The Messy Middle Matters

Indra reflects on her podcast journey over the past year, sharing successes, challenges, and personal growth. She discusses the evolution of her podcast, technological hurdles, and how the experience has transformed her confidence and voice.  Takeaways Consistency in content creation builds confidence. Technological hurdles are significant but manageable. Reflecting on progress reveals areas of gr...

In this episode, Indra and Ana Fabiano explore the intricate journey of Ana's career in the wine industry, her deep connection to the Rioja region, and the launch of her new venture, Rioja Holistic Home. They discuss the importance of passion, authenticity, and building trust with craftspeople, especially in a traditionally male-dominated industry. The conversation highlights the shift towards sus...

In this episode of Messy Middle Matters, Indra and Kat delve into the complexities of Imposter Syndrome, exploring its roots, manifestations, and the societal conditioning that often exacerbates it, particularly for women. They discuss practical tools and strategies for reframing negative self-perceptions, the importance of coaching and mentorship, and the need for authentic role models. The conve...

In this conversation, Kat Logan joins Indra to explore the complexities of agency life, discussing the challenges and rewards of working in a dynamic environment. They delve into the impact of client culture, the revolving door of talent, and the importance of building community and support within agencies. The discussion highlights the nuances of navigating agency culture, managing uncertainty, a...

In a world full of noise, expectations, and competing identities, how do we hear our inner voice? In this episode of The Messy Middle Matters, Indra sits down with Jameelah Calhoun, founder of Unpopular Decisions, to explore the courage it takes to choose alignment over conformity. Together, they unpack the difference between fear and intuition, regret versus consequences, and why comfort isn’t al...

Growth isn’t just about what we’re building,  it’s also about what we’re letting go. In this episode, Indra and Stephanie examine the hidden grief that can accompany promotions, career pivots, restructures, and identity shifts. They talk about grieving what you thought would be, survivor’s guilt in the workplace, and why ignoring emotions doesn’t make them disappear. This conversation offers langu...

In this episode, Indra explores the multifaceted role of AI in our lives, emphasizing its potential as a tool for accessibility, communication, and personal growth. She discusses how AI can enhance our work, serve as a thinking partner, and help us engage with broader audiences. Indra also highlights the importance of human agency in shaping the tools we use, advocating for a thoughtful approach t...

In this episode, Indra and Stephanie Simpson explore the concept of the 'Goo Stage,' a transformative phase in life where individuals experience discomfort and uncertainty. They discuss the importance of navigating transitions, the role of leaders in supporting their teams during these times, and the significance of creating supportive environments. Stephanie shares insights on how to acknowledge...

In this episode of The Messy Middle Matters, Indra Klavins sits down with Rachel Saslaw, product marketing director and founder of NYC’s storytelling community StoryTell, to explore the messy middle of career, purpose, and identity. Rachel shares her journey of balancing a corporate career with a passion project, protecting her creative space from the pressures of monetization, and navigating soci...

Summary In this engaging conversation, Indra K and Megumi explore the complexities of navigating the messy middle of careers, personal growth, and entrepreneurship. Megumi shares her journey from Tokyo to Kansas City, her career pivots from marketing to acting, and ultimately to creating a community-focused wine events company. The discussion highlights the importance of creating supportive spaces...

Starting a new role can feel overwhelming, even when you know the basics—logging in, getting paid, finding the coffee. In this episode, Indra Klavins and Amanda Jane Lee go beyond standard onboarding advice to explore how to truly set yourself up for success in your first 90 days. They discuss the importance of asking foundational questions, building your own organizational maps, decoding internal...

In this conversation, Amanda Jane Lee discusses the innovative use of AI in self-discovery and career guidance. She emphasizes how AI can assist individuals in identifying their strengths and preferences through targeted questioning, making the process of career exploration more efficient and personalized. Takeaways AI can help identify personal strengths and preferences. Mind mapping software is...

This conversation delves into the complexities of transitioning into leadership roles, emphasizing the emotional and practical challenges faced by new managers. Indra K and Laura Lillie Goodridge explore the jarring shift from individual contributor to manager, the importance of self-awareness, and the need for effective communication and feedback. They discuss the lack of support many organizatio...

In this conversation, Mikki and Indra explore the complexities of navigating career changes and the profound shifts in identity that accompany them. They discuss the importance of humility, community support, and vulnerability during transitions, emphasizing the need to redefine one's identity and align actions with personal values. The dialogue highlights the significance of small impacts and the...

In this episode, Indra and Amanda discuss the complexities of co-creation in the workplace, particularly when it comes to leadership dynamics and the responsibilities that come with collaboration. They explore the importance of providing structure in collaborative efforts, the pitfalls of starting from a blank slate, and the need for clear expectations and communication. The conversation also touc...

What does it take to build—and protect—culture when your team and community are growing faster than your playbook? In this episode, Indra talks with Derek Kastner, Head of Experience at Fabrik, about what it really means to nurture community and connection in a rapidly scaling organization. From being one of Fabrik’s first three employees to helping onboard its growing team and shape the member ex...

When the world shifts under your feet, what do you do next? In this episode, Indra talks with bestselling children’s author Nancy Krulik about the art of resilience and reinvention. From investigative journalism to over 250 books for kids — and now animation — Nancy’s career is a masterclass in adapting, learning, and staying curious when plans fall apart. Together, they explore what it takes to r...

Business goals and human behavior don’t always line up — and the friction can stall progress, frustrate teams, and leave leaders scratching their heads. In this episode, we dive into real-world examples where business logic clashes with human tendencies, from time tracking to communication challenges and conflicting incentives. We share strategies for bridging the gap, including clear rationale, c...

Perfectionism can drive excellence — but it can also stall progress, create stress, and keep teams stuck. In this episode, we explore the “pencils down” metaphor, helping you recognize when good enough is actually brilliant. We discuss the roots and benefits of perfectionism, the pitfalls of over-editing and micromanagement, and how leaders can model healthy standards. Packed with practical strate...

Thinking about leaving corporate America but not sure what it really takes? In this episode, Indra sits down with Ashley Grace Jefferson to explore the mental, emotional, and practical shifts involved in breaking free from the corporate system. They unpack the culture and incentives of corporate life, address the fears and stigma around leaving, and discuss the logistical realities—from health ins...

In this episode of The Messy Middle Matters, Indra sits down with  Juleen Mahabeer-Jackson to explore what it really feels like to be at a career crossroads. From packing up her life (and two cats!) to drive across the country, to rethinking what success looks like beyond job titles, Juleen shares her story of stepping outside her comfort zone and learning to trust herself. Together, Indra and Jul...

Branding yourself isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential. In this episode, Indra sits down with Ashley Grace Jefferson , founder of Startup Baddie and F3 (Founders, Funders & Fractionals), to explore how to stand out, show up authentically, and even rebrand yourself when the time is right. They dive into the signs it’s time to rebrand, the difference between corporate and personal branding, and...

Your professional identity shapes how others see you, how you show up, and the opportunities that come your way. In this episode, we explore the difference between brand (how you want to be seen) and reputation (how others actually see you), and share practical strategies for defining and communicating your identity at work. We dive into real-world examples, tips for aligning your actions with you...

In this episode of The Messy Middle Matters, Indra is joined by Victor Malena , founder of  Ops on Tap , to explore the subtle but powerful difference between being smart and being prepared. Victor shares a career-shaping story from an early mentor who taught him that success often comes less from being the "smartest person in the room" and more from being the one most ready to engage, ask questio...

Let’s be honest. Networking often conjures awkward happy hours, forced small talk, and a vague sense that you should be doing more of it. But what if it didn’t have to feel gross? In this episode, Indra and Amanda break down how to keep your network warm, show up authentically, and build meaningful relationships that support your career and your humanity. Whether you’re introverted, overwhelmed, o...