxic workplace where she experienced discrimination for five years. In our conversation, we delved into Jenn's remarkable journey of self-discovery, from finding her voice to establishing her publishing enterprise and emerging as the innovative leader she is today. Join us on Curious Monica as we celebrate Pride Month and honor LGBTQ+ trailblazers. Discover more about Jenn's inspiring odyssey on Curious Monica. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E17: Take the Path Less Travelled with Designer Kimberly Wong
05/28/2024
S3 E17: Take the Path Less Travelled with Designer Kimberly Wong
Fashion designer is not shy about building her own path. Today Kim is the founder of Cukimberly, a successful brand of original and colorful print, jewelry, clothes, and accessories in New York. But her journey into fashion was somewhat atypical, and in a way represented the very strength of her unique approaches to creativity and her work as an artist. Kim always loved art, but growing up Asian-American meant that she was encouraged to pursue a traditional career in business. Instead, she paved her own path, going to Japan and becoming an English teacher, and then starting her career in China. It was easier said than done to go to a country without speaking the language, or with a job. But her passion for food, community building, and marketing quickly helped her find her voice. She soon became the Shanghai go-to person to open restaurants and even worked in interior design. Today she is back in New York, working in the fashion industry and running her own brand full-time, but as she reflects on all these chapters, she shares how her past helped her be the better innovator and designer she strives to be. This May, as we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are thrilled to dive deeper into Kimberly Wong's journey into fashion, business, restaurant and more. Connect with Kim Wong on her site, Instagram or LinkedIn. Seeking inspiration? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang interviews trailblazers forging new paths to create positive change. Explore more at curiousmonica.com. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E16: Disrupt Industries with Agility and Determination with Scott Sassa
05/21/2024
S3 E16: Disrupt Industries with Agility and Determination with Scott Sassa
The lack of a traditional background in business did not stop young from dreaming of a future in Hollywood. He didn't like school nor wanted to finish college but he loved learning and was determined to find a path for his dream career - even if that meant calling the same office every day until they gave him a chance for an interview. Today, is renowned for disrupting numerous industries as an intrapreneur, establishing large-scale businesses within corporations. As an American entertainment executive, he has occupied several high-level positions in prominent entertainment companies such as Turner Broadcasting System, NBC, Hearst, and El Rey Network. He also ventured into the realm of social media with his role at Friendster before its widespread popularity. Currently, he serves as the Chairman of MILK Makeup, delving into the realms of beauty and skincare. Throughout his various roles, he is reminded that leadership is a journey marked by adaptation and persistence. His eagerness to learn, embrace new challenges, advocate for himself, and consistently show up demonstrates his audacity to share his contributions with the world. This May, as we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are thrilled to showcase Scott's inspiring journey into his media, beauty, and business. Connect with Scott Sassa on his , email, or . Seeking inspiration? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang interviews trailblazers forging new paths to create positive change. Explore more at curiousmonica.com. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E15: Do What You Love Despite Lack of Representation with Jean H. Lee
05/14/2024
S3 E15: Do What You Love Despite Lack of Representation with Jean H. Lee
From the outset, harbored a clear passion for journalism. Yet, breaking into a field devoid of faces resembling her own posed challenges. Undeterred by the lack of representation, Jean persevered, eventually emerging as one of the foremost journalists of her time. Over her 20-year tenure with the Associated Press, she not only achieved remarkable success but also secured unparalleled access to North Korea—a feat few could boast. Spearheading the opening of the Seoul and Pyongyang Bureaus, Jean made history as one of the first Korean Americans to oversee both South and North Korea's coverage, solidifying her status as a leading authority on the region. Jean H. Lee's journey exemplifies resilience and determination in the face of adversity. As a seasoned journalist, she has garnered acclaim for her incisive reporting and unparalleled insights into North Korea. From navigating safety concerns to establishing a bureau in an enigmatic nation, Jean's story is one of unwavering commitment to her craft and an unyielding pursuit of truth. This May, in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we celebrate Jean's remarkable achievements and her invaluable contributions to journalism. Connect with Jean Lee on LinkedIn and JHLeeMedia.com to delve deeper into her inspiring narrative. For more stories of courage and innovation, subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang engages with trailblazers shaping positive change. Explore further at curiousmonica.com. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E14: Return to Your Passion Afterall with Geronimo Carlos Ramos III
