Our fathers raised us in the best way they knew, and we hold them in high regard with love, gratitude, and respect for their efforts. The way they formed bonds with us during our upbringing greatly influences our sense of security, stability, courage, confidence, and self-worth—even into adulthood. These deep-rooted influences often manifest in certain struggles we face in our relationships, and can be traced to "Father Wounds" or "Daddy's Issues" (a term preferable to "Daddy Issues" which unfairly places blame on women for the dysfunction). Thus, the first step towards healing and triumphing over these wounds is to explore our past experiences that were less than ideal.  Sharing her expertise in this episode is Aileen Santos, an internationally certified relationship coach, life skills and conflict resolution trainer and counselor who has a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology and is a Certified Neuro-Linguistic Programming Practitioner.

Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business or want to advance your career, building a strong personal brand is essential And these days, it’s no longer projecting perfection or hiding one’s “flaws” or “failures” that resonates, but being authentic and embracing your unique identity and experiences are what can actually set you apart and build a personal brand that's genuine, relatable, and credible. Cece Asuncion is an award-winning Filipino-American director, producer, and filmmaker and the founder, owner and director of Slay Models L.A., the first all-transgender agency in the world. His reality series Strut about his models at Slay, which he co-produced with Whoopi Goldberg, won a GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Reality Series in 2017. In 2023, he co-produced and mounted the first Slay Model Search Asia in the Philippines with ABS-CBN. He continues to break ground and barriers for himself and others, reframing people’s minds about what is beautiful and allyship with the transgender community.

For anyone who’s ever struggled with being different and being denied their goals and dreams for not conforming with the norm, Miss Mela Habijan’s message for you is: “No matter how the world sees us, being different is a gift, and even if the world keeps saying no to us, we need to keep saying yes to ourselves.” You, too, can use whatever makes you different to transform your life and make it flourish and shine—whatever your gender identity, sexual orientation, life choices, race, shape, size, or economic status.Get inspired by the positivity and uplifting spirit of the first-ever Miss Trans Global, LGBTQIA+ inclusion and equal rights warrior, host, writer, actress, brand ambassador, content creator, and peanut butter maker who dreams of having her own family someday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For anyone who’s ever struggled with being different and being denied their goals and dreams for not conforming with the norm, Miss Mela Habijan’s message for you is: “No matter how the world sees us, being different is a gift, and even if the world keeps saying no to us, we need to keep saying yes to ourselves.” You, too, can use whatever makes you different to transform your life and make it flourish and shine—whatever your gender identity, sexual orientation, life choices, race, shape, size, or economic status. Get inspired by the positivity and uplifting spirit of the first-ever Miss Trans Global, LGBTQIA+ inclusion and equal rights warrior, host, writer, actress, brand ambassador, content creator, and peanut butter maker who dreams of having her own family someday.

Do we really still need to uphold high standards of English language fluency when audio and video are replacing reading and writing and when the consensus seems to be “it doesn’t matter how you say it, as long as your message is understood”?Instagram’s @‌misschiefeditor addresses this issue and shares her five-step improvement plan to help you stand out and succeed in a competitive job and business market—just as she does for her followers with her practical tips and irreverent, tongue-in-cheek content.The English Studies graduate with a major in Language from the University of the Philippines Diliman is currently working towards a graduate certificate in business communication from Harvard University. She was an editor at BusinessWorld, writes for CNN Philippines and is a senior editor at Fortune 500 firm AECOM. She is also a member of ACES: The Society for Editing, an international professional alliance of editors dedicated to improving the quality of the written word. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do we really still need to uphold high standards of English language fluency when audio and video are replacing reading and writing and when the consensus seems to be “it doesn’t matter how you say it, as long as your message is understood”? Instagram’s @‌misschiefeditor addresses this issue and shares her five-step improvement plan to help you stand out and succeed in a competitive job and business market—just as she does for her followers with her practical tips and irreverent, tongue-in-cheek content. The English Studies graduate with a major in Language from the University of the Philippines Diliman is currently working towards a graduate certificate in business communication from Harvard University. She was an editor at BusinessWorld, writes for CNN Philippines and is a senior editor at Fortune 500 firm AECOM. She is also a member of ACES: The Society for Editing, an international professional alliance of editors dedicated to improving the quality of the written word.

There’s no such thing as being too old to achieve anything, proves this former stay-at-home mom who made a name for herself in at age 49 as the first female and first Filipino-American executive chef at Hollywood’s iconic Yamashiro restaurant. There, she enjoyed fame and success cooking for celebrities such as Bruno Mars, Cardi B, Jojo Siwa, Paris Hilton, H.E.R., Jennifer Hudson, and JoKoy. In 2023, she moved back to the Philippines after over 30 years after she was named Philippine Airlines’ Assistant Vice President for Catering Operations. But she was no overnight success. Her journey started when she was born in her grandfather’s bakery in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte. She was always passionate about food and loved to bake and cook, but she was preoccupied with motherhood. She was a medical biller, makeup artist, and real estate agent before she finally decided to get a culinary degree from the Academy of Culinary Education in California, but still “just for fun.” After graduation, she resumed housewifehood for two more years until a friend urged her to apply at Yamashiro for an opening for a pastry chef. She did so reluctantly, and was shocked to get the job—and to have to fight for survival in the toxic macho environment of an all-male kitchen. Listen to this episode to hear the rest of this inspiring story!

There’s no such thing as being too old to achieve anything, proves this former stay-at-home mom who made a name for herself in at age 49 as the first female and first Filipino-American executive chef at Hollywood’s iconic Yamashiro restaurant. There, she enjoyed fame and success cooking for celebrities such as Bruno Mars, Cardi B, Jojo Siwa, Paris Hilton, H.E.R., Jennifer Hudson, and JoKoy. In 2023, she moved back to the Philippines after over 30 years after she was named Philippine Airlines’ Assistant Vice President for Catering Operations.But she was no overnight success. Her journey started when she was born in her grandfather’s bakery in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte. She was always passionate about food and loved to bake and cook, but she was preoccupied with motherhood. She was a medical biller, makeup artist, and real estate agent before she finally decided to get a culinary degree from the Academy of Culinary Education in California, but still “just for fun.” After graduation, she resumed housewifehood for two more years until a friend urged her to apply at Yamashiro for an opening for a pastry chef. She did so reluctantly, and was shocked to get the job—and to have to fight for survival in the toxic macho environment of an all-male kitchen. Listen to this episode to hear the rest of this inspiring story! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Struggling with abandonment or trust issues? Anger management problems? Perfectionistic and obsessive tendencies? A lack of assertiveness or people-pleasing patterns? All these can be manifestations of childhood trauma, which, when left unhealed, can damage our self-esteem and well-being and debilitate us from living our best lives. Unpacking this for us is Harriet Hautea Hormillosa, PhD, RGC, who pioneered the long-running Reparenting the Child Within workshop which she has held over 500 times in the last 29 years, producing tens of thousands of graduates. The founder of the Reintegration for Care and Wholeness Foundation has also trained under world-renowned transformational coaches such as Anthony Robbins, Louise Hay, Marianne Williamson, Deepak Chopra, and Wayne Dyer.

