In this episode, Indra and Stephanie Simson explore the concept of the 'Goo Stage,' a transformative phase in life where individuals experience discomfort and uncertainty. They discuss the importance of navigating transitions, the role of leaders in supporting their teams during these times, and the significance of creating supportive environments. Stephanie shares insights on how to acknowledge and validate feelings during the Goo Stage, emphasizing the need for community and resources to aid in personal growth. The conversation concludes with invitations for listeners to reflect on their support systems and the importance of being present in the moment.

Takeaways

• The Goo Stage represents a transformative phase in life.
• Transitions are crucial and should be navigated intentionally.
• Leaders play a vital role in supporting their teams during change.
• Creating a supportive environment is essential for growth.
• Acknowledging and validating feelings is the first step in navigating the Goo Stage.
• Community support is crucial during times of transition.
• One-size-fits-all solutions are often ineffective.
• Personal growth requires discomfort and vulnerability.
• Resources and tools should be tailored to individual needs.
• Reflection on support systems can enhance personal development.

Follow Stephanie:

• Stephanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniesimpsoncoaching/
• Stephanie’s Website: https://www.stephanie-simpson.com/
• Stephanie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniesimpsoncoaching/

More from Indra and The Messy Middle Matters

• Indra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indrak/
• Indra’s Blog: https://peopleprocessthings.substack.com
• The Messy Middle Matters on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themessymiddlematters/
• Feedback for The Messy Middle Matters: https://messymiddlematters.com/feedback
• The Messy Middle Matters Merch https://messymiddlemerch.com

Keywords

Goo Stage, Transition, Change Management, Leadership, Support, Personal Growth, Stress Management, Transformation, Community, Resources

In this episode of The Messy Middle Matters, Indra Klavins sits down with Rachel Saslaw, product marketing director and founder of NYC’s storytelling community StoryTell, to explore the messy middle of career, purpose, and identity.

Rachel shares her journey of balancing a corporate career with a passion project, protecting her creative space from the pressures of monetization, and navigating societal expectations around hustle culture and “following your passion.” They discuss how work can serve as a fuel for life rather than a constant source of striving, and how intentionality, radical permission to change your mind, and embracing a multifaceted identity can bring clarity, freedom, and fulfillment.

Key Takeaways:

• The messy middle often means balancing meaningful work with personal passions and financial stability.
• Work does not have to be your life’s calling; it can provide fuel for a life you love outside of the office.
• Saying “not for me (right now)” is a valid, intentional approach to career and passion projects.
• Preserving your passion requires setting boundaries and resisting the commodification of personal interests.
• Community and storytelling are powerful tools for empathy, belonging, and nuanced human connection.
• Identity is multi-faceted; your job title does not define your worth or your whole self.
• Experimentation and radical permission to change your mind allow flexibility and clarity in career decisions.

Follow Rachel and StoryTell:

• Rachel Saslaw on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelsaslaw/
• Rachel’s Website: https://rachelsaslaw.com/
• StoryTell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytellnyc

More on Indra and The Messy Middle Matters

• Feedback for The Messy Middle Matters: http://messymiddlematters.com/feedback
• Indra’s Blog: http://peopleprocessthings.substack.com
• Indra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indrak/
• The Messy Middle Matters Merch http://messymiddlemerch.com

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Indra K and Megumi explore the complexities of navigating the messy middle of careers, personal growth, and entrepreneurship. Megumi shares her journey from Tokyo to Kansas City, her career pivots from marketing to acting, and ultimately to creating a community-focused wine events company. The discussion highlights the importance of creating supportive spaces for women, the art of gathering, and the lessons learned through trial and error in both personal and professional realms.

Takeaways

• Megumi's journey reflects the importance of embracing change.
• Creating spaces for women fosters community and support.
• Wine events can be a platform for empowerment and connection.
• Understanding what you don't want is as crucial as knowing what you want.
• Entrepreneurship often comes with unexpected challenges and surprises.
• The importance of intentionality in event planning and execution.
• Curiosity and playfulness enhance the experience of learning about wine.
• Networking in a supportive environment can lead to personal growth.
• Self-discovery is a continuous journey, especially in entrepreneurship.
• Building a community can provide validation and encouragement.

Useful Links

• Megumi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megumicalver/
• Megumi's Newsletter: https://merobebe.beehiiv.com/
• Indra Klavins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indrak/
• The Messy Middle Matters Merch http://messymiddlemerch.com
• Feedback for The Messy Middle Matters: http://messymiddlematters.com/feedback

Keywords

career pivots, entrepreneurship, women empowerment, wine events, personal growth, community building, marketing, acting, self-discovery, networking