Business as UNusual is not just another podcast; it's a captivating journey into the heart of modern entrepreneurship. This show dives deep into the groundbreaking strategies, bold ideas, and unconventional practices that empower visionary leaders and companies to thrive in a rapidly changing business landscape.
Join Aicila, a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience in business development across the nonprofit and corporate sectors, as she engages in enlightening conversations with a diverse array of guests. These inspiring individuals are on a mission to create successful businesses that prioritize both people and the planet in their profit models.
Tune in to be inspired and to discover how these remarkable changemakers are redefining success in business. Their stories will ignite your passion and spark innovative thinking in your own ventures.
For more details, visit BiCurean.com/bau.
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Business as UNusual is not just another podcast; it's a captivating journey into the heart of modern entrepreneurship. This show dives deep into the groundbreaking strategies, bold ideas, and unconventional practices that empower visionary leaders and companies to thrive in a rapidly changing business landscape.
Join Aicila, a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience in business development across the nonprofit and corporate sectors, as she engages in enlightening conversations with a diverse array of guests. These inspiring individuals are on a mission to create successful businesses that prioritize both people and the planet in their profit models.
Tune in to be inspired and to discover how these remarkable changemakers are redefining success in business. Their stories will ignite your passion and spark innovative thinking in your own ventures.
For more details, visit BiCurean.com/bau.
[CLAIM:1LJTWWCC]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this conversation packed with unconventional insights, host Aicila welcomes Grace Najean—transformational leadership strategist, keynote speaker, and former Tony Robbins master coach—to Business as UNusual. Grace shares her Soulfluence Method and explains why true leadership, especially in today’s fast-paced world, demands more than just strategy—it requires energy, alignment, and soul. If you’re looking for innovative ways to thrive instead of just achieve, this episode will help you rethink success from the inside out.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Want to experience truly transformational leadership? Visit Grace Najean’s website and explore her upcoming retreats and programs.
Start your day in alignment! Try Grace’s 10-minute morning routine for energy and focus—listen for her instructions in the episode.
Connect with Grace on LinkedIn and join her community of purpose-driven leaders.
Episode transcript:
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila explores why energy—not just time and money—should be a key resource in business planning. Learn why successful entrepreneurs need to intentionally cultivate momentum, creativity, and connection to fuel productivity and innovation. Discover practical strategies and frameworks to identify energy leaks, optimize workflows, and thrive as an intentional, energized entrepreneur. If you want to understand how energy impacts leadership, motivation, and business growth, this episode is for you.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Take the Energy Snapshot quiz to discover your core energy type and boost your business!
Start planning your activities for next year based on what energizes you—reflect, write, or walk!
Subscribe and tune in next week for more Business as UNusual strategies with special guest Meg Crosby!
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila dives into the world of unconventional coaching with Autumn Wade, the force behind Coaches & Dragons. Autumn, your inner rebel’s favorite coach, shares how she merges tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) with life and business coaching to help clients hunt inner gremlins and escape feeling stuck. Discover actionable strategies for choosing the right coach, trusting yourself, and building a business (and life) that truly fits you—not the status quo.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Ready to level up your growth? Join The Forge and start your journey with TTRPG-inspired tools!
Follow Autumn on TikTok for daily wisdom and geeky coaching tips.
Curious if coaching is right for you? Visit coachesanddragons.com to connect with Autumn and discover a new approach to change.
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with Faith Clarke, founder of Work Ecosystems for Humans, to unpack how designing for belonging and collaborative leadership transforms workplaces. Faith—an organizational culture and teamwork specialist, with a unique background as a Caribbean immigrant and mother of neurodistinct children—shares how inclusive, values-driven environments unleash authentic engagement and sustainable growth. Together, they explore the myths and realities of inclusivity, why culture beats strategy, and how power-with over power-over brings higher-performing, more human teams. If you’re searching for innovative approaches to organizational leadership, this conversation delivers the practical insights and inspiration you need.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Ready to transform your organization? Explore a restorative culture audit with Faith Clarke at faithclark.com.
Rethink your leadership—shift from “power over” to “power with” and watch your team thrive!
Don’t miss future Business as UNusual wisdom—subscribe and share this episode with leaders hungry for change!
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with fundraising thought leader Jeff Schreifels, principal and owner of Veritus Group, to unpack innovative donor relationship strategies for modern nonprofits. Jeff brings over 30 years of experience elevating organizations like St. Jude’s and United Way, focusing on building genuine connections, investing across the donor pipeline, and fostering long-term impact. This conversation goes deep into why sustainable growth in fundraising means challenging conventional norms, embracing authentic engagement, and thinking beyond transactional giving. If you want your nonprofit to step beyond the usual, this episode delivers insights and actionable takeaways for success.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Dive into Veritus Group’s free resources and transform your fundraising approach: veritusgroup.com
Put relationships at the heart of your fundraising—try one new authentic engagement strategy this week
Ready to upskill? Register for Veritus Group’s upcoming certification courses in mid and major giving!
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes Daniel Nikic, founder of Cohres and an investment research professional with over two decades of experience. Daniel discusses the crucial differences between investment research and investment firms, shares insights into risk for startups and VCs, and reveals how private equity can both help and harm companies. In this thought-provoking conversation, Daniel also tackles the challenges and opportunities brought by AI, emphasizing the human element required for high-quality decisions in today’s rapidly evolving business environment.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Daniel Nikic’s website: www.danielnikic.com
Find Daniel on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-nikic/
Share this episode with a founder or entrepreneur looking to make business truly UNusual!
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with Liz Hansen, owner and photographer at Chicago Boudoir Photography. Liz shares her journey of creating a business dedicated to empowering women to celebrate their bodies and stories through boudoir photography. With over 2,000 women photographed and numerous recognitions—including features on TEDx and NPR—Liz discusses how her unconventional approach transforms perceptions of body image, encourages radical self-care, and creates a safe, supportive space for women of all backgrounds. Discover how boudoir photography can be a business rooted in compassion, inclusion, and confidence.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Explore your confidence—visit chicagoboudoir.com for inspiration, resources, and to see how Liz is changing the conversation around boudoir photography.
Support Domestic Violence Awareness—get involved this October, join a local initiative, or donate to a shelter in your community.
Ready to try something business as UNusual? Take the risk, start your project, or reach out for collaboration—your voice matters!
Find Liz on social
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chicagoboudoir
VIP Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/VIPChicago
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chicagoboudoir
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-hansen-9aab35173/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChicagoBoudoirPhotography
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes Meg K. Wheeler, CPA, financial educator, and founder of the Equitable Money Project. Meg shares her experience helping marginalized business owners reclaim financial power, build generational wealth, and rethink the profit-driven model through a justice-centered lens. Discover actionable strategies for sustainable business growth, financial well-being, and systemic impact. Explore unique approaches to money as a tool for good, not just personal gain, and learn why redefining success in business means putting people and the planet alongside profit.
Topics Discussed in This Episode:
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Ready to reclaim your financial power? Visit the Equitable Money Project for free resources and community support!
Want to learn more about building generational wealth? Check out the "Disrupt Your Money" podcast with Meg K. Wheeler.
Break the mold! Join the conversation on sustainable, justice-driven entrepreneurship. Connect with us and share your story.
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila explores the critical difference between authentic connection energy and people pleasing in business relationships. She discusses how true connection is rooted in mutual presence, reciprocity, and alignment—never in perpetual accessibility or self-sacrifice. Hear practical strategies for setting boundaries, fueling your work without burning out, and building collaborations that energize instead of drain. This episode is packed with insights for creative entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone navigating the demands of modern business connection.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Capacity Check-In Tool by Aicila (linked in episode show notes)
Ready to energize your business relationships? Take the Capacity Check-In to discover your connection strengths—link in the show notes!
Set one new boundary this week that supports your energy—notice how it helps you show up authentically!
Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur who needs a reminder: Connection should fuel, not cost you.
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila dives deep with Padideh Jafari, Esq, founder and CEO of Jafari Law and Mediation Office. Padideh is a seasoned family law attorney known for her psychology-based approach to divorce, mediation, and abuse recovery. From navigating complex cases to co-hosting a popular podcast on narcissistic abuse, Padideh shares her unconventional strategies for leading with empathy, setting boundaries, and transforming the legal profession. Explore how breaking the mold in family law can support healing, empower survivors, and set a new standard for legal excellence.
Topics Discussed in This Episode:
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Listen to the Narcissist Abuse Recovery Channel for expert insights and survivor stories.
Follow Padideh on Instagram and Threads for ongoing legal tips and inspiration.
Get involved—find a cause you care about and make an impact in your community like Padideh does with CASA OC!
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with celebrated Canadian artist and entrepreneur Tim Packer to explore how unconventional thinking, discipline, and business savvy can turn creativity into a multi-million dollar enterprise. Tim shares his journey from police detective to renowned artist, revealing the real strategies that break the starving artist myth. Artists and business leaders alike will learn why mindset, consistent effort, and a growth-oriented approach are crucial for success in the art world—and beyond.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Ready to transform your art from hobby to career? Check out Tim’s courses at the Tim Packer Art Academy.
Challenge yourself! Commit to painting (or your craft) three times a week and watch your skills—and opportunities—grow.
Want inspiration and expert advice? Subscribe to Tim’s YouTube channel for weekly tips on mastering your art and business.
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with MC Laubscher—bestselling author, entrepreneur, investor, and host of the Cash Flow Ninja podcast. MC reveals why 99% of standard financial advice is wrong for business owners, shares simple frameworks to demystify wealth-building, and uncovers the alternative strategies that help entrepreneurs take control, multiply their wealth, and create real financial freedom. If you're ready to break free from traditional thinking and build a legacy, don't miss this conversation.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Download a free copy of MC’s bestselling book, Get Wealthy for Sure, and discover why business as unusual leads to legacy wealth!
Explore more out-of-the-box business strategies with the Cash Flow Ninja podcast.
Ready to take control? Visit Producers Wealth for guidance on alternative wealth strategies for business owners.
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes Melissa Snow, founder of the Powerful Women Rising Community and business relationship strategist, to discuss authentic networking for women entrepreneurs. Melissa shares how her journey as a coach led her to empower women to grow their businesses through genuine connections rather than outdated, transactional networking models. Listen for innovative frameworks, actionable advice for introverts and neurodivergent entrepreneurs, and Melissa’s unique take on building business communities that foster real growth.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
🎧 Like what you heard? Subscribe to Business as UNusual for more disruptive conversations with leaders who do business differently!
🤝 Challenge yourself! Try a new networking format that honors your authentic style—what if your best connection is waiting just outside your comfort zone?
Episode transcript:
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with Evante Daniels, a cultural physicist, strategist, and author, to unpack the game-changing ideas behind "cultural physics." Discover how Daniels’ unique background―working with global brands, political campaigns, and pioneering media analysis―shapes his approach to cultural intelligence, collective consciousness, and the real power of effective communication across today’s diverse business landscape. If you’re curious about innovative business culture, the intersection of media and influence, or how to foster authenticity in corporate environments, this conversation with Seeker’s chief strategy officer is a must-listen.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Learn more about Cultural Physics and how it can reshape your workplace by visiting Seeker at https://seeqer.co
Ready to level up your organizational culture? Apply for Seeker’s upcoming Cultural Physics Cohort and bring transformative strategy to your team
Stay inspired—connect with Evante Daniels on LinkedIn or Substack and join the conversation about modern business, power, and inclusion
Episode transcript:
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with Brent—also known as Realm Seeker—a postgraduate psychology student turned multidisciplinary creator. Brent dives deep into the world of creative flow, overcoming self-doubt, and the power of solo RPG worldbuilding as both an art form and personal growth tool. They discuss practical ways to align your creative work with your inner values, rather than chasing external trends, and how vulnerability can drive authentic connections. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in creativity, RPGs, visionary fiction, or finding fulfillment outside the typical business playbook.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Curious about solo RPGs or creative worldbuilding? Connect with Brent on Substack at realmzone.substack.com to join his creative community!
Ready to unlock your artistic flow? Try a week of daily creativity with zero pressure—just experiment and see where your imagination takes you!
Let’s get unconventional! Share your own Business as UNusual story with us on social media or at BiCurean.com—your authentic voice could inspire others!
Episode transcript:
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila explores the critical difference between focusing on your goals and fixating on them—a game changer for entrepreneurs and business leaders. Discover actionable strategies to reorient your attention, leverage intention over rigid solutions, and build momentum through daily processes. Whether you’re aiming for location independence, growing your revenue, or tackling your next big milestone, this episode helps you break free from limiting paradigms and cultivate real business progress.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Try this: Reflect on your current business goal. Are you focusing on the outcome or fixating on the method? Share your shift with us on social!
Take action: Identify one small step you can take today to move closer to your intention—then do it!
Stay unconventional: Subscribe and follow for more disruptive strategies that help you stand out in the modern business world!
Episode transcript:
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. @bicurean
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcome David Silverman, acclaimed screenwriter, TV producer, and Stanford-educated psychotherapist. Silverman shares his unconventional journey from psychology to Hollywood, breaking down the mindset, resilience, and creative strategies that helped him co-create series like The Wild Thornberries and author "How to Be a Rock Star Screenwriter." Discover how embracing the human condition, pushing past rejection, and leveraging unusual tactics can redefine business success—both onscreen and off.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Ready to break into screenwriting? Grab David’s book "How to Be a Rock Star Screenwriter" and start your journey!
Seeking creative business inspiration? Explore unconventional tips at hollywoodscriptwriting.com.
Know someone dreaming of Hollywood? Share this episode to spark their next big idea!
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes Shez Mehra, an award-winning creative entrepreneur, DJ, and founder of 194 Group. Together, they explore the powerful impact of sonic branding, the importance of audio strategy for businesses of all sizes, and how intentional sound design can transform customer experience and boost brand recall. Whether you’re an established enterprise or a solopreneur, discover why innovative leaders are tuning in to the untapped potential of sound in their business strategy.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Shez's wok:
Want to transform your brand’s identity? Visit shezmehra.com to learn more about sonic branding and how it can revolutionize your business.
Never miss an unconventional business insight! Subscribe, share, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.
Ready for Business as UNusual? Think beyond visuals—start crafting your business’s sound experience today!
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with Ines O'Donovan, PhD—also known as the Ageless Futurist and founder of Jeunessima Magazine—to dive deep into the science and strategy of slowing biological aging for entrepreneurs. Ines shares practical tips for boosting vitality and performance, debunks aging myths, and reveals how optimizing sleep, stress, and energy sets leaders apart in today’s competitive landscape. This discussion is a must-listen for founders, executives, and anyone looking to turn their biological age into a business superpower.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
https://jeunessima.com/unusual
https://jeunessima.com,
https://inesodonovan.com
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inesodonovan (best).
Also on X: https://x.com/inesodonovan & https://x.com/Jeunessima
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with Jaime Araujo, vintner and founder of Trois Noix, a Certified B Corp wine company in Napa Valley. Jaime’s unique path—growing up in a renowned winemaking family, spending years in Europe, and ultimately returning to Napa to blaze her own trail—is a testament to challenging convention in the wine industry. Jaime shares how she uses community, social change, and transparent business practices to redefine both leadership and legacy in a region steeped in tradition. Listen in for insights on supporting women, queer leaders, and younger generations—and discover why wine can be a surprising catalyst for social change.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Stay connected with Trois Noix—sign up for their newsletter to hear about new releases and where to meet Jaime in person!
Curious about running a business as a force for good? Explore the B Corp movement and what it means for your industry.
Support women and diversity in wine—check out Batonage for mentorship programs and resources.
IG: www.instagram.com/troisnoixwine/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/TroisNoixWine
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/troisnoixwine/
The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3
Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.
Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
