In this episode of 'More Than Work,' Rabiah sits down with Has Shah, the owner of Cleaners and Coffee in London. Has shares how his background in fashion retail and passion for coffee led him to take over his father's dry cleaning business and transform it into a unique community space that offers both high-quality garment care and exceptional coffee. He discusses the influence of his upbringing, his global work experiences, and the values instilled in him by his family. They also delve into the importance of community, the meticulous work involved in dry cleaning, and his team’s dedication. Plus, Has talks about his inspirations, the challenges of running the business, and the joy he finds in engaging with his customers.

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work

00:34 Meet Has Shah: Owner of Cleaners and Coffee

01:22 The Unique Concept of Cleaners and Coffee

04:36 Has Shah's Background and Journey

06:11 Connecting with Roots and Family Legacy

09:17 Building and Growing the Business

15:58 The Coffee Passion and Business Expansion

19:41 Team Dynamics and Community Focus

22:18 Challenges and Rewards in Dry Cleaning

26:34 Fun Five Questions

30:42 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Note from Host:

I love my neighborhood in London. I walk by some shops and wave hello to people I know in them. I have my local pub. And as a coffee drinker, I have a few places, both chain and independent that I frequent. The most unique of these is Cleaners and Coffee. I asked Has to do the podcast a year or two ago but finally followed up this year and we made it happen. Grab a coffee (or tea, or neither) and enjoy this episode. I enjoyed making it!

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Find Has

Website: https://www.cleanersandcoffee.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleanersandcoffee/

Mentioned in this episode

Penelope Coffee - https://www.penelope.coffee/

Reline Uniforms - https://www.relinelondon.com/

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More than Work Social Media: @morethanworkpod (Facebook, Instagram) and @rabiahcomedy (TikTok)

Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

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In this episode of 'More Than Work,' host Rabiah sits down with Amanda Castello, Associate Director of Employee Engagement at UCSD's Rady School of Business, Ayurvedic coach, and yoga teacher. They discuss Amanda's journey from Michigan to San Diego, her career evolution, the importance of communication skills in job seeking, and her work in career coaching. Amanda also delves into her holistic wellness practices, including Ayurveda and yoga, and how they complement her professional life. They touch on the importance of giving your time to the community and finding inspiration from your surroundings.

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work Podcast

00:34 Meet Amanda Castello: Career Coach and Yoga Teacher

02:54 Amanda's Journey to Career Coaching

04:11 Challenges and Insights in Career Coaching

06:52 The Importance of Communication Skills

13:49 Amanda's Personal Journey with Yoga and Ayurveda

21:06 Balancing Multiple Passions and Taking Breaks

22:36 Balancing Passion and Career

23:37 Artistic Expression and Personal Growth

24:56 Ayurveda and Career Integration

26:52 Athena STEM Women and Community Involvement

30:27 Women in Tech and Career Reflections

34:56 Fun Five Questions

40:30 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Note from Host:

I love interviewing people I haven’t met because it is an opportunity to get to know someone brand new. But it is even more exciting to get to chat with someone I do know a little better and explore subjects that we never have in real life. Amanda was one of the most supportive non-comics on the comedy scene when I was starting out in San Diego. Our paths crossed briefly before I headed to the UK but her now husband was one of my comedy buddies and she was often a face in the crowd and on the sidelines I was always happy to see. I have followed her career over time and we were finally able to connect. She is impressive, she is compassionate and she is someone I know I will keep learning from. Listen up and learn about Ayurveda, career growth and more!

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Find Amanda

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandascastello/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanda.ayurvedichealth

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More than Work Social Media: @morethanworkpod (Facebook, Instagram) and @rabiahcomedy (TikTok)

Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

Sue Kurta on Cheesemaking, Changing Careers, and Embracing Life's Passions

Rabiah welcomes Sue Kurta, owner and cheesemaker at Boss Mouse Cheese, to this episode of 'More Than Work'. Sue shares her intriguing journey from working in the music industry, transitioning to a successful administrative career, and eventually finding her passion for cheesemaking. The episode delves into Sue's life on her beautiful, old farm in Kingsley, Michigan, her various pets, and her thoughts on finding joy outside of traditional career paths. Sue discusses the challenges and rewards of turning a hobby into a livelihood, shares the inspiration behind her unique business name, and expresses her admiration for historical cheesemakers. With humor and optimism, Sue offers insightful advice on following one's passions, the importance of self-awareness, and appreciating life's gifts.

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work

00:34 Meet Sue Kurta: Owner and Cheesemaker

01:10 Life on the Farm

03:51 From Music Industry to Cheesemaking

08:16 The Journey to Becoming a Full-Time Cheesemaker

11:12 The Joy and Challenges of Cheesemaking

20:15 The Story Behind Boss Mouse Cheese

24:32 Cheese Making Inspirations

24:52 Challenges in the Cheese Industry

25:27 Pursuing Cheese Education

26:02 Gender Dynamics in Cheese Making

27:15 Perseverance and Passion

28:29 The Fun of Cheese Contests

32:45 Local and Online Cheese Sales

34:54 The Fun Five Questions

42:12 Inspirations and Final Thoughts

46:08 Closing Remarks and Credits

Note from Host:

This episode is painfully overdue, by several months. I won’t get into it but there has been a lot going on. And, as I mention in the episode, sometimes we hear a message at the right time. When I resumed editing and heard Sue talk, I was eagerly listening again and absorbing again.

Two things to note:

1. At the end of 2024, Sue closed Boss Mouse Cheese but as she posts on Instagram still teaches cheesemaking classes on her farm and she can still be reached via Instagram.
2. This episode was recorded before the 2024 election and we both had hope in our voices. I know my voice has changed but I still have a little bit of hope. It is important to know when it was recorded though because, well, you’ll hear. I don’t know about Sue but my answer to who I admire would include what she said that day.

I met Sue in London and a comedy and writing event. She isn’t a comedian. She makes cheese. I’m cheesy. We got along and it was a joy to get to speak with her. Enjoy the joy and the podcast will be back with another chat soon.

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Find Sue

Website: https://bossmousecheese.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossmousecheese/

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More than Work Social Media: @morethanworkpod (Facebook, Instagram) and @rabiahcomedy (TikTok)

Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of 'More Than Work', host Rabiah Coon sits down with Yesim Nicholson, an author, podcast host, and career coach. They discuss Yesim's diverse career journey, managing career changes, and the important aspects of finding fulfillment beyond job titles. The conversation also delves into Yesim's book 'Ready to Quit Your Job?' and her insights on balancing financial concerns with career satisfaction. Tune in for inspiring stories, practical advice, and a fun Q&A segment.

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work

00:34 Meet Yesim: Author, Podcast Host, and Career Coach

01:20 Navigating Career Changes and Challenges

02:33 The Journey to Becoming a Career Coach

07:37 Balancing Work and Personal Life

12:14 Writing the Book: Ready to Quit Your Job?

18:46 Finding Fulfillment in Your Career

24:39 Reflecting on Career Lessons

26:09 Identifying Positives in Your Job

27:25 Introducing the Podcast

28:51 The Concept of Toe Dippers

31:34 Encouraging Career Changes

32:45 Health and Decision Making

35:39 The Fun Five Questions

43:09 Channeling Confidence

44:31 Where to Find Yesim Nicholson

45:09 Closing Remarks

Note from Host:

Yesim and I met when I was a guest on her podcast. Either my SEO or her solid sleuthing brought us together. I’m nearly done with her book and finding it helpful as I consider what I’m doing in my life (or at least in one aspect of it). It is good to assess sometimes and see if you can align what you do with what you want. That’s really what “More Than Work” is about. We got along like old friend and Yesim is as authentic as it gets! I recommend the book, the podcast and a chat with her wholeheartedly. If you’re reading this, I’ve probably heard from her recently. Be well.

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Find Yesim

Website

Podcast

Book - Ready to Quit Your Job?

LinkedIn

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More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of More Than Work, host Rabiah interviews M. Brady, a psychotherapist and musician, who shares his journey from being a professional tennis player to discovering his passion for psychotherapy and music. M discusses his long career in therapy, his struggle with anxiety and vulnerability, and how these experiences influenced his album. He also reflects on the impacts of early humiliations, the importance of creativity, and coping with personal losses. Throughout, M emphasizes the value of embracing vulnerability and taking risks in life.

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work Podcast

00:34 Meet M. Brady: Psychotherapist and Musician

01:29 M's Journey into Psychotherapy

02:48 The Intersection of Sports and Psychology

04:43 Overcoming Personal Challenges

08:29 Exploring the Concept of Unprocessed Losses

18:14 M's Return to Music

25:35 Discussing Musical Influences

28:17 Challenges of Performing Live

30:01 Overcoming Personal Barriers

33:15 Inspirations and Advice

35:47 Fun and Personal Questions

40:46 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Note from Rabiah (Host):

I’ve been slow to edit podcasts this year. But I still have a passion for sharing others’ stories. Thank you for sticking with me and there are over 100 episodes in the backlog so you can listen to more if you haven’t already. I’ll be setting up more interviews and getting more episodes out soon.

M. Brady is exactly who I was looking for when I started More Than Work. He has a job but he also has a passion, and he is pursuing it in his own way, in his own time. I related to this as I thought about comedy lately. M was very open about his past and what he went through to get to where he is today, the creator of an EP, in addition to being a psychotherapist. I was tempted to sneak in a little therapy when we chatted but resisted! Enjoy the listen and check out the tunes!

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Find M Brady

Website: mbradymusic.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6JpYhnIRsYXjORa8FL2uCt

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/m-brady/1724662113

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More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this episode of 'More Than Work,' host Rabiah engages in a profound conversation with Kileen Barry, founder of Kaizen Collective and a sex therapist. They dive into Kileen's journey from digital marketing to therapy, exploring her motivations, influences, and the pivotal books 'Come As You Are' and 'Maybe You Should Talk to Someone.' The discussion covers Kileen's academic path, her unique approach to therapy, which emphasizes a holistic and salutogenic model, and her passion for integrating mental, physical, and nutritional care. The episode also touches on the importance of boundaries, Kileen's self-care practices, and her aspirations for Kaizen Collective. Join Rabiah and Kileen as they uncover the layers of professional and personal evolution, making this more than just work.

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work Podcast

00:34 Meet Kileen Barry: Founder and Sex Therapist

02:04 Kileen's Journey into Therapy

02:20 From Digital Marketing to Therapy

03:18 The Impact of Books on Kileen's Career

04:16 Personal Experiences with Therapy

09:21 Kileen's Nonprofit Work and Its Influence

13:57 Understanding Salutogenic Model in Therapy

24:26 The Importance of Discussing Sex in Therapy

27:36 Generational Shifts in Attitudes Towards Sex

30:34 The Wire Monkey Experiment

31:42 Attachment Styles and Personal Growth

32:31 Book Recommendations and Attachment Theory

34:01 Transitioning Careers and Education

39:27 Starting a Private Practice

40:02 Holistic Mental Health Approach

43:31 Maintaining Boundaries as a Therapist

48:37 Fun and Personal Insights

53:34 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Note from Rabiah (host): It seems that though there are huge gaps between episodes lately, they are also somehow coming right on time, especially since I know what is coming next. Editing this one was a joy and gave me a sense of normalcy that I haven’t had in over a month. I broke my leg and left A&E at 2:30am on my birthday. That wasn’t how I planned to start my year of being 45. But in listening and editing, I appreciated the conversation that I’m now sharing with you because this is a conversation with a friend who I got to learn a lot about and who I wouldn’t have been able to engage with in the same way at 35 or 25. Kileen is full of grace and her career change more than made sense. I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did and am curious about what you, the listener, will take from it.

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Find Kileen

PHIIRST

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Mentioned in this episode:

polysecure by Jessica Fern

Dr. Aaron T Beck

Salvador Minuchin, MD

Katy Milkman

Katie Porter

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More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!

In this captivating episode of 'More Than Work,' our host Rabiah Coon engages with AJ Waters, the visionary behind Stronger Skatepark. From the initial spark of passion for skateboarding to the creation of an inclusive community space, AJ shares the journey of founding Stronger Skatepark. Listeners will gain insights into the hurdles of entrepreneurship, the power of community-building, and the significance of personal growth through adversity. Whether you’re a skateboarding enthusiast, interested in the startup world, or looking for inspiration on overcoming personal challenges, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for all.

Introduction to AJ Waters: The episode kicks off with Rabiah welcoming listeners and introducing AJ Waters, highlighting their unexpected journey from skateboarding hobbyist to the founder of an inclusive skatepark.

Starting Stronger Skatepark: AJ delves into the early days of skateboarding, the inspiration behind founding Stronger Skatepark, and how a single event sparked the idea to create a welcoming space for skaters in Portland.

Challenges and Triumphs: Overcoming financial, legal, and personal hurdles, AJ shares the resilience and determination that carried them through the toughest times while founding the skatepark.

Running a Business: AJ compares past experiences to the challenges and rewards of running Stronger Skateparks, drawing parallels between caregiving and entrepreneurship.

Inclusivity in Skateboarding: Emphasizing the core value of Stronger Skatepark, AJ discusses efforts to create a skate park where everyone, regardless of age or ability, feels welcome.

Personal Journey and Mental Health: AJ opens up about their personal growth, mental health journey, gender and sexual identity, and the profound impact of creating a space that supports diversity and accessibility.

Expanding During a Pandemic: AJ recounts the challenges and opportunities of expanding Stronger Skate Parks despite the pandemic, underscoring the importance of community support in uncertain times.

Advice and Personal Insights: Wrapping up the episode, AJ shares wisdom on the importance of slowing down and being mindful amidst life's busyness, offering listeners a moment of reflection.

Note from Rabiah (Host):

This episode was recorded last year but of course delayed until now. As I mention at the start of the episode, AJ was introduced to me via friend of the pod (and friend of me) Eriko Ono who knows AJ from the Portland, OR skate scene. In December, after the podcast was already recorded, we got to meet in person and I got to see Stronger Skatepark myself. It is a special place. I even bought a sweater that is too cool for me to own but I wear it anyway! This is a fun interview and a very open discussion I enjoyed with AJ. I appreciate so much when my guests are willing to talk about things that could be difficult. In addition to talking about the work AJ is passionate about, as a trans man, he was willing to answer some of my questions about his transition which gave me a rare insight into that experience as it will you, the listener. Enjoy the episode and let me know if you visit the skate park!

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Find AJ

Stronger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stronger_skatepark

Stronger Website: https://www.strongerskatepark.com/

AJ’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_j_waters

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Mentioned in this episode:

Skate Like a Girl:

In this episode of 'More Than Work', a podcast on personal and professional fulfillment, host Rabiah engages in an insightful discussion with Jessica Berg. Berg is the founder of 'Moon Rock Wellness', a digital platform designed to help busy individuals, particularly working mothers, cultivate everyday habits of wellness. Jessica shares her personal journey leading to the creation of Moon Rock Wellness, including a life-altering encounter with burnout that led her to prioritize her well-being and set boundaries in her corporate job. She also discusses the importance of maintaining balance, practicing daily mindfulness, and investing time and energy into activities that genuinely fulfill us.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:36 Guest Introduction: Jessica Berg

00:55 Getting to Know Jessica: Personal Life and Location

01:46 Introduction to Moon Rock Wellness

01:56 The Importance of Consistent Wellness Practices

02:56 Personal Wellness Journeys and Challenges

03:44 The Impact of Motherhood on Wellness

07:28 The Role of Mindfulness in Everyday Life

10:59 Exploring Moon Rock Wellness: Services and Impact

14:32 The Journey to Founding Moon Rock Wellness

18:53 Balancing Corporate Life and Passion Projects

24:06 Addressing Burnout: A Personal Experience

25:40 The Impact of Burnout on Personal Life

26:34 Taking Action: Setting Boundaries at Work

26:56 The Importance of Communication in Setting Boundaries

27:30 The Struggle of Balancing Work and Personal Life

30:20 The Power of Doing Nothing: Embracing Breaks

32:40 The Influence of Passion Projects on Work

33:34 The Power of Scheduling and Time Management

42:08 The Joy and Inspiration from Children

43:34 Connecting with Moon Rock Wellness

45:01 Conclusion: The Importance of Kindness to Self

Note from Rabiah (Host):

It has been a while. For personal reasons and comedy reasons I had to put a pause on the pod until I was ready to commit the time and effort again but now, More Than Work is back! Thank you for checking out this episode. Jessica was easy to talk to and may inspire you to take 5 minutes for yourself. She has done that for me. I’ll leave you to it, listener. Be sure to check out other episodes too. I’m happy to have you here!

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Find Jessica

Website: www.moonrockwellness.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moon_rock_wellness

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More than Work Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @morethanworkpod Please review and follow anywhere you get podcasts. Thank you for listening. Have feedback? Email morethanworkpod(at)gmail.com!