68: How To Rebound From A Tough Year

I had just got a Director position at 24. I was doing 2 jobs and increased fundraising numbers by 500%... I knew I deserved a raise.

I asked my immigrant parents, “How do you ask for a raise?”

They responded, “Just work hard. You’ll get a raise.”

I knew that was not how it worked, so I learned to ask for a raise using these 7 steps.

And guess what!? I got my $12k raise!

Even better, these steps have helped clients land anywhere from $25k salaries to a $300k job!

Asking for a raise is like the DTR talk (Define the Relationship) talk with your employer.

Do they see your worth and value?

And if you don't receive the raise, it will empower you to realize it’s time to leave.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• The 7-Step Guide to Asking for a Raise
• What to Do If You Don't Get a Raise
• The Importance of Advocating for Yourself

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Resources Mentioned:
Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/join

Where We Can Connect:
Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermind
Schedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/call
Follow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career Realtalk
Follow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career Realtalk
Follow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_
Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou Cartas
Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color

“Elaine, back in the Philippines, as a family of 6, we had to share 1 fish.”

As a first-gen immigrant, my parents always reminded me of the privilege I have to be born and raised in this country.

And I agree, what a privilege it is to type on my laptop right now and email you!

This privilege almost feels like a buffet - OVERWHELMING!

In the past, I’ve ended up doing the most and feeling like asking for help would equal “failure.”I used to find it hard to ask for help, but when I did, great things happened. Like when I got support on…

• How to apply for college → I worked with my high school counselor.
• How to ask for a raise → After being frustrated for doing more than my job description, I asked my parents how to ask for one, they said to work hard and I would get it. I knew it was different in this country, so I hired my first coach at 26 and got a raise!
• How to deal with difficult family members → I was over my anxiety and boundaries that were being crossed, so I read books and got great therapists.

In my most recent podcast episode, my client, Dominick Morales, and I discuss how to build up the courage to ask for help, like how the Power Rangers had each other, lol.

Dominick owns Pamana Plantas, a plant shop in Berkeley, California, that honors her Uncle who passed away.

Dominick shares her personal growth story of asking for help, particularly as a person of color, due to societal and cultural pressures, and the benefits when help is sought - such as:

• Improved decision making
• Increased support from community
• And breaking societal norms about entrepreneurship.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• The Legacy Behind Pamana Plantas
• Dom’s Journey of Unlearning and Seeking Help
• Lessons from Plants and Applying Them in Business

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Resources Mentioned:
Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/join

Where We Can Connect:
Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermind
Schedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/call
Follow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career Realtalk
Follow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career Realtalk
Follow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_
Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou Cartas
Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Have you ever not felt safe at work?

Maybe you’ve dealt with microaggressions, gaslighting, and bullying…

And even if you have a senior title, you’ve also questioned yourself if you are even experiencing any of this.

In my recent podcast episode, I am joined by a friend who I was honored to coach, and Starbucks’ new VP Global Chief Inclusion & Diversity Office, Chéla Gage, where we talk about how to create psychological safety so you don’t feel like this…

6 years from now, 2030 will be a big year for Americans. According to the US Census Bureau, the majority of the population will be the minority.

An important question for companies to start strategizing is:

• What procedures and systems are you putting in place with this demographic shift?
• And how can you ensure your employees feel safe?

Because here’s the reality that you’ve probably experienced:

• A lot of companies are doing performative things like hosting workshops, but is it really solving the deep-rooted problem?
• Companies brag about having an increase in diversity, but that’s with their rank and file. How about C-Suite? Why are companies C-Suite still NOT diverse?

In today’s podcast, I have Starbucks' new VP Global Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer, Chéla Gage, joining me. Chéla is not only a former client but also a good friend. Her greatest achievements include being an amazing wife for 20 years and a mother to 3 wonderful boys.

