What if I told you that loneliness is a silent epidemic—even in a world that’s hyper-connected? Here’s how to create real, human connections that go beyond the status quo.

In this episode of 'Beyond the Quo,' host Stacey Luces sits down with Arielle Leavitt, an inspiring leader who turned her family's struggling business into a thriving success and is now revolutionizing how we connect with her Ripple Networking App.
We explored some powerful truths about leadership, resilience, and the human need for connection. Arielle shared her journey—starting at just 22 years old—to take on her family’s business after an unexpected crisis. She didn’t just keep it afloat; she transformed it into something extraordinary.

🎧 In this episode:
• 01:06 The Importance of Connection
• 05:17 Arielle's Personal Journey
• 06:32 Taking Over the Family Business
• 08:47 Challenges and Imposter Syndrome

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Connection is Vital: As Arielle puts it, connection is food for the soul—it uplifts, energizes, and fuels us. Whether it’s building business relationships or fostering personal bonds, meaningful connections can truly change lives.
• Lead Courageously: Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about showing up, learning, and leading with authenticity—even when you feel out of your depth.
• Redefine Success: Life isn’t about rigid goals; it’s about evolving and allowing ourselves the freedom to grow into new versions of ourselves. Success is fluid, and it’s okay to reinvent.

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.

🎧 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!
💡 P.S. If you're looking for a safe space to connect, grow, and thrive, check out my Rising Beyond Power Collective—a global network specifically for women of color leaders. Together, we’re creating real change, one ripple at a time. 🌍
https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about
✨ Connect with Stacey: staceyluces.com/podcast

📩 Connect with Arielle Leavitt:
• LinkedIn: @Arielle.Leavitt
• @ripplenetworkingapp

What if I told you that only 26% of U.S. mayors are women—and today’s guest is one of them? Get ready for a masterclass in leading with authenticity and purpose.
In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces interviews Dr. Jeri Muoio, founder and CEO of Great Cities for All, and former two-term mayor of West Palm Beach, Florida.
They explore themes of authentic and servant leadership, emphasizing trust, purpose, and community involvement. Dr. Muoio shares insights from her extensive career in public service and education, stressing the importance of listening, building relationships, and empowering others. The discussion touches on the challenges women face in leadership roles, balancing work and personal life, and encouraging risk-taking.
This masterclass in leadership offers invaluable advice for anyone looking to lead with courage, empathy, and lasting impact. The episode concludes with practical advice for becoming involved in community service and fostering positive change.

🎧 In this episode:
• 01:10 Journey of Transformative Leadership
• 03:07 Inspiring Leadership and Building Trust
• 22:51 Core Values and Personal Growth
• 29:47 Career Progression, A Mother's Panic and Resilience
• 33:19 Balancing Parenthood and Career
• 34:57 Legacy and Impact Reflections
• 43:21 Community Service and Volunteering
• 46:12 Empowering Women and Future Generations

💡 Key Takeaways:

• How servant leadership shifts the focus from authority to service, empowering teams and creating lasting impact.
• Strategies for women to lead authentically and confidently in industries or roles where they’re underrepresented.
• Insights into overcoming challenges like the “likeability trap” and finding balance between likability and competence.
• Why success is often on the other side of fear and how messy action leads to growth.
  Lessons on resilience and vulnerability as a parent, partner, and leader.

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.

🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
• Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
• Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.
• Follow Stacey and her guest to continue the conversation.

✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:
• Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast
• Instagram: @Stacey.Luces | @BeyondTheQuoPodcast
• Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

📩 Connect with Dr. Muoio:
• LinkedIn: @ jerimuoio

What happens when the chapter you’ve built your life around comes to an end?

In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces is joined by Jerome Myers—a visionary entrepreneur, exit strategist, and founder of Exodus. Jerome is known for helping leaders navigate life’s pivotal transitions, overcome self-doubt, and align their work with their purpose. From building a $20M division for a Fortune 550 company to creating impactful tools like the 2C Matrix and NEO Navigator, Jerome brings unmatched insights into leading through change.

Jerome shares how the concept of “taking the red pill” shaped his decision to leave corporate life and pursue entrepreneurship, how leaving a business or career you’ve built brings challenges of identity, self-worth, and legacy and shares his perspective on how systemic inequities and cultural expectations shape the exit journey for Black entrepreneurs.

Key Messages:
• Transitions are portals to transformation, not roadblocks.
• Redefining success requires courage, self-reflection, and a commitment to authenticity.
• Building a legacy means aligning your life and work with purpose and impact.

🎧 In this episode:
• 01:28 The Matrix Analogy: Redefining Success and Transitions
• 04:29 The Desert Journey: Challenges of Leaving Corporate Life
• 11:12 The Human Impact: Personal and Professional Struggles
• 15:37 Building the Next Thing: Aligning Purpose and Career
• 20:08 The Power of Guidance: Mentorship and Coaching
• 22:28 Family and Authenticity: Balancing Success and Personal Life
• 33:02 The Illusion of Success

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.
🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
• Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
• Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.
• Follow Stacey and Jerome to continue the conversation.

Connect with Stacey Luces:
• Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast
• Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

Connect with Jerome Myers:
• Website: exittoexcellence.com
• Instagram: @coachjeromemyers
• LinkedIn: @jeromemyers

What if fear could fuel your success? In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces explores how embracing fear, crafting your unique story, and aligning your life with passion can lead to profound transformation. Joining Stacey is Samdra Rodriguez-Pabon, a creative brand strategist, entrepreneur, and founder of Samdraland Studio, where she partners with businesses globally to create thoughtful branding, marketing strategies, and compelling stories that resonate with their audiences and also runs Bloomera, a home bakery in Puerto Rico.

Sandra shares her journey of balancing two businesses, pursuing her MBA, and navigating a life-changing move to Puerto Rico—all while staying true to her passions and purpose. Together, they unpack the power of storytelling, the discipline required for growth, and the importance of building supportive relationships.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from the status quo, overcome fear, and design a life rooted in authenticity and ambition.

🎧 In this episode:
• 06:05 Balancing Business and Education
• 20:52 The Power of Storytelling in Business
• 30:35 Understanding Personal Branding
• 33:57 Embracing Digital and Physical Ventures
• 42:18 Balancing Ambition and Relaxation
• 43:55 Crafting Your Life's Narrative
• 48:35 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

💡 Key Takeaways:

1. Own Your Story: Your personal and professional narratives define how others perceive you—and how you perceive yourself.
2. Face Fear Head-On: Break down overwhelming challenges into actionable steps to move forward.
3. Build Supportive Circles: Reassess relationships and ensure your support system aligns with your goals and values.

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.

🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
• Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
• Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.
• Follow Stacey and Samdra to continue the conversation.

✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:
• Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast
• Instagram: @Stacey.Luces | @BeyondTheQuoPodcast
• Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about
• YouTube: StaceyLuces/Podcasts

📩 Connect with Samdra Rodriguez-Pabon:
• Instagram & TikTok: @SamdraLand
• LinkedIn: @samdralorraine

What if your “Yes” lives in the land of “No” and stepping into the unknown leads to breakthroughs in love, leadership, and life?
In this compelling episode of Beyond the Quo, Stacey Luces sits down with someone who truly goes beyond the quo in every sense of the word - Brian Howie! He’s an award-winning director, America’s Number 1 Dating Enthusiast, and the creative force behind The Great Love Debate, a nationally-touring series of live shows that’s challenged the way we think about love, connection, and relationships. He’s also the CEO of PodPopuli, a community-driven podcasting platform helping people share their stories and amplify their voices.

This episode is more than a conversation; it’s a deep dive into what it means to embrace authenticity, build trust, and find purpose—whether in your relationships, your career, or your creative pursuits. Brian’s refreshing honesty and Stacey’s thoughtful insights will leave you inspired to step beyond your comfort zone, explore new possibilities, and, most importantly, lead with courage and authenticity.

What You'll Learn:

• Redefining Connection - How The Great Love Debate challenges traditional relationship norms and inspires us to rethink love, vulnerability, and connection.
• The Power of Authenticity - Why showing up as your true self matters in relationships, work, and leadership—and how to navigate societal expectations to find fulfillment.
• Building Community and Legacy - Brian's mission to create spaces where people’s voices can be heard, from podcasting workshops for kids to empowering others through storytelling.
• Overcoming Fear and Embracing Growth - Lessons from Brian’s personal journey of stepping out of his comfort zone, confronting failure, and learning to believe in himself and others.
• Masculine and Feminine Dynamics - A candid discussion on how shifting gender roles impact relationships and what it means to thrive together in today’s world.

Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
• Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
• Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.

Connect with Stacey to join the conversation.
• Website: www.staceyluces.com
• Instagram: @Stacey.Luces | @BeyondTheQuoPodcast
• Rising Beyond Global Community: Join Here
• YouTube: staceyluces/podcasts

Connect with Brian Howie:
• Instagram: @greatlovedebate
• Website: greatlovedebate.com

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.

What if redefining success means embracing imperfection, challenging societal expectations, and building a legacy of connection, empowerment, and purpose?
In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces sits down with Violette de Ayala, Cuban-American serial entrepreneur, founder of FemCity®, international best-selling author, and advocate for women’s empowerment. Together, they explore the transformative power of authenticity, the challenges of stepping into leadership as a woman of color, and the evolution of beauty, identity, and legacy.
Stacey and Violette dive into what it means to challenge the status quo by showing up unapologetically, embracing the beauty of aging, and creating spaces for women to thrive. From personal anecdotes about navigating leadership to the lessons learned from imperfect beginnings, this episode offers practical insights and heartfelt moments to inspire anyone ready to live boldly and beyond the quo.

In this episode:
01:43 The Power of Vulnerability and Authenticity
04:17 Navigating Personal Challenges and Growth
08:24 Parenting and Individualism
13:44 Redefining Success and Wellness
17:59 Embracing Change and New Beginnings
25:07 Perception of Age in the Industry
26:58 Discovering Personal Journeys
29:09 The Power of Femcity/Challenges and Resilience for Women Entrepreneurs
41:42 Leaving a Legacy and Final Thoughts

Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
• Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
• Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.
• Connect with Stacey and Violette on social media to join the conversation.

Connect with Stacey Luces:
• Website: www.staceyluces.com
• Instagram: @Stacey.Luces | @BeyondTheQuoPodcast
• Rising Beyond Global Community: Join Here
• YouTube: staceyluces/podcasts

Connect with Violette de Ayala: With over a decade of experience empowering women through FemCity®, Violette has created a community that blends collaboration, education, and inspiration. As a business strategist, speaker, and advocate, Violette continues to redefine leadership and support women in stepping into their full potential.
• Instagram: @VioletteDeAyala
• Website: FemCity.com
You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.

What if redefining success means honoring your roots, embracing your authenticity, and creating a legacy that inspires future generations?

In this episode of 'Beyond the Quo,' host Stacey Luces explores the concept of redefining success and creating modern legacies, particularly for immigrants, with guest Lola Small. Lola is a Taiwanese Canadian women's empowerment coach, business owner, bestselling author, and advocate for racial equity.
The discussion touches on the blending of cultural heritage, lived experiences, and responsibilities to future generations. Stacey and Lola delve into topics such as the multi-faceted nature of legacy, from generational wealth to mental wellness and multicultural perspectives.
They discuss personal experiences, including advocacy, navigating perimenopause, and the importance of core values like self-expression and fun. The episode also highlights the significance of authenticity, vulnerability, and the impact of loneliness in today's connected yet isolating world. Together, they introduce their Rising Beyond Global Community, which supports women of color in leadership.

You’ve already done the quo—now let’s go beyond.

In this episode:
00:00 Introduction: Redefining Success and Legacy
02:41 Exploring Modern Legacies and Cultural Heritage
07:34 Navigating Identity and Advocacy
15:46 Challenges and Triumphs of Midlife
23:09 The Importance of Core Values and Self-Expression
26:59 Building Authentic Connections and Community

Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
• Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
• Share this episode with someone who’s ready to embrace their next chapter.
• Join the conversation on social media and connect with Stacey and her guests.

Connect with Stacey Luces:
• Website: www.staceyluces.com
• Instagram: @Stacey.Luces ‍@beyondthequopodcast
• Rising Beyond Global Community: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about
• YouTube: staceyluces/podcasts
• Disclaimer: staceyluces.com/disclaimer

Connect with Lola Small:
With over two decades of experience in coaching, wellness, and leadership, Lola has empowered countless women to embrace their true selves, share their stories, and lead impactful lives and successful businesses. As a Certified Dream Coach, Certified Health + Wellness Coach, and a leader in women’s empowerment, Lola integrates mindset development, personal wellness, self empowerment, personal brand storytelling, and social justice advocacy into her initiatives, creating transformative experiences that drive real change. Lola is the co-founder of Black Lives Rising Media, a social enterprise dedicated to amplifying Black leadership in Canada, and a Managing Partner of RISE Integrated Sports + Entertainment, a sponsorship/marketing consulting agency built on the bedrock of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• LinkedIn: @ lolatsai
• Instagram: @amplifywithlola
• Rising Beyond Global Community: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

“What if the key to breaking free from the status quo wasn’t working harder but using laughter as the ultimate tool for resilience, clarity, and leading a life unapologetically true to yourself?”

In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces sits down with Sam Ghanem, Strategic CEO of SG Inc., co-founder of Let’s Go 180°, and aspiring stand-up comedian. Sam’s story is anything but ordinary—she shares how comedy transformed her life from one of burnout and self-doubt to one of clarity, resilience, and authentic leadership.

Sam’s unique perspective, shaped by her journey from leaving home at 14 to thriving as a multi-faceted entrepreneur, is a masterclass in how vulnerability, humor, and authentic self-expression can redefine success.

Together, they explore the surprising intersections of humor and leadership and how laughter can help reframe challenges, the courage it takes to break free from societal expectations and embrace personal sovereignty and the transformational impact of small shifts—both personal and professional—on creating a life and legacy aligned with your truth.

This episode offers actionable insights on how to navigate life's ups and downs with a light-hearted perspective, reminding us that sometimes, the best way to overcome obstacles is to laugh through them.

In this episode:
• 03:49 Balancing Ambition and Self-Care
• 07:24 Redefining Boundaries and Expectations
• 21:45 The Role of Humor in Overcoming Adversity
• 28:52 Redefining Success and Breaking Norms
• 36:54 The Power of Self-Reflection, Finding Purpose and Coaching
• 39:29 Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity
• 45:02 The Importance of Community and Support

If you’re ready to redefine success and embrace authenticity in both your personal and professional life, tune in to this episode. Follow Beyond the Quo for more stories of resilience, courage, and reinvention.

You’ve already done the quo—now let’s go beyond.
Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
• Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
• Share this episode with someone who’s ready to embrace their next chapter.
• Join the conversation on social media and connect with Stacey and her guests.

Connect with Stacey Luces:
• Website: www.staceyluces.com
• Instagram: @Stacey.Luces ‍@beyondthequopodcast
• Rising Beyond Global Community: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about
• YouTube: staceyluces/podcasts
• Disclaimer: staceyluces.com/disclaimer

Connect with Sam Ghanem:
• Website: www.thinksgink.com/
• Instagram: @samwghanem @think_sgink_branding
• FB: @thINKsgINK