Turmeric and Tequila™

 “Your identity isn’t what you do—it’s who you become in the process. Fame fades, but purpose endures.” – Christian Ray Flores In this powerful episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson is joined by Christian Ray Flores—global speaker, impact-driven entrepreneur, and former international music star. From topping the charts in post-Soviet Russia to co-founding award-winning companies and nonprofit movements, Christian’s story is anything but ordinary. They dive deep into identity, leadership, and legacy—unpacking how fame shaped Christian’s worldview and how faith continues to guide his mission in business, philanthropy, and media. Whether you’re building a personal brand or looking for purpose beyond success, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom and soulful reminders that your path matters.  Time Stamps: 0:00 – Welcome + Christian Ray Flores' wild journey from fame to faith 4:10 – The unexpected rise to pop stardom in post-Soviet Russia 9:30 – Leaving the spotlight to pursue a deeper mission 13:45 – Entrepreneurship, spiritual alignment, and serving through business 18:25 – Overcoming ego, imposter syndrome, and pressure to perform 24:50 – Advice to creators and changemakers 29:30 – Why faith + impact are the ultimate success metrics 34:20 – Final reflections on leadership, legacy, and what’s next  Christian Ray Flores Founder, Xponential Life Coaching Christian Ray Flores is an entrepreneur, evangelist, international recording artist, and philanthropist. From a childhood as a refugee to international pop stardom in post-Soviet Russia, he has forged an extraordinary path as a successful artist, speaker, and impact-driven leader. He co-founded Ascend Academy, Third Drive, and launched Xponential, a high-performance coaching program and community designed to help world changers thrive in life, leadership, and faith. Christian is a sought-after voice on creativity, business, purpose, and global transformation—combining real-world experience with spiritual conviction to inspire and equip the next generation of change-makers. https://www.xponential.life/littlebook https://www.xponential.life/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianrayflores/ https://x.com/ChristianRay https://www.facebook.com/christianrayflores1/ https://www.instagram.com/christianrayflores/ https://www.tiktok.com/@christianrayflores    Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

"The moment I stopped chasing validation and started trusting myself, everything shifted—my peace, my power, and my purpose." — Misty In this powerful episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes Misty—a woman of remarkable resilience, transformation, and wisdom. Misty opens up about her journey from deep self-doubt and trauma to spiritual awakening and self-empowerment. She shares how hitting rock bottom became the catalyst for healing, entrepreneurship, and helping others rediscover their worth. Together, Kristen and Misty explore: Healing from generational trauma Finding clarity and confidence through mindset shifts The importance of alignment in business and life Why pain can be our greatest teacher The role of spirituality, rituals, and self-care in personal growth Redefining success and surrendering to divine timing Whether you’re seeking clarity, building confidence, or stepping into your power—this episode will ignite your soul. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Introduction and Sponsor Shoutouts 02:05 – Meet Misty: Her childhood, trauma, and early lessons 09:45 – From rock bottom to awakening: The power of surrender 17:30 – Healing codependency and finding her own voice 24:50 – Why emotional boundaries are key to peace 31:15 – Building a business from soul alignment 39:00 – Rituals, morning practices, and divine timing 46:10 – Trusting yourself and the universe 52:30 – Final thoughts and what success means to Misty Misty Bell Stiers: Misty Bell Stiers is an artist, storyteller and boss witch who has spent her career focused on leveraging her passion for diversity, equity and inclusion—and a little bit of magic—to create systemic change at every level. As an executive creative director, podcast guest, speaker and author, Misty has mastered using her unique perspective to help people find ways to truly connect to the world around them and the people in it. https://www.mistybellstiers.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mistybellstiers https://twitter.com/mistybellstiers https://www.facebook.com/mistybellstiers/ https://www.instagram.com/mistybellstiers/ Books: 2023 - Light, Fire & Abundance https://a.co/d/au2JC4b 2024 - She Changed the World (contributor) https://a.co/d/9pZA09I   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

"When there’s hope in the future, there’s power in the present." - Dane Espegard   In this inspiring episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson sits down with Dane Espegard—entrepreneur, author, speaker, and culture consultant—to talk all things leadership, intentional living, and integrating dreams into company culture. From his early days in direct sales with Cutco to creating “The Dream Machine” book and platform, Dane shares how aligning personal dreams with work culture can drive purpose, performance, and retention. You’ll hear how Dane turned a commission-based job into a fulfilling mission-driven career, his insights into what it means to lead with joy, and why dreaming should be at the heart of every workplace. Kristen and Dane also discuss the power of athletics, family, and staying energized in your zone of genius.   Time Stamps: 0:00 – Intro + sponsor shoutouts 1:50 – Welcome Dane Espegard & his background in athletics and leadership 7:30 – Early start with Cutco and entrepreneurial roots 11:45 – How direct sales shaped his mindset 14:50 – Inspiration from author Matthew Kelly and the seeds of dream culture 20:05 – Transition from top performer to dream-driven consultant 25:45 – Building a team culture that retains talent 32:30 – Why Gen Z and younger workers want more than a paycheck 36:15 – The Dream Machine book: Who it’s for & what it teaches 43:20 – Launching DreamsVault.com and building a scalable tool 49:50 – Favorite dreams from his team (including… colonics?!) 54:40 – What success really means to Dane 57:10 – Faith, family, and finding energy alignment 1:00:25 – Where to find Dane and how to grab his free book   Dane Espegard is a culture consultant, entrepreneur, and author of The Dream Machine. With over 20 years of experience as a top performer in the direct sales industry, Dane helps organizations boost retention and engagement by aligning personal dreams with workplace culture. He is the founder of The Dreams System, a proven framework adopted by companies across the U.S. to empower employees through goal-setting, values alignment, and personal growth. Dane is also a sought-after speaker and the creator of DreamsVault.com, a digital platform helping teams track and celebrate individual dreams. Learn more at www.daneespegard.com Connect: Website: www.daneespegard.com Book: daneespegard.com/freegift   Instagram: @daneespegard LinkedIn: Dane Espegard   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI  https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

“You don’t need to be perfect to start. You just need to be honest with yourself—and keep moving forward with love.” -Julio Vincent Gambuto In this heartfelt and humor-filled conversation, Kristen Olson sits down with filmmaker, author, and cultural voice Julio Vincent Gambuto to explore the layered journey of a creator navigating identity, family, and the digital age. From his viral essay “Prepare for the Ultimate Gaslighting” to his debut feature film Team Marco and bestselling book Please Unsubscribe, Thanks!, Julio shares the mindset shifts and personal rituals that keep him grounded and in motion. Whether you're a storyteller, entrepreneur, or evolving human trying to live more intentionally, this episode reminds us that it's never too late to lead with empathy—and to keep writing your story. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila00:40 – Sponsor shout-outs01:20 – Introducing Julio Vincent Gambuto02:10 – Julio’s childhood in Staten Island & early creativity04:30 – Growing up gay in a Catholic Italian family07:00 – Journaling, poetry & emotional expression09:00 – Mental health, therapy, and owning your identity11:00 – Creative evolution from essays to screenwriting13:45 – The cultural impact of Please Unsubscribe, Thanks!15:30 – Navigating capitalism, storytelling & influence18:10 – How Team Marco bridges generational gaps20:00 – The power of presence over perfection21:45 – Advice to young creatives and late bloomers23:15 – Spirituality, family, and rethinking success25:00 – What’s next: Silver Fox & storytelling workshops27:00 – Final thoughts on authenticity in today’s world28:00 – Closing + how to connect with Julio online Julio Vincent Gambuto: Julio Vincent Gambuto is a filmmaker, author, speaker, and cultural critic known for his heart-driven storytelling and fearless social commentary. A Staten Island native and Harvard graduate, Julio began his career in New York’s theater and comedy scene before earning his MFA in film from the University of Southern California. His debut feature film, Team Marco, is an award-winning intergenerational story distributed globally and praised for its tender, timely message about family and screen culture. Julio rose to national prominence with his viral essay “Prepare for the Ultimate Gaslighting”, which led to his bestselling book Please Unsubscribe, Thanks!—a call to action on consumerism, tech, and reclaiming intentional living. Julio’s work has appeared in TIME, NBC, The Guardian, and The Boston Globe, and he’s spoken at SXSW, Harvard, and other premier storytelling events. Through his production company, Benevolent Mischief, he continues to develop bold, thought-provoking film and television projects while teaching creative workshops that champion authenticity and emotional intelligence. Connect with Julio: Website: www.juliovincent.com Instagram: @juliovincent Twitter/X: @juliovincent LinkedIn: Julio Vincent Gambuto   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

