Business as UNusual

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila is joined by artist Gretchen Andrew, whose Facetuned Universal Beauty series boldly explores the insidious effects of AI beauty filters on self-image, diversity, and wellness. Together, they dissect how algorithms erase individuality and change culture, why even the world’s “most beautiful” people aren’t immune, and the high personal and business costs of digital perfection. If you want actionable insights into the intersection of technology, artistry, and human thriving—the show delivers.Topics Discussed in This Episode:How AI beauty filters reshape global beauty standardsThe hidden mental health impact of algorithm-driven perfectionWhy “unfiltered” authenticity is a crucial business and life assetThe surprising rise in beauty-related procedures among menWhat success looks like when you are paid and celebrated for being yourselfResources Mentioned in This Episode:Gretchen Andrew’s website: gretchenandrew.comInstagram: @gretchenandrew💡 Challenge yourself: Try a filter on a photo and see how it shapes your own standards—then start a conversation about it with friends or colleagues.👀 Follow Gretchen Andrew on Instagram and subscribe to her newsletter for updates on exhibitions, workshops, and new projects that promote radical authenticity.📣 Share this episode with someone struggling with digital perfection or unrealistic standards—help spread awareness and support!Episode transcript:The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this collaborative episode, Kevin Chung, host of Standout Creatives, and Aicila, host of Business as Unusual, explore strategies for creative business owners, particularly introverts, to stand out without burning out. They discuss the challenges introverted creatives face, such as networking and engagement, and offer practical advice on balancing energizing and draining activities. By focusing on authenticity and genuine connections, Kevin and Ala provide insights into sustainable business practices and the importance of strong, reciprocal relationships. They also touch on the impact of AI and the importance of human presence in creating meaningful connections.00:00 Introduction to the Hosts00:26 Challenges for Introverted Creatives04:18 Networking Tips for Introverts06:11 Building Authentic Relationships10:33 The Importance of Self-Awareness20:09 Leveraging AI and Authenticity23:53 Conclusion and Future CollaborationsLearn more about Kevin's support for creatives:  https://www.standoutcreativebusiness.com/Join Aicila at a workshop on making your time work for you: https://luma.com/bicurean

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila chats with Sean Olson, founder of Olson Personal Injury Lawyers, about his unique path from Emmy-winning journalist to top-rated trial lawyer. Sean shares how storytelling drives his approach to justice, the challenges clients face in an intimidating legal system, and how his firm levels the playing field against big corporations and insurers. Tune in to discover the unconventional ways Sean and his team serve individuals across Colorado, New Mexico, and Wyoming—delivering not just verdicts, but real, life-changing outcomes.Topics discussed in this episode:How Sean Olson transitioned from journalism to law—and why storytelling matters in justiceThe intimidating realities of the legal system and strategies to empower clientsFinancing clients’ cases: making justice accessible regardless of ability to payRedefining legal success: justice, dignity, and building others upBreaking down lawyer stereotypes and creating an exceptional client experienceThe ongoing evolution of law, advocacy, and client partnershipResources mentioned in this episode:Olson Law Firm: olsonlawfirm.comBook: Sean Olson’s layperson’s guide to personal injury lawsuits (available via the Olson Law Firm website) Empower Yourself: If you or someone you know is overwhelmed by the legal system, visit olsonlawfirm.com for resources and support!Get Informed: Look for Sean Olson’s upcoming book to demystify personal injury law and learn how to stand tall in your own legal journey.Stay Curious: Subscribe to Business as UNusual for more stories about bold leaders making a difference in unexpected ways.Episode transcript:The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, culture expert and Better Culture co-founder Brett Hogeveen joins Aicila for an insightful conversation about the measurable business impact of workplace culture. Brett shares actionable strategies for building competitive advantage by prioritizing both top-down leadership and bottom-up employee engagement. Discover practical tips to improve retention, productivity, and fulfillment in your business using culture as your secret weapon.Topics discussed in this episode:How culture transforms business results and why it’s not just a “soft skill”The importance of executive buy-in and partnership for lasting culture changeMeasurable ways to foster employee commitment and continuous improvementBuilding culture from the bottom up: Introducing the 20 Tenets frameworkTips for leaders and employees to create a more rewarding workplaceWhy strategic plans should always include culture improvement initiativesSimple steps for shifting your organization’s culture to unlock performanceVisit https://betterculture.com/unusual for your free Culture Kickstarter Pack and start building a better workplace today!Resources mentioned in this episode:Better Culture Insights & free resources: https://betterculture.com/insightsBrett Hogeveen on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/brett-hoogeveenMake culture part of your company’s strategic plan—start a conversation with your leadership team!Interested in leadership or culture training? Connect with Brett Hogeveen on LinkedIn or through Better Culture.Episode transcript:The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this final episode of our energizing Business as UNusual four-part series, host Aicila shares unconventional strategies for creating a business plan that’s energy-aligned, flexible, and built to last. Drawing from her workshops and hands-on experience, Aicila reveals how to set intentions, develop actionable metrics, and adapt your workflow to the realities of change in business. Learn how a holistic approach—integrating your energy, time, and money—can make success feel inevitable as you prepare for a thriving 2026.Topics discussed in this episode:What makes a business plan “energy-aligned” and adaptiveWhy clarity and flexibility are key to inevitable successHow to use the Energy Map: setting intentions for momentum, creativity, and connectionApplying measurable indicators across financial, emotional, and creative domainsRituals and rhythms to protect your energy and foster sustainable business growthEmbracing quarterly check-ins and course correctionsEncouragement to experiment: thriving in your business while honoring personal needsDownload the Energy Map Prompts and Guides and start planning your 2026 goals.Join Aicila’s next energizing workshop on December 16 to dive deeper into energy-aligned business planningReflect and experiment—give yourself permission to flex your business plans and intentions for more sustainable success!Episode transcript:The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila interviews Meg Thomas Crosby, co-founder of People Cap Advisors and author of the book "Running the Gauntlet: Proven Strategies for High Growth Leaders." Meg shares her expertise on aligning organizational structure with business strategy, the importance of context for leadership, and how to scale companies sustainably through different stages of growth. Discover Meg’s proven framework for high-growth companies, her approach to working with founders and leadership teams, and actionable advice for both leaders and entrepreneurs facing the chaos of business evolution.Topics discussed in this episode:Why context is the missing link in strategic leadershipThe Growth Gauntlet framework: Four stages of organizational growthManaging founder transitions and honoring the "chief distraction officer"Six imperatives for sustainable scaling: From sharpening focus to aligning structureWhen great resumes aren’t the right fit: Hiring strategies for different growth phasesThe value of self-awareness in leadership and knowing when to step asideAdvice for young professionals: Plans, detours, and the power of connectionPrescriptive planning vs. reactive strategies in business scalingBuilding structures that survive leadership transitionsThe inspiration behind People Cap’s signature modelResources mentioned in this episode:People Cap Advisors: www.peoplecap.comConnect with Meg Thomas Crosby on LinkedInBook: "Running the Gauntlet: Proven Strategies for High Growth Leaders" (released April 2025)Ready to scale your company the UNusual way? Dive into Meg’s Growth Gauntlet and rethink your leadership structure!Connect with Meg and the People Cap team on LinkedIn to keep up with disruptive business strategies.Episode transcript:The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this energizing episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila guides entrepreneurs through designing a business that fuels itself—without burnout. Discover how to organize work around your energy, elevate creativity, foster impactful connections, and build self-sustaining momentum. Gain actionable steps for transforming draining routines into revitalizing practices, and learn why ease—not struggle—is the secret ingredient behind truly sustainable success.Topics discussed in this episode:Rethinking business design: The power of energy-led structuresFrom stuck to flow: How entrepreneurs can identify what’s draining and fueling energyWorking on vs. in your business: Why supporting activities matterCultivating creativity as an entrepreneur’s best resourceLeveraging authentic connections to build trust and goodwillMaking momentum your motivation enginePractical approaches for delegating, automating, and prioritizingLetting go of "hard" work culture in favor of ease and flowResources mentioned in this episode:Resource Calculator and Energy Snapshot by BiCureanEnergizer 2026 WorkshopTake your Energy Snapshot and rethink your workflow—unlock your business’s natural fuel!Try listing, ranking, and reworking your most draining tasks. Can you delegate or contain them?Replenish key connections—reach out and offer a generous hand to your business allies today!Episode transcript:The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this solo episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila dives deep into the often-overlooked element of business success: energy management. Instead of just chasing financial returns, Aicila invites you to audit both your energetic and financial investments using her unique Resource Calculator. Discover how to spot what fuels you—and what drains you—to build sustainable growth and avoid burnout. This episode is ideal for entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders committed to creating lasting impact without sacrificing their well-being.Topics discussed in this episode:Why energy is just as vital as time and money in business planningHow to identify and balance projects that energize vs. drain youUsing the Resource Calculator to map your inputs and returnsPractical tips for replenishing your creativity, connection, and motivationStrategies to avoid burnout and align your work with what truly fuels youThe importance of reflection before planning your next goalsResources mentioned in this episode:The Resource Calculator Tool Energize Your 2026 Workshop – November 11, $35Try the Resource Calculator—get clear on what gives and takes energy in your business!Register for the Energize Your 2026 Workshop on November 11 to strategize for a vibrant business future.Reflect on your projects this week: which ones excite you, and which ones drain you? Take action accordingly!Episode transcript:The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this conversation packed with unconventional insights, host Aicila welcomes Grace Najean—transformational leadership strategist, keynote speaker, and former Tony Robbins master coach—to Business as UNusual. Grace shares her Soulfluence Method and explains why true leadership, especially in today’s fast-paced world, demands more than just strategy—it requires energy, alignment, and soul. If you’re looking for innovative ways to thrive instead of just achieve, this episode will help you rethink success from the inside out.Topics discussed in this episode:Achievement Fatigue: The Hidden Cost of Conventional SuccessIntegration vs. Information: The Real Key to TransformationThe Soulfluence Method: Aligning Body, Mind, and Consciousness for Effortless LeadershipFrom Survival to Visionary: Shifting Leadership Dimensions (3D–5D)Practical Ways to Lead with Energy, Not EffortWhat Success and Authentic Leadership Mean to Grace NajeanThe Importance of Asking for Help and Accelerating Your GrowthRetreats, Masterclasses, and Keynote Speaking: How Grace is Creating ImpactResources mentioned in this episode:Grace Najean’s website: www.gracenajean.comConnect with Grace on LinkedIn: Grace Najean on LinkedInWant to experience truly transformational leadership? Visit Grace Najean’s website and explore her upcoming retreats and programs.Start your day in alignment! Try Grace’s 10-minute morning routine for energy and focus—listen for her instructions in the episode.Connect with Grace on LinkedIn and join her community of purpose-driven leaders.Episode transcript:The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.