Struggling with abandonment or trust issues? Anger management problems? Perfectionistic and obsessive tendencies? A lack of assertiveness or people-pleasing patterns? All these can be manifestations of childhood trauma, which, when left unhealed, can damage our self-esteem and well-being and debilitate us from living our best lives. Unpacking this for us is Harriet Hautea Hormillosa, PhD, RGC, who pioneered the long-running Reparenting the Child Within workshop which she has held over 500 times in the last 29 years, producing tens of thousands of graduates. The founder of the Reintegration for Care and Wholeness Foundation has also trained under world-renowned transformational coaches such as Anthony Robbins, Louise Hay, Marianne Williamson, Deepak Chopra, and Wayne Dyer.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Diplomats are masters at negotiation, conflict mediation and resolution, and communicating effectively with tact and grace—essential life skills that can help us get ahead in life and improve our personal relationships while still standing up for ourselves and our beliefs and values. Learn a thing or five from this journalist who has been covering foreign affairs and all things diplomatic for over a decade as well as chronicling her experiences as a diplomatic spouse in her website Almost Diplomatic, which is also the name of her column in the Manila Bulletin.

Diplomats are masters at negotiation, conflict mediation and resolution, and communicating effectively with tact and grace—essential life skills that can help us get ahead in life and improve our personal relationships while still standing up for ourselves and our beliefs and values. Learn a thing or five from this journalist who has been covering foreign affairs and all things diplomatic for over a decade as well as chronicling her experiences as a diplomatic spouse in her website Almost Diplomatic, which is also the name of her column in the Manila Bulletin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All the doom and gloom about climate change can make us feel hopeless and helpless, so we tend to turn a blind eye out of guilt and apathy. But every little thing we do is magic, and our collective efforts really can amount to something that can make an impact, assures this episode’s guest. Lou Albano has always been passionate about the environment and has made getting people to actively care for Planet Earth her personal goal. She pioneers journalistic coverage on climate and the environment at GMA News Online where she is the lifestyle managing editor. Her stories on the environment led her to be chosen as a member of the second cohort of the Oxford Climate Journalism Network, where, together with top science and environment journalists all over the world, she learned about how to more effectively convey the message in doable ways that can move every citizen into positive action. You won’t be the same after listening to her here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All the doom and gloom about climate change can make us feel hopeless and helpless, so we tend to turn a blind eye out of guilt and apathy. But every little thing we do is magic, and our collective efforts really can amount to something that can make an impact, assures this episode’s guest. Lou Albano has always been passionate about the environment and has made getting people to actively care for Planet Earth her personal goal. She pioneers journalistic coverage on climate and the environment at GMA News Online where she is the lifestyle managing editor. Her stories on the environment led her to be chosen as a member of the second cohort of the Oxford Climate Journalism Network, where, together with top science and environment journalists all over the world, she learned about how to more effectively convey the message in doable ways that can move every citizen into positive action. You won’t be the same after listening to her here!

“It's okay to be ugly. What's not okay is to give up on yourself. It’s absolutely fine that you don’t fit in the mold of what everyone else thinks is beautiful. The real challenge is improving the rest of yourself. This involves unraveling years of trauma, self-flagellation, and failure by truly looking the monuments to pain that you’ve built into the blueprint of who you are. From there you can work towards forgiving yourself for the things you are not and the life you don’t have. This is the work that will improve your life, but it’s not instant or easy.”   This episode could very well have been inspired by these beautiful words from a piece in Projectvanity.com by its founder and editor Liz Lanuzo, the OG Pinay beauty blogger who has harnessed the power of embracing her true beauty towards fulfillment and success. A 15-year veteran in the beauty industry, she is also the founder of In Her Element Skincare, designed for busy women who, like herself, are lazy when it comes to applying skincare.   Listen and learn from our intriguing conversation about beauty standards and stereotypes, beauty vs. attractiveness, beauty politics, beauty empowerment and disempowerment, youth worship and ageism in beauty, and the three steps you can take to find and embrace your true beauty.  

“It's okay to be ugly. What's not okay is to give up on yourself. It’s absolutely fine that you don’t fit in the mold of what everyone else thinks is beautiful. The real challenge is improving the rest of yourself. This involves unraveling years of trauma, self-flagellation, and failure by truly looking the monuments to pain that you’ve built into the blueprint of who you are. From there you can work towards forgiving yourself for the things you are not and the life you don’t have. This is the work that will improve your life, but it’s not instant or easy.” This episode could very well have been inspired by these beautiful words from a piece in Projectvanity.com by its founder and editor Liz Lanuzo, the OG Pinay beauty blogger who has harnessed the power of embracing her true beauty towards fulfillment and success. A 15-year veteran in the beauty industry, she is also the founder of In Her Element Skincare, designed for busy women who, like herself, are lazy when it comes to applying skincare. Listen and learn from our intriguing conversation about beauty standards and stereotypes, beauty vs. attractiveness, beauty politics, beauty empowerment and disempowerment, youth worship and ageism in beauty, and the three steps you can take to find and embrace your true beauty.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two-time Palanca Award winner, Rappler columnist, essayist, and author Shakira Sison wants you to be brave. She doesn’t mean “raging in anger and waving your fists in the air to fight, but the kind of bravery you feel in your chests when you’re reading something that empowers you or makes you feel like you don’t have to stay where you are or wait to be rescued or for what is handed to you. The kind that makes you want to better yourself and find your own way and be independent.” In this episode inspired by a hit Rappler piece she wrote ten years ago, Myrza’s youngest sister finally guests in this podcast and shares the five action steps that have helped her summon up the courage that “makes you get up and decide that today you will do better.” Shakira was listed first in Buzzfeed's 17 Incredible Lesbian Pinays and co-authored Don't Tell Anyone: Literary Smut, a collection of gay and lesbian fiction in 2018. She is currently working on her first book of essays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two-time Palanca Award winner, Rappler columnist, essayist, and author Shakira Sison wants you to be brave. She doesn’t mean “raging in anger and waving your fists in the air to fight, but the kind of bravery you feel in your chests when you’re reading something that empowers you or makes you feel like you don’t have to stay where you are or wait to be rescued or for what is handed to you. The kind that makes you want to better yourself and find your own way and be independent.”

It’s 2023. Are you still debilitated by fears and thoughts of what other people will say about you or judge you for— instead of doing what you want and going after your wildest dreams? Living unapologetically and authentically means being true to yourself, taking charge of your life and owning your power, and being brave enough to speak up about what you believe in and to do what you want without shame, guilt, or fear. Podcaster, vlogger, and influencer Say Tioco uses her voice and the power of her many platforms to advocate for sex education and sex-positivity, mental health, body positivity and women’s empowerment—unafraid of societal scorn and pressure as she shamelessly celebrates women’s sexuality. Here, she teaches us how we too, can live as fearlessly and as authentically as she does. Bring out your notebooks—and stilettos!

