Host: Nada Ahmed Guest Shanaz Hemmati, COO and Co-Founder of ZenBusiness In this episode of the 'Something from NADA' podcast, host Nada Ahmed speaks with Shanaz Hemmati , COO and co-founder of Zen Business. Shanaz shares her journey as a first-generation immigrant from Iran to the United States, her experiences during the Iranian revolution, and her education journey at the University of Texas in Austin. She provides insight into the importance of resilience, trust, and the value of diverse teams in the workplace. Shana discusses her career trajectory from electrical engineering to software engineering, her love for data, and her transition to leadership roles. The conversation concludes with Shana's experiences in building Zen Business, emphasizing the role of relationships, culture, and giving back to society. 00:00 Introduction to Something from NADA 01:16 Meet Shana, COO of Zen Business 03:19 Shana's Journey from Iran to the U.S. 09:24 Adjusting to Life in America 18:19 Discovering a Passion for Data 24:33 Transitioning to Leadership 28:22 Building a People-Centric Culture 35:35 Creating a Safe Environment for Open Feedback 37:08 Personal Journey and Overcoming Insecurities 40:19 The Importance of Happiness in Your Career 42:49 Making Tough Career Decisions 49:53 Founding Zen Business: The Origin Story 54:55 Building a Successful Small Business Platform 01:00:12 Life in Austin: A Personal Reflection 01:04:44 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

On Mental health, suicide, motherhood and business development This episode features Jenny Meyer, an inspiring entrepreneur, who tells us her story of elevating from executive assistant to CEO. We explore how personal tragedy and imperfection can pave the way to a fulfilling career. Jenny shares her transformative journey from childhood dreams through the heart-wrenching loss of her son to suicide, which propelled her into business development and mental health advocacy. The episode delves into topics such as empathy in client services, overcoming career breaks, and the stigma around mental health. 00:00 Introduction to Something from NADA 01:27 Jenny Meyer's Childhood Dreams 02:17 Journey to Houston and Early Career 03:55 Skills in Client Service and Business Development 07:19 Balancing Career and Motherhood 10:12 Returning to Work After a Break 14:43 Navigating Career Challenges 29:27 Leadership and Workplace Dynamics 38:07 Finding Strength in Survival 38:41 Honoring a Loved One's Memory 39:17 Processing Grief Through Work 39:55 The Importance of Staying Busy 42:42 Navigating Conversations About Loss 44:06 Addressing the Stigma of Suicide 47:29 Building a Supportive Work Culture 49:26 The Role of Community in Healing 50:57 Overcoming Barriers to Mental Health Care 52:15 Turning Grief into Purpose 01:04:33 Supporting Mental Health Initiatives 01:07:55 Building a Successful Business 01:11:28Rapid Fire Questions 01:15:00 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Dr. Uzma Iqbal is a successful physician with her own clinic focused on oncology, hematology and integrative medicine. She talks about succeeding as an immigrant, how to stay secure in oneself and where you come from, and not lett discrimination come in your way and disturb your internal equilibrium. She shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey from Pakistan to New York, how she formed relationships with those different from her and how these shaped her path both professionally and personally. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including the challenges of adjusting to a new culture, the importance of embracing one’s identity, navigating the complexities of the immigrant experience, and the power of mentorship and support in creating change.