"People want to be seen, heard, and valued—for who they are and what they bring to the table. That’s true in business and in life, especially after trauma." — Carrie Ricker, Author of Trauma is a Catalyst In this powerful episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson sits down with Carrie Rickert—author, trauma survivor, management consultant, and founder of Nomis Advisors. Together, they explore how personal trauma can become a profound catalyst for professional and personal transformation. Carrie shares her journey through a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and how it redefined her approach to leadership, empathy, and business strategy. From founding a consulting firm to co-authoring “Trauma to Triumph,” Carrie is proof that resilience fuels reinvention. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, coach, or just someone trying to navigate life after hardship, this episode will empower you with insights on post-traumatic growth, mindful leadership, and the power of authentic storytelling in both life and work. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila™ 01:00 – Sponsor shout-outs: Luxe Neuro & Colorado Clownfish Swim School 02:00 – Introducing Carrie Ricker: Author, Consultant, Podcaster, Trauma Survivor 04:30 – Growing up around adults: early leadership development 06:30 – Clinical psychology and curiosity: a foundation for consulting 08:30 – The rise of mental health in the workplace 10:00 – Listening with purpose: leadership through curiosity 12:00 – Authentic connection in business and healing 13:00 – Carrie’s traumatic accident and its ripple effect 15:30 – Returning to work after trauma: what support is missing 18:00 – The gap in post-acute care and why it matters 20:00 – Why Carrie wrote Trauma is a Catalyst 22:00 – Empathy, listening, and leading with vulnerability 25:00 – From TBI to purpose-driven coaching and consulting 27:30 – The first team experience: how orchestra taught leadership 29:00 – Championing brain health and invisible injuries 31:00 – The universal need for empowerment and being heard 35:00 – How leaders can empower without needing all the answers 38:00 – What success means to Carrie now 39:00 – Where to connect with Carrie and grab her books   Carrie Rickert is a trauma survivor, author, speaker, podcaster, and founder of Nomis Advisors, where she offers organizational consulting and trauma-informed coaching. After surviving a life-altering car accident and traumatic brain injury, she became passionate about helping others rebuild both personally and professionally. Carrie is the author of Trauma is a Catalyst and co-author of Trauma to Triumph: Stories of TBI Survivors. She helps individuals and teams find clarity, foster empowerment, and lead with authenticity. Books: Trauma is a Catalyst | Trauma to Triumph https://www.nomisadvisors.com/ https://www.facebook.com/carrie.root1/ https://www.instagram.com/nomisadvisors/?hl=en   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE Sponsors:  Colorado Clownfish Swim School – coloradoclownfish.com MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

"We don’t leave a legacy—we live it. Moment by moment, choice by choice." – Kat O’Sullivan In this inspiring episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes keynote speaker, author, and transition coach Kat O’Sullivan for a powerful conversation on what it means to reinvent yourself — with grace, courage, and authenticity. Kat shares her incredible journey from being born in a "secret city" to coaching organizations and individuals through transformational change. Learn about her “4 Cs” framework (Courag e, Clarity, Commitment, Capacity), how to silence doubt, and why legacy isn’t something you leave behind — it’s what you live every single day. Whether you're feeling stuck, ready to pivot, or seeking your next big breakthrough, Kat’s story and tools will reignite your belief in what’s possible. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro + Sponsors 01:10 – Meet Kat O’Sullivan: Secret cities & a legacy of transformation 06:00 – Early exposure to difference, resourcefulness, and leadership 11:00 – Sponsorship at 16: How Kat called Bob Hope for support 14:30 – What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? 