Monica Rivera is a first-generation Latina from NYC who is a marketing professional, business coach and keynote speaker. After 15 years in Corporate America, she was feeling stuck. She devoured a plethora of self-help books and watched dozens of TED Talks looking for an answer, but every time an expert encouraged her to "follow your passion," she felt worse.
A self-proclaimed multipotentialite, she used to think something must be wrong with her because she couldn't settle on ONE thing. In 2017, she launched a weekly podcast called YOU WANNA DO WHAT!? after deciding that NO ONE is just one thing. We are layered, complex, fickle and creative. We are full of dreams, ideas, and goals.
For years, Monica lost sight of hers, but now she’s here to help you see success beyond a job title and a paycheck. Storytelling connects us and her signature approach comes down to giving professionals permission to pursue their personal goals through relatable stories and practical solutions. You can follow Monica on Instagram & LinkedIn.
This week, Monica shares her journey of coping with loneliness & healing from profound loss. She talks about her experience of losing her entire family as a teenager & how she initially dealt with grief and loneliness. She discusses the importance of addressing grief and creating safe spaces for ourselves and others to express heavy emotions.
Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction and Connection
• 00:56 - Monica's Background and Mission
• 05:40 - Dealing with Grief and Loss
• 09:55 - Questioning Faith and Finding Healing
• 11:51 - Addressing Grief and Creating Safe Spaces
• 14:37 - Navigating the Never-Ending Journey to Healing
• 15:56 - Lessons Learned and Softening the Edges
• 22:04 - Finding the Courage to Share Your Story
• 27:33 - Navigating Setbacks and Overwhelm
• 31:14 - The Power of Compassion and Empathy
• 32:39 - Defining Thriving: Compassion, Awareness, and Optimism
• 36:54 - Connect with Monica and Embrace Your Dreams

If you're someone who is currently dealing with loss, grief and struggling with feelings of loneliness, this episode is a must listen.
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