It’s 2023. Are you still debilitated by fears and thoughts of what other people will say about you or judge you for— instead of doing what you want and going after your wildest dreams? Living unapologetically and authentically means being true to yourself, taking charge of your life and owning your power, and being brave enough to speak up about what you believe in and to do what you want without shame, guilt, or fear. Podcaster, vlogger, and influencer Say Tioco uses her voice and the power of her many platforms to advocate for sex education and sex-positivity, mental health, body positivity and women’s empowerment—unafraid of societal scorn and pressure as she shamelessly celebrates women’s sexuality. Here, she teaches us how we too, can live as fearlessly and as authentically as she does. Bring out your notebooks—and stilettos! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many women consider themselves to be empowered and confident when it comes to their careers, finances, health, relationships, and self-esteem—but are not as sure to claim that they are also sexually confident and empowered. What cannot be denied is that whether you are in a relationship or single, building sexual confidence and taking charge of your sexuality and sexual fulfillment will most likely make your entire life more satisfying and pleasurable.International award-wining journalist, researcher, and sex and gender rights advocate Ana P. Santos encourages women to be sexually confident and empowered by taking charge of and celebrating their bodies, sexual desires and needs; to break the silence and shame surrounding sexuality and to embrace it as an essential part of their overall well-being. She has a postgraduate degree in Gender (Sexuality) from the London School of Economics as a 2020 Chevening Scholar and hosts a podcast called “Middle Me," which explores the challenges and opportunities of midlife. Join us for this insightful, empowering, and possibly life-changing conversation! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many women consider themselves to be empowered and confident when it comes to their careers, finances, health, relationships, and self-esteem—but are not as sure to claim that they are also sexually confident and empowered. What cannot be denied is that whether you are in a relationship or single, building sexual confidence and taking charge of your sexuality and sexual fulfillment will most likely make your entire life more satisfying and pleasurable. International award-wining journalist, researcher, and sex and gender rights advocate Ana P. Santos encourages women to be sexually confident and empowered by taking charge of and celebrating their bodies, sexual desires and needs; to break the silence and shame surrounding sexuality and to embrace it as an essential part of their overall well-being. She has a postgraduate degree in Gender (Sexuality) from the London School of Economics as a 2020 Chevening Scholar and hosts a podcast called “Middle Me," which explores the challenges and opportunities of midlife. Join us for this insightful, empowering, and possibly life-changing conversation!

How do you make a difference in the world, your country, or even in your own circles? Do you need to be a superstar, a superwoman, or a genius? Not necessarily! First, get inspired by Cosmopolitan’s 2023 Women of Influence featuring Filipinas who use their platforms and passions to harness their power to have a positive impact on the people and the world around them: Nadine Lustre, Belle and Ava Daza, Antoinette Jadaone, Samantha Lee, Raine Matienzo, Mela Habijan, and Frances Cabatuando. Then, follow the tips from Cosmo.ph associate editor Ira Nopuente and style editor Patricia Melliza on how you too, can become a woman of influence in your own way and in your own world. Happy influencing! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you make a difference in the world, your country, or even in your own circles? Do you need to be a superstar, a superwoman, or a genius? Not necessarily! First, get inspired by Cosmopolitan’s 2023 Women of Influence featuring Filipinas who use their platforms and passions to harness their power to have a positive impact on the people and the world around them: Nadine Lustre, Belle and Ava Daza, Antoinette Jadaone, Samantha Lee, Raine Matienzo, Mela Habijan, and Frances Cabatuando. Then, follow the tips from Cosmo.ph associate editor Ira Nopuente and style editor Patricia Melliza on how you too, can become a woman of influence in your own way and in your own world. Happy influencing!

We women are so good at taking care of others—and putting ourselves last, more so our health and well-being, which when ignored can lead to chronic illness and hinder us from living our best lives. Every woman should be empowered to take control of her health, and this starts with deciding to take pro-active steps to be vigilant and mindful of our lifestyle, habits, actions—or lack of preventive action. Listen to this wakeup call from Dr. Gia Sison, head of the Makati Medical Center's Women’s Wellness Center, National Adviser of the Youth For Mental Health Coalition, an occupational medicine practitioner and a breast cancer survivor.

We women are so good at taking care of others—and putting ourselves last, more so our health and well-being, which when ignored can lead to chronic illness and hinder us from living our best lives. Every woman should be empowered to take control of her health, and this starts with deciding to take pro-active steps to be vigilant and mindful of our lifestyle, habits, actions—or lack of preventive action. Listen to this wakeup call from Dr. Gia Sison, head of the Makati Medical Center's Women’s Wellness Center, National Adviser of the Youth For Mental Health Coalition, an occupational medicine practitioner and a breast cancer survivor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The power of never needing to ask anyone for money again? It’s exhilarating—and every woman deserves to have it. Whatever your status or age, financial freedom allows you to call the shots in your own life so you can be happy, fulfilled, successful, and free from financial worry. And the sooner you achieve this, the better your life will be. Teaching us how is the money mentor whose mission is to make financial literacy and education accessible to every Filipino. Salve Duplito, a.k.a. the “Financial Beshie ng Bayan” is an award-winning veteran business journalist, registered financial planner, co-host of ABS-CBN TeleRadyo's "Diskarte" and the “Salve Says” segment in ANC’s "On the Money,” and the founder and president of financial education company Empower & Transform.

The power of never needing to ask anyone for money again? It’s exhilarating—and every woman deserves to have it. Whatever your status or age, financial freedom allows you to call the shots in your own life so you can be happy, fulfilled, successful, and free from financial worry. And the sooner you achieve this, the better your life will be. Teaching us how is the money mentor whose mission is to make financial literacy and education accessible to every Filipino. Salve Duplito, a.k.a. the “Financial Beshie ng Bayan” is an award-winning veteran business journalist, registered financial planner, co-host of ABS-CBN TeleRadyo's "Diskarte" and the “Salve Says” segment in ANC’s "On the Money,” and the founder and president of financial education company Empower & Transform. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoying and maximizing your singlehood for all the wonderful gifts it brings instead of perceiving it as a sad state of affairs can flip your life into “Thriving!” instead of “Surviving…” status. In her 20s, Angely felt pressured to conform with societal expectations as her contemporaries got engaged, married, or had kids while she focused on building her empire. She said that after meeting me and learning that I chose to marry at age 42, she realized there was nothing wrong with her, and that she may be different but it didn’t mean she was incomplete.   Hear the latest views and epiphanies about loving being single while living your best life of the Madrid-based CEO and owner of Access Travel, Happi Lab, the 7-Continents Store, and Cheri Collection; Ted Talker, podcaster, author, and world traveler.

Enjoying and maximizing your singlehood for all the wonderful gifts it brings instead of perceiving it as a sad state of affairs can flip your life into “Thriving!” instead of “Surviving…” status. In her 20s, Angely felt pressured to conform with societal expectations as her contemporaries got engaged, married, or had kids while she focused on building her empire. She said that after meeting me and learning that I chose to marry at age 42, she realized there was nothing wrong with her, and that she may be different but it didn’t mean she was incomplete.  Hear the latest views and epiphanies about loving being single while living your best life of the Madrid-based CEO and owner of Access Travel, Happi Lab, the 7-Continents Store, and Cheri Collection; Ted Talker, podcaster, author, and world traveler. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Love is not difficult, it is easy and effortless, and happens without forcing anything or struggling.” says healer and coach Sanaiyah Gurnamal, who believes we can harness the power of solid self-love to create and attract everything we want in our life, especially true and lasting love. Her Soulmate Magnet Coaching Program is designed for single women tired of attracting the wrong partners (or none at all) to clear their blocks and remove the obstacles to being with their soulmate. In an episode of her podcast Project Loving Myself, she asked guest Ellen Adarna to do a soulmate manifestation exercise, and in three months, she met Derek Ramsay, was engaged to him in a month, and married to him in eight months! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Love is not difficult, it is easy and effortless, and happens without forcing anything or struggling.” says healer and coach Sanaiyah Gurnamal, who believes we can harness the power of solid self-love to create and attract everything we want in our life, especially true and lasting love.  Her Soulmate Magnet Coaching Program is designed for single women tired of attracting the wrong partners (or none at all) to clear their blocks and remove the obstacles to being with their soulmate. In an episode of her podcast Project Loving Myself, she asked guest Ellen Adarna to do a soulmate manifestation exercise, and in three months, she met Derek Ramsay, was engaged to him in a month, and married to him in eight months!

