Paid Vocation with Lupe Prado
Career and Life coach Lupe Prado dives into diverse, unconventional career stories from entrepreneurs and professionals who are doing work that makes them happy. Paid Vocation redefines career success by looking for joy throughout the journey, not just the arrival. Lupe shares stories of pivots, challenges, and victories to inspire you to pursue your own version of career success.
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Writing Through Loss and Into Purpose | Emma Grey
05/15/2025
Writing Through Loss and Into Purpose | Emma Grey
Episode #126. In this episode, I’m joined by Emma Grey—bestselling author of The Last Love Note and Pictures of You. Emma shares her remarkable journey from dreaming of writing as a teenager in Australia to finally becoming a full-time novelist in her 50s. She opens up about how writing became a healing path through personal grief after losing her husband, and how her books, now international bestsellers, are helping others navigate their own stories of love and loss. We talk about embracing rejection as part of the process, finding courage to keep showing up for your creative dreams, and why it’s never too late to start—or start again. This is such a powerful conversation about persistence, healing, and letting creativity unfold on its own timeline. If you’ve been doubting your dreams, I hope Emma’s story reminds you—it’s never too late. Connect with Emma Grey:
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Rooted in Purpose | Dr. Toni Viva Muñoz
04/17/2025
Rooted in Purpose | Dr. Toni Viva Muñoz
Episode #125. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Toni Viva Muñoz—award-winning author, Ph.D. scholar, and founder of Model Behaviors, a nonprofit empowering women and children. Toni’s story begins at 16, when she moved to New York to pursue modeling, eventually working with top designers like Oscar de la Renta and Chanel. From runways to research, Toni shares how her winding path led to a life rooted in purpose—blending art, academia, community service, and motherhood. We talk about recognizing when it’s time to pivot, allowing ourselves to outgrow old dreams to make space for new ones, and why you don’t have to do it all in one day to do it well. We also touch on her debut children’s book, El Bowie Bakery, inspired by her family’s roots and her love for the U.S.-Mexico border. This conversation is a powerful invitation to honor every version of yourself—and keep going, even when the path isn’t straight. Connect with Toni Viva Muñoz:
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The Heart Behind Hapsy | Andrea Wightwick
03/25/2025
The Heart Behind Hapsy | Andrea Wightwick
Episode #124. In this episode of Paid Vocation, I’m joined by Andrea Wightwick, founder of Hapsy, the first bubble-free, low-sugar, non-alcoholic cocktail company made for drinking well with others. From receptionist to CEO, Andrea shares her inspiring journey building billion-dollar brands in the beverage industry—and the moment she listened to the nudge to finally create something of her own. We talk about the courage it takes to leave stability behind, how to know when it’s time for a change, and why doing what lights you up is always worth exploring. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that reinvention doesn’t require perfection—just a willingness to explore. Connect with Andrea Wightwick: Connect with Lupe:
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Shifting into Small Business PR | Gloria Chou
03/05/2025
Shifting into Small Business PR | Gloria Chou
Episode #123. In this episode, I’m joined by Gloria Chou, award-winning PR strategist and host of the Small Business PR Podcast. Gloria shares her incredible journey from being a U.S. diplomat—on track for a stable, prestigious career—to taking a bold leap into entrepreneurship. Gloria opens up about the fears, mindset shifts, and limiting beliefs she had to confront along the way. From cold-pitching journalists without PR experience to building a thriving community of female founders, she proves that you don’t need connections to make an impact—you just need the right approach. We dive into the mindset shifts required for reinvention, the power of letting go of limiting beliefs, and why sometimes, the best career moves aren’t the most conventional. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating career pivots, entrepreneurship, or simply wondering if there’s something more out there for them. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on trusting your path, embracing reinvention, and building a career that aligns with your purpose. Connect with Gloria Chou: Connect with Lupe:
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Styles of Joy | SC Perot
01/28/2025
Styles of Joy | SC Perot
