In this moving episode of Obstacles to Opportunities, we sit down with Tanuja Hughes, whose story begins in a crowded apartment filled with 12 people and arrives at a place few imagined a career at Google and a life of deep presence and purpose.

Tanuja opens up about the emotional journey shaped by her mother’s unwavering belief, the impact of a simple “How are you?” at age 8, and how childhood adversity became the foundation for a life led with compassion, not performance.

We explore what it means to rewrite the script we’re handed, and how honoring our parents doesn't mean repeating their story; it means doing better because of it.

Whether you're a mother, daughter, dreamer, or builder, this episode will leave you reflecting on the quiet strength that pushes us forward and the power of intentional living.

In this powerful episode of Obstacles to Opportunities, hosts Jess and Heather welcome Vicki Paquette—REALTOR®, entrepreneur, and former personal trainer—whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From building a fitness business in her early 20s to surviving cancer, navigating chronic illness, and pivoting fearlessly into real estate, Vicki opens up about the hardships that shaped her—and the mindset that helped her rise.

She shares raw and real insights on grief, resilience, reinvention, and the drive to keep going when life throws its hardest punches. Whether you’re facing your own uphill battle or craving inspiration to take a leap of faith, this episode will remind you that adversity can be the starting line—not the end.

🎧 Listen now:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1dbMXzFeOgmUkYjK4seSuc?fbclid=IwY2xjawKJtjRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEyblJGeHRReFhibFk4a3hCAR4eM_mqEoYp3qdRo7rxPYTRMVZd8YOqMptT0aaRF8qif2Sj4oeuJPUXEqdbNQ_aem_Pc7xYbw_eaNU-HTT1Y3BQQ
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/obstacles-to-opportunities/id1712714497

In this episode of the Obstacles to Opportunities podcast, host Jess Powell sits down with Carly Oxenreider, a serial entrepreneur, military spouse, mother, top real estate producer, coach, and mentor. Carly shares her incredible journey from growing up in eastern North Carolina to building a thriving career across multiple industries. She reflects on the challenges of being an active-duty military spouse, facing the financial turmoil of the Great Recession, and the personal growth that came from persevering through tough times.

Carly opens up about the obstacles she encountered in her career—from starting over in new markets every few years to navigating the collapse of the mortgage industry—and how she learned to reinvent herself, adapt, and emerge stronger. She also discusses the invaluable lessons she's learned along the way, including the importance of mentorship, asking for help, and the power of failure as a stepping stone to success.

As a passionate coach and mentor, Carly is now dedicated to guiding young entrepreneurs to overcome their own hurdles and find their path to success. Tune in for a conversation filled with inspiration, resilience, and practical advice for navigating life’s challenges.

Plus, get to know Carly’s fun side—like two friends catching up over coffee!