Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ricki Pasinelli. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ricki, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Does anyone really overcome it? The better question is, how do we not let it take us over? We find ways to manage it and to remind ourselves that no one knows what they are doing. I’ve met with very successful CEOs, presidents of organizations, and leaders in their industries, and I’ve learned there are ways not to let it fester and evolve.
Our minds play tricks on us. One day, you are feeling on top of the world, and the next, you’re questioning if you deserve to be in the room.
I remember chatting with a Fortune 500 CEO who confided that she still gets nervous before entering a room. She told me her secret was to focus on what she could contribute, not on how she might mess up. It was a real eye-opener.
Another trick I’ve picked up is to keep a “wins” folder. On those days when I feel like a total fraud, I look back on my accomplishments. It’s like a reality check for my brain.
The biggest game-changer for me – I talk about it! The more I’ve opened up about my own imposter syndrome, the more I’ve realized I’m not alone. It’s like this secret club that everyone’s in, but nobody talks about. Once I start the conversation, it’s amazing how many people open up and share their truth, too.
So, while we may never completely shake off that imposter feeling, we can definitely learn to give it a little wink and say, “Nice try, but not today.” It’s all about building that toolkit of coping strategies and remembering that feeling like an imposter sometimes just means you’re human.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a growth strategist, a brand builder, an innovation catalyst. I get to work with leaders who have achieved remarkable success but now face challenges that hinder their progress. My mission is to guide them from reactive troubleshooting to proactive strategic planning, driving results that propel their companies forward.
My approach is centered around a few key principles:
-Brand Building and Innovation: I help businesses refine their brand identity and foster innovation to stay ahead in the market.
-Strategic Planning: I transform reactive problem-solving into proactive strategies that align with a company’s goals and values.
-People-First Philosophy: I prioritize company culture, core values, stakeholder goals, and concerns to ensure the long-term health and success of the organization.
As a seasoned growth strategist, I’ve had the privilege of working with mid-sized businesses across various industries. My goal is to help them overcome obstacles and regain momentum. I’m passionate about helping businesses break through plateaus and achieve exponential growth.
This is how I get to make an impact.
Recent Developments
I’ve been interviewed on a number of podcasts, and admittedly, I love talking about what I do, how I lead, what makes an impact, and what fuels me. It’s fun and potent.
Notable appearances include:
“Heartbeat For Hire” podcast with Lyndsay Dowd, discussing my role as the “CEO Whisperer” and strategies for business growth. This appearance highlights my ongoing commitment to helping businesses thrive.
“Career Blast in a Half” with Loren Greiff, focusing on the significance of core values in business and personal development. This conversation underscored aligning actions with core values to achieve success and fulfillment.
“The Impact Tribe” with Ashley Bright, where we explored my leadership skills, drive, and the never-ending energy I bring to my work. This conversation highlighted my approach to energizing teams and driving growth through effective leadership.
My side hustle, along with my business partners, involves building an app and launching it sometime this year (more details to come on that later).
And, get ready for me to be on stages nationwide. I am working on expanding how I talk about what I do and sharing it with the masses.
Beyond my professional life, I’m an avid adventurer who loves hiking, cycling, skiing, and travel. This zest for life reflects my entrepreneurial spirit – always seeking new paths and overcoming challenges.
I am a mom (to adult children), a wife, an aunt, a friend, a sun chaser, an optimist, a relationship builder, and a shoe collector. I believe every day should have a little fun mixed in.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
For me, the most impactful personal qualities have been confidence, enthusiasm for trying new things, and curiosity. These traits have not only shaped my approach to challenges but have also influenced how I interact with others and navigate opportunities. As I reflect on my journey, I realize that these qualities are not static; they grow stronger with practice and experience. The more I engage with new experiences and people, the more confident, enthusiastic, and curious I become.
For those early in their journey, I would emphasize the importance of building a strong network. This involves more than just connecting with people; it requires actively engaging with them. Ask questions, meet with anyone who can offer insights, and always follow up and follow through on commitments. Your network serves as both a support system and a door opener, providing invaluable guidance and opportunities. By cultivating curiosity, enthusiasm, and confidence through these interactions, you will find that these qualities become more robust over time. The practice of networking and engaging with others is a muscle that, when exercised regularly, will help you grow both personally and professionally.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Mentors, Coaches, and Supporters
<b>Professional (Personal) Mentors</b>
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors who have played crucial roles in my professional development:
My first boss at my last big agency job: Not only did she teach me how to navigate a complex organization and advocate for myself strategically, but she also introduced me to my executive coach and always pushed me to get uncomfortable. She still remains a friend to this day.
A senior executive outside my industry: He provided invaluable insights into strategic thinking, business finances, and long-term career planning. He is still my go-to. Ulitmately, he was the catalyst for starting my own company.
<b>Executive Coach</b>
I worked with an executive coach for about three years while trying to figure out my place in the professional world. It was transformative for my leadership skills and next career steps. She was instrumental during this stage. I ended up working with her for a total of seven years on and off – it was life changing.
She helped me identify and leverage my strengths, provided strategies for effective communication with different personality types, assisted in developing my decision-making abilities, supported me as I leaned into leadership, and focused on the path forward.
<b>Life Coach </b>
This was a huge pivot for me. She has been instrumental in helping me unlock the many truths about the walls I put up, how to break them down, and expand from a mentality of scarcity to that of abundance.
<b>Other Significant Influences</b>
Family members: My spouse has been a constant source of support and honest feedback. He is an incredible leader and a wonderful sounding board.
Professional associations: Participating in industry groups has connected me with peers facing similar challenges and has expanded my network exponentially.
Books: Self-directed learning through key books has filled knowledge gaps.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Lauren Thompson
