In this episode of Build Your Own Business (BYOB), Andrew Ford sits down with Iyari Cevallos, the Co-Founder of Nucleo Group, to explore her remarkable journey from receptionist to entrepreneur. Iyari’s story is one of adaptability, determination, and innovation, as she navigated a dynamic career path while raising six children and building a consultancy that transforms organisations through leadership development and cultural alignment.
Nucleo Group specialises in helping leadership teams galvanise their efforts and align their strategies with organisational goals. Iyari explains how her business focuses on addressing challenges at the highest levels of organisations, often working with C-suite executives and boards. What sets Nucleo Group apart is its commitment to creating lasting change—not just through leadership workshops but by following up with ongoing coaching and support.
Throughout the episode, Iyari shares how her multicultural upbringing between Mexico and Australia has influenced her personal brand and professional approach. She also discusses the significance of her name, its roots in the indigenous Huichol language, and how her heritage inspired the branding of Nucleo Group. For Iyari, staying connected to her cultural identity is a way to honour her past while building a meaningful future.
The conversation also highlights the challenges of building a business with her life partner. Iyari shares how she and her partner have managed to create a balance between their professional and personal lives by embracing clear communication, shared responsibilities, and a mutual commitment to their vision.
A key theme in this episode is how Iyari balances her career ambitions with her family life. As a mother of six, she talks about the importance of planning, focus, and letting go of guilt. For her, being present in each moment—whether it’s work or family time—is critical to achieving harmony. She credits her ability to prioritise and maintain a "whole of life" perspective as essential to her success, both personally and professionally.
Iyari’s advice on maintaining balance is particularly impactful: “Get really clear about what’s important to you, so that you can protect what matters and flex on what doesn’t.” This philosophy underpins her ability to successfully navigate the complexities of a thriving career and a large family, making her journey relatable and inspiring for listeners.
Finally, Iyari gives listeners a sneak peek into her upcoming podcast, Empower Tech. This new venture aims to demystify the role of technology in our personal and professional lives. Through insightful conversations with diverse guests, the podcast will explore topics such as responsible AI use, technology’s impact on children, and the importance of inclusivity in tech development. Iyari’s goal is to empower her audience with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the fast-evolving tech landscape.
This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to balance a fulfilling career with their personal priorities. Whether you’re a business leader, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone interested in creating meaningful change, Iyari’s story will resonate deeply.