05/07/2024
S3 E14: Return to Your Passion Afterall with Geronimo Carlos Ramos III
believes that the most rewarding journey is returning to your passion, regardless of the twists and turns along the way. Today, his culinary adventure is enriched by collaborations with Michelin-star chefs and prestigious events, such as the Tiger Woods Hero Golf tournament in the Bahamas. While food and people have always been central to Geronimo's story, the full picture of the chef and content creator he is today only came into focus later in his career. Growing up in L.A., Geronimo developed a deep appreciation for food and community service from his family, who prioritized serving others. However, as an immigrant family wanting him to have the best opportunities, they initially questioned the viability of a career in cooking when he first expressed interest in becoming a chef. This uncertainty pushed Geronimo to explore diverse fields such as business, psychology, product management, technology, and design, leading him to discover the power of social entrepreneurship. Over time, he realized that all his experiences and passions ultimately tied back to his core love for food and people. He shares insights into honing his craft and managing his day as a chef, content creator, and product designer in the tech industry. This May, as we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are thrilled to showcase Geronimo's inspiring journey into his true passion as a chef. Connect with Geronimo Carlos Ramos III on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Tag him or send him a direct message to say hello. Seeking inspiration? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang interviews trailblazers forging new paths to create positive change. Explore more at curiousmonica.com. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E13: Turn Gaps into Opportunities with Sheena Yap Chan
04/30/2024
S3 E13: Turn Gaps into Opportunities with Sheena Yap Chan
is dedicated to amplifying the voices of Asian female leaders in the workplace. Through her role as author and podcast host of "," she has engaged with over 900 Asian female leaders, reshaping our understanding of leadership and self-confidence in professional settings. Her journey began with a simple yet powerful question: why aren't people who look like me speaking up? Motivated by a desire for representation, Sheena, an active writer and influencer, entered the media and podcasting arena to address this gap. In our conversation, she shares insights into managing her time and projects, highlighting how she continually cultivates confidence to inspire and empower others. She emphasizes the profound connection between vulnerability, authenticity, and self-confidence, a thread woven through her journey and the stories of many others. This May, as we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we are thrilled to spotlight Sheena's courageous role as an innovator, contributing to the empowerment of AAPI voices. Connect with Sheena Yap Chan on any social media platform, and don't miss her podcast and book, "The Tao of Self-Confidence." Sheena hails from the Philippines and currently resides in Toronto, Canada. Seeking inspiration? Subscribe to Curious Monica by , where host Monica H. Kang interviews trailblazers forging new paths to create positive change. Explore more at . for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E12: Non-Linear Paths Brings Good Stories and Skills for Life with Jeff Kirschner
04/23/2024
S3 E12: Non-Linear Paths Brings Good Stories and Skills for Life with Jeff Kirschner
Not knowing what lies beyond can lead to thrilling adventures if you remain curious and open-minded, as discovered firsthand. After college, Jeff explored various paths driven by his love for learning. From bartending in San Francisco (SF) to embarking on a year-long backpacking journey worldwide, his diverse experiences shaped his journey. Upon returning to SF, Jeff's curiosity and broad perspective guided him to meaningful opportunities in advertising and startups. However, it was a simple yet profound question from his daughter—"Why is there trash in the middle of the woods?"—that sparked his mission to combat litter. Witnessing the pervasive issue of litter in seemingly eco-friendly neighborhoods inspired Jeff to take action. As the Founder of Litterati, he has built a global community dedicated to achieving a litter-free world through creative storytelling and documentation. For over 12 years, Litterati has collected over 1.9 million pieces of litter across 185 countries, advocating for tangible solutions to address this pressing issue. Jeff's journey highlights the power of curiosity and storytelling in leadership. Join us in celebrating his efforts this Earth Day and learn how you can contribute to the movement. Connect with Jeff on and follow Litterati on social media. Ready for more inspiring stories? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang shares empowering interviews. Visit curiousmonica.com for more. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E11: Learning Life Values from Birds and Nature with Monica Iglecia
04/16/2024
S3 E11: Learning Life Values from Birds and Nature with Monica Iglecia
When did you last pause to notice a bird soaring in the sky? Our conversation with Monica Iglecia will encourage you to take a closer look. Meet Monica, a passionate bird scientist and conservation biologist dedicated to preserving bird habitats. As the U.S. Coordinator for the Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture in Portland, Oregon, she leads large-scale conservation efforts, fostering collaboration and innovation to protect our Earth and its ecosystems. Monica shares her journey, highlighting the diverse experiences that have fueled her curiosity and resilience. This Earth Day, join us in celebrating Monica's dedication to bird conservation and her leadership in wildlife sustainability. Connect with Monica Iglecia on LinkedIn and learn more about her organization. Ready for inspiring stories? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang shares empowering interviews. Visit curiousmonica.com for more. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E10: Use Technology to Change How We Think about Farming with Millennial Farmer, Zach Johnson
04/09/2024
S3 E10: Use Technology to Change How We Think about Farming with Millennial Farmer, Zach Johnson
, a fifth generation family farmer from West Central Minnesota, saw a gap in awareness about farming and agriculture. In 2016, he launched his idea of documenting and sharing his farming journey online. Today, his YouTube channel, "Millennial Farmer," boasts over a million subscribers, where he showcases daily life on the family farm and promotes positive farming practices. I first discovered Zach's work at a Google office, where his channel was recognized for its creative use of YouTube. Eight years later, his impact remains significant. We delved into his journey to understand how we can better advocate for farmers and grasp the importance of agriculture. Join us in celebrating Zach Johnson, "Millennial Farmer," for his inspiring mission this Earth Day. Learn more about his work on Curious Monica and our website, . for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E9: Solve Global Challenges with Science and Storytelling with Aubrey R. Paris
04/02/2024
S3 E9: Solve Global Challenges with Science and Storytelling with Aubrey R. Paris
Dr. Aubrey R. Paris grew up loving science and science fairs. Curiosity drove her to identify problems and approach them with innovative thinking, a hallmark of scientific problem-solving. While exploring various avenues in science and innovation, she recognized an opportunity to merge her interests and pursue a career in science diplomacy. What exactly is science diplomacy? Aubrey is eager to delve deeper into this topic and share her journey that led her to her current role as the Senior Policy Advisor on Gender, Climate & Innovation in the Secretary's Office of Global Women's Issues (S/GWI) at the U.S. Department of State. Today, she spearheads policy and public diplomacy initiatives at the intersection of gender and climate change. Reflecting on her journey, she attributes her success to her passion for innovation, storytelling, and community building, qualities she encourages others to embrace by trying something new. Join us in celebrating Aubrey R. Paris's inspiring journey into sustainability. Learn more about her work on Curious Monica and our website curiousmonica.com. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E8: Best Dreams Take Time. How to Pursue Them and Not Give Up with Rahama Wright
03/26/2024
S3 E8: Best Dreams Take Time. How to Pursue Them and Not Give Up with Rahama Wright
If you truly believe in something, don't ever let go of it. Don't let not having a playbook stop you. Rahama Wright is here to tell you to go pursue your dreams because the best paths will not have a playbook given to you. When young Rahama first noticed a problem in the shea market, she wanted to do something about it. Volunteering in the Peace Corps and working in Mali, West Africa inspired her to create a businsss with a social mission that empowers women and children. She noticed that so many women harvesting and making shea butter were underpaid and in poverty, while global consumers were paying a high price for the goods. She realized she can be a problem solver by shaking up the system. Her business, Shea Yeleen, markets and distributes high-quality unrefined shea butter produced by women's cooperatives in West Africa, offering U.S. consumers a natural skincare line that is fairly-traded and ethically produced. As Rahama continues to shake up the industry and systems for equity with high-quality products, she is rethinking entrepreneurship and social impact as well. We're excited to celebrate her journey as an innovator as we celebrate Women's History Month. Please connect with her on LinkedIn and check out her site to learn more. For more inspiring stories, subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang shares compelling narratives. Visit curiousmonica.com for more. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E7: They Said No, So She 10x'ed Them with Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria
03/19/2024
S3 E7: They Said No, So She 10x'ed Them with Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria
Sometimes, it seems like the universe throws obstacles in our path, but how we respond is ultimately up to us. Growing up in a hotel wasn't abnormal for Sadhna Bokhiria when she immigrated to Connecticut. Her parents owned the hotel, so it was normal for her to clean the rooms and live there. Her classmates didn't think so, and made sure she knew about it. Despite facing injustice and discouragement, such as a professor dismissing her dreams of becoming a teacher, Sadhna refused to be deterred. Her response was a resolute "watch me" whenever someone told her she couldn't do something. Today, Sadhna is the Founder & CEO of KIRIA Research, an advisory firm for the biotech and pharmaceutical industry that specializes in studying health systems. Her firm is responsible for advising clients who collectively brought in over 283 billion dollars in revenue in 2023. Known for her quick wit and authentic leadership, she is revolutionizing cancer treatment by integrating psychosocial factors and humor into patient care. Recognizing the healing power of laughter, she delved into the study of stand-up comedians, interviewing over 600 to understand how humor impacts psychology, physiology, resilience, and leadership. Committed to giving back, Sadhna partners with healthcare institutions like Banner Health, Mayo Clinic, and Phoenix Children's Hospital to provide housing for cancer patients traveling to Arizona for treatment. In India, she creates scholarships for underprivileged children, particularly girls, to access education and opportunities beyond societal challenges. Sadhna's message is clear: Don't let anyone stop you from pursuing your dreams. As we celebrate female innovators for International Women's Day, we're honored to share Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria's courageous journey. Connect with her on LinkedIn. For more inspiring stories, subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang shares compelling narratives. Visit curiousmonica.com for more. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E6: Dream Big, Be Resourceful, Practice Gratitude with Nina Vaca
03/12/2024
S3 E6: Dream Big, Be Resourceful, Practice Gratitude with Nina Vaca
How do you define success? For Nina Vaca, it was starting a business at 25 to connect people to opportunities. Born in Ecuador, Nina moved to the U.S. with her family in search of more opportunities. Watching her parents work multiple jobs, she learned the values of diligence, determination, and authenticity. Discovering her passion for serving others at 17, Nina pursued her entrepreneurial dreams wholeheartedly. Today, in 2024, Nina Vaca embodies the American Dream as a pioneering Latina entrepreneur, philanthropist, and global leader. Over 28 years, she has transformed Pinnacle Group from a one-woman IT staffing firm into a powerhouse providing workforce solutions across industries. Beyond business, Nina is deeply involved in philanthropy, supporting numerous global causes. Appointed as Presidential Ambassador for Global Entrepreneurship by President Barack Obama in 2014, Nina is a beacon of inspiration. Outside of work, Nina cherishes life to the fullest. An avid triathlete for two decades, she has redefined failure and emphasizes the importance of living fully. She also treasures time with her husband and four children in Dallas, Texas. As we celebrate Women's History Month this March, we are honored to share Nina's remarkable journey. Connect with Nina Vaca on LinkedIn and visit her website at ninavaca.com. For more inspiring stories, subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang shares compelling narratives. Visit curiousmonica.com for more. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E5: Lead with Kindness and Curiosity and Karma will Follow with Nancy Ngo
03/05/2024
S3 E5: Lead with Kindness and Curiosity and Karma will Follow with Nancy Ngo
The best dream jobs you find may be jobs you don't see online. Looking back, Nancy Ngo shares how her career and many opportunities came to her because she proactively sought to learn more about the world. Stepping into everything with curiosity, openness to learning, and being kind helped her become the leader she is today, overseeing multi-industry B2B and B2C communication and marketing. Her internship at TIME magazine opened her eyes to the world of media and communication. She loved stepping into this world. She had read about it in magazines throughout her childhood. Thanks to her mother's hairstyling business, she had the opportunity to access all different types of magazines and normalize diverse storytelling early on. She honed her leadership skills as she continued to build her career in communication at Google, IBM, TechChange, the US government, and more in 9 cities and six countries. But perhaps what's more inspiring than her impressive resume is her humanness. She loves her family and friends, and she ensures that we make time for our mental well-being and dancing if that's your way of destressing. She invites you to be open to new experiences to make the fullest out of your life. As we honor Women's History Month this March, we are happy to share Nancy's inspiring journey into communication and leadership. Connect with Nancy Ngo on LinkedIn. Looking for stories that inspire you and motivate you? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang unfolds inspiring stories. Visit curiousmonica.com for more stories. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E4: Transforming Youth Education with Empathy and Excellence with Krista Purnell
02/27/2024
S3 E4: Transforming Youth Education with Empathy and Excellence with Krista Purnell
Be open and stay curious. It may lead you to new opportunities that you didn't expect. Looking back at all her chapters in education, Krista Purnell shares how staying open-minded helped her thrive and grow. From a 5th-grade math teacher in New York to now the Director of School & District Success at Gradient Learning, Krista has been devoted to education and social impact for over 18 years. The secret to her impactful leadership has been the balance of empathy and excellence. A delicate balance of two key leadership skills that she led as she learned how to empower and inspire youth while managing stress, burnout, and work/life balance while educators continue to be underpaid and overworked. Still, she persists and shows up because she has seen how good education changes people for good. Good karma comes back in her students and the schools she works with and she is eager to see more. You move mountains with others not alone. As we honor Black History Month this February, we are humbled to share Krista's inspiring journey into education and leadership. Connect with Krista Parnell on LinkedIn and her organization. Ready for a narrative that transcends boundaries? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang unfolds stories that inspire. Visit curiousmonica.com for more empowering interviews. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E3: Building Common Grounds with Curiosity in Science with Dr. Jonathan Madison
02/20/2024
S3 E3: Building Common Grounds with Curiosity in Science with Dr. Jonathan Madison
How do you build a career in science and education? It's a question Dr. Jonathan D. Madison, Program Director for the Metals and Metallic Nanostructures Program at the National Science Foundation (NSF), has been asking to be where he is today. In our conversation, Jonathan shares how he got into science as a career, how he honed his leadership skills, and what helps him manage his time and energy with all the different workloads he has as a leader today. He also shares how we need to rethink how we address the lack of representation in STEM and helps us look at it scientifically. Most importantly, he reminds us that humility, communication, and patience are important leadership skills and values to hone. Whether you are new to science and metallic nanostructures or not, you'll walk away being inspired and empowered. As we honor Black History Month this February, we proudly spotlight Jonathan's insightful journey into science and inclusive leadership. Connect with Jonathan Madison on LinkedIn and contact his team at NSF (National Science Foundation). Ready for a narrative that transcends boundaries? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang unfolds stories that inspire. Visit curiousmonica.com for more empowering interviews. for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more.
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S3 E2: ReImagine Hospitality and DEI with Kenyatta Z. Lewis
02/13/2024
S3 E2: ReImagine Hospitality and DEI with Kenyatta Z. Lewis
Embark on an enriching journey into the realm of sustainable procurement and supplier diversity with Kenyatta Z. Lewis, the founding Executive Director of Supplier Diversity, Sustainable Procurement and Training in Global Procurement for MGM Resorts International (MGMRI) in Las Vegas. Kenyatta is at the forefront of driving diversity and sustainability, but her path to leadership started from humble beginnings. From her early days in the Army to crafting her career in hospitality, Kenyatta unfolds her story, revealing how her passion for positive change and advocacy for underrepresented voices emerged. In our conversation, she shares the transformative impact of her diverse experiences, illustrating how her journey through various roles prepared her for leadership in the dynamic intersection of industries within hospitality. This February, as we honor Black History Month, we proudly spotlight Kenyatta's exceptional narrative and her influential contributions. Connect with Kenyatta on LinkedIn at Kenyatta Z. Lewis and reach out to her team at MGM Resorts International via . for the episode shownotes, video, mentioned resources, episode transcripts, and more. Ready for a narrative that transcends boundaries? Subscribe to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, where host Monica H. Kang unfolds stories that inspire. Visit curiousmonica.com for more empowering interviews.
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S3 E1: Master Play with Gary Ware
02/06/2024
S3 E1: Master Play with Gary Ware
Meet Gary Ware, the creative force behind Breakthrough Play and author of 'Playful Rebellion' based in sunny San Diego. Gary's passion for infusing play into the workplace stems from a diverse background in music, education, and web design. Fueled by the realization that his dream job wasn't on the market, Gary took the innovative route and created his own path. Join us for an engaging episode as Gary shares his journey from a dreamer to an influencer, reshaping how we perceive play in professional spaces. Discover how this maverick challenges the status quo, empowering leaders and corporations to revolutionize workplace engagement. In honor of Black History Month 2024, Curious Monica is spotlighting Gary Ware and other trailblazing black leaders who are making a positive impact by forging unconventional paths. Follow Gary Ware on social media @GaryWare and explore more about his breakthrough ideas at breakthroughplay.com. Ready to be inspired? Subscribe today to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, hosted by the dynamic Monica H. Kang. Uncover more at curiousmonica.com.
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Season 3 is Coming Back
01/16/2024
Season 3 is Coming Back
Happy 2024! We are thrilled to return with new stories to inspire and empower you. We hope you have been well. Subscribe today to Curious Monica by InnovatorsBox, hosted by the Founder & CEO of InnovatorsBox, Monica H. Kang. The first episode will start in February 2024. Send us your questions and people you'd like us to interview at [email protected]. Learn more at .
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10. Summary: Creating for Tomorrow
01/27/2022
10. Summary: Creating for Tomorrow
In the final episode of Curious Monica Season 2, I reflect on all the conversations I’ve had this season to create a special advice column for innovators. The past few months have been about transition - transitioning into new workplace norms, new careers, and new ways of innovating. And my guests continued to remind me that greater purpose and intention are the heart of what we do. But what exactly does it mean to create and live for tomorrow? This episode summarizes some of the best answers to that question, and serves as an extra dose of inspiration (and curiosity) as the year closes. Thanks again to all my guests and the InnovatorsBox team for making Season 2 happen. See you in the New Year with Season 3! Subscribe today. Curious Monica is hosted by and . Learn more at . Find summary notes .
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9. Getting Curious About Curiosity - A Special Interactive Reflection
01/20/2022
9. Getting Curious About Curiosity - A Special Interactive Reflection
In this very special edition of Curious Monica, I invite you to pause and be mindful with me as I lead you through an interactive reflection on curiosity. Instead of the usual guest interviews, I’m going to share various resources on how to use this time to reflect, pause, and be curious. My hope is that you’ll walk away from this special episode with new questions, and use this time to reflect, pause and set your intentions as you are mapping out your 2022 goals and intentions.
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8. The Power Of Curiosity in Communication - Speakers & Writers
01/06/2022
8. The Power Of Curiosity in Communication - Speakers & Writers
Good writing and speeches inspire you, motivate you, and make you feel heard. So, I was curious. What would it be like to do this full time, and how does one decide to want to become a speaker or a writer? In this episode I speak with authors, speakers, and workplace communicators Don Khouri and Saleema Vellani about their journey into this profession and how others can be successful at it too.
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7. Transforming Health Challenges Into Opportunity - Career Pivots
12/30/2021
7. Transforming Health Challenges Into Opportunity - Career Pivots
Being able to overcome challenges, especially health challenges, takes an incredible amount of resilience. Tough moments remind us of what we have within us - resilience, courage, and persistence. And it takes creativity to be able to apply the lessons we’ve learned from those challenges into our careers. In this episode, we highlight the incredibly inspirational stories of Michelle de Matheu and D. Anthony Evans who pushed through their darkest health moments to find inspiration and a career.
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