Whether you’re looking for a relationship or are in one and want it to be as happy, long-lasting, and secure as theirs, you can learn so much in this episode from one of the country’s most admired celebrity couples and the adorable duo behind the hit podcast and Youtube show #BehindRelationshipGoals.  Here, Megan and Mikael share their strategies for knowing and fighting for what you want and value in your relationship, encouraging and supporting each other’s personal growth, living harmoniously despite individual differences, working together synergistically, and surviving the toughest relationship challenges.  

Whether you’re looking for a relationship or are in one and want it to be as happy, long-lasting, and secure as theirs, you can learn so much in this episode from one of the country’s most admired celebrity couples and the adorable duo behind the hit podcast and Youtube show #BehindRelationshipGoals.  Here, Megan and Mikael share their strategies for knowing and fighting for what you want and value in your relationship, encouraging and supporting each other’s personal growth, living harmoniously despite individual differences, working together synergistically, and surviving the toughest relationship challenges.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wish you could finally stop yo-yo dieting and exercising to exorcise the guilt, shame, and calories away? Wish you could rediscover the joy of eating while loving the body you’re in or want to be in —in a way that’s geared towards strength, health, and longevity instead of in pursuit of a dress size or number on the scale? US-certified functional nutrition coach, metabolism science specialist and personal fitness trainer Kristia Roco reveals the five essential habits she and her successful clients have developed and maintained to achieve all that by using life-changing tools that have resulted in the best versions of their bodies and themselves.

Wish you could finally stop yo-yo dieting and exercising to exorcise the guilt, shame, and calories away? Wish you could rediscover the joy of eating while loving the body you’re in or want to be in —in a way that’s geared towards strength, health, and longevity instead of in pursuit of a dress size or number on the scale? US-certified functional nutrition coach, metabolism science specialist and personal fitness trainer Kristia Roco reveals the five essential habits she and her successful clients have developed and maintained to achieve all that by using life-changing tools that have resulted in the best versions of their bodies and themselves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Still dreaming of doing what you really love for a living? Take lots of notes from Justine Luzares, a.k.a. British Marites, who finally found the courage to unleash his hilarious skits into the world of Tiktok—instantly breaking the internet and causing him to trade his day job for an avalanche of lucrative offers. Here, the former fast-food crew member and BPO process trainer spills the tea on how his “overnight success” actually took 16 years, how he overcame self-doubt and the fear of judgment from relatives and friends, plus valuable lessons on personal branding, confidence, breaking out of your comfort zone, main character energy, and safeguarding your authenticity.

Still dreaming of doing what you really love for a living? Take lots of notes from Justine Luzares, a.k.a. British Marites, who finally found the courage to unleash his hilarious skits into the world of Tiktok—instantly breaking the internet and causing him to trade his day job for an avalanche of lucrative offers. Here, the former fast-food crew member and BPO process trainer spills the tea on how his “overnight success” actually took 16 years, how he overcame self-doubt and the fear of judgment from relatives and friends, plus valuable lessons on personal branding, confidence, breaking out of your comfort zone, main character energy, and safeguarding your authenticity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clutter causes stress, sucks up our energy, and destroys our productivity, and yet getting rid of it is one of the hardest things to do. They say clutter is nothing more than postponed decisions, and that the best friend of “clutter” is “later!” But this will change for you today, right after you listen to this episode featuring decluttering coach and professional organizer Ally Canita, who uses a holistic approach to help clients find clarity, intentionality and inspiration.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clutter causes stress, sucks up our energy, and destroys our productivity, and yet getting rid of it is one of the hardest things to do. They say clutter is nothing more than postponed decisions, and that the best friend of “clutter” is “later!” But this will change for you today, right after you listen to this episode featuring decluttering coach and professional organizer Ally Canita, who uses a holistic approach to help clients find clarity, intentionality and inspiration. 

A crash course on success and longevity through constant creative innovation, sustainability, tenacity, and humility. Whether you’re into fashion or not, you’ll learn so much from this episode. Myrza chats with designer Rhett Eala, renowned for creating some of the most trendsetting styles and iconic pieces in Philippine fashion as well as successfully merging his artistry with business for over 30 years in the industry—and most admirably during the pandemic.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A crash course on success and longevity through constant creative innovation, sustainability, tenacity, and humility. Whether you’re into fashion or not, you’ll learn so much from this episode. Myrza chats with designer Rhett Eala, renowned for creating some of the most trendsetting styles and iconic pieces in Philippine fashion as well as successfully merging his artistry with business for over 30 years in the industry—and most admirably during the pandemic. 

Despite intense showbiz pressure to fit into the Barbie Doll mold and follow a formulaic career path, this former kiddie TV host has always been a warrior who has fought to challenge norms and stereotypes as she redefined success in a career that has lasted over two decades. Enjoy this uplifting and candid convo with the actress, host, music label head, musician manager and mentor, very hands-on mother of two, and one of the smartest, most talented, versatile, articulate, self-aware, and underrated stars in the country today.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Despite intense showbiz pressure to fit into the Barbie Doll mold and follow a formulaic career path, this former kiddie TV host has always been a warrior who has fought to challenge norms and stereotypes as she redefined success in a career that has lasted over two decades. Enjoy this uplifting and candid convo with the actress, host, music label head, musician manager and mentor, very hands-on mother of two, and one of the smartest, most talented, versatile, articulate, self-aware, and underrated stars in the country today. 

Go big or go home! We need to love and embrace every inch and every facet of ourselves, says showbiz’s sexiest big girl and "pambansang best friend,” actress, singer, comedienne, and body positivity advocate Cai Cortez. Be transformed by her words and key message: “My goal is for big girls to no longer be perceived as different in terms of the the cookie-cutter ideals of beauty. Everyone has their own beauty, whatever your size or complexion or gender. We are all beautiful. At the end of the day, we are just souls in this earth and our bodies are just vessels. Yes, we have to take care of our bodies to live healthy lives, but cliché as it sounds, we have to give more importance to the soul. Personally as someone who just sees souls, not gender, not physical appearance, I live life in an open way without judgment. We all have beautiful minds and beautiful hearts, and I hope that [focusing too much on] physical appearance doesn’t muddle these all up.”   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Go big or go home! We need to love and embrace every inch and every facet of ourselves, says showbiz’s sexiest big girl and "pambansang best friend,” actress, singer, comedienne, and body positivity advocate Cai Cortez. Be transformed by her words and key message: “My goal is for big girls to no longer be perceived as different in terms of the the cookie-cutter ideals of beauty. Everyone has their own beauty, whatever your size or complexion or gender. We are all beautiful. At the end of the day, we are just souls in this earth and our bodies are just vessels. Yes, we have to take care of our bodies to live healthy lives, but cliché as it sounds, we have to give more importance to the soul. Personally as someone who just sees souls, not gender, not physical appearance, I live life in an open way without judgment. We all have beautiful minds and beautiful hearts, and I hope that [focusing too much on] physical appearance doesn’t muddle these all up.”  

