What does it take to go from a promising engineering career to becoming a nationally recognized motivational speaker and leadership coach? In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with Lasada Pippen, a first-generation college graduate who rose from humble beginnings to transform not only his own life but also the lives of executive leaders and aspiring speakers across the country.

Lasada shares his journey of self-reinvention, from pivoting away from engineering to embracing his calling on stage. He reveals how structured thinking, drawn from his engineering background, blends with the art of human connection to create powerful communication. Together, we explore why voice and presence are essential leadership tools in today’s digital world, the most common fears that hold people back from speaking, and how to overcome visibility blocks.

You’ll also discover:

• The 4 Cs of impactful speaking and the key questions to ask before stepping on stage.
• How to manage nerves and negative feedback—and even turn them into strengths.
• Practical tips to be more present, confident, and influential in any room.
• Why mastering your voice is not just for executives, but for entrepreneurs, founders, and anyone ready to make an impact.

Lasada’s story is proof that your voice can change not only your career but your destiny. If you’ve been waiting for the moment to step forward, speak up, and light up the room—this episode is for you.

To connect with Lasada: https://www.lasadapippen.com/

Become part of the SilknWay Roadshow:

https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/

Want to become an international speaker, expand your business and mind, join us for 3-days Business Summit in a breathtaking Cappadocia:

https://ispeakuplightup.com/isulu-summit/

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Today, we dive into one of the most dynamic and culturally layered regions in the world: the Gulf.

From the futuristic skyline of Dubai to the deeply rooted traditions of Riyadh and the strategic diplomacy of Doha—doing business in the GCC requires more than ambition. It demands cultural fluency.

My guest is Corina Goetz, a trusted advisor and expert in Middle Eastern business culture who has spent over a decade helping international companies enter the region with impact, integrity, and deep respect.

Together, we unpack:

• Why your handshake, dress, or choice of words could open doors—or silently close them
• How wasta (relationship capital) works, and how to build trust ethically in the GCC
• The key differences between Dubai, Riyadh, and Doha that brands must understand
• Crucial insights for women entering leadership or entrepreneurship in the Gulf
• Why hospitality isn’t just tradition—it’s strategy

Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or global citizen ready to engage with the Middle East, this episode offers a real-world roadmap to navigating the Gulf with grace and cultural intelligence.

Tune in, take notes, and leave empowered to connect deeper and lead wiser.

Connect with Corina:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinagoetz/

Learn about the Silk Way Roadshow: https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/

Join us on this unique journey!

Some tools for Entrepreneurs to scale, as well as in-person events to join:

https://ispeakuplightup.com/

Get my Self-Mastery Journal To Master Your Mind And Shape Your Reality

Join me in IG: https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/

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What if there was one skill that could unlock every door — in business, relationships, and even your health?

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Chai — serial entrepreneur, global property investor, TEDx speaker, and master of social magnetism.
Raised between worlds and cultures, Ben shares how growing up without a fixed identity led him to discover one of the most underestimated success tools of our time: the ability to connect — deeply, authentically, and across boundaries.

We explore:

• Why your social energy is more important than your resume
• How to speak so people actually listen — and remember
• The hidden link between visibility, confidence, and personal healing
• What it means to be a “global misfit” — and turn that into your greatest strength

Whether you're building a business, navigating cross-cultural identity, or simply wanting to show up more powerfully — this conversation will shift how you think about human connection, influence, and your own voice.

Tedx Talks: One Thing That Will Change Your Life Forever: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdYyioAXod0

How To Be Socially Magnetic: https://www.ted.com/talks/ben_chai_how_to_be_socially_magnetic

Cowardice, courage and how extreme reading made me fearless: https://www.ted.com/talks/ben_chai_cowardice_courage_and_how_extreme_reading_made_me_fearless

Learn about the Silk Way Roadshow: https://ispeakuplightup.com/the-silk-way-roadshow/

Join us on this unique journey!

Some tools for Entrepreneurs to scale, as well as in-person events to join:

https://ispeakuplightup.com/

Get my Self-Mastery Journal To Master Your Mind And Shape Your Reality

Join me in IG: https://www.instagram.com/lightupwithval/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerievkim/