I'm F*ing Trying

Ever wonder what it's like to build a tech startup with zero traditional business background? In this episode, we dive deep with Jereme Holiman, a serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Urban Stems, who stumbled into the startup world from a fine arts background. Jereme shares his gripping journey from imagining a new floral gifting service with friends to navigating the highs and terrifying lows of running a VC-funded startup. He candidly discusses the humbling experience of failing spectacularly on Valentine's Day and the crucial lessons learned in scaling a business. Whether you're a passionate builder, considering the startup life, or just love a good success story mixed with hard-earned wisdom, this episode is packed with insights on resilience, adaptability, and the true cost of entrepreneurship. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

What if you're not riding the highs or drowning in the lows—but just kind of... here? In this minisode, I talk about a feeling I’ve been sitting with lately: something that looks like calm but sometimes feels like avoidance, something that might be peace but also feels a little weird. I’m calling it neutral.I’ll walk through how it’s been showing up in my life, why it felt so unfamiliar at first, and what I learned when I went down a rabbit hole of psychology, Buddhism, and my own messy reflections. Spoiler: this might actually be growth.If you’ve ever been in that quiet in-between, where nothing’s “wrong” but everything feels a little off—or maybe just still—this one’s for you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Entrepreneur and Navy vet David Franklin joins me to talk about grief, burnout, and what happens when purpose and passion start to drift. We dive into career pivots, mindful leadership, building healthtech with meaning, and the hard work of reconnecting with your why—especially after loss. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Michelle Moffitt spent 25 years as a pastor’s wife in a conservative church, doing everything “right” — until the system she trusted told her to repent for telling the truth. The conversation delves into her battle with spiritual disillusionment, burnout, and the complex process of finding her voice after years of living within an oppressive system. Michelle discusses her book 'Cracked Open,' which combines her personal story with scientific methods to help readers overcome limiting beliefs. The episode also touches on the importance of having a supportive personal board of directors and the journey of self-discovery through small, incremental steps.Lessons learned, full show notes, and bonus content at https://maricellaherrera.substack.com/ — subscribe for weekly extras. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

It’s been a minute. In this solo minisode, I talk about what it means to feel stuck, to lose momentum, and to find your way back—imperfectly, honestly, and without a grand plan. From burnout and overwhelm to the tiny, radical act of just trying, this is an unfiltered reflection on showing up when everything feels like too much.Also: shoutout to my inner critic, lovingly nicknamed “brain bitch.” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Leah Farmer returned from her Christmas break to find herself inexplicably viewed as an outsider—a shift that led her to question her role, her relationships with her colleagues, and what she truly wanted.In this episode, Leah shares her journey from accounting to a successful career  as a product leader at some of the world’s top companies.  In this episode, Leah opens up about the painful realization that it was time to leave a job she loved (sound familiar?). She shares how that experience lead her to Google—a step she thought would be her redemption, only to find that the path to fulfillment is rarely a straight line. We explore the difficult balance between wanting to give it your all and knowing when to go, and the emotional turmoil that follows when you decide it’s time to move on. Leah’s story is a powerful reminder to always ask for what you need—and to never let someone else’s opinion dictate your worth.About Leah Farmer:Leah Farmer is a professional coach, product leader, and advocate for well-being in the tech industry. With over 25 years of experience working in startups, scale-ups, and big tech, Leah has held executive roles like VP of Product and CPTO. She is now focused on coaching and mentoring leaders and teams to prevent burnout, improve communication, and build better culture for product growth. Leah is passionate about helping individuals thrive, combining her expertise in product management, leadership, and personal development to create lasting impact.Key Lessons:* Ask Boldly for What You Need: Leah’s story reminds us that we can’t assume others know what we need. Sometimes, asking is the only way forward.* Pursue What Lights You Up: Leah’s journey shows us the power of embracing your strengths and actively seeking roles that excite and challenge you.* Leave on Your Own Terms: Staying until you’ve given it everything can offer closure, but don’t stay so long that it starts breaking you.* Lead with Humanity: She reminds us that true leadership goes beyond technical skills—connecting with your team on a human level is just as crucial for success.* Process the Grief: Even if you’re ready to go, leaving a beloved job brings grief. Give yourself space to process it and move on with a clear mind.Episode Notes:[00:00] - Introduction and Maricella’s Updates[04:35] - Early Career Aspirations[05:24] - Transition to Product Management[08:12] - Experience at Amazon[10:44] - Leaving Amazon and Lessons Learned[14:56] - Chasing Curiosity in Career[24:00] - Moving to Europe and Klarna[25:04] - Startup Experience in Berlin[29:22] - The Breaking Point[30:33] - Leaving the Boss, Not the Team[35:27] - The Slow Burn of Decision Making[37:13] - The Exhaustion Sets In[41:49] - A Brief Stint at Google[48:10] - Embracing Coaching[51:30] - Finding Meaning in Coaching[55:29] - Advice to My Past Self  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Do you ever feel that creeping sense of dread on Sunday afternoon, knowing Monday is just around the corner? What if that feeling extended beyond Sundays—what if it filled your whole week? Would you have the courage to walk away, or would you stay, hoping things will improve? My guest today asked herself these very hard questions.In today’s episode, I chat with Suguna Chunduri, a thought leader, advocate, nonprofit founder and generally great human being.  Suguna walked away from a successful career in big pharma and healthcare, deciding to find out what truly brings her joy. Together, we explore how to stop, reassess, and make changes that honor who you really are, not just who you think you should be.If you’ve ever felt like a square peg in a round hole, or found yourself checking all the boxes but still feeling unfulfilled, this conversation will resonate. Suguna’s journey of self-discovery, her search for “fit,” and her willingness to ask the hard questions inspired me to rethink my own priorities. You’ll hear about the importance of finding your tribe, whether that’s your family, friends, or colleagues, and the powerful role they play in helping you reclaim your confidence and happiness.Key Lessons:* The Power of Fit: Identifying when a role or environment doesn’t align with your values and strengths—and finding the courage to move on.* Building a Support System: Why family, friends, and mentors are essential to overcoming self-doubt and making meaningful changes.* Regaining Confidence: Strategies for letting go of negative beliefs and rebuilding your confidence when it’s been shaken by external pressures.* Finding What Makes You Happy: Steps you can take today to rediscover what truly brings you joy, outside of societal expectations.About Suguna Chunduri:Suguna Chunduri is a distinguished thought leader and speaker who passionately advocates for education, innovation and accessibility in healthcare globally. Through her work, she promotes cultural education and insights that inspire and transform communities.As an accomplished global executive, Suguna boasts over 20 years of leadership experience in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and multinational corporations. She has demonstrated remarkable success in achieving sustained and unprecedented growth across diverse U.S. markets. Suguna excels in P&L leadership, general management, market access, and product launches, consistently driving superior outcomes.Renowned for her ability to lead cross-cultural teams, Suguna has a proven track record of creating patient-centric programs, forging strategic alliances, and managing medical affairs across various therapeutic areas on a global scale. Her expertise and strategic vision have been instrumental in transforming healthcare landscapes.Suguna is also distinguished for her thought leadership, serving on various boards, engaging in public speaking, and providing advisory roles. She is a champion of strategic partnerships, patient advocacy, and engagement, continuously striving to improve healthcare outcomes and foster a more inclusive and ethical industry. Episode Notes:[00:00] - Introduction and Personal Journey[02:31] - The Struggle with Job Fit[04:43] - Personal Reflections and Family Support[14:35] - The Importance of Managerial Relationships[29:31] - Strengthening the Empathy Muscle[30:37] - Embracing Authenticity in Leadership[31:53] - The Confidence of Age[33:01] - Self-Discovery and Personal Growth[34:16] - Living for Yourself[35:35] - Navigating Career Transitions[37:11] - Rediscovering Passion and Purpose[39:06] - The Power of Positive Relationships[40:52] - Making Difficult Decisions[42:55] - Reflecting on Personal Well-being[53:23] - Final Thoughts and Takeaways This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

Sh*t Curly Hair Is My CanvasIn this episode, I sit down with Nicolle Lemonds, an incredibly talented hair colorist known for her expertise in working with curls (even if she doesn't have curls herself). After walking into a curly hair salon almost 14 years ago, Nicolle knew she’d found her calling and never looked back. For Nicolle, her work isn’t about having the same experience as her clients; it’s about understanding the power of individuality and helping others bring out their uniqueness.Nicolle shares how she turned her passion for color and creativity into a thriving career that goes beyond styling—she’s passionate about changing societal beauty standards one curl at a time. We discuss her journey from working in malls in the south to becoming a sought-after colorist in NYC, overcoming client skepticism, building a successful brand on Instagram, and eventually launching her own business after more than a decade in a single salon.This episode is more than just a discussion about hair and career journey — it’s about identity, community and the freedom that comes with self-acceptance. Follow Nicolle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NicolleLovesCurls/ Key lessons learned:* How embracing what makes you unique can build confidence and authenticity in both personal and professional life.* The power of empathy in building connections, even when your experiences differ from others.* Why creativity, whether through your appearance or career, is a powerful form of self-expression.* Practical advice on navigating change and uncertainty when taking bold steps or reinventing yourself.Episode Notes[00:00] - Introduction and Life Updates[05:21] - Nicolle's Career Journey[09:53] - The Importance of Education and Support[17:05] - Moving to New York and Career Growth[23:47] - Challenges and Triumphs in the Salon [29:16] - Embracing Inclusivity in the Curly Hair Movement[33:50] - Empathy and Emotional Labor in Hairdressing[40:31] - Building a Personal Brand[43:34] - Transition to Entrepreneurship[46:01] - Challenges During COVID-19[52:01] - Deciding to Go Solo[56:46] - The Power of Social Media[01:01:49] - Future Aspirations [01:05:49] - Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

In this minisode, Maricella Herrera reflects on the unexpected lessons she learned from spending a week with her two-year-old nephew. What started as a playful getaway turned into a deeper exploration of the importance of play, imagination, and living in the moment. Maricella challenges the conventional wisdom of what adults should teach children and flips the script—what can we learn from them? Drawing from her own experiences and backed by research on the benefits of play, Maricella invites listeners to reconnect with their inner child, embrace simplicity, and find joy in the most unexpected places. Whether you're a parent, a caregiver, or just someone needing a little more fun in your life, this episode is a reminder to play a little more and stress a little less.Resources:Playing for All Kinds of Possibilities: https://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/23/science/zeal-for-play-may-have-propelled-human-evolution.htmlDo You Play Enough? Science Says It's Critical to Your Health and Well-Being - Newsweek: https://www.newsweek.com/2023/07/28/do-you-play-enough-science-says-its-critical-your-health-well-being-1813808.htmlUsing Play to Rewire & Improve Your Brain - Huberman Lab: https://www.hubermanlab.com/episode/using-play-to-rewire-and-improve-your-brain This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com

We all have moments when we question the path we’re on, but how do you know when it’s time to take the leap into something entirely different? Is there a downside to turning a passion into a career? This episode dives into that moment of clarity when you realize it's time to pivot, and what happens when you trust your gut to pursue what truly lights you up. Ken Stanek shares his journey of leaving a stable career in design to embrace his passion for art—despite all the uncertainty that comes with such a bold move. We talk about the importance of being absolutely certain in your decisions, trusting your instincts, and embracing the inevitable discomfort that comes with any significant change.Ken’s story is a testament to the power of following your intuition. He explains how, once he felt that deep, undeniable certainty about his new path, he knew there was no room for doubt or regret. We also explore the balance between being creative and staying focused—using both sides of your brain to drive forward without losing sight of your dreams. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with laughs, storytelling, and embracing both the practical and whimsical sides of life.About Ken Stanek:Dating back to December 2022, Ken has doodled detailed diaries of diners, dives, shops, cafes, and places. Swollen sketchbooks swiftly spilled off shelves, displacing space and ballooning backpacks. A sketchbook goes everywhere he goes. Ken has been a full time artist for only a year, but has been drawing all his life. Watercolor became his medium after finding that his light touch translates terrifically in capturing portraits of the personas of people, pets, homes, animals, and small businesses. Running these figure drawing sessions slingshotted his success and convinced him that there was enough of a support system of superb artists around to encourage a creative community and thrive.Website | Instagram | YouTube | Blog | Book of IllustrationsKey Lessons Learned:* Trust Your Certainty: Discover how feeling absolutely sure about your decisions can eliminate doubt and regret, empowering you to make bold career changes with confidence.* Embrace Discomfort: Learn why stepping out of your comfort zone and seeking discomfort can be key to personal growth and finding fulfillment in your career.* Balance Creativity and Focus: Understand the importance of balancing creative exploration with practical focus to achieve success without losing sight of your dreams.* Harness Community Support: Find out how building and leaning on a supportive community can be a crucial part of pursuing your passions and navigating major life changes.Episode Notes:[00:00] - Introduction and Personal Update[00:51] - Guest Introduction: Ken Stanek[02:02] - Ken's Journey: From Corporate to Art[05:36] - Early Aspirations and College Experience[10:57] - The Bike Messenger Adventure[17:33] - Rediscovering Art and Building a Career[26:24] - Community Building and Artistic Pursuits[28:27] - Artistic Freedom and Community[29:46] - Transitioning to a Full-Time Artist[31:20] - Navigating Layoffs and New Beginnings[36:56] - Building a Support System[37:57] - Exploring New Ventures and Coaching[43:30] - Focusing on Local Art Projects[52:02] - Reflecting on Career Choices[56:04] - Where to Find KenAn extra treat - I said I loved Ken’s illustrations, and saw this very cute cat that reminded of me of my little Toffee so… couldn’t help myself 😄 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com