The life and life-giver of every FOMO-inducing party, Tim Yap invented the word “eventologist” two decades ago. Myrza chats with the top events, party, and talk show host and producer, lifestyle editor, and club owner and squeezes out lessons in audacity, perseverance, rejecting rejection, fighting to be yourself and for who you love, and fearlessly going after the life you want.

The life and life-giver of every FOMO-inducing party, Tim Yap invented the word “eventologist” two decades ago. Myrza chats with the top events, party, and talk show host and producer, lifestyle editor, and club owner and squeezes out lessons in audacity, perseverance, rejecting rejection, fighting to be yourself and for who you love, and fearlessly going after the life you want. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The more talents and skills you bring to the table, the greater your chances for success. Flexibility, versatility, and adaptability are key, as are several revenue and passion streams, says award-winning chef and veteran restaurateur Chef Gene Gonzalez. The bestselling cookbook author, food writer, cooking show host, and founder of the Center for Asian Culinary Studies once gave up a career in corporate banking at age 23 to open the now legendary Café Ysabel. Whether or not you’re an aspiring chef or foodie, you’ll walk away from his kitchen (from where he recorded this) with some satisfying food for thought.

The more talents and skills you bring to the table, the greater your chances for success. Flexibility, versatility, and adaptability are key, as are several revenue and passion streams, says award-winning chef and veteran restaurateur Chef Gene Gonzalez.The bestselling cookbook author, food writer, cooking show host, and founder of the Center for Asian Culinary Studies once gave up a career in corporate banking at age 23 to open the now legendary Café Ysabel. Whether or not you’re an aspiring chef or foodie, you’ll walk away from his kitchen (from where he recorded this) with some satisfying food for thought. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen up and live longer: Breast Cancer is the most common cancer among Filipinas. Here, your wakeup call for what you need to know and do ASAP to prevent it—or detect it early while it’s curable, according to Dr. Beatrice "Trixie" Tiangco, oncologist, epidemiologist, and president and CEO of Cancer Registry Philippines (CARE). We owe it to ourselves to take action now: 3 in every 100 Filipina women will be diagnosed with it in their lifetime, says the Philippine Statistics of Authority and the Department of Health.

Listen up and live longer: Breast Cancer is the most common cancer among Filipinas. Here, your wakeup call for what you need to know and do ASAP to prevent it—or detect it early while it’s curable, according to Dr. Beatrice "Trixie" Tiangco, oncologist, epidemiologist, and president and CEO of Cancer Registry Philippines (CARE). We owe it to ourselves to take action now: 3 in every 100 Filipina women will be diagnosed with it in their lifetime, says the Philippine Statistics of Authority and the Department of Health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The two key beliefs she has instilled in her daughters to teach them to be decisive and vocal about what they want are what we adults need to imbibe as well: that we have the agency to choose the kind of life we want and the ability to speak up and fight for it. Myrza chats with the brave and outspoken host, #PaanoBaTo creator, freedom advocate, and She Talks Asia co-founder about her career journey, success secrets, being fearless about speaking up and always taking a stand to support her beliefs, championing morena skin, and using her platform as a vehicle for helping change the world.

The two key beliefs she has instilled in her daughters to teach them to be decisive and vocal about what they want are what we adults need to imbibe as well: that we have the agency to choose the kind of life we want and the ability to speak up and fight for it. Myrza chats with the brave and outspoken host, #PaanoBaTo creator, freedom advocate, and She Talks Asia co-founder about her career journey, success secrets, being fearless about speaking up and always taking a stand to support her beliefs, championing morena skin, and using her platform as a vehicle for helping change the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Becoming a photographer not just saved his family from poverty, it also saved his life, says Marc Nicdao, who almost missed his calling when he told his mother he wanted to be an OFW instead of going to college. However, he secretly took the U.P. College of Fine Arts Talent Determination Test, and to his surprise, placed No. 21 overall! To make ends meet, the Visual Communications major painted murals and worked as a photographer’s assistant. In just a few years, he would go on to become the top fashion and celebrity photographer in the country.  His foray into his other love, painting, took a while because he was fraught with insecurities about his talent. But in 2019, a photograph he turned into a mixed media masterpiece fetched P1.8 million pesos at a prestigious exhibit. A solo exhibit followed in March 2022, where all 11 paintings he created to grieve through heartbreaking loss sold out on opening day, and another one at the Monnaie de Paris in October 2022. “If you really want something, nothing can stop you and should come between you and what you want,’ he says. Follow his inspiring journey and learn about how his love, passion, and dedication to his art has brought him success despite all his insecurities and the obstacles he has had to overcome. 

Becoming a photographer not just saved his family from poverty, it also saved his life, says Marc Nicdao, who almost missed his calling when he told his mother he wanted to be an OFW instead of going to college. However, he secretly took the U.P. College of Fine Arts Talent Determination Test, and to his surprise, placed No. 21 overall! To make ends meet, the Visual Communications major painted murals and worked as a photographer’s assistant. In just a few years, he would go on to become the top fashion and celebrity photographer in the country. His foray into his other love, painting, took a while because he was fraught with insecurities about his talent. But in 2019, a photograph he turned into a mixed media masterpiece fetched P1.8 million pesos at a prestigious exhibit. A solo exhibit followed in March 2022, where all 11 paintings he created to grieve through heartbreaking loss sold out on opening day, and another one at the Monnaie de Paris in October 2022. “If you really want something, nothing can stop you and should come between you and what you want,’ he says. Follow his inspiring journey and learn about how his love, passion, and dedication to his art has brought him success despite all his insecurities and the obstacles he has had to overcome.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Once you’ve bought the dream, you need to work really hard despite all obstacles, advises 90s supermodel-turned-super-makeup-artist Lala Flores. “If you don’t fight for your dream, who will? There will always be someone more determined than you. It’s really a race to the top,” she says about what it took for her to get there, but clarifies: “I just do my best every day with passion and determination” without pinning her hopes on the results, “and then the next day, repeat!”  Lala shares her stories and secrets about makeup, modeling, motherhood, and making it big in whatever field you pursue. Don’t miss the highlight where she reveals her reactions to people’s “Anong nangyari sa iyo?” comments and society’s Weight Expectations in the modeling afterlife. 

Once you’ve bought the dream, you need to work really hard despite all obstacles, advises 90s supermodel-turned-super-makeup-artist Lala Flores. “If you don’t fight for your dream, who will? There will always be someone more determined than you. It’s really a race to the top,” she says about what it took for her to get there, but clarifies: “I just do my best every day with passion and determination” without pinning her hopes on the results, “and then the next day, repeat!” Lala shares her stories and secrets about makeup, modeling, motherhood, and making it big in whatever field you pursue. Don’t miss the highlight where she reveals her reactions to people’s “Anong nangyari sa iyo?” comments and society’s Weight Expectations in the modeling afterlife.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ideas, inspiration, and motivation from the creative genius behind many of the most compelling and transformational visuals in the Philippine fashion, advertising, and entertainment industries in the last two decades. Myrza chats with Vince Uy, Co Studio founder and former executive creative director of Summit Media and Preview about his creative process surprisingly rooted in preparation, discipline, and organization, having a forward-thinking mindset, nurturing your creativity whether innate or not, and his early beginnings as the artistic child of two bankers who thought he would one day be a banker too, or a doctor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ideas, inspiration, and motivation from the creative genius behind many of the most compelling and transformational visuals in the Philippine fashion, advertising, and entertainment industries in the last two decades. Myrza chats with Vince Uy, Co Studio founder and former executive creative director of Summit Media and Preview about his creative process surprisingly rooted in preparation, discipline, and organization, having a forward-thinking mindset, nurturing your creativity whether innate or not, and his early beginnings as the artistic child of two bankers who thought he would one day be a banker too, or a doctor

Popular radio DJ and events host Tony Bueno’s successful career has lasted for over 20 years, but not many know about all the struggles and hardships he had to undergo before Boys' Night Out on Magic 89.1 turned his life around. The minute he finished college, he fled Canada without his family’s blessings and took off for Manila with no concrete plans, very little savings and an uncertain future. Get inspired by his stories of grit and survival, secrets of success, how he turned his health and lifestyle around, his current advocacies and preoccupations, and his hopes and dreams for himself and the country he loves so much.

Popular radio DJ and events host Tony Bueno’s successful career has lasted for over 20 years, but not many know about all the struggles and hardships he had to undergo before Boys' Night Out on Magic 89.1 turned his life around. The minute he finished college, he fled Canada without his family’s blessings and took off for Manila with no concrete plans, very little savings and an uncertain future. Get inspired by his stories of grit and survival, secrets of success, how he turned his health and lifestyle around, his current advocacies and preoccupations, and his hopes and dreams for himself and the country he loves so much. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“It’s not just a dress, it’s how you make your client feel.” A mini-master class on creative entrepreneurship by top fashion designer Rajo Laurel sharing his design, business, and life wisdom applicable to any industry. His father forbade him from pursuing his dream of becoming a couturier, but this initial obstacle only fueled Rajo’s fire and drive to succeed. What started out as a one-seamstress operation in his grandmother’s basement three decades ago is now a fashion empire with 500 workers and whose latest milestone is a House of Laurel creation landing on the cover of Vogue Philippines. Plus, intel on how to work with your family, overcoming controversy, and the hashtag he lives by and that has guided him throughout his life.

“It’s not just a dress, it’s how you make your client feel.” A mini-master class on creative entrepreneurship by top fashion designer Rajo Laurel sharing his design, business, and life wisdom applicable to any industry. His father forbade him from pursuing his dream of becoming a couturier, but this initial obstacle only fueled Rajo’s fire and drive to succeed. What started out as a one-seamstress operation in his grandmother’s basement three decades ago is now a fashion empire with 500 workers and whose latest milestone is a House of Laurel creation landing on the cover of Vogue Philippines. Plus, intel on how to work with your family, overcoming controversy, and the hashtag he lives by and that has guided him throughout his life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christmas in Our Hearts is the Philippines’ bestselling album of all time, with its eponymous title song heralding the holidays every year on September 1. But for each of Jose Mari Chan’s hits such as “Beautiful Girl” and “Please Be Careful With My Heart” are hundreds of other songs and compositions that failed. When he was a teenager, his father told him his voice was ordinary and to just make music his hobby and run the family business instead.  He listened—and was a massive success in both. His hobby turned into a musical career that has lasted over five decades, throughout which his guiding motto has been “The blow that doesn’t break me only strengthens me.” 

Christmas in Our Hearts is the Philippines’ bestselling album of all time, with its eponymous title song heralding the holidays every year on September 1. But for each of Jose Mari Chan’s hits such as “Beautiful Girl” and “Please Be Careful With My Heart” are hundreds of other songs and compositions that failed. When he was a teenager, his father told him his voice was ordinary and to just make music his hobby and run the family business instead. He listened—and was a massive success in both. His hobby turned into a musical career that has lasted over five decades, throughout which his guiding motto has been “The blow that doesn’t break me only strengthens me.”  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No matter how difficult work or life gets, never compromise your values, says this award-winning beauty mogul, model, and mom. Learn about the struggles and secrets of success of the author of the best-selling book Read My Lips: What It Takes to Build a World-Class Homegrown Brand, Ernst & Young Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, and UN Women advocate. Her many metamorphoses from bullied school “Ugly Duckling,” ballerina, and teen mom to supermodel, supermom, and superbrand founder and entrepreneur reveal important lessons in building confidence, bouncing back from rejection, and going after your biggest dreams while balancing work with life and family.

Dying to be your own boss and to finally give in to those entrepreneurial urges and give birth to your very own business? Listen to this mini-master class by serial entrepreneur and venture builder RJ Ledesma, an Agora Awardee for Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Accredited GoNegosyo Mentor, CEO and founder of the award-winning Mercato Centrale, and founder of Bounce Back Philippines. Learn about the importance of having an entrepreneurial mindset, facing your fears and “failing forward,” and bouncing back come what may.  Edit notes:  Want to Start a Business? 5 Questions to Answer First With RJ Ledesma Dying to be your own boss and to finally give in to those entrepreneurial urges and give birth to your very own business? Listen to this mini-master class by serial entrepreneur and venture builder RJ Ledesma, an Agora Awardee for Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Accredited GoNegosyo Mentor, CEO and founder of the award-winning Mercato Centrale, and founder of Bounce Back Philippines. Learn about the importance of having an entrepreneurial mindset, facing your fears and “failing forward,” and bouncing back come what may. 

Will be forever grateful to have been able to create and capture this wonderful memory with the late iconic and award-winning actress Cherie Gil. Our chat covered her incredible life in a nutshell and was a master class on living life on our own terms without any regrets or apologies. 

That’s the secret to her four decades of staying power in the biz. With an abundance of talent in so many fields, she excels in whatever she pursues. Popularly known as the “Queen of Heartbreak Songs” and as Nathalia Lucero in series The Broken Marriage Vow, she is also a critically acclaimed actress in cinema (Ang Larawan, Quezon’s Game) and theater, an award-winning and chart-busting recording artist, and co-founder of The Sexy Chef and co-author of three books with her sister Barni. Listen to her advice about chasing after dreams while keeping expectations realistic, talent vs. stardom, health, fitness, love, long-distance relationships, marriage, having kids in your 40s, and female empowerment. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

In today’s gig economy, we all want to work on our own terms: have enough independence to decide what kind of work we want to do, when and where to do it, and how much we want to get paid for it. Freelancing skills have now become essential more than ever. Kate Alvarez, a freelance travel and lifestyle journalist, content creator, commercial model, live-streamer, podcaster, actress, and founder of KateWasHere.com, shares her tips and advice based on her over 12 years of experience as a freelancer.

Her wild and crazy, hard-partying former life is an open book—and her no-filter, acne-prone skin, exposed on social media for all to see and judge—or be inspired by. Sanya Smith shows us how to find and celebrate true beauty in our imperfections, struggles, honesty, courage, and and authenticity. Get started by listening to this revealing and uplifting chat with the spunky host, DJ, mental health advocate, and former model. *** DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

He was just a choir boy from a poor family—but he outworked everyone and honed his talents all the way to the West End, Broadway, and Hollywood. Pick up a motivating life lesson or two about struggling, quitting, and fighting for your dreams in this inspiring chat with international actor and singer Jon Jon Briones, best known for his roles as Dr. Richard Hanover in Netflix’s Ratched, Modesto Cunanan in The Assasination of Gianni Versace, and The Engineer in Miss Saigon, for which he was nominated for the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2015. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

“I came from nowhere and I practically have nothing to brag about,” she once said in an interview. This high school graduate was a factory worker in Bulacan whose life and luck changed dramatically one day when she was scouted in a panciteria by a fashion designer, makeup artist, and film director. She skipped college to make a living as a model to support her family in Pampanga, and in just a few years found herself modeling in Paris. Myrza chats with the ever-evolving and ever-inspiring supermodel, fashion and fine art photographer, and now fashion designer and entrepreneur about her many incarnations—and the courage, creativity, drive, and it took to succeed at each one.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

And just like that, half the year is over—but fret not: there’s still hope for the other half and enough time to make this year a fruitful one. Take advantage of this mid-year check-in session with certified life and career coach Aurora Suarez and learn about the 5 Rs (Reset, Rediscover, Remind, Repair, and Responsibility) you need to get back on track with or reevaluate and recalibrate your goals and intentions. Aurora Suarez is the founder of Your Heart-Crafted Life, creator of the The Sunday Night Journal and The Good Job Journal, and co-founder of the Write Away Retreat. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Did you know that as a teenager, this top hairstylist and salon chain owner swept hair off the floor of the salon where his mother worked? Find out how a brave little boy with humble origins but big dreams surpassed countless obstacles through the decades to build not just a successful salon empire but also the trust, admiration, love, and respect of the country’s wealthiest, most famous and most beautiful faces.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Your image is a powerful tool for presenting yourself as a confident professional in any industry. Ms. O, as she is more popularly known, helps people achieve their goals by elevating their self-image to gain a competitive advantage in whatever they do. The renowned and sought-after certified image, etiquette, civility, and protocol expert is also currently the president of the AICI (Association of Image Consultants International) and a Certified Image Professional, one of only 100 in the world. Listen and learn—and laugh—as Myrza chats with the charming, engaging, and funny former model-turned-iconic image guru. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

At the end of the day, you're only accountable to yourself, so no one should be able to tell you what to do or how to dress or who to love, etc. If you can live with yourself and your decisions…that's all anyone can really ever ask of you,” says award-winning filmmaker and LGBTQ+ advocate Samantha Lee. Sam has fought to create films that champion queer representation in mass media, the most acclaimed of which, Baka Bukas and Billie and Emma, both depict her real-life experiences as a queer creative and have empowered so many to claim the right to be themselves and to no longer be afraid to take up their rightful space. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

“Sheer determination” is what international bag designer Rafe Totengco of Rafe New York says has kept him not just surviving but thriving throughout more than three decades. A top fashion designer when he left Manila, he found himself starting from the bottom all over again when he moved to New York. He was a salesperson in a fashion store before he became a fashion stylist, and eventually, a bag designer whose bags would come to be sold in the most prestigious stores in the world, featured in every top International fashion publication and worn by Hollywood celebrities and fashionistas. What did it take for him to get—and stay—there despite so many struggles and setbacks? Myrza chats with her good friend and model mentor.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

We may not all be award-winning journalists like Atom Araullo, but we are all storytellers with the power to help shape history. Listen and learn from this lockdown chat about his long-lasting career, the changing role of journalists in a world of ever-evolving nano-speed technology and their responsibility in taking a more active role in effecting change in the world. Plus, important lessons from his parents who laid the early foundations for the success that he is today, and what keeps him going and hopeful in the face of global upheaval and uncertainty. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Whether you’re looking for writing tips and advice, seeking thought-provoking insights, or just want to be entertained by his humor and wit, you’ll enjoy eavesdropping on our chill (and some parts chilling!) chat with Lourd de Veyra. Be inspired by the story of how the son of a policeman grew up to be an iconic writer, musician, artist, emcee, poet, journalist, TV host, broadcast personality, bestselling author, activist, and endorser! DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Just when we think we’ve survived the worst comes even tougher and more tragic times, No wonder we’re forever in survival mode. Is it possible to even thrive and live the life of your dreams when it’s so difficult to even just get by? This episode might just be the turning point in your life when you learn to turn it around.   Dr. Rene Samaniego, award-winning psychiatrist and former president of the Philippine Psychiatric Association gives us the tools and mindset we need to plant the seeds to make our lives bloom and grow, come what may. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

“Believe in the future of history, so that the present will stop reading like the past,” says Ambeth Ocampo. Be on the right side of history after listening to this episode with the celebrated historian, bestselling author, Ateneo de Manila University professor, and Philippine Daily Inquirer columnist. Learn how he created a decades-long career all his own by harnessing what he calls a confluence of luck, opportunity, skills, diligence, discipline, curiosity, and keen powers of observation.   DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Still chasing other people’s dreams and not your own? “Just because you can doesn’t mean you should” could very well describe the career and life path of top photographer and vintage clothing and fragrance collector Shaira Luna. A famous child genius who could read and write at age one, started pre-med college at 13, and was expected to be the youngest doctor ever at 19—she bravely walked away from others’ ambitions for her and struggled, strived, and succeeded in pursuing her very own passions and dreams. Listen to this to be inspired to set yourself free, follow your heart, and take control of your life and destiny.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Get inspired and entertained by this hilarious and uplifting chat with gorgeous Filipino-African American modeling stars Wilma Doesnt and Nikita McElroy about growing up different, dealing with bullying and prejudice and harnessing the hurt to build strength and confidence, how modeling changed their self-perception and their lives, and how they’re helping change others’ lives. Plus lessons on grit, survival, life, love, and why it’s crucial to love yourself first no matter what. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Whether your financial goals are urgent or long-term, big or small, this episode gives you the inspiration and motivation you need to take that first step towards achieving them. Personal finance consultant, stock trader, analyst and investor, international keynote speaker, bestselling author, and YouTube sensation Marvin Germo shows us how. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

If you are “stuck in a rut and have lost yourself because you have put yourself last,” this could be why you have gained a Stress Belly, says celebrity food coach Nadine Tengco. The excess abdominal fat resulting from chronic stress is just one of the disastrous effects of stress on our weight, health, and beauty, she says. In this episode, the author of Sexy at Any Age shares her knowledge, experience, and wisdom about it and her holistic approach to preventing and treating it.   DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Meet the first woman who was brave enough to come forward about being sexually assaulted by Harvey Weinstein, leading to his downfall and the start the #MeToo movement. Myrza chats with the fearless Filipina-Italian model and equal rights/sexual positivity advocate Ambra Gutierrez, who is featured in Ronan Farrow’s podcast series and bestselling book, Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies, and A Conspiracy to Protect Predators and is now helping push for the Model Alliance New York to make structural changes in the fashion industry to protect models from sexual harassment and mistreatment. Listen to her bold views on embracing her sexuality from an empowered standpoint in a judgmental world, and her efforts to help educate boys and men about treating women with respect and as their equals. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

“Your personal history is Philippine history.” Whether you have an idea what life was really like under Martial Law in the ‘70s and ‘80s or have come to believe life was fine and dandy then, I invite you to this eye-opening history lesson of a chat with Gang Badoy Capati. Here, we reminisce about our childhood in those oppressed and violent times, unlock insights about how our history affects our mental wellness (and vice versa!), and remind ourselves about why we must all #NeverForget. Be inspired and moved to live a life of intention, purpose, and meaning the way the Rock Ed and Project Steady founder, alternative educator, volunteerism advocate, entrepreneur, host, licensed trauma and art therapist, and writer has lived hers.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

What does it take for a business to survive—and even thrive—during times of crisis? The pandemic fast-forwarded the adoption of e-commerce by consumers and businesses virtually overnight. And it took leaders who were forward-thinking, agile, and tech-savvy to steer their companies to safety and success moving forward. One such leader was a third generation millennial mom named Elyse Juan who led the e-commerce team of the iconic gift shop and five-decades-old family business Papemelroti. Find out how she did that and how it earned her the 2022 Lazada Forward Women Bricks to Clicks Tech Adopter Award.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

“Success is what makes it success for you. My value comes from my relationships and the people I am able to connect with and collaborate with,” says G Töngi-Walters who at the height of her showbiz fame walked away from it all to live a new life in the US. She has since evolved into a women’s and human rights defender, producer, host, writer, “artivist” for diversity and reproductive health, director of programming of Fil-Am Arts L.A., and now has an M.A. in Non-profit Management. G talks to Myrza about dealing with societal expectations about success, wealth, happiness, maintaining a youthful appearance, what it really means to be Filipino, and celebrating our fellow Filipinos and not viewing their success as our failure.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

f you are offended by misogyny, contest double standards and gender stereotypes like “Kababae mong tao,” and fight against female discrimination—then surprise, you are actually a feminist! Listen to this light-hearted yet enlightening conversation with Dr. Nathalie Africa-Verceles, Director of the UP Center for Women's and Gender Studies Center, to learn the basics of feminism beyond any antiquated man-hating and bra-burning notions about it. See how embracing it can truly empower our lives—and those of others around us.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Intense sugar and carb cravings, junk food bingeing, eating your feelings of stress, depression, anxiety, and boredom? The good news is, it’s not all your fault, and it’s not just “katakawan,” but so many other biological factors such as our hormones, gut health, and the current mental health epidemic. Listen to Dr. Oyie Balburias, M.D. and IFM-certified functional medicine practitioner, as he teaches us how to manage and prevent emotional eating brought about by quarantine stress and all the unhealthy effects that come with it. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Stressed, depressed, or overwhelmed—but don’t have enough time, money, or courage to address and seek help for your mental health? Our excuses stop here in this episode where “Doc Gia" shows us why and how to give our mental health the importance it requires. Dr. Gia Sison is the National Adviser of the Youth For Mental Health Coalition and the head of the Makati Medical Center's Women’s Wellness Center. She is an occupational medicine practitioner and a breast cancer survivor. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Fighting is not a sign of a bad relationship, nor is not fighting the sign of a good one. Major crises such as the pandemic can either destroy a couple’s relationship or serve as opportunities for growth and an even deeper bond—if they learn the right conflict resolution and communication skills. Learn all about them here from relationship coach Aileen Santos, a certified life skills and conflict resolution trainer and counselor.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Resilience, especially in the Philippine context, has come to negatively connote masochistic suffering and doormat behavior. But it is still an essential life skill, and what we must aim for is “sustainable resiliency, which comes from establishing clear boundaries,” according to psychologist Gisa Paredes, M.A., founder of Healing Minds PH and COO of WellAtSea. In this comprehensive mini-session, she shares tools and methods that can sharpen our mental and emotional skills so we can keep bouncing back from all the hardships and difficult times life will bring.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

The Housemaid and Sisid lead actress, founder of Mental Health Matters PH and Property Access PH, and Miss International 2016 shares the methods and mindsets she has used to triumph over her struggles and achieve her goals in this intimate and insightful interview. She also reveals: • Her scientific eye-on-the-crown strategy for winning Miss International 2016 • How she bravely decided to speak up about her depression and became a mental health awareness advocate to help the afflicted, especially in these challenging times • How she wouldn’t give Jake Cuenca the time of day until he worked on himself and sorted his life out • Her determination to hone her skills and become the best actress she can be DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

If you once (or never!) loved working out and have finally decided you need to make it a life-long lifestyle and not just another stop-and-start punishment project, here’s hope and help. Tanya Maria Aguila, founder of Onelife Pilates studio, certified Nike NTC trainer, and fitness, health, and women's empowerment advocate shares her tips on how to get moving again for our health and sanity.  DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

Even if this self-love, body positivity, and mental health advocate has struggled with the intense pressure to be perfect and the fear of judgment of the public and the entertainment industry, her biggest wish is for all girls and women to feel that they are enough. Myrza chats with the award-winning actress, TV host and COVID-19 survivor about how she has never lost hope despite having experienced so much pain and loss in her own life.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia, the hosts of the program or other programs of the network. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The trauma from being bullied as a child for being "fat, ugly, and adopted" led her to a calling that grew into a beauty empire. But the road to success was paved with obstacles—ridicule and derision from her contemporaries when she dared to do things differently, and scandals and controversies exposing intimate details of her private life for public consumption. Vicki reveals her most difficult challenges and what it has taken to stay on top for over 30 years.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia, the hosts of the program or other programs of the network. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Her award-winning career has lasted 24 years, but success, fame and money were never the motivation for actress, director, producer, and composer Alessandra de Rossi of Netflix’s My Amanda. Since she was 13, she says, “my only goal was to act.” She carefully chose only roles and films that would bring out her best and refused to play the showbiz game that could have catapulted her to stardom long ago. Get inspired by this beautiful game-changer who always knows what she wants and fights for it as well as for her art, authenticity, and integrity in this heartening and hilarious interview.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia, the hosts of the program or other programs of the network. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Myrza Sison helps you figure out how to detect your latent passions so you can unlock them for creativity and success. Plus key questions to ask yourself to help you pinpoint hidden interests and inclinations that could turn into your passion, profit, or even your calling!DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia, the hosts of the program or other programs of the network. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whether you’re looking for love or are unsure of the love you have, relationship coach, counselor, and life skills and conflict resolution trainer Aileen Santos gives not just hope but very practical solutions.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia, the hosts of the program or other programs of the network. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Myrza shares what she's learned about life and breaks it down into 10 steps anyone can follow to create the life of their dreams.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia, the hosts of the program or other programs of the network. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The lowdown on how to appreciate and harness singlehood towards fulfillment and joy from life coach Kimi Lu, author of Masturdating: An Intentional Guide to Celebrate Life.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia, the hosts of the program or other programs of the network. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Myrza gives you 10 practical steps to help you overcome your fear so you can be more bold and brave about experiencing all the great things life has to offer!DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia, the hosts of the program or other programs of the network. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever say automatically, "Wala tayong magagawa," "Ano na lang ang sasabihin nila?" or "Sana..." Myrza names 10 self-defeating Pinoy expressions that are holding us back and that we should stop saying in order to have the positive and pro-active mindset we need to attain our goals.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast creators, hosts, and guests do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of Podcast Network Asia, the hosts of the program or other programs of the network. Any content provided by the people on the podcast are of their own opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Got lots of goals and dreams but sometimes get fazed by obstacles? Join host, writer, and editor Myrza Sison every Friday afternoon as she helps unpack the tools you need to navigate through life’s bumpy roads. Get expert advice and pro-active inspiration in every episode. Let’s go! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.