“…every challenge, every late night, and every tough decision has taught me that I am stronger than I ever thought possible.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: I have been in the talent acquisition field for over a decade now and have been managing people from the junior level up to those who have been in the industry longer than I have. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a manager is watching your team grow and succeed.
I’m passionate about mentoring, coaching, and helping individuals unlock their potential. I find great satisfaction in identifying someone’s strengths, nurturing their talents, and guiding them toward achieving their personal and professional goals.
I believe that a positive work environment is crucial for success. I’m passionate about cultivating a culture where people feel respected, motivated, and empowered. This includes advocating for work-life balance, promoting diversity and inclusion, and ensuring open communication within the team.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: I grew up in a close-knit family that emphasized the importance of education, hard work, and kindness. My parents were my first role models; they taught me the values of perseverance, dedication, and empathy.
Growing up, we weren’t wealthy, but we were rich in love, support, and encouragement. My parents always made sure that I had access to good education and opportunities to explore my interests.
Academically, I was always driven. I loved learning and excelled in my studies, often pushing myself to be at the top of my class. Subjects like English and Mathematics fascinated me because they allowed me to understand people and cultures, while math and science challenged my analytical skills. Education was more than just a means to an end—it was a way to explore the world and my place in it.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: One of the most important things I’ve learned is the power of resilience. Life as a single mother can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. But every challenge, every late night, and every tough decision has taught me that I am stronger than I ever thought possible.
Resilience isn’t about never falling; it’s about getting back up every time. One of the hardest lessons I had to learn was that asking for help doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re human. Whether it’s leaning on family, friends, or community resources, reaching out for support is a strength, not a weakness.
It’s easy to feel like you’re falling short when juggling so many roles, but remember that you are enough just as you are. The love, effort, and dedication you pour into your family and work are what truly matter. Your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be valid and valuable.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: To me, feminism means advocating for equality, respect, and the freedom for all individuals—especially women—to make choices that align with their values, ambitions, and needs without judgment or restriction. It’s about breaking down the barriers that have historically limited women’s opportunities and recognizing the diverse ways in which women contribute to society, both inside and outside the home.
Feminism, to me, is about embracing the full spectrum of what it means to be a woman today—strong, vulnerable, ambitious, nurturing, and unapologetically ourselves. It’s about fighting for a better world not just for ourselves, but for future generations.
MORE FROM IHRA: As I always say: Travel like there’s no tomorrow. Dance as if no one is watching. Laugh until your jaw hurts. And love as if it’s your first and last.
“You are the leading lady in your own life, so write your own script.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: That’s easy—helping women in their 30s get clear on what they actually want, drop the constant comparison, and start building a life that feels right for them. It hasn’t always been this way for me. For a long time, I was caught up in trying to tick all the boxes—chasing someone else’s version of success, always feeling behind. It took a while, but I got to a point where I realized that wasn’t working, and I needed to figure out what I actually wanted.
Once I started focusing on what aligned with me and stopped stressing about where I “should” be, everything changed. Now, I’m on a mission to help other women do the same.
Currently, I’m working on two major projects: First, I’m a mindset and clarity coach offering a 12-week coaching program that helps women figure out what they really want and cut through the noise of external expectations. We focus on breaking limiting beliefs, creating goals that feel meaningful, and developing a mindset that empowers you to get there. It’s about reclaiming your life—on your terms.
Second, I’m also running 30 & Thriving Tribe, it’s an online group where I provide free weekly training for women in their 30s who are tired of feeling like they’re running in circles. This is a space for those who are ready to stop worrying about where they “should” be and start figuring out where they actually want to go. It’s about gaining clarity, confidence, and the courage to take the steps that lead to a life you love. It is a community of likeminded women there to relate and lift each other up, helping other women break free from the bullshit expectations, and start thriving. That’s what gets me up in the morning. Because I know what it feels like to be stuck, and I’m here to show them that they can rewrite their own story, just like I did. And my favorite line right now is–You are the leading lady in your own life, so write your own script.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: I went to an all-girls school for both primary and secondary school in Dublin, Ireland. I then went on to do a one-year course to become a legal secretary–I never took this route; instead, after this course, I travelled the world for a year with my sister. I was actually very undecided whether to go, but am so glad I did; I had so many amazing experiences that I will hold with me forever.
I am super close to my family, they are so so supportive of me and I really am blessed. I know not everyone is as fortunate in this area, so I truly am very grateful to be in this position. They encourage me to follow my dreams, lift me up when I need it, and most importantly they are ALWAYS there for me. I love them so much.
After a toxic and narcissistic relationship, I didn’t think good men existed, but, they do, and I am in a happy committed relationship now that we call a partnership, and we are the best team! I love learning new things and growing as a person, so I have done a lot of education courses and hobbies that have earned me diplomas and certificates in everything ranging from business management, beauty, and Reiki to name a few (I know all very different areas), but honestly, that is what has led me to becoming a coach. I was always chasing something that I didn’t know what it was…until now. I will continue to nurture and improve myself and my skills, because I really do love seeing the growth and things I have overcome. I want to be the very best version of myself, and what lights me up is really putting the work in and knowing that I am a strong woman.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: One of the biggest things I’ve learned through personal development is that real change happens when you decide to show up for yourself. For so long, I was stuck, thinking I wasn’t where I should be, frustrated with life, and waiting for things to just click. Spoiler: Nothing clicked until I started putting in the work—learning about myself, facing the hard truths, and unlearning the patterns that had me trapped in that endless cycle of “not good enough.”
Once I got into personal development, things started shifting. I learned that I wasn’t powerless, and I didn’t have to wait around for life to change. I could take control of the narrative and create the life I actually wanted. It’s funny because once you start working on yourself, you realize just how much power you’ve been giving away. And here’s the thing: it’s not some overnight, magical transformation. It’s daily work.
Journaling was one of the things that helped me process my thoughts and emotions. It wasn’t just about writing; it was about understanding myself on a deeper level. Asking myself the tough questions—like, what do I really want? What’s been holding me back? Once I started being honest with myself, I could see the areas where I needed to make changes. Mindset work was a game-changer, too. Shifting from seeing failures as catastrophic to viewing them as lessons was a whole new world for me. I stopped being so hard on myself and started embracing the idea that I didn’t need to have everything figured out right away. The more I leaned into that, the less afraid I became of taking risks.
I also learned the importance of setting boundaries—saying “no” without feeling guilty. Seriously, once you start protecting your energy and stop over-committing to things that don’t align with your goals or values, life gets a whole lot better. And let’s talk about the importance of investing in learning—whether it’s through books, courses, or working with a coach. Personal development isn’t a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing process, and the more you learn, the more you grow. Oh, and gratitude. That was a game-changer, too. Shifting my focus away from what was lacking and learning to appreciate the good things in my life completely flipped my perspective. The point is, personal development is all about consistently showing up for yourself, making small changes, and staying open to growth. The more you put in, the more you get out. It’s about taking control of your own story and realizing that you can create the life you want, even if you have to start from scratch.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: To me, feminism is about choice and freedom. It’s about owning your voice, your decisions, and your path without feeling the pressure to conform to what society expects of you. Feminism means breaking away from the idea that there’s a set timeline or a “right” way to live, especially for women. It’s about reclaiming the narrative, ditching those boxes that tell us we need to have it all figured out, or that success means ticking off someone else’s checklist.
Feminism is also about support. It’s lifting each other up instead of tearing each other down. It’s challenging the bullshit comparisons and judgments we face daily—whether it’s about our careers, relationships, or bodies—and creating spaces where women feel heard, understood, and valued. At the core of it, feminism is about equality, yes, but also empowerment. It’s the belief that we get to decide what makes us happy, what drives us, and what’s worth our time. It’s knowing that our worth doesn’t hinge on external validation or meeting someone else’s expectations. It’s the freedom to be unapologetically yourself, no matter what.
MORE FROM PHILOMENA: First of all thank you for taking the time–time is so precious, so I really appreciate yours. But also, for you still reading, take a moment, think, are you happy? If the answer is yes–FANTASTIC!! If it is no–please then ask yourself another question: What will make me happy? Then….GO DO THAT.
Q and A with Cynthia from Greater Los Angeles, California
“…by being authentically myself and inspiring even just one other person, I create a ripple of impact and change in the world far beyond what I can imagine.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: I am on a mission to redefine the personal development journey from the distorted view of needing to chase perfection. I have been a lifelong student of human potential, exploring how we can heal and achieve the extraordinary despite all odds and limitations.
My deep passion for learning drives me to understand the inner workings of the mind and human spirit, as well as our interconnectedness with the world around us. This is all rooted in a greater motivation: helping people harness the power of the mind and energy to live beyond limits and in alignment with their purpose, without sacrificing anything.
I believe that everyone is born with a purpose and has access to the potential to achieve the unimaginable once they unlock the success keys encoded in their subconscious. My purpose is to help as many people as possible, especially women, unlock this potential.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: My younger years were marked by a challenging journey of self-discovery and a constant search for answers until I realized the seemingly clichéd truth that what I desperately sought outside of myself was actually within me and my spirituality.
I grew up in a big family with four siblings and entrepreneurial parents who built and ran a successful restaurant business, which required a lot of sacrifice. Like most people, my life has been filled with highs and painful growth opportunities. I have learned to appreciate and integrate these experiences as blessings through my spiritual growth, which has led me to discover my truth, purpose, and destiny.
The trauma I endured led me to spend a large part of my life believing I was broken in pursuit of constant self- “improvement,” always chasing a “better” version of myself. Through my life experiences, I’ve realized the flaws in the conventional personal development and healing systems that I was finding and am on a mission to change.
Now, I help people like me who want to live their life of purpose and understand they are not broken and don’t need fixing. I guide them to heal deeply from the many faces of trauma at a subconscious and cellular level, freeing them from their past and unlocking their extraordinary futures NOW without needing to wait years to heal or become their “best” self. I teach others to find purpose in their pain, transforming it into a source of power rather than limitation, enabling them to live their most extraordinary lives without compromise.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: I want others to know that they have always been good enough and that there is purpose and meaning in the pain and chaos of our journeys, just as much as in the joy and all the good. By embracing and integrating all we have been through and learned, and by having the courage to share our gifts, stories, and lessons with others, we live with the most purpose and make the most impact.
I used to believe I needed to affect millions of people to make a real difference. Now, I understand that by being authentically myself and inspiring even just one other person, I create a ripple of impact and change in the world far beyond what I can imagine. I am blessed to have been able to do that many hundreds of times over and will continue to do so for as long as I am alive and hopefully beyond.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: When I think of the original intention behind feminism, the word that comes to mind is sovereignty. This embodies freedom from external control, the right to holistic well-being, and the equal opportunity to contribute and thrive, ultimately leaving a legacy of prosperity. Historically, women have been marginalized, excluded from decision-making, silenced, and oppressed. The feminist movement provided a pathway to dismantle the archaic patriarchal structures that perpetuated systemic injustices against women.
In the realm of mental health, we are discovering that women’s well-being significantly impacts culture and society as a whole. Recent studies show that mothers and teens are the groups most affected by anxiety and depression, posing a serious mental health crisis. Feminism plays a crucial role in addressing challenges specific to women, enabling us to effect change that benefits everyone. This ripple effect influences families, businesses, and society at large.
MORE ABOUT CYNTHIA MARTIN; CHT, RMT: I am the founder of Lumiere Energy Healing and am a certified hypnotherapist, brain-based and trauma-informed mind mastery coach, and speaker. I specialize in rewiring the mind and nervous system which is the missing piece for a lot of people who haven’t seen the healing, success, and transformation results from conventional methods. I offer workshops, group programs, and 90-day rapid results masterminds, plus 1-on-1 VIP Breakthrough Days to fast-track clarity to get results fast. I am currently in the process of developing an accountability community for women entrepreneurs and professionals where we focus on mindset, implementation productivity, self-care, and authentic connection to stay focused and on track to grow together exponentially.
Q and A with Nicole fromLos Angeles, California, living in Atlanta, Georgia
“A quote I like is: Feminism in travel is about empowering women to explore the world freely, breaking barriers and stereotypes, and discovering the strength within themselves through every journey. – Unknown”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: I am passionate about God, family, and travel.
My love for travel started at a young age when I was fascinated by different cultures and destinations around the world. I think I went to Mexico when I was just a few months old (so, really, it’s my parent’s fault [Nicole laughs]). I love helping others create memories. So, I became a travel agent 16 years ago, and eventually launched my own host agency, Art N Soul Escapes, six years ago.
Let’s go back a little ways, so you can get a glimpse of why this journey is so important. In 1999, I was in a plane crash (military) that changed my life forever. I won’t go into the entire story, but I was not supposed to walk away from that accident. I had switched seats with one of the airmen who passed away just before takeoff. From that moment forward, fear took over my life. It took about 10 years to “jump back on the horse,” and even now, I’m extremely afraid to fly—but I try to live by the words tattooed on my arm, “Walk by faith, not by sight.” I knew from then on, I had a purpose. What that was, I wasn’t so sure. What I began to realize, was part of that purpose (is) to face my fear, and help others face theirs. I feel extremely blessed, and if I can inspire one person to have a tiny bit of courage, then this journey is all worth it.
Currently, I’m working on organizing unique and affordable bucket list travel packages for 2025 and 2026. One of my most requested trips is my Mystery Trip. My goal is to empower more women, especially women of color, to break the stereotype and venture beyond their 100-mile radius to explore other countries. I want my clients to know that they can afford these experiences, and our payment plans help make it possible. Often, we need a little courage to take that leap, either because we don’t think we can afford it, or because we don’t have friends that can go with us. And that’s where my agency steps in to help.
As a host agency, my focus is to give those new or wanting to get into the industry an opportunity to have the personal support that you don’t always get in a larger host agency. I strive to provide them with the tools that I wasn’t given when I got into this industry. There wasn’t a person I could pick up the phone and talk to when I needed help walking through a process, or anyone showing me the ins and outs of putting together group trips. I had to figure it out alone. That is not what our agency is about. In the travel industry, the money can be great, especially when you niche down and know who your clients are. But for me, it’s about more than just the money I make—it’s about building up a sisterhood and being able to explore things and make memories that our ancestors weren’t able to do. It’s about showing up for people who thought they couldn’t afford to go to places like Dubai or the Maldives. And once you connect with people, their word of mouth is confirmation that I’m doing what I’m supposed to do.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: I grew up in a close-knit family that valued education and exploration. My parents always encouraged me to pursue my interests and instilled in me the importance of hard work and resilience. I was involved in various activities, from sports to student organizations, which taught me teamwork and leadership. I am the youngest of four children. My siblings enlisted in the military before I even went to high school, so it was almost like being an only child. As long as we got good grades and stayed out of trouble, my parents really let me make my own decisions. My dad’s mindset was, “If I tell you no, you’ll sneak out and do it behind my back. I’d rather you lead with the truth.” And honestly, you think that would be the greatest deal ever, to get to do what you want—but it was the opposite. It actually made me more self-aware of the choices I made.
As a teenager, I had the incredible opportunity to travel abroad to places like Russia, Germany, Belgium, and England. These experiences exposed me to different cultures and ways of life that I didn’t see back home in California. It definitely gave me a deeper appreciation for home, but it also ignited my desire to join the military. The military allowed me to visit places I would have never seen otherwise. Travel is very empowering, and those early experiences abroad shaped my desire to help others explore the world and appreciate the diversity and beauty it has to offer. After getting injured in my plane crash, I went into personnel, and later into human resources.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: One valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance and finding joy in the journey, not just the destination. The first few years of building my host agency were challenging (due to the pandemic), but staying committed to my passion and adapting to changes allowed me to succeed. I want others to know that pursuing your dreams may come with obstacles, but the experiences and growth you gain along the way are invaluable. It’s also crucial to surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your vision. Success looks different for everybody. Remember, there is room for more than one person at the top. Don’t let someone else’s success discourage you from going after yours. This may be their time to shine, but don’t fret; yours is coming too, sis!
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Feminism, to me, means advocating for equality and empowerment for all genders. It’s about breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for everyone to succeed, regardless of their gender. As a minority, veteran, and woman-owned business, Art N Soul Escapes embodies these values by promoting diversity and inclusion in the travel industry.
We are very focused on women’s safety and providing safe and empowering travel experiences. We ensure that solo travelers who don’t have anyone to go with feel like they’re at home with our group experience. For us, that means providing secure accommodations, safe transportation, and knowledgeable agents who understand the needs of women travelers.
Our agency is all women, and we encourage those interested in joining a great boutique agency to reach out to us to be a part of something empowering. Additionally, we try to collaborate as much as possible with women guides, women photographers, business owners, and other female professionals to help level the playing field. I believe in supporting and uplifting others, especially women, to achieve their goals and make their mark in the world. Feminism, for me, is about creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and feel empowered in their journey.
MORE ABOUT NICOLE: While Art N Soul Escapes may not be the largest agency, we pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment and consistency. Our journey began with a group trip, which was a fortunate accident, and it revealed the immense potential of full dedication. Even working part-time, we reached our goal of six-figure sales in our first year and have continued to achieve this milestone every year thereafter, reflecting the trust and satisfaction of our clients. The only person I am in competition with is myself. This mindset drives me to continuously improve and innovate in the travel industry. My goal is not just to succeed, but to empower others to succeed as well. I believe in building a sisterhood and creating opportunities for everyone to explore the world, make lasting memories, and achieve their dreams. My advice to those on the fence about pursuing your passion—take that leap. Put your fears aside, and just go for it. If you fall down, dust yourself off and start over. The closest people to you may be the last ones to support you, and that’s okay! Keep going, and show them why they should have believed in you from day one.
Thanks for reading!
I’m originally from Los Angeles, California, but my military travels have taken me all over the world. I have settled in the Atlanta Metro Area for the past 14 years.
“Life’s challenges can be formidable, but with determination and the right guidance, they can be transformed into stepping stones for success.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: Passion is the fuel that drives my journey, and my heart beats for transforming lives through real estate, coaching, and speaking.
From turning adversity into opportunity in real estate to empowering women and speakers to unlock their full potential, my work is a blend of personal triumph and professional expertise.
Currently, I’m working on a dynamic array of projects from a high-impact women’s empowerment event to a best-selling book collaboration called Rebirth, Stories of Unyielding Courage. The spark for these passions ignited when I transitioned from being a schoolteacher to a real estate mogul, driven by necessity and a relentless spirit. Today, my mission is to help others harness their inner strength and achieve their dreams.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: My younger years were a blend of nurturing love and educational rigor. Growing up in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, my family instilled in me the values of hard work and resilience.
Education was a cornerstone, and my journey as a schoolteacher laid the foundation for my later successes.
Activities that profoundly impacted my life include my early forays into real estate, guided by a mentor during challenging times when my son needed multiple brain surgeries.
These experiences not only shaped my career but also fortified my resolve to help others navigate their own paths to success.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the power of resilience and the importance of mentorship. Life’s challenges can be formidable, but with determination and the right guidance, they can be transformed into stepping stones for success.
My story is a testament to the idea that setbacks are not the end but rather opportunities in disguise. I want others to learn that with the right mindset and support system, they too can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Feminism, to me, is about equality, empowerment, and breaking barriers. It’s about creating opportunities for women to thrive in all spheres of life, be it personal or professional. It’s also about supporting each other, sharing knowledge, and lifting one another up.
In my work, feminism translates into empowering women through real estate, coaching, and speaking, helping them find their voices and claim their spaces in the world. It’s about showing that women can excel, lead, and inspire, all while balancing multiple roles with grace and strength.
MORE ABOUT LIMA: In addition to my professional endeavors, I’m also deeply committed to giving back to the community. Whether it’s through my global mentorship programs or my involvement in local initiatives, I strive to make a positive impact. Another aspect close to my heart is continuous learning and growth—I’m always on the lookout for new knowledge and skills to better serve my clients and community.
The Woman Wednesday Blog 