Episode #122. In this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Catherine “SC” Perot, author of Styles of Joy and adjunct faculty at Vanderbilt University. SC opens up about her transition from law to teaching, sparked by a deep love for storytelling and a desire to live more authentically. SC shares how a playlist, a Harry Styles concert, and acts of kindness inspired her to reclaim joy during life’s toughest moments. SC reflects deeply on how grief shaped her perspective on life. She describes joy not as an elusive destination but as something we can actively seek—even in the smallest, most unexpected moments. SC’s vulnerability and insight remind us of the power of connection, community, and embracing what lights us up. Tune in for an uplifting and inspiring conversation about finding joy, embracing change, and leaning into life’s unexpected turns. Connect with SC Perot: Connect with Lupe:
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Lessons on Woodworking and Entrepreneurship | Simon Perschbacher
01/10/2025
Lessons on Woodworking and Entrepreneurship | Simon Perschbacher
Episode #121. In this episode, I sit down with Simon Perschbacher, owner of Simon Perschbacher Wooden Works, to explore his inspiring journey from a small town in Germany to building a thriving woodworking business in Catskill, NY. Simon shares how starting small but thinking big shaped his approach to both his craft and his life. From starting small and building skills one project at a time to navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, Simon offers insights on quality craftsmanship and staying grounded. Plus, he reflects on what it’s like to train someone completely new to woodworking—and how anyone can start their own creative journey. Simon's practical advice, rooted in his own journey, is a reminder that anyone—regardless of age or background—can learn new skills if they approach it with curiosity and patience. His story is a testament to following your passion while keeping your goals in perspective. Whether you're dreaming of building a business or picking up a new hobby, this conversation will leave you inspired to take the first step—no matter how small. Connect with Simon Perschbacher: Connect with Lupe:
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From Law to Legacy | Monica Lira Bravo
11/26/2024
From Law to Legacy | Monica Lira Bravo
Episode #120. In this inspiring episode of Paid Vocation, I chat with Monica Lira Bravo, founder and managing attorney of Lira Bravo Law. Monica opens up about her journey of overcoming challenges and building a life of service - from the resilience instilled by her parents’ migrant experience to the joy she finds in reuniting families through immigration law. She explains why finding work that fulfills you is essential, how failure can lead to growth, and the importance of giving back. Her dedication to serving her community is a powerful reminder that each of us has the capacity to make an impact. If you’re seeking purpose, this conversation is for you. Tune in and discover how to create a life—and career—filled with meaning. Connect with Monica Lira Bravo: Connect with Lupe:
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From Vision to Venture | Assia Mahmood
10/18/2024
From Vision to Venture | Assia Mahmood
Episode #119. In this episode of Paid Vocation, I sit down with Assia Mahmood, the entrepreneur behind Windhaven Academy. Assia shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to creating a childcare center with heart and purpose. As a mother herself, Assia knew she wanted to build a space that truly supports working moms, offering more than just care for kids, but a community for families. She talks candidly about the challenges of entering the industry with no experience, navigating a pandemic, and learning along the way. Driven by her passion for creating a better childcare experience for working moms, she also authored the children’s book, My First Day of Daycare, to support families during pivotal transitions. Assia’s story reminds us to trust our instincts, lean on our support networks, and never lose sight of our vision. Tune in to hear how passion and persistence help brought her dream to life. Connect with Assia Mahmood: Connect with Lupe:
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Embracing Grief, Joy, and the Power of Friendship | Sarah Gormley
08/29/2024
Embracing Grief, Joy, and the Power of Friendship | Sarah Gormley
Episode #118. In this heartfelt episode of Paid Vocation, I sit down with writer and art gallery owner Sarah Gormley to explore the profound themes of love, grief, and the transformative power of community. Sarah shares the deeply personal journey that led her to write her memoir, The Order of Things: A Memoir About Chasing Joy including how the loss of her mother was both heartbreaking and healing. We explore the unexpected gratitude that comes with grief, the strength borrowed from loved ones, and the beauty of a supportive community. Sarah’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience found in human connections, the joy that can emerge even from life’s most challenging experiences, and the importance and following our passions. Tune in to be inspired by Sarah’s story and reflect on how we can all prioritize the relationships and passions that bring us joy. Connect with Sarah Gormley: Connect with Lupe:
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The Power of Words | Grace Griffith
08/09/2024
The Power of Words | Grace Griffith
Episode #117. In this inspiring episode of Paid Vocation, I sit down with Grace Griffith, a talented copywriter and messaging strategist who specializes in crafting trust-building content for small businesses. Grace shares her journey from dreaming of being a singer-songwriter to finding her true calling in copywriting. We explore how her love for storytelling and creativity evolved into a passion for helping businesses connect with their audiences through empathetic and impactful messaging. Her story is a testament to the power of following one's creative instincts and the importance of supportive relationships in achieving success. Tune in for a heartwarming conversation filled with insights on balancing ambition, creativity, and family life. Connect with Grace Griffith: Connect with Lupe:
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Scrubs, Scripts, and Scribbles | Elle Evans
07/11/2024
Scrubs, Scripts, and Scribbles | Elle Evans
Episode #116. This week on the podcast, I sat down with Elle Evans, an anesthesiologist and academic researcher by day, and a writer by night, who shares the emotional rollercoaster of her writing journey publishing under a not-so-secret pen name. Elle delves into the intrinsic joy she finds both in her day job and pouring her soul into her writing, emphasizing the importance of cultivating an expansive life outside the hospital. In this episode, she vulnerably recounts the challenges she faced, including the exhaustion of countless rejections and the inner turmoil of questioning whether to continue pursuing her dream. Despite facing numerous setbacks and doubts, Elle persevered through the process of submissions and revisions, supported by her unwavering determination and the steadfast encouragement of her loved ones. Tune in to hear how Elle navigates her dual identities and be inspired to chase your dreams, no matter how diverse they may be. Connect with Elle Evans: Connect with Lupe:
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Resilience and Reinvention | Kelly Simants
05/16/2024
Resilience and Reinvention | Kelly Simants
Episode #115. In this uplifting episode, I sit down with Kelly Simants, an HR expert with over 25 years of experience, who shares her remarkable story of resilience. Kelly recounts the pivotal moment when her husband's accident turned their lives upside down and how she became the family's primary breadwinner. From running a successful wedding planning business to returning to corporate HR and starting a resume writing service, Kelly’s journey is a powerful testament to adaptability and strength. Listen in for her insights on navigating career transitions, the crucial role of community, and the power of stretching beyond your comfort zone. This episode is a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone navigating life's unexpected challenges that will inspire you to face challenges head-on and find new paths in your professional life. Connect with Kelly Simants: Connect with Lupe:
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Cubicle to Entrepreneurial Success | Ellen Yin
05/01/2024
Cubicle to Entrepreneurial Success | Ellen Yin
Episode #114. In this episode, we're joined by the incredible Ellen Yin, founder & host of Cubicle to CEO®️. Ellen’s journey from corporate cubicle to entrepreneurial success is nothing short of inspiring. In our chat, she challenges the notion that planning alone paves the path to success. Instead, Ellen urges us to embrace action as the true catalyst for clarity. As she eloquently puts it, "Action is what creates clarity, not planning." Ellen reminds us that every venture, whether personal or professional, comes with its share of uncertainty. But it's through action, through taking those initial leaps, that we gain invaluable insights and ultimately soar to new heights. Ellen’s words on embracing uncertainty really resonated, offering practical lessons in resilience. Join us on this journey of embracing discomfort and rejection, as essential steps for our journey toward success. Connect with Ellen Yin: Connect with Lupe:
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Where to Nest? | Kristen Van Nest
04/12/2024
Where to Nest? | Kristen Van Nest
Episode #113. In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with the incredibly insightful Kristen Van Nest, the author of the captivating memoir "Where to Nest?" Kristen's infectious energy and wisdom shine through as she shares insights from her book, urging us to break free from societal expectations and carve our own paths. Drawing from her personal experiences, Kristen encourages us to embrace creativity and freedom in our pursuits, reminding us that we have the power to create the life we desire. As Kristen shares her insights, I find myself inspired to live more purposefully. She reflects on the transformative power of revisiting past chapters of her life, offering valuable lessons in growth and self-discovery. Join us as we explore the impact of embracing vulnerability and authenticity, both in personal growth and professional endeavors. Connect with Kristen Van Nest: Connect with Lupe:
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Leading a Life of No Regrets | Pallavi Ridout
03/21/2024
Leading a Life of No Regrets | Pallavi Ridout
Episode #112. In this episode, I sat down with Pallavi Ridout, an executive leadership coach and dynamic keynote speaker who transitioned from a 20-year corporate career to a life of purpose and passion. Pallavi opened up about her passion for coaching and speaking, emphasizing the importance of leading a life of no regrets. From one-on-one impact to captivating speeches, her dedication to motivating and inspiring others shines through. As Pallavi shares her wisdom, I can't help but feel inspired to live with intention. Join us for a deep dive into purpose, mindset, and actionable steps. Connect with Pallavi Ridout: Connect with Lupe:
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Here After | Amy Lin
03/08/2024
Here After | Amy Lin
Episode #111. In this episode, Amy Lin, a captivating writer from Calgary and author of “Here After”, unfolds the intricate layers of grief, sharing a profound analogy of it being like a ball in a box. Her insights hint at the essence of time in understanding and processing grief. She invites us to consider the diverse ways people hold grief. From ritualized remembrance to living in the daily ebb and flow, she beautifully articulates the personal nuances of this universal experience. Her wisdom serves as a guiding light for anyone navigating the intricate path of grief. Join us as we explore the mysterious ways life and loss intertwine. Amy's words are a gentle reminder that, in the embrace of time, we find the strength to move forward. Connect with Amy Lin: Connect with Lupe:
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Solo Episode: The Energy Equation
02/23/2024
Solo Episode: The Energy Equation
Episode #110. In this episode, we dive into the subtle yet impactful facets of energy management. Join me as I share about intentional choices, from the beats that lift our spirits to being mindful of our connections. Listen to know more about transformative practices like morning pages – a journey into unfiltered morning reflections. And have you considered celebrating victories, both big and small? Ever wondered: what are the things that keep my energy up or bring it down? It's time to reflect on being intentional with our energy. Tune in and let's cultivate a life filled with positive energy and purposeful intention. After all, our energy is the cornerstone of our success and fulfillment. Connect with Lupe:
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Cultivating Success Through Shared Values | Kara Cecala and Lily Smith
02/16/2024
Cultivating Success Through Shared Values | Kara Cecala and Lily Smith
Episode #109. In our heartfelt conversation, Kara Cecala and Lily Smith, founders of 101Media, unveil the secret behind their success: a culture rooted in shared values. They emphasize the transformative power of embodying values through actions and fostering a team dedicated to making a difference. Join us as we explore the profound impact of aligning values with actions, not just in business, but in shaping entire communities for the better. We hope their stories inspire you to infuse purpose into every aspect of your life and work. Connect with Kara Cecala: Connect with Lily (Kramlich-Taylor) Smith: Connect with 101Media: Connect with Lupe:
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Everyone but Myself | Julie Chavez
01/19/2024
Everyone but Myself | Julie Chavez
