Join Stacey Luces in this special episode of 'Beyond the Quo' as she reflects on the milestones, meaningful conversations, and invaluable lessons learned over the past year. Stacey discusses the importance of hitting pause to savor achievements, the power of self-trust, and the role of authenticity in personal and professional growth. She also shares 10 transformative truths that have shaped her journey and continues to inspire listeners. From the courage to face discomfort to the necessity of personal reinvention, this episode is packed with insights designed to push you out of your comfort zone and onto a path of living beyond the status quo.🎧 In this episode:•        02:32 The Purpose of Beyond the Quo•        06:47 10 Hard Truths from 50 Conversations•        09:01 Courage Doesn't Always Feel Like Courage•        12:08 Reinvention is Reclamation•        16:09 Growth Demands a Funeral•        19:40 Self-Trust is the Highest Form of Leadership•        26:34 Belonging is the New Power Move•        30:37 Success Without Peace is Failure in Disguise•        32:42 The Body Never Lies•        35:21 Vulnerability is a Leadership Advantage•        38:14 Culture is Imperative•        40:28 Purpose Evolves and So Should You💡 Key Takeaways:•        Courage rarely feels heroic in the moment. It feels like boundaries, tiny decisions, and showing up while your knees shake.•        Reinvention isn’t a rebrand. It is a return to your core values so your inside finally matches your outside.•        Belonging is created, not found. When you stop auditioning for approval, the right rooms appear and your leadership compounds.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo, and give us a five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect and Follow. Caribbean Power. Global Impact.🌍 Follow @wewhistleglobal on Instagram💌 Contact stacey@wewhistleglobal.com | denise@wewhistleglobal.com

Two transformative leaders. One vision of amplifying excellence within the global Caribbean diaspora. This is the moment the world meets WE WHISTLE GLOBAL.In this landmark episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces flips the script and hands the mic to guest host Sam Ghanem for a candid and deeply inspiring conversation with her WE WHISTLE GLOBAL co-founder, Denise Williams. Together, they reveal the story behind the world’s first and only power hub for global leaders of Caribbean heritage and their partners.Born from a shared calling to reimagine Caribbean diaspora leadership, community, and legacy, WE WHISTLE GLOBAL is more than a network; it is a movement of high performers who have achieved individual success and are now focused on creating collective impact. Here, leaders find peers who share their story, values, and ambitions. Across finance, enterprise, technology, the creative and cultural industries, philanthropy, and public life, members access opportunities, investments, and partnerships that expand wealth and influence. It is a space that feels like home, powered by a platform designed to propel them forward.The name of this power hub draws its inspiration from a natural phenomenon found only in the Caribbean Sea. When the warm currents of the Caribbean meet opposing oceanic forces, it emits a pulse so powerful, it can be heard from space. Scientists call it the Rossby Whistle. For Stacey and Denise, this is inspiration for WE WHISTLE GLOBAL: a platform that harnesses the energy of Caribbean excellence and the strength of an enduring legacy to connect leaders who rise, innovate, and lead despite significant odds, driving collective growth.From their parallel leadership paths across 30+ countries, building billion-dollar companies and engineering membership organizations, to the moment Stacey and Denise realized they had the same vision from different perspectives - this episode is both a founders’ story and a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership. Together, they unpack what it takes to build something global from the ground up: the courage to begin before you feel ready, the power of trust, and the responsibility to a purpose and community far greater than their personal ambitions.As you listen, you will hear how these two leaders are turning an idea into a global ecosystem built to connect, elevate, and empower members and strategic partners. You will also hear their heart, the laughter, the lessons, and the joy of finding a partner who matches their fire, as well as the unwavering determination to Whistle with Love. Forces that make this movement unmistakably Caribbean and unapologetically world-class.For every leader who has stood alone in rooms they helped create, this conversation is your signal: an invitation to build wealth, impact, and legacy with people who move like you. This is where global leaders connect, and where you belong.🎧 Tune in to experience the birth of a global movement and discover how WHISTLE is shaping the next generation of Caribbean influence, one connection at a time.Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction and special announcement03:13 The birth of WHISTLE: from idea to movement06:16 The meaning behind “Whistle” and the Rossby story09:48 Parallel journeys: from billion-dollar boardrooms to purpose13:55 Building WHISTLE: lessons, laughter, and growing pains18:39 The vision and community impact25:01 The pillars: wealth, community, and legacy26:30 The essence of WHISTLE and the power of cultural fit33:48 The WHISTLE way: joy, abundance, and the call to rise“There’s still room for magic in the world.” WHISTLE is that reminder to buildand lead with love with purpose.Connect and FollowCaribbean Power. Global Impact.🌍 Follow @wewhistleglobal on Instagram💌 Contact stacey@wewhistleglobal.com | denise@wewhistleglobal.com

" Grief can break you, or it can build the kind of courage leadership truly requires"Welcome to 'Beyond the Quo' with Stacey Luces. In this heartfelt episode Stacey shares personal insights and practical strategies on how to harness grief and fear to cultivate courage and effective leadership. Recounting her recent family loss, Stacy delves into the myth of readiness, stressing that true leadership and bravery often emerge during life's most challenging moments. She offers actionable tips to build small rituals, reframe fears, and take decisive action even amid uncertainty. Perfect for anyone looking to lead with quiet courage and turn difficult experiences into personal growth. Tune in for an empowering conversation on turning life's hard times into opportunities for leadership and resilience.🎧 In this episode:•        00:14 The Intersection of Grief, Courage, and Leadership•        02:47 The Myth of Being Ready•        05:05 Personal Story: Family Grief and Quiet Courage•        08:04 Defining and Practicing Courage•        17:14 Practical Tips for Everyday Courage💡 Key Takeaways:•        Readiness is a Myth: True growth doesn’t come from waiting until you feel “ready.” Courage must precede readiness. Every defining leap—whether launching a business, leading through grief, or saying yes to opportunity—happens before the comfort arrives.•        Quiet Courage is Power: Real courage isn’t loud or showy. It’s the trembling voice that speaks anyway, the leader who stands in the unknown, and the person who moves forward despite fear or loss. It’s the decision to do it messy, scared, and unpolished—but to still do it.•        Fear Can Be Reframed: Courage grows through small, consistent acts: reframing fear as possibility (“What if I fail?” to “What if I learn?”), creating small rituals to get in flow, asking for witness instead of rescue, recording wins, and repeating the process. These micro-acts build your “do it anyway” muscle.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey Luces: IG @Stacey.Luces LinkedIn @StaceyLuces www.staceyluces.com

What if moms doing it all comes at a life-altering cost. The invisible load, the mental weight, the constant pressure to be everything to everyone. Let’s have a real conversation about leadership, community, and why asking for help is an act of strength, not weakness.In this special episode, Stacey Luces sits down with Demetra Ganias, host of MomCast and a renowned public speaking coach, media trainer, and advocate for empowering women through storytelling. As the face of MomCast, she amplifies the voices of mothers nationwide, fostering connection and support. Demetra also represents The Local Moms Network, a platform created by moms, for moms—dedicated to providing resources, social engagement, and time-saving guides to help moms balance it all. Because when moms are supported, families and communities thrive.Together, Stacey and Demetra dive into the realities of modern motherhood, leadership, and redefining success—sharing personal stories and insights on balancing career aspirations, family life, and personal fulfillment.💡 Key Takeaways:1.        Success on Your Terms – It’s not just about career milestones or parenting perfection. True success aligns with your values and fulfillment.2.        The Power of Community – Having a strong support system—your personal “Board of Directors”—prevents burnout and fuels growth.3.        The Mental Load is Real – From invisible labor at home to leadership responsibilities, sharing the load is key to balance.4.        Lead Yourself First – Authentic leadership starts with setting boundaries, prioritizing well-being, and modeling courage.5.        Hustle vs. Alignment – Success isn’t just about achievement—it should feel as good as it looks.🎧 In this episode:01:12 Redefining Success & Leadership02:56 Balancing Motherhood & Career07:52 Navigating Parenting Challenges19:23 Community & Authentic Parenting32:51 The Loneliness Epidemic Among Moms35:35 Midlife Awakening & Identity50:24 Redefining Success & Self-Care56:08 Empowering the Next GenerationJoin the Conversation!What resonated with you the most? Drop a comment below!Subscribe for more empowering discussions on leadership, success, and thriving beyond expectations.Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode!Stacey Luces is a reinvention strategist, leadership coach, and keynote speaker dedicated to helping high-achieving women break free from burnout, redefine success, and lead authentically. As the founder of The Living Beyond Movement, she empowers women to step into their purpose, embrace their power, and create a life of impact and fulfillment.Stay Connected:Follow Stacey Luces:staceyluces.com/podcastInstagram: @stacey.lucesFind Your Local Moms Network:thelocalmomsnetwork.comInstagram: @thelocalmomsnetworkFollow Demetra Ganias:Instagram: @demetraganiasganiasmedialab.com👉 Tag a mom who needs to hear this! Let’s build a stronger, more empowered community together. 💪✨ #BeyondTheQuo #MomLife #Leadership #WorkLifeBalance #EmpoweredWomen

What if I told you that only 26% of U.S. mayors are women—and today’s guest is one of them? Get ready for a masterclass in leading with authenticity and purpose. In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces interviews Dr. Jeri Muoio, founder and CEO of Great Cities for All, and former two-term mayor of West Palm Beach, Florida.  They explore themes of authentic and servant leadership, emphasizing trust, purpose, and community involvement. Dr. Muoio shares insights from her extensive career in public service and education, stressing the importance of listening, building relationships, and empowering others. The discussion touches on the challenges women face in leadership roles, balancing work and personal life, and encouraging risk-taking.  This masterclass in leadership offers invaluable advice for anyone looking to lead with courage, empathy, and lasting impact. The episode concludes with practical advice for becoming involved in community service and fostering positive change.🎧 In this episode:  •        01:10 Journey of Transformative Leadership  •        03:07 Inspiring Leadership and Building Trust  •        22:51 Core Values and Personal Growth  •        29:47 Career Progression, A Mother's Panic and Resilience  •        33:19 Balancing Parenthood and Career  •        34:57 Legacy and Impact Reflections  •        43:21 Community Service and Volunteering  •        46:12 Empowering Women and Future Generations💡 Key Takeaways:How servant leadership shifts the focus from authority to service, empowering teams and creating lasting impact.Strategies for women to lead authentically and confidently in industries or roles where they’re underrepresented.Insights into overcoming challenges like the “likeability trap” and finding balance between likability and competence.Why success is often on the other side of fear and how messy action leads to growth.  Lessons on resilience and vulnerability as a parent, partner, and leader.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!  •        Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.  •        Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.  •        Follow Stacey and her guest to continue the conversation.✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:  •        Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast  •        Instagram: @Stacey.Luces | @BeyondTheQuoPodcast  •        Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about📩 Connect with Dr. Muoio:  •        LinkedIn: @ jerimuoio

"Brian thought no one would notice if he disappeared. What happened proved him wrong."Welcome to 'Beyond the Quo' with Stacey Luces, your go-to podcast for navigating midlife reinvention. In this heartfelt episode Stacey welcomes back award-winning director, producer, writer, and podcaster Brian Howie for an open and deeply personal conversation. Brian shares his journey of a recent aggressive cancer diagnosis and how it has shifted his perspective on life, relationships, and personal growth. The discussion explores themes of vulnerability, the power of connection, living authentically, and leading courageously. It also delves into the importance of reevaluating one's life priorities and building meaningful relationships. Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation.🎧 In this episode:•        00:27 Brian's Diagnosis•        01:45 The Power of Connection and Support•        06:39 Facing Pain and Vulnerability•        15:28 Navigating Medical Decisions and Faith•        24:22 Legacy and Belief in Others•        29:18 Guilt, Relationships, and Self-Reflection•        33:58 Living in the Moment and Facing Uncertainty•        41:24 Career Goals and Personal Boundaries•        48:25 Thoughts on Life and Legacy💡 Key Takeaways:•        Crisis strips away illusions – Both Brian’s diagnosis and your flatline moment revealed how quickly life clarifies what truly matters and exposes what doesn’t.•        Connection is often underestimated – Brian realized people cared far more than he thought, but his own walls had kept him from seeing it.•        Vulnerability is power, not weakness – Sharing openly brought unexpected support, clarity, and reconnection with people from his past.•        Status quo can be its own illness – Waiting for a crisis to change can rob us of years of joy, relationships, and fulfillment.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey Luces: staceyluces.com IG @Stacey.Luces LinkedIn @StaceyLuces

“Brad Pitt may still be hot in his fifties, but even he probably faces the same trap we all do - comparison.”Welcome to 'Beyond the Quo' with Stacey Luces, your go-to podcast for navigating midlife reinvention. In this episode she dives into the comparison trap that steals our joy and erodes our confidence, especially in midlife and leadership. Using personal anecdotes and professional insights, Stacey discusses the impact of social comparison on self-esteem and leadership, and provides actionable strategies to shift from comparison to clarity, gratitude, and personal success. Discover how to run your own race, redefine success on your terms, and lead with courage.🎧 In this episode:•        01:14 The Comparison Trap: A Thief of Joy•        02:53 Strategies to Overcome Comparison•        06:31 The Impact of Comparison on Confidence•        13:55 Midlife Challenges and Comparison•        25:02 The Real Cost of Comparison•        31:49 The Power of Self-Trust•        35:11 Strategies to Overcome Comparison💡 Key Takeaways:•        Comparison steals joy and momentum — it drains confidence, erodes leadership presence, and blinds you to your own progress.•        You are on time for your own life — the only competition is the version of you from yesterday, not someone else’s curated highlight reel.•        Success has to be redefined personally — without clarity on your values, you’ll keep chasing someone else’s “red stick” instead of your own true measure of success.•        Small shifts create big freedom — noticing triggers, reframing narratives, and practicing gratitude for progress keep you in your lane and restore confidence.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey: staceyluces.com IG @Stacey.Luces LinkedIn @StaceyLuces 

" AI is moving faster than your policies… the question isn’t which tool to use, but which decisions should be human, assisted, or automated. "Welcome to 'Beyond the Quo' with Stacey Luces, your go-to podcast for navigating midlife reinvention. In this episode she dives deep into the essential strategies leaders need to thrive amid constant disruption. Drawing parallels to the renowned phrase 'winter is coming' from Game of Thrones, Stacey discusses how disruptions in technology, generational workforce dynamics, executive burnout, and inclusion are inevitable in today's world. Gain insight into practical tools and frameworks, such as decision audits, multi-generational strategies, and mental wellness tactics, that can transform these challenges into growth opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this episode equips you with actionable steps to lead with clarity, courage, and conviction. Don't miss out on Stacey's valuable experience and practical tips to redefine success on your terms and lead courageously in times of disruption.🎧 In this episode:•        00:35 Disruption is Here: Engagement, Trust, and Technology•        01:40 Leadership in Disruption: Clarity, Courage, and Conviction•        03:52 Four Major Disruptions and Growth Strategies•        04:26 AI and Technology Acceleration•        04:43 Generational Shifts in the Workplace•        05:59 Executive Burnout and Mental Health•        06:28 Inclusion and Culture in a Polarized World💡 Key Takeaways:•        Disruption is inevitable — Leaders who thrive won’t be the ones with the biggest budgets or longest resumes, but those with clarity, courage, and conviction inside disruption.•        AI is moving faster than policy — The leaders who win are those who set guardrails and reframe AI as a lever, not a threat.•        Generational differences are opportunities, not barriers — ROI and engagement skyrocket when leaders build bridges instead of policies around stereotypes.•        Burnout is a signal, not a weakness — Protecting systems and rhythms protects people, and culture is as much a product as any service you deliver.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey: staceyluces.com IG @Stacey.Luces LinkedIn @StaceyLuces 

"What if your biggest competition isn’t the person next to you - it’s who you were yesterday?”Welcome to 'Beyond the Quo' with Stacey Luces. In this episode, we welcome Mary Sol González—a visionary leader whose career spans four continents, and someone who has dedicated her life to building bridges, creating opportunities, and redefining what leadership looks like for the Hispanic community and beyond. Mary Sol is the President and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Chamber of Commerce, representing Broward and Palm Beach Counties and she’s been recognized with numerous awards, including Hispanic Woman of Distinction 2024, Latina of Influence 2024, and even the U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.They discuss authenticity, courageous leadership, and the importance of leaving a legacy. Mary Sol shares her rich experiences spanning four continents, insights as the President and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Chamber of Commerce, and her personal journey of navigating life changes. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with lessons on purposeful living and embracing change.🎧 In this episode:•        03:54 Leadership Journey•        07:00 Balancing Life and Legacy•        15:03 Healthy Competition and Community Support•        19:54 A Radical Shift at 50•        24:56 Perspective and Gratitude•        33:59 Redefining Success•        38:19 Advice for Men and Women💡 Key Takeaways:•        Authenticity is the foundation of legacy - To leave something meaningful behind, leaders must live and act in alignment with their true values.•        You don’t have to do it alone - Fear builds walls, but mentorship, community, and collaboration open doors to possibility and transformation.•        Change is inevitable…embrace it - From personal reinvention at 50 to navigating global moves, courage and flexibility transform disruption into opportunity.•        Redefine success on your terms - Whether at home, in business, or in community, true success comes from purpose, relationships, and resilience—not external validation.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey Luces: LinkedIn @StaceyLuces IG @Stacey.Luces or staceyluces.com✨ Connect with Mary Sol González: LinkedIn @mary-sol-gonzalez-30417830 IG @Marysolboca or www.myhhcc.com

“When you settle for small talk, you settle for low-quality relationships. But research proves that high-quality relationships—not titles or money—are what create real success and fulfillment.”Welcome to 'Beyond the Quo' with Stacey Luces, your go-to podcast for navigating midlife reinvention. Join Stace in this episode as she addresses the common struggle of small talk at networking events and in daily interactions. With over 25 years of experience as an executive coach and business strategist, she provides actionable strategies to elevate conversations from superficial to meaningful. Learn how to connect deeply, build trust, and create opportunities through authentic dialogue. Discover the power of vulnerability, active listening, and curiosity in fostering true relationships, both in professional settings and at home.🎧 In this episode:•        00:32 The Problem with Small Talk•        00:59 Build Meaningful Connections•        03:26 Case Study: Maria's Transformation•        06:52 Importance of Quality Relationships•        09:06 Strategies for Deeper Conversations•        19:14 Practical Tips for Networking and Leadership💡 Key Takeaways:•        Small Talk Doesn’t Build Real Connection - While small talk feels safe and fills silence, it often leaves conversations feeling transactional and forgettable. To build influence, trust, and authentic relationships—in leadership, networking, or at home—we must go beyond surface-level exchanges.•        Meaningful Questions Create Impact - Asking deeper, curiosity-driven questions (e.g., “What’s something you’re excited about right now?” instead of “How was your weekend?”) shifts the energy of a conversation. These moments reveal values, passions, and stories that foster genuine connection and opportunities.•        Connection Requires Vulnerability and Active Listening - True relationships are built when we share something real about ourselves and listen actively. Vulnerability signals safety, humanizes us, and deepens trust—whether with colleagues, clients, or family members.•        Every Conversation Is an Opportunity - Conversations that move from polite to personal open doors for influence, opportunity, and deeper bonds. At work, they help you stand out and be remembered. At home, they strengthen relationships. In both cases, they shift you from running on autopilot to creating meaningful moments that last.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey Luces: LinkedIn @StaceyLuces IG @Stacey.Luces Staceyluces.com

You can have the vision, the credentials, and the drive, and still sabotage yourself in the moments that matter most.Welcome to Beyond the Quo with Stacey Luces, Leadership Strategist, Power Reset Coach, and former Fortune 100 executive turned reinvention guide for women leaders.In this episode, Stacey dives deep into the hidden patterns of self-sabotage that keep high-achievers stuck in cycles of procrastination, perfectionism, and playing small. With raw honesty and practical tools, she explores why we do it, the true cost on our careers and lives, and how to finally break the cycle. Whether you’re overcommitting, doubting yourself, or struggling with boundaries, Stacey offers insights and strategies to help you step out of your own way and lead with clarity, confidence, and influence.💡 Key Takeaways:•        Self-Sabotage Is Sneaky – It often shows up as over-preparing, overcommitting, or perfectionism, not just failure.•        Fear Drives the Pattern – Fear of failure, fear of success, and comfort-zone thinking are at the root of sabotage.•        The Cost Is High – Missed promotions, financial losses, burnout, and strained relationships are all side effects.•        Five Strategies Work – Awareness, interruption, micro-actions, boundaries, and accountability can shift the cycle.•        Patterns Can Be Broken – Self-sabotage isn’t a flaw, it’s a learned pattern. And once you see it, you can change it.You’ve already done the quo. Now it’s time to go beyond.🎙️ Feeling inspired?Share this episode, leave a five-star review, and help others find their way back to themselves.✨ Connect with Stacey Luces: staceyluces.com

You can hold grief in one hand and ambition in the other, and still lead powerfully through both.Welcome to Beyond the Quo with Stacey Luces—Leadership Strategist, Power Reset Coach, and former Fortune 100 executive turned reinvention guide for women in midlife. In this episode she dives into the theme of transitions. Stacey reflects on the challenges of midlife transitions, both expected and unexpected, and offers powerful strategies to navigate these changes gracefully. Whether it's dealing with empty nesting, aging parents, or professional shifts, she provides insights into cutting old contracts, making room for grief and ambition, and building a supportive life structure. Tune in for practical advice and personal reflections that will help you redefine success and live authentically through life's many transitions.🎧 In this episode:•        02:29 Personal Stories of Transition•        10:25 Understanding Unspoken Contracts•        23:12 Making Room for Grief and Ambition•        33:09 Building a Support System💡 Key Takeaways:•        Cut the Old Contracts – Many of us operate under unspoken agreements about performance, worth, and success. Identifying and rewriting these outdated “contracts” can free us from perfectionism, people-pleasing, and control patterns.•        Make Room for Grief and Ambition – Midlife transitions often carry unprocessed grief. Avoid skipping grief in the name of grit; instead, create space to acknowledge loss while still pursuing goals.•        Design a Supportive Life – Success isn’t just about performance; it’s about intentionally designing a life and support system (power circle) that can sustain you through personal and professional transitions.•        Transitions Are Gateways, Not Failures – Change isn’t a sign of weakness or distraction, it’s an invitation to evolve, redefine success, and build the next version of yourself with greater authenticity.You’ve already done the quo. Now it’s time to go beyond.🎙️ Feeling inspired?Share this episode, leave a five-star review, and help others find their way back to themselves.✨ Connect with Stacey Luces: staceyluces.com

“What happens when the Caribbean girl from a small street in Trinidad ends up leading billion-dollar global deals? You’re about to find out.”In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces welcomes trailblazer Denise Fariel Williams to discuss redefining success on personal terms, living authentically, and leading courageously. Together, they dive into their Caribbean roots, the unique challenges and triumphs of women leaders, and the importance of building supportive, diverse communities. Denise shares her journey from Trinidad to scaling billion-dollar businesses and highlights the significance of maintaining authenticity amidst corporate demands. Join Stacey and Denise for a raw, inspiring conversation filled with laughter, hard truths, and key strategies for those seeking to navigate midlife challenges and carve their own paths to success.🎧 In this episode:•        01:49 Caribbean Leadership and Women in Business•        04:39 Navigating Success Without a Roadmap•        08:23 Challenges and Triumphs of Caribbean Women•        11:25 Redefining Success and Authentic Living•        27:40 Women Supporting Women in the Corporate World•        30:48 Supportive Partnerships: A Personal Story•        32:39 Overcoming Perfectionism and Self-Doubt•        46:41 Joy and Connection•        54:15 Legacy and Leadership💡 Key Takeaways:•        Legacy Is Lived, Not Just Left: Denise’s story reminds us that legacy begins with the bold decisions we make today—whether that’s choosing a nontraditional path, leaving a harmful situation, or co-creating something no one has seen before.•        You Can Be Brilliant and Still Need a Circle: Success doesn’t make you less human. Denise talks about mentorship, friendship, and intentional partnership as essential—not optional—parts of leadership.•        Redefining Power Means Redefining Rest: From burnout and over-functioning to finding joy in dancing, laughter, and love—this episode reframes rest not as weakness but as a requirement for sustainable leadership.•        Caribbean Identity Is a Global Asset: Denise’s career is proof that your cultural roots aren’t baggage—they’re blueprints. From Central Trinidad to boardrooms around the world, she shows that island wisdom can scale internationally.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey Luces: staceyluces.com•        Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about✨ Connect with Denise Fariel Williams:LinkedIn @denise-williams-59839b50 ; IG @DeniseFariel

“You can’t lead with power if you’re ghosting yourself. Let’s talk about why yes to everything is costing you more than time.”Join Stacey Luces in this enlightening episode of 'Beyond the Quote' as she reveals why so many of us feel constantly exhausted and explores the true culprit - lack of boundaries. Drawing from personal experience and professional insights, Stacey delves into the significance of establishing personal, relational, career, and leadership boundaries. Discover practical strategies for reinforcing your limits, regain your personal power, and break free from chronic stress. Learn why maintaining clear boundaries is not only crucial for your well-being but also for fostering healthier relationships and professional environments. Don't miss out on Stacey's tips for making impactful 'two-millimeter shifts' that can transform your life!💡 Key Takeaways:•        Lack of Boundaries Is a Power Leak: Being tired all the time isn’t always about age or hormones - it’s often about constantly saying “yes” to things that drain you. Boundaries aren’t about being rude; they’re about reclaiming your energy, time, and self-worth.•        Boundaries Are Contextual - and Radical Self-Respect: Whether personal, relational, professional, or leadership-based, boundaries look different depending on your life season. But all of them share this: they are declarations of self-respect and signals of what you will and will not tolerate.•        Busy Isn’t a Badge. It’s a Red Flag: Many high-achieving women confuse overextension with excellence. But hustle without rest isn’t leadership - it’s self-abandonment. If your weekends are jammed and your inbox rules your life, it’s time for a boundary reset.•        Boundary-Setting Is a Leadership Power Move: Leaders who model strong boundaries not only protect their well-being but also cultivate healthier team cultures. In fact, companies with boundary-conscious leaders see higher retention, trust, and performance.🎧 In this episode:•        00:42 The Real Culprit: Lack of Boundaries•        02:11  Consequences of No Boundaries•        03:16 Boundary Check: Personal, Relational, Career, and Leadership•        12:12 Personal Boundaries: The Foundation of Self-Trust•        23:47 Relationship Boundaries: Preserving Connection•        33:03 Work Boundaries: Leading vs. Lifeguarding•        40:32 Leadership Boundaries and TrustYou’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey Luces: staceyluces.com•        Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

If your resume says “thriving” but you feel tired, this one’s for you. Welcome to Beyond the Quo with Stacey Luces—Leadership Strategist, Power Reset Coach, and former Fortune 100 executive turned reinvention guide for women in midlife. In this final solo episode of a three-part series, Stacey Luces delves into the main themes of redefining success, living authentically, and leading courageously. Stacey discusses the importance of setting personal definitions of success, embracing authenticity, and leading both oneself and others with courage. Drawing on personal anecdotes and insights from her work with clients, Stacy offers actionable strategies for midlifers grappling with burnout, identity crises, and work-life balance. She also explores how to lead with intention, align actions with core values, and create a meaningful legacy. Tune in for practical tips, reflective prompts, and an empowering discussion on leading a life of purpose and integrity.🎧 In this episode:•        00:26 Redefining Success on Your Own Terms•        01:04 Living Authentically: Core Values and Boundaries•        01:25 Leading Courageously: Beyond the Corporate Setting•        02:27 Midlife Reflections: Success, Guilt, and Redesigning Life•        20:22 The Cost of Staying Silent and Micro Moves for Change•        24:17 Guardianship Over Yourself•        25:35 Leading with Integrity•        39:21 The Importance of Support Systems💡 Key Takeaways:•        True leadership starts with self: Leading courageously isn’t just about your job title or role—it’s about reclaiming sovereignty over your own life. It starts by leading yourself with clarity, honesty, and intention before influencing others.•        Redefining success and leading authentically go hand in hand: Many successful professionals are stuck in a "status quo life"—comfortable, but unfulfilled. Redefining success on your own terms means moving beyond external measures (titles, income) to internal alignment (peace, purpose, presence).•        Micro-moves drive massive change: Stacey emphasizes that transformation doesn’t require a 180-degree pivot. Courageous leadership can begin with small, intentional actions like a weekly power hour, journaling prompts, or saying no to things that drain you.•        The cost of not leading with intention is burnout and disconnection: When you’re living for the applause or prioritizing others over your own needs, you risk resentment, emotional numbness, and burnout. Reconnecting to your truth and showing up vulnerably—even in leadership—is essential.You’ve already done the quo. Now it’s time to go beyond.🎙️ Feeling inspired?Share this episode, leave a five-star review, and help others find their way back to themselves.✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:•        Website: staceyluces.com•        Join the Global Community: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

Have you ever looked around at your life and thought, “How did I get here?”The title, the house, the family might all be there—but somewhere along the way, you disappeared.Welcome to Beyond the Quo with Stacey Luces—Leadership Strategist, Power Reset Coach, and former Fortune 100 executive turned reinvention guide for women in midlife. In this episode, Stacey gets real about what it means to live authentically when success feels performative and burnout is lurking beneath the surface.She shares personal stories, client breakthroughs, and practical strategies to help you realign with your core values, lead more truthfully at work, and build resilience in a world that rewards masks over meaning.Whether you're navigating a career pivot, raising teens while caring for aging parents, or simply craving more joy and peace—this conversation will meet you right where you are.🎧 In this episode:•        04:10 — The Importance of Core Values•        11:47 — Strategies for Living Authentically•        24:43 — Understanding Core Values and Respect•        26:50 — Making Tough Decisions for Authenticity•        28:04 — Leading with Authenticity at Work•        30:49 — The Power of Vulnerability•        33:30 — Advocating for Your Needs•        40:05 — Creating a Joy File and Normalizing Hard Seasons💡 Key Takeaways:•        Authenticity isn’t perfection—it’s alignment. Living by your true values boosts satisfaction and reduces anxiety.•        Burnout often stems from disconnection—not just doing too much, but doing what doesn’t fit.•        Leading with authenticity is a power move—especially in work and relationships.•        Your peace is worth the discomfort of setting boundaries, making bold decisions, and living your truth.You’ve already done the quo. Now it’s time to go beyond.🎙️ Feeling inspired?Share this episode, leave a five-star review, and help others find their way back to themselves.✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:•        Website: staceyluces.com•        Join the Global Community: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

"Success isn’t what it used to be— some power moves to level up"Welcome to 'Beyond the Quo' with Stacey Luces, your go-to podcast for resetting your power and navigating midlife reinvention. In this solo episode, Stacey delves into a three-part series focusing on redefining success on your own terms, living authentically, and leading courageously. Drawing from her own experiences and expert insights curated from hundreds of leaders she has coached, Stacey offers actionable strategies to help you reclaim your personal power, redefine success, and create a fulfilling life. Join her as she explores the challenges and triumphs of midlife transformation, sharing practical advice and inspiring stories to help you live beyond the quo.🎧 In this episode:•        00:42 Redefining Success on Your Own Terms•        01:10 Living Authentically•        01:28 Leading Courageously•        04:39 The Concept of Feeling Stuck•        18:18 Overcoming Fear and Identity Crisis•        21:16 Practical Steps for Reinvention•        29:44 Redefining Wealth and Success•        32:16 The Importance of Peace and Authenticity•        40:01 Building Your Power Circle•        51:35 Crafting Your Own Definition of Success💡 Key Takeaways:•        Redefining Success Is Personal and NecessarySuccess is no longer about checking traditional boxes—it’s about alignment, authenticity, and how you feel living your life. The redefinition must be anchored in who you are now, not who you were 20 years ago.•        Micro Moves Create Massive ShiftsYou don’t have to burn everything down to start again. Tiny, intentional “micro shifts” in your habits, mindset, or environment can lead to transformation over time. Think: optometrist lens flips.•        Midlife Is Messy—and That’s the MagicFrom being sandwiched between caring for kids and aging parents to managing changing bodies, shifting identities, and financial pressure—midlife is complex. But this mess can be the fertile ground where legacy, power, and clarity are born.•        You Deserve Peace, Not Just ProductivityPerforming “being okay” is not the same as being okay. One of the greatest signs of success at this stage is cultivating peace—quiet mornings, nourishing conversations, boundaries, and a life that fits your soul, not just your resume.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:•        Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about 

Why saying ‘yes’ makes you powerless—and how one four-word habit changes everything.In this episode of Beyond the Quo, Stacey Luces steps in solo to discuss a crucial and recurrent theme among leaders, particularly women: owning your power. While addressing unexpected challenges, Stacey dives deep into personal experiences and client stories to outline the importance of self-leadership, authentic living, and courageous leading from within. Drawing from workshops, coaching, and personal anecdotes, she explores the costs of powerlessness, strategies to reclaim one’s power, and the significance of building supportive power circles. With actionable tips and a 7-day power audit challenge, Stacey empowers listeners to set boundaries, make clear decisions, and prioritize their well-being. Join this transformative discussion and learn how to redefine success on your own terms.🎧 In this episode:•        01:12 The Concept of Owning Your Power•        02:25 Diverse Perspectives on Power•        05:46 The Cost of Powerlessness •        15:05 Signs of Leaking Power•        20:34 Strategies to Reclaim Your Power•        28:42 Non-Negotiables for Owning Your Power•        33:29 Building Your Inner Power Circle💡 Key Takeaways:•        Owning Your Power Isn’t Optional - Power is something you reclaim, not wait for—and if it’s left unclaimed, it leaks through over-apologizing, decision delay, and saying “yes” out of guilt.•        Boundaries Build Confidence - Respecting your body, time, and energy—like saying no without explanation or carving out solo thinking time—is how you reinforce integrity and reclaim authority.•        Small Shifts = Big Gains - Progress starts with tiny actions: a weekly “power audit” of what you’re saying yes to (or avoiding) and small boundary experiments recalibrate your entire life.•        Cultivate a Core Power Circle - Surround yourself with a small group: a mirror (truth-teller), a firestarter (encourager), and a strategist (planner). They fuel accountability and keep you aligned.•        Legacy Requires Guarding Your Light - When you own your power, you inspire others to do the same—leading courageously doesn’t just change your life; it creates ripple effects across your family, work, and community.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey Luces: Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

What if your next big idea isn’t a product, it's your heritage? To scale globally - start by giving value locally. Welcome to Beyond the Quo, where host Stacey Luces goes beyond typical boundaries to explore courageous living and purposeful leadership. In this episode, Stacey interviews Kadion Preston, CEO and co-founder of Caribshopper, an e-commerce platform enabling Caribbean merchants to sell their products globally. Kadion shares his journey from Wall Street Tech to running a purpose-driven company that bridges culture and commerce. They discuss the importance of cultural identity, overcoming challenges, and the role of legacy in entrepreneurship. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in innovation rooted in cultural heritage, purposeful leadership, and entrepreneurial resilience.🎧 In this episode:•        03:40 The Genesis of Caribshopper•        09:35 Challenges and Resilience in Entrepreneurship•        15:47 Caribbean Warmth and Authentic Leadership•        25:42 Parenting and Legacy•        28:11 Evolving Parenting Skills•        36:11 Building a Legacy for the Caribbean Diaspora•        37:53 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Challenges💡 Key Takeaways:•        Identity as Innovation: Caribshopper isn’t just a tech solution—it’s a cultural reclamation powered by heritage, lived experiences, and authentic Caribbean storytelling.•        Tenacity Over Failure: Rejection isn’t failure—it’s feedback. Push past the first “no,” stay relentlessly curious, and resilience becomes your competitive edge.•        Network with Heart: Trust is built by giving first. Whether you're opening doors for Caribbean makers or investors, relationship capital trumps transactional exchanges.•        Leadership via Clarity: Building bridges between culture and commerce demands intentional leadership—grounded by vision, vulnerability, and the courage to lead from values.You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:•        Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about📩 Connect with Kadion:LinkedIn/Instagram: @/kadionpreston / @kadionp Website: www.caribshopper.com

What if everything you’ve been told about visibility and success is wrong?You don’t need millions of followers. You don’t need to wait for a publisher, platform, or gatekeeper. And you certainly don’t need to water down your brilliance to fit someone else’s mold.In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces—executive coach, reinvention strategist, and founder of the Living Beyond Movement—sits down with award-winning author, filmmaker, professor, and creative powerhouse Dr. Sheena C. Howard.Dr. Howard was the first Black woman to win an Eisner Award at San Diego Comic-Con. But her success didn’t come from playing the game—it came from rewriting the rules. Through her platforms Nerdworks and Power Your Research, she teaches creatives, scholars, and entrepreneurs how to own their voice, monetize their genius, and build six-figure brands without waiting for permission.Together, they unpack the emotional labor of representation, the myth of perfection, and what it really takes to thrive as a culturally-rooted entrepreneur in spaces that weren’t built for you.Whether you're an academic, a creator, or a leader building something bold—this episode will remind you: your story is your power.🎧 In This Episode• 01:53 – Authenticity and Social Media• 06:32 – Embracing Imperfection in Leadership• 12:48 – The Emotional Labor of Representation• 24:58 – Commitment Over Motivation• 26:26 – Setting Honest Goals (Not Just Impressive Ones)• 32:03 – Empowering the Next Generation• 36:07 – Rediscovering Identity Mid-Journey• 39:33 – Nerdworks and Owning the Creative Lane💡 Key Takeaways• Visibility Is PowerBeing seen isn’t about vanity—it’s about creating space for others to rise. Representation shifts culture, not just algorithms.• Start Small, Then ScaleA massive audience is not a requirement. Offer value, listen deeply, and grow from there. Wealth is built in the refinement.• You Don’t Need PermissionThe publishing and media world is evolving. Now more than ever, creators can publish, platform, and profit—on their own terms.• Nerd Culture Is Not a NicheFrom comic books to cosplay, pop culture is a battleground for equity, identity, and imagination. Claiming that space matters.🔁 You’ve already done the quo. Now it’s time to go beyond.🔥 Feeling seen? Here’s how you keep the momentum going:Hit subscribe to Beyond the Quo so you never miss a conversation that challenges the status quo.Leave a five-star review and share this episode with that friend who’s sitting on their genius.Join the Rising Beyond Power Collective—a free global community for women redefining success and rising into leadership, powerfully and unapologetically.👉 Join here📱 Connect with Dr. Sheena C. HowardIG/LinkedIn: @drsheenahowardWebsite: sheenachoward.com✨ Your story isn’t just content—it’s currency. Let this episode be your reminder to own it.