18:00 – Coaching teams & companies to think differently 20:00 – The “4 Cs” for transformation: Courage, Clarity, Commitment, Capacity 25:00 – From burnout to Mexico: Living legacy through bold moves 28:00 – TED Talk preview: “Why How We Think About Legacy Is Dead Wrong” 31:00 – Daily disruption, with grace 33:00 – Kat’s definition of success: Living your truth 34:30 – Closing thoughts + where to find Kat Kat O’Sullivan is a keynote speaker, podcast host, author, and transition coach. For over 25 years, she has helped individuals and organizations discover new possibilities, even when they felt impossible. Kat has worked across sectors — corporate, nonprofit, education, and privately-owned businesses, providing a roadmap, support, and tools to bring their vision to life. She is passionate about helping people move toward the future just waiting for them to say “Hell, YES!” to new possibilities. Book: From Doubt to Do: Navigating Your Pathway to Possibility Connect with Kat: www.katosullivan.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/make-magic-happen/ https://www.facebook.com/MakeMagicHappenNow https://www.instagram.com/kshift4u/  Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

“Your intention is your superpower. It’s the energy that turns thought into performance, belief into action.” — Dr. Toper Taylor In this groundbreaking episode of the Turmeric & Tequila® podcast, host Kristen Olson sits down with Dr. Toper Taylor—Emmy-winning producer, entrepreneur, intention researcher, and former Hollywood executive—to explore the intersection of human performance, quantum physics, and personal transformation. Dr. Toper shares insights from his pioneering dissertation, “The Human Performance Intention Experiment,” which scientifically demonstrated how positive intention can enhance athletic performance. From producing over 15,000 TV episodes to exploring subtle energy sciences and now serving in politics, Toper’s journey is a powerful reminder that authenticity, intention, and interconnectedness are key to both personal and collective success.  Tune in to hear: How thoughts can influence real-world outcomes (yes, even swim times!) The measurable power of intention and belief What Hollywood taught him about human connection and authenticity Why we need more empathy, energy awareness, and collaboration How to apply intention in your everyday life Whether you're an athlete, creative, leader, or lifelong learner, this episode will expand your mind and inspire your heart. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Intro + Sponsors 01:15 – Meet Dr. Toper Taylor: Media mogul turned intention scientist 06:35 – Manifestation as a child: “Come to the land of cartoons” 10:15 – Life in the William Morris mailroom and Hollywood grind 15:40 – Comedy's golden era: Early days of Roseanne, Tim Allen, Jim Carrey 20:10 – The X-Factor: Why authenticity and intention matter most 24:50 – Transition from Hollywood to human performance research 30:15 – The science of thought: Quantum field theory and interconnectedness 34:25 – The “Home Field Advantage” explained energetically 38:05 – Franklin the Turtle goes global: The media’s role in shaping culture 42:20 – Decline of religion & rise of spiritual science 47:10 – Intention and business: Future applications in medicine and innovation 51:15 – How intention influenced a Division I swim team’s record season 58:00 – From skeptic to believer: Dr. Toper’s personal experience with intention 1:03:10 – Success redefined + Final thoughts Dr. Toper Taylor is a successful entrepreneur, strategist, curiositist, Emmy award winning producer, Doctor of Policy, Planning and Development, expert of intention and subtle energetic sciences, and a recently elected city councilman.  In his landmark dissertation, the Human Performance Intention Experiment, Dr. Taylor showed that sending positive intentions using a quantum field framework improved athletic performance for an NCAA Division I swim team.  There may be other exciting applications of intention, such as business innovation and health improvement. Dr. Taylor is an expert in media, entertainment, and consumer products. He is a pioneer of family and kids educational entertainment, having produced over 15,000 episodes of television and won awards for his work with authors Marc Brown, Maurice Sendak, Tim Burton, and William Joyce.  The three companies Taylor ran, Nelvana Ltd., Cookie Jar Entertainment, and Network of One (renamed Spotter), have all exceeded $1 billion in valuation at one point in their life cycle.  He is an expert in strategy, operational execution, innovation, scaling businesses, and raising capital. Dr. Taylor has three degrees from the University of Southern California: BA in Communications, Master of Healthcare Administration, and Doctor of Policy, Planning, and Development.  He serves on the board of councilors for the USC Roski School of Fine Arts & Design, the USC Cinematic Arts alumni association, and is the recipient of the USC President’s Volunteer Award. This November 5, Taylor became an elected member of the city council of Indian Wells, California. https://www.topertaylor.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/topertaylor   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

"You can’t lead with clarity if you don’t know who you are. Identity is the foundation of influence."   — Dr. Rupal Patel   In this compelling episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes powerhouse guest Dr. Rupal Patel — former CIA analyst, entrepreneur, author of From CIA to CEO, and champion of high-performance leadership. Together, they dive deep into personal evolution, mental resilience, finding your authentic voice, and the courage to lead boldly in today’s complex world. Rupal shares her journey from the hip-hop PR world to global intelligence work at the CIA — and eventually launching her own business. Along the way, she opens up about burnout, imposter syndrome, leadership identity, and how entrepreneurship reshaped her understanding of success. Whether you're a high achiever questioning what’s next or a future visionary ready to step into leadership on your own terms, this conversation will hit home.  Time Stamps: 0:00 – Intro and sponsor shoutouts 1:30 – Meet Rupal Patel: From quiet observer to CIA analyst 4:50 – Childhood, early passions & the power of observation 7:40 – Hip-hop industry experience: lessons, grit & boundaries 14:15 – Mental health, burnout & breaking the “power through” mindset 21:20 – The CIA years: inside look at global intelligence work 28:00 – Life after the CIA & the challenge of entrepreneurship 35:30 – Reclaiming identity, confidence & personal success 41:00 – Writing From CIA to CEO and redefining leadership 45:00 – Who the book is for & what it teaches 49:40 – Final reflections on alignment, boldness & living your own truth 53:00 – Where to find Rupal & her upcoming speaking tour   Rupal Patel: Rupal Patel’s high-octane career has taken her from military briefing rooms in jungles and war zones to corporate boardrooms and international stages. During her thrilling career as an analyst and field agent at the CIA, she served in active war zones, advised Commanding Generals, and earned War Zone Service Medals and Meritorious Citations for “exceptional performance of duty” and “superior support to the President of the United States.” After leaving the CIA, she earned her MBA from London Business School and started her first award-winning business over ten years ago. Called a ‘Power Woman’ by Harper’s Bazaar Magazine, Rupal is a sought-after international speaker who has spoken in front of thousands and worked with top-tier organizations like Accenture, AB InBev, SAP, and Virgin. As a sitting CEO, author, consultant, coach, and mentor, Rupal helps visionary leaders, teams, and organizations make the seemingly impossible possible. Called a “super-strategist” by her clients, Rupal draws on her Ivy-League education, MBA degree, and CIA training, and marries industry-leading theory with tactical experience in ways that transform every client she works with. From hour-long keynotes to multi-day masterclasses, her captivating speaking engagements and truly unique insights arm her audiences with the tools they need to remake the rules of success and become unstoppable. AND BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS: Rupal is working on her SECOND book and will soon be opening her online leadership academy- stay tuned!! www.entreprenora.co https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupal-patel-2145a960 https://www.instagram.com/rupalypatel   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH     #CIAtoCEO, #RupalPatel, #TurmericAndTequila, #KristenOlson, #LeadershipPodcast, #WomenInLeadership, #MindsetMastery, #AuthenticLeadership, #HighAchievers, #EntrepreneurMindset, #Resilience, #BurnoutRecovery, #CommunicationSkills, #EmpoweredWomen, #GrowthMindset, #ConfidenceCoaching, #FemaleFounders, #MissionDriven, #LeadershipDevelopment, #PodcastForLeaders      

  “Confidence isn’t pretending to be bulletproof — it’s knowing you can bounce back no matter what hits you.” — Dr. Abbie Maroño In this powerhouse part-two episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes back behavioral scientist and internationally recognized speaker Dr. Abbie Maroño to dig deeper into emotional intelligence, influence, and how to break through limiting self-beliefs. From decoding nonverbal cues to building confidence on stage (or in everyday life), this episode is packed with practical insights for leaders, speakers, athletes, and anyone ready to level up. Dr. Abbie shares how your body’s unconscious signals (aka neuroception) can influence your instincts — and how to tell the difference between intuition and trauma response. You’ll hear real talk about: Navigating imposter syndrome How to prepare for high-stakes moments like a TED Talk The danger of comparison on social media Why emotional regulation is the #1 empowerment tool And how to be “bouncy,” not bulletproof Plus: the science behind why your words (and self-talk) literally shape your performance. If you’re looking to become a more empowered speaker, leader, or human — this is your playbook. Time Stamps: 00:34 – Episode intro + sponsor shoutouts. 02:10 – Dr. Abbie’s 2025 update + new book preview. 04:22 – The power of nonverbal communication. 07:33 – Moving from dark psychology to positive psychology. 10:00 – Red flags: how to spot dangerous behavior. 14:12 – Intuition vs trauma response. 17:45 – Emotional regulation and gut instincts. 20:20 – Empowerment through mindset + managing nerves. 24:50 – How self-talk shapes performance. 29:00 – Confidence vs cockiness: what’s the difference? 33:11 – Why overconfidence is a hidden limiter. 36:18 – Social media, comparison, and the reality of sacrifice. 40:30 – Perception vs truth: Dr. Abbie’s personal backstory. 44:00 – Leadership, empathy, and public responsibility. 47:22 – Empowerment = “You can’t use me against me”. 50:18 – Book + kids’ books launching June 2025. 52:12 – Final thoughts: fail forward, be bouncy, and lead with humanity.   Dr. Abbie Maroño is a distinguished scientist and expert in human behavior, recognized by the U.S. Department of State as a top 1% specialist. She has provided behavior analysis training to elite units like the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, including agents from the FBI, Secret Service, and DHS. With a PhD in Psychology, Dr. Abbie became a Professor at 23 and is now Director of Education at Social-Engineer, LLC. She contributes to Forbes, Apple News, and has been featured on BBC News and WIRED. Dr. Abbie's Book: Work In Progress: The Journey Through ShameWebsite: www.drabbieofficial.com IG: @drabbieofficial LinkedIn: Dr. Abbie Maroño Call to Action: If this episode lit a fire in you  — share it with someone who needs a little extra courage to lead, speak, or live with more purpose. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes: Apple: T&T on Apple Podcasts Spotify: T&T on Spotify YouTube: Watch on YouTube   Connect with T&T:  IG: @TurmericTequila  Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila  Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson  IG: @Madonnashero  Tik Tok: @Madonnashero  Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE  MORE LIKE THIS:  https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF    https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH  

“ Shame is felt because it says the way you are behaving is not in line with who you are, who you want to be, or how you perceive yourself.” -Dr. Abbie Maroño In this powerful episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes Dr. Abbie Maroño — behavioral scientist, Ph.D. in psychology, TEDx speaker, and globally recognized expert in human behavior. Dr. Abbie shares her deeply personal story of transformation: from addiction and homelessness to academic brilliance and international recognition. This candid conversation dives into: The misunderstood power of shame Why emotional regulation is key to healing Science-backed tools for mental wellness How educators, parents, and teens can navigate emotional challenges The truth about “bulletproof” self-help advice on social media Dr. Abbie’s lived experience, combined with cutting-edge science, provides a refreshing, practical roadmap to self-worth, resilience, and lasting empowerment. 💡 Whether you're a teen, parent, leader, or someone on your own healing path, this episode will leave you feeling informed, inspired, and supported. ⏱ Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro + Sponsor shout-outs 2:45 – Meet Dr. Abbie: From addiction to PhD at age 23 8:25 – Why kids act out: The missing question in mental health 13:40 – The power of shame and how it can be healing 21:30 – Emotional regulation: Escape, suppress, or heal 29:50 – Building self-worth through science-backed habits 36:10 – Social media myths about empowerment 42:00 – Supporting others through mental health struggles 47:40 – Advice for young women & self-esteem in the digital world 54:25 – Final question: What does success mean to Dr. Abbie? 56:15 – Book announcements + how to connect Dr. Abbie Maroño is a distinguished scientist and expert in human behavior, recognized by the U.S. Department of State as a top 1% specialist. She has provided behavior analysis training to elite units like the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, including agents from the FBI, Secret Service, and DHS. With a PhD in Psychology, Dr. Abbie became a Professor at 23 and is now Director of Education at Social-Engineer, LLC. She contributes to Forbes, Apple News, and has been featured on BBC News and WIRED. 📘 Dr. Abbie's Book: Work In Progress: The Journey Through Shame 🌐 Website: www.drabbieofficial.com 📲 IG: @drabbieofficial 💼 LinkedIn: Dr. Abbie Maroño 🎧 Listen to More Episodes: Apple: T&T on Apple Podcasts Spotify: T&T on Spotify YouTube: Watch on YouTube Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH