Show notes
If you’re seeking deeper connections, hope through life transitions, and inspiration for your own purposeful living, this episode is for you. In this episode, I sit down with Iris Huang, multicultural executive coach, global citizen (hello, Uruguay + Taiwan roots!), and my inspiring peer from the Berkeley Executive Coaching Institute. This episode is a celebration of how two “third culture kids” find belonging, spark each other’s growth, and co-create meaning in a world that demands we code-switch every day.Iris and I break down how building connections online (yes, on a random alumni Zoom!) leads to powerful, real-world breakthroughs. Hear her story of feeling “stuck” on her path from corporate leader to solopreneur coach…and how a single conversation unlocked a wave of clarity and action for both of us. We talk about cross-cultural identity, what belonging really means, our favorite code-switching adventures (from Moscow to Dallas!), and why finding YOUR circle isn’t just heartwarming, it’s a survival skill for the soul.Packed with behind-the-scenes stories, actionable insights, and plenty of laughs (plus surprise Spanish!), this episode embodies the true spirit of the Circle of Influencers. Get ready to rethink how you connect, lead, and grow. Watch This If:· You’re experiencing or contemplating a major life transition and yearn for more hope, belonging, and purpose· You lead (or want to lead) with emotional intelligence and authenticity and wonder what it really takes to connect deeply in a digital age· You feel like an “in-betweener”—multicultural, multi-hyphenate, or just searching for your circle· You’re curious about how meaningful connection sparks personal growth, creativity, and resilience—especially for women, leaders, and entrepreneurs· You believe in the power of shared stories to transform, heal, and guide you toward purpose-driven livingEpisode Highlights (with Timestamps):00:00 — Meet Iris Huang & the story of our first connection02:13 — Recalling how a single breakout room sparked a lasting friendship09:00 — Progress, paralysis, & the courage to start (the domain name story!)17:00 — Hope and resilience: becoming your own challenger and finding your parallel people25:00 — Code-switching, belonging, and building your herd across cultures36:00 — Powerful moments of being “seen” as a multicultural leader47:00 — Authentic leadership and emotional intelligence in action56:00 — What elephants and humans teach us about connection1:00:00 — Final reflections & staying connected in a changing worldWhat You’ll Learn:How to cultivate hope and resilience in the midst of uncertainty, change, or self-doubtWhy personal growth conversations—especially with fellow seekers and mentors—are catalysts for authentic leadership and purpose-driven livingThe key mindsets and behaviors that drive emotional intelligence and meaningful connection (in life, leadership, and entrepreneurship!)How to consciously create belonging and “find your herd,” whether in a new country, a new professional arena, or your own familyThe truth about code-switching, self-acceptance, and redefining identity as a strength for career and life transitions Actionable tips for sparking deep connections, digitally or in-personand why every “hello” could change your lifeResources MentionedStrengthsFinder assessment (discover your top strengths: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths)Alison Armstrong’s “Understanding Men” & “Understanding Women” courses: https://www.alisonarmstrong.com/ Contact Information:Guest: Iris HuangLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/irishuang1Website: [Coming soon—stay tuned!] #CircleOfHopePodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #cross-cultural #multicultural #Connection #codeswitchingKnow someone who’s nourishing their circle or needs a reminder that growth starts with connection? Rate and share this episode to invite others into our Circle of Hope.Join us in the conversation -