Elena Sophia Ruiz is an entrepreneur, businesswoman, negotiator, human resources consultant and a curious conversationalist with more than 35 years of experience supporting individuals and organizations through complex professional and personal challenges. Her background includes payroll, human resources, compliance, conflict resolution, negotiation, leadership development, and human behavior, giving her a unique, well-rounded perspective on problem solving, decision-making and relationships.

She is the founder of United Payroll & HR Services, Elena Sophia Life Balance, and The Alternative HR Solution—organizations created to support leaders through practical strategy, communication, and clarity in both business and life. Her work in employer-employee relations led her to advanced studies in negotiation and human behavior, including extensive training with Dr. John Demartini, former FBI negotiator Chris Voss and now former CIA Andrew Bustamantes.

Elena is also the host of the podcast Intimate Conversations with Men, where she facilitates thoughtful and authentic dialogue around relationships, communication, leadership, emotional awareness, health, intimacy, personal growth and the psychology behind building wealth —primarily from the male perspective. Through these conversations, Elena creates a space for reflection, learning, and open discussion about navigating the complexities of modern life and deepening relationships.

Through both her professional work and her podcast, Elena’s focus is on cultivating clarity, balance, and efficient leadership, supporting meaningful conversations that empower individuals to navigate life and business with greater understanding, objectivity, and purpose.

Website: https://www.intimateconversationswithmen.com/

Email: intimateconversatonwithmen@gmail.com

Meet Lori M. Kendall

Lori M. Kendall is a writer, grief navigator, and advocate for healing through reflection and creative expression. Drawing on her experiences in military life and the loss of her son, she helps individuals and couples navigate grief with honesty, courage, and compassion. As the founder of Reflective Roots Coaching, Lori blends lived wisdom with reflective practices to support others in finding strength, meaning, and hope after loss.

• Gold Star mother
• IOPGC “From Grief to Gratitude” coach
• Master’s in Strategic Communication
• Education background + Lifelong Learner
• Nonprofit Leadership + Mental Health Advocacy

“It wasn’t me leading Kole to his future… it was Kole leading me to mine.”

Website: https://missingpiecesbook.com

About David

David was in the first generation within his family to attend college. Prior to this, his father and uncles worked in semi-skilled occupations. His father retired from the same position after holding it for more than 25 years. Therefore, he knew very little about how to choose a professional career path. he learned through trial and error that he had a fascination with psychology, which led him to the field he's in today.

David holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master’s degree in Counseling and Guidance, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy in Education from the University of Arizona. He has worked in schools, nonprofits, career one-stops, and private practice. He presents on career-related topics to universities, community organizations, and employment centers. Every setting he worked in has given him valuable experience that can be applied to his clients.

He is a member of the Career One Stop national advisory board and the Phase2Careers advisory board and has also had the opportunity to write three books about his field.

Website: https://www.davidpetrovaycoaching.com