Chela has extensive talent and DEIB experience spanning over 25 years. She has successfully led global teams in various industries, such as high technology, automotive, and aerospace. Her leadership roles have taken her to different countries, including the U.S., Brazil, China, France, Japan, Mexico, Poland, Singapore, and the U.K.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Challenges for Women of Color in Corporate roles
• The Importance of Creating Diversity Changes in Processes and Systems (a workshop won’t solve your diversity problems)
• Understanding The Role of External Coaches and Mentors

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Related Podcast Episodes
Episode 28. The Importance of Trauma Informed Spaces
Episode 31. How to Advocate For Yourself asa WOC in Corporate America with Lindsey Ingram
Episode 47. Scripts and Strategies for Boundaries and Negotiation for WOC Leaders with Accion Opportunity Fund
Episode 40. Why Difficult Conversations Improve Our Life + Work Relationships with Erica Courdae and India Jackson

Resources Mentioned:
Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/join
Connect and follow Chela: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelagage/

Where We Can Connect:
Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermind

As the only daughter (I have 2 brothers), I find myself doing a lot of the caretaking for my parents.

I’m getting ready for my dad’s knee replacement surgery next month where I’ll be with him for the first 10-days of his recovery. And I’m attending all the doctors appointments with them.

I also want to share, I am choosing to do this and understand I have agency.

But what’s frustrating is that THIS is the SILENT role that a lot of women take on by default -- being the “caregiver” for others whether it’s our kids, parents, partner and friends.

While at the same time as women we also have:

• Mental health challenges like anxiety, ADHD or other neurodivergence
• A career or business that we are passionate about
• Wanting to escape in our closet, move our bodies or just take a nap

We're often expected to be SUPERHEROES -- when sometimes every day we feel like this.

My former client, now neighbor living only a 1-mile away, Danielle Kitzes, is a living example. She's a powerhouse – a 9-figure entrepreneur, a mother of three, and a spiritual mentor.

We get together and dive into everything. We share real-life stories and the struggles we're facing right now, embracing the chaos and the triumphs of our daily lives.

Danielle Kitzes is a transformative guide with a diverse background as a Medical Intuitive, Medium, Psychic & Empath Healer, Reiki Master Teacher, and a successful Multi-Entrepreneur. Danielle co-owned an escrow company for 15 years where she oversaw 9-figure deposits. She’s also a survivor of intergenerational trauma, anxiety, PTSD and depression.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• The silent roles that women are given, and not talked about
• How to communicate with siblings, spouses and kids on what we need (aka boundaries)
• The chaos and struggles of everyday life and how to fill into our own cup

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Resources Mentioned:
Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/join

Where We Can Connect:
Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermind
Schedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/call
Follow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career Realtalk
Follow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career Realtalk
Follow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_
Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou Cartas
Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Is it wise to pursue a new career in this challenging economy?

When is the appropriate time?

How can you stay true to your beliefs and values despite the presence of capitalism, colonialism, and patriarchy, which contradict them?

Damn. I know I got DEEP.

Today, I am joined by my client, Dr. Luna Clara Muñoz, a TEDx speaker and career coach for academic misfits.

We delve into the process of discovering a fulfilling career and how she had to unlearn many things from working in higher education, like trying to do the most.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Practical Steps for Career Transition
• Honoring Values in a Capitalist Society
• Overcoming the Struggle Mindset

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Luna Clara Muñoz
Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/join

Where We Can Connect:
Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermind
Schedule a Business & Career Audit call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/call
Follow the Podcast on Apple: WOC and Allies: Business and Career Realtalk
Follow the Podcast on Spotify: WOC and Allies: Business and Career Realtalk
Follow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_
Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou Cartas
Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Two years ago, in episode nine, I shared why I decided to end my mastermind and simplify my business.

This episode was one of my top-rated podcast episodes where  I shared how I was managing:

• 5 different services
• Did 1-2 events per month
• Ultimately burned out

Here we are 2 years later, and I’m bringing back the mastermind (but different AND better).

Last month, all of January, I dedicated time to deleting and simplifying more of my business and, more importantly, figuring out how I can ensure BETTER client results.

The big news?

I'm bringing my mastermind back but BETTER on all accounts:

• By inviting both business owners AND executive career leaders who are women of color and allies
• Adding a sales, marketing, AND systems/operations audit with a 12-month recommendation for business owners
• Adding a life and career audit with 360-degree feedback for executive career leaders
• Limiting myself to 24 clients at one time to ensure client results and focus

Here's a secret: I've been quietly testing this comeback for the last 6 months. While it might seem new, it's been part of my business under the radar.

In my latest podcast episode, I share all the behind-the-scenes of WHY I’m bringing back my mastermind with my team member, Monica Schrock.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• What’s different about my Business & Career Mastermind, and how it’s different from before
• How I used intuition AND data by analyzing 3 years of P&L reports to create an intentional annual plan
• How before I create anything new, I ask AND integrate feedback from my clients

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Related Podcast Episodes
Episode 9. Why I decided to end my mastermind + how I’m simplifying my business (and how you can simplify your business too)

Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Monica Schrock
Follow Elaine on Instagram
Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn
Business & Career Mastermind

Where We Can Connect:
Apply to schedule a call to see if the Color Your Dreams Inner Circle is a good fit for you
Schedule a call with me
Join my bi-weekly Business & Career Diaries
Follow the Podcast
Follow Me on Facebook
Follow Me on Instagram
Connect With Me on LinkedIn

Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color

According to the Federal Reserve, we have hit our highest inflation since 1982. *big collective sigh* That's more than 40 years ago!

Time is wild, and so is this economy, so it was fitting to do a podcast on making money during times like these.

Side note: Anyone still feel like 1999 was just 5 years ago?

Because of inflation, it has affected consumer spending habits to be more conscious spenders.

And for you, maybe like me -- I’m being more conscious of ALL my spending.

• I’ve been cutting off costs from both business and personal that are not necessarily. For example, I took out Netflix.
• At the same time, I’m making sure I pick and choose what trips are important for me to save up for.
• I’ve also noticed more people taking their time to decide to work with me.

What do I think about all this? I think it’s great!

This means all businesses NEED to focus on improving their client services and experience. Including me and my team!

For example, I’ve been updating my services to ensure that what we create for our clients makes better client results.

• I’ve been asking for feedback from current clients
• Recently, I invested in a new executive and leadership training program to become a better coach and consultant for my clients

I spoke with sales strategist Jamie Gulino Davis, my former mentor and friend, to navigate these economic changes. We explored effective sales strategies during these economic times.

With nearly two decades of experience in sales, leadership, and team management, Jamie has led companies to hit multi-million dollar revenues.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Setting Yourself Apart from the Competition
• The Value of Providing Individualized Attention
• How I create and provide high touch points throughout my sales process to stand out

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Resources Mentioned:
Find Jamie Gulino Davis
Follow Elaine on Instagram
Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn
Get Elaine’s GIFS + Gifts Newsletter

Where We Can Connect:
Apply to schedule a call to see if the Color Your Dreams Inner Circle is a good fit for you
Schedule a call with me
Join my weekly Color Your Dreams Newsletter
Follow the Podcast
Follow Me on Facebook
Follow Me on Instagram
Connect With Me on LinkedIn
Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Are you a parent? If so, you may have heard of the term gentle parenting. It's a different approach from how many of us millennials were raised, including myself.

Instead of shaming, blaming, and punishing. Gentle parenting emphasizes empathy and communication.

However, some parents take it too far and don't set boundaries for their child's behavior. So, how can we balance gentle parenting and setting boundaries? This discussion isn't limited to just parents; it applies to everyone in romantic relationships and relationships with our family and friends.

Today’s guest is my client and friend, Justine David, OTR/L, founder and clinical director of The Sensory Brain, Justine specializes in treating individuals of all ages with various challenges, including Sensory Processing Disorder, Tic Disorder, Tourette's syndrome, Autism, ADHD/ADD, and motor skills difficulties.

A USC occupational therapy alumna, she educates professionals about neurodiversity and sensory behaviors through workshops and presentations. Additionally, she serves as a parenting coach and trained birth doula, advocating for client empowerment and education.

Outside work, Justine enjoys hot yoga, cooking from scratch, and adventures with her dog, Bowie.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• How the pandemic increased parenting challenges and behavioral issues in children
• Techniques for parents to handle their OWN emotional triggers
• The importance of validating children's feelings and meeting them at their level
• Strategies for helping children self-regulate
• The role of screen time in children's development and its effect on attention and behavior

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Resources Mentioned:
Find Justine David Online
Follow Elaine on Instagram
Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn
Get Elaine’s GIFS + Gifts Newsletter

Where We Can Connect:
Apply to schedule a call to see if the Color Your Dreams Inner Circle is a good fit for you
Schedule a call with me
Join my weekly Color Your Dreams Newsletter
Follow the Podcast
Follow Me on Facebook
Follow Me on Instagram
Connect With Me on LinkedIn

Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Hate the job you’re at? Or even ready to change industries entirely?

But you’ve been doing this for a long time…

So, how do you find a new job or industry?

I know a thing or 2 about hating a job:

• I’ve been fired 3x
• Quit 2 jobs without savings
• And changed industries 2x

In this episode, I’m sharing with you all the deets of what I've done and what hundreds of clients have done in the past 6 years.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Job changing strategies
• Scripts
• And practical tips that have proven successful for my clients

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call


Related Podcast Episodes:
Episode 27. Changing Careers and Increasing Your Salary as a First Generation Immigrant with My Brother Daryl
Episode 63. How to Change Careers Successfully with Ava
Episode 45. How You Can Have a Fulfilling Job and Life with Mac Prichard


Resources Mentioned:
Follow Elaine on Instagram
Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn
Get Elaine’s GIFS + Gifts Newsletter


Where We Can Connect:
Apply to schedule a call to see if the Color Your Dreams Mastermind is a good fit for you
Schedule a call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together. We only work with 24 clients at one time to ensure client results
Join my weekly GIFS & Gifts Newsletter
Follow the Podcast
Follow Me on Facebook
Follow Me on Instagram
Connect With Me on LinkedIn
Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color

I hated my business in 2022.

You may have had a similar feeling, but haven’t felt comfortable saying it. So let me tell you a story…

When I started my business in 2017, I wanted time and freedom. That was my number one goal.

What happened? My business SCALED AND BLEW UP FAST in 2020 & 2021 (yes, during the pandemic). That goal of “time and freedom” turned into just doing the most:

• Bi-weekly events
• Going on Facebook and IG live every day
• AND having meals with my phone and laptop

And, of course, after 2 years of doing all the things, I burned out. I was SO burned out that I would cry randomly throughout the day.

I’m not here to call you out, I’m here to call you into yourself so you can stop using the addiction of working all the time to acknowledge and start taking steps to create a more aligned LIFE.

To put your life first and figure out how to realign your business around it.

What We Cover in This Episode: 

• Understand what you want out of your life.
• Consider therapy, especially EMDR, to address personal blocks affecting your business.
• Reassess your life goals and business activities – do more of what lights you up.
• Ensure your business aligns with your personal life and goals.

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call


Related Podcast Episodes
Episode 11. Identity Crisis? How to Quit or Realign Your business or Career With Your Life
Episode 25. Coaching vs. Therapy: Which One Do You Need with Dr. Nazanin Moali
Episode 66. 4 Steps to Reduce Financial Anxiety with Claudia Rucker


Resources Mentioned:
Follow Elaine on Instagram
Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn
Get Elaine’s GIFS + Gifts Newsletter


Where We Can Connect:
Apply to schedule a call to see if the Color Your Dreams Mastermind is a good fit for you
Schedule a call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together. We only work with 24 clients at one time to ensure client results
Join my weekly GIFS & Gifts Newsletter
Follow the Podcast
Follow Me on Facebook
Follow Me on Instagram
Connect With Me on LinkedIn
Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color