Episode #108. Join me in this inspiring episode as I sit down with Julie Chavez, a cherished elementary school librarian from Northern California and the author of the insightful book, ‘Everyone but Myself’. In her compelling narrative, Julie opens up about a pivotal time in her life marked by anxiety and self-discovery. Her book is more than a personal story; it's a journey through the complexities of mental health and the pursuit of happiness. What makes Julie's story unique? It's her relatable approach to life's ups and downs, infused with the wisdom of a librarian and the warmth of a mother to two incredible teenagers. Her home life, filled with love and books sorted by color, paints the picture of someone who finds beauty in order. As we explore the key themes of her book, Julie shares valuable insights on overcoming adversity and finding joy in the small moments. It's a conversation that resonates with anyone seeking light in the shadows of life. Connect with Julie: Connect with Lupe:
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How to Find Humor and Hope in Life's Ups and Downs | Elizabeth Passarella
12/15/2023
How to Find Humor and Hope in Life's Ups and Downs | Elizabeth Passarella
Episode #107. This week on podcast I am thrilled to be joined by Elizabeth Passarella. Elizabeth is the author of It Was an Ugly Couch Anyway and Good Apple, which was named one of the best books of 2021 by Real Simple magazine. Her articles and essays have appeared in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Vogue, Parents, Martha Stewart Weddings, Real Simple, and Southern Living. Elizabeth is originally from Memphis and now lives in Manhattan with her husband and three children. This conversation was so much fun. I loved Elizabeth’s book It Was an Ugly Couch Anyway. I couldn’t put it down! Connect with Elizabeth: Connect with Lupe:
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The Power of Guidance | Dr. Nancy McGruder
11/22/2023
The Power of Guidance | Dr. Nancy McGruder
Episode #106. This week on the podcast I am excited to be joined by Nancy McGruder. As the CEO of NMc Coaching & Consulting and an expert in her field, Nancy uses powerful strategies rooted in research, practical application, and emotional intelligence to meet clients at the point of their needs. As an adjunct professor for DBU's Cook School of Leadership, Nancy teaches a Doctoral course on Professional Coaching and mentoring. Nancy earned her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University (DBU) in 2016. She also holds graduate degrees in Foundations of Education, Higher Education, and Management. She earned her coaching certificate from the NeuroLeadership Institute, where she learned to apply a brain-based methodology to facilitate productive coaching conversations using the neuroscience of learning, motivation, and change. This conversation was a good reminder of the importance of having people in our lives that can help us in our goals. Connect with Nancy: Connect with Lupe:
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The Myth of the Nice Girl | Fran Hauser
11/02/2023
The Myth of the Nice Girl | Fran Hauser
Episode #105. This week on the podcast I am thrilled to be joined by Fran Hauser. Fran is an author, keynote speaker, and startup investor who is passionate about leveling the playing field for women. Fran has invested in over 30 female-founded companies across consumer packaged goods, media & publishing, and wellness. She is the best-selling author of The Myth of the Nice Girl (Audible’s Best Business Book of the Year, 2018) and Embrace the Work, Love Your Career. Fran regularly speaks at conferences and organizations to help women build careers they love while staying true to themselves. Much of her current work is informed by 15 years spent in media, where she rose through the ranks at Time Inc. to President of Digital. She lives outside of NYC with her husband, two sons, and their beloved mini Goldendoodle. I loved this conversation. Fran is passionate about supporting women and that really comes through in this interview. Her story will motivate you to find ways to embrace who you are and be successful doing it. Connect with Fran: Connect with Lupe:
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Flowers, Family, Fulfillment | Raquel Lovern Harris
10/19/2023
Flowers, Family, Fulfillment | Raquel Lovern Harris
Episode #104. I am thrilled to be joined by Raquel Lovern Harris. Growing up in her mother’s garden, Raquel has always had a love affair with flowers. She dreamt of being a floral designer but decided to study botany and biology at the University of Texas. Raquel started designing her friend’s wedding flowers while in college and shortly after R. Love Floral was born. While teaching elementary science and planting the seeds for her floral business, R. Love Floral blossomed into a successful floral business. It was then that Raquel made the difficult decision to leave teaching behind and become a full-time entrepreneur. Through the years Raquel has built a dream team and designed over 500 weddings in 13 years serving couples all over the state of Texas and having her weddings published in magazines like BRIDE, Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides of North Texas, and D Weddings. Since starting her floral business in 2010, Raquel has worked with the most amazing wedding clients, large corporate accounts, taught hundreds of floral classes both in person and virtually, and mentored countless budding designers. When she’s not designing beautiful arrangements, or teaching in the flower barn you can find Raquel in the garden, playing with her kids and spending time with her husband at their dream home in the country. I loved this conversation. Raquel is so open about her story and her true love for flowers really comes through. Connect with Raquel: Connect with Lupe:
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Behind the Pulitzer: Crafting Authentic Success | James Ijames
09/28/2023
Behind the Pulitzer: Crafting Authentic Success | James Ijames
Episode #103. This week on the podcast, I am thrilled to be joined by James Ijames. James is a Pulitzer Prize winning and Tony Award nominated playwright, director and educator. James is the recipient of many awards, most recently the 2022 in Drama and a 2023 Tony nominee for Best Play. He received a B.A. in Drama from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA and a M.F.A. in Acting from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. He is an Associate Professor of Theatre at and lives in South Philadelphia. This is one of my favorite conversations on the podcast. I first heard James speak at the Aspen Ideas Festival earlier this year. His story and message resonated deeply with me and I was so excited when he accepted my invitation to join me on the podcast. Today we talk about his journey to becoming a playwright, authenticity, the importance of Big Talk versus small talk and pursuing what you love. Connect with James: Connect with Lupe:
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The Payoff of Persistence | Kate Myers
09/14/2023
The Payoff of Persistence | Kate Myers
Episode #102. This week on the podcast I am thrilled to be joined by Kate Myers. Kate studied archaeology at Penn and recently published her first novel, Excavations. She’s lived in New York, LA, and DC and worked for CBS in TV development, CollegeHumor and BuzzFeed. She’s currently at work on her second novel and lives in Annapolis, Maryland with her husband and daughter. In today’s conversation, Kate shares the process of getting her book published. She was so open and honest about the process and her sense of humor made the conversation so much fun. She shares how important it is to not give up on our dreams even in the face of lots of rejection. Connect with Kate: Connect with Lupe:
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A Dream Career in Basketball: Beyond the Court | Rafael Barlowe
09/07/2023
A Dream Career in Basketball: Beyond the Court | Rafael Barlowe
Episode #101. Rafael Barlowe joins me on the podcast this week. After working in basketball operations for the Texas Legends (the Dallas Mavericks’ G League affiliate), Rafael launched Barlowe Basketball, a coaching and player-development operation that led him to becoming a skills trainer for players with the NBA, EuroLeague, EuroCup, Champions League, G League, and the NCAA Division I. As a videographer, he created YouTube mini-documentaries for a few of the NBA players he trained and gained valuable experience working with elite AAU programs like Mo Williams Academy Elite and D1 Basketball that have produced McDonald's All-Americans and first-round NBA draft picks. His combination of skills training and the ability to create video content has afforded him the opportunity to see the world while doing what he loves and what he is passionate about. His video projects have led him to having numerous NBA and NFL players as clients, and his work has been featured on NBA.com, washingtonpost.com, USAToday.com, CBS.com, and NBA TV. He is the host of podcast, NBA Big Board. I loved this conversation so much. I first met Rafael when he came to my high school to recruit students for an internship program called INROADS. After listening to his presentation, I knew I wanted to be a part of this program. That program eventually led me to an internship and then a full-time offer at one of the biggest accounting firms in the world. I am so grateful to Rafael and I am so inspired by his incredible story. After leaving INROADS he went on to pursue his passion, basketball. He has an incredible story of perseverance. I can't wait for you to listen. Connect with Rafael: Connect with Lupe:
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Celebrating 100 Episodes!
08/31/2023
Celebrating 100 Episodes!
Episode #100. I can’t believe its been 100 episodes! You’ll notice that this is the second episode that we are publishing this week and the reason for that is that my team and I launched the very first episode three years ago today. We thought it would be a special way to commemorate the podcast's anniversary. For today’s episode, I thought it would be fun to switch things up a little and have my friend Hannah Davis interview me for the podcast. Hannah is previous Paid Vocation guest, tv host, media personality, communications coach and formerly the host of Good Morning Texas. She is an incredible interviewer and it was such a pleasure to be interviewed by her. Before we dive into the interview, I want to thank you so much for listening to this podcast. I have loved all of the conversations and have learned so much along the way. Thank you to my amazing Dklutr team led by Anne Garcia. This podcast is a labor of love and I’m deeply appreciative of every single team member who helps make it a reality. Thank you for being a part of the Paid Vocation community. Here’s to a hundred episodes filled with learning, growth and stories that shape us. Connect with Lupe:
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How to Harness Your Inner Energy | Kimberly Lucht
08/29/2023
How to Harness Your Inner Energy | Kimberly Lucht
Episode #99. This week on the podcast, I am delighted to be joined by Kimberly Lucht Kimberly is a business coach and energy healer who helps entrepreneurs make money and magic doing what they love. She's been featured as an expert in Money, Business Insider, Well + Good, Create & Cultivate, Greatist and currently lives near New York City. This conversation was so much fun. I learned a lot about energy healing. It is a fascinating topic and I love the way Kimberly has been able to combine her love for business coaching with her passion for energy and the way it can provide healing. Connect with Kimberly: Connect with Lupe:
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How to Let Go of Fear and Embrace Transformation | Paula Holland
08/22/2023
How to Let Go of Fear and Embrace Transformation | Paula Holland
Episode #98. This week on the podcast I am excited to introduce you to Paula Holland. Paula is a women’s mental fitness mentor & coach, speaker, award-winning author & artist and a 20+ year cancer survivor. She has inspired thousands of women living on the edge of burnout to triple their ability to take back control, take care of themselves, and joyfully live their true purpose. Her heart-first approach and innovative growth tools strengthen the part of the brain that creates happiness and quiets the part that creates stress and negative emotions. Her proven process builds the sustainable resilience required to flourish in today’s chaotic world. In today’s conversation, we talk about how her cancer diagnosis led to a major transformation and how that has led her to help other women transform their own lives. Connect with Paula: Connect with Lupe:
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Illustrating Our Dreams | Marissa Valdez
08/15/2023
Illustrating Our Dreams | Marissa Valdez
Episode #97. Marissa Valdez is a Latina children’s book author and illustrator who loves to create funny, ridiculous, and spunky characters for meaningful stories. She originally received her Bachelors of Fine Arts in Animation, but life swept her away from animation and into the world of children’s illustration in the midst of 2020 and the pandemic. She’s now worked on books with the major publishing houses Hachette, Penguin Random House, Macmillan, and Candlewick Books. Two books that Marissa illustrated, Ambitious Girl written by Meena Harris and Hattie Harmony: Worry Detective written by Elizabeth Olsen and Robbie Arnett, reached the #1 spot on the New York Times Bestsellers list. She also recently won a Golden Kite Honor for her illustrations in Esme’s Birthday Conga Line, a chapter book written by Lourdes Heuer (pronounced Higher). Marissa is currently working on several other projects, including her own book, that she both wrote and illustrated, which she’s excited to share with the world in 2025. Along with creating books, Marissa enjoys teaching and has collaborated with the online learning platform, Domestika, to teach a course on how to create a children’s book portfolio. Marissa enjoys finding everyday inspiration in her vegetable garden, reading sci-fi and fantasy books, and rambling around villages in the United Kingdom with her two cats and husband, with whom she shares her West Midlands home. Originally from the South Texas border, Marissa also enjoys incorporating her Hispanic heritage, childhood experiences growing up in Texas, and love of bright colors into her artwork and stories. Connect with Marissa: Connect with Lupe:
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