In this episode of the Dr. B Show, Dr. B interviews Stef Kuonen, a strategy and management consultant who transitioned into the wellness space. Stef explains how she integrates business consulting methodologies with a focus on mental health and wellness to help businesses achieve their goals while improving employee well-being. They discuss the importance of education, volunteerism, and mentorship in personal and professional growth. Stef also shares insights on the challenges of mental health stigma in the workplace and offers practical advice for entrepreneurs to navigate stress and rejection. Additionally, Stef talks about her company, Ritual Shadow, and its mission to bridge business performance and employee mental health. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about holistic business strategies and personal development. KEY TAKEAWAYS Business Meets Wellness: Stef Kuonen discusses how she combines traditional business consulting methodologies with a focus on mental health and wellness to help businesses succeed while improving employee well-being. The Importance of Education and Mentorship: Stef highlights the role of continuous education, volunteerism, and mentorship in fostering both personal and professional growth. Addressing Mental Health Stigma: Stef addresses the challenges of mental health stigma in the workplace and shares insights on how businesses can create more supportive environments. Practical Advice for Entrepreneurs: Stef offers tips on how entrepreneurs can manage stress and navigate rejection, drawing from her own experiences in both business and wellness. Ritual Shadow: Stef talks about her company, Ritual Shadow, and its mission to bridge the gap between business performance and employee mental health. Holistic Business Strategies: The episode emphasizes the importance of integrating holistic strategies for long-term business success and personal development. QUOTES "Mental health is so stigmatized... not just by company, by society, by cultures, religions, etc. That complex dynamic plays out in our workplace environments as well as broader society at large." "I encourage people to take advantage of short-term disability leave to address your medical health issues or look at things like sabbaticals." "There’s always a way through. If you feel stuck, lean on your team as a sounding board. And I would encourage people to find ways to do meditation or mindfulness as a way to go inward." "No one needs to be miserable... Everyone can choose a different path, one that’s more aligned with what feels right for them." "I want to help people take their mental health into their own hands, and learn how to use meditation and mind-body therapies to change their mind in positive ways." Connect and learn more about Stef Kuonen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefkuonen/ If you’re listening to the Dr. B Show Podcast, please subscribe and share, and we’re listening for your feedback. You can also learn more about Dr. Jairo Borja at http://borjaconsultinggroup.com/.