Business as UNusual

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcome David Silverman, acclaimed screenwriter, TV producer, and Stanford-educated psychotherapist. Silverman shares his unconventional journey from psychology to Hollywood, breaking down the mindset, resilience, and creative strategies that helped him co-create series like The Wild Thornberries and author "How to Be a Rock Star Screenwriter." Discover how embracing the human condition, pushing past rejection, and leveraging unusual tactics can redefine business success—both onscreen and off.Topics discussed in this episode:From Therapy to TV: David Silverman’s Unusual Career PathWhat It Really Takes to Break Into Hollywood as a ScreenwriterThe Power of Partnership and Surviving Writers’ RoomsLessons from Psychotherapy That Give Writers an EdgeManaging Sensitivity and Anxiety in Creative ProfessionsMyths vs. Reality in Screenwriting Success: Is Your First Script Worth Millions?Bold Moves for Getting Noticed in the Entertainment IndustryPractical Tips for New Writers: Agents, Pitching, and MoreSilverman’s Advice to His 18-Year-Old SelfEMDR and Advancements in Treating Trauma for Creative ProfessionalsResources mentioned in this episode:How to Be a Rock Star ScreenwriterHollywoodScriptwriting.comDavidSilvermanLMFT.comIMDb ProThe Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine AronWild Thornberries (TV Series)PsychCentral (psychology writing)Ready to break into screenwriting? Grab David’s book "How to Be a Rock Star Screenwriter" and start your journey!Seeking creative business inspiration? Explore unconventional tips at hollywoodscriptwriting.com.Know someone dreaming of Hollywood? Share this episode to spark their next big idea!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 welcomes Shez Mehra, an award-winning creative entrepreneur, DJ, and founder of 194 Group. Together, they explore the powerful impact of sonic branding, the importance of audio strategy for businesses of all sizes, and how intentional sound design can transform customer experience and boost brand recall. Whether you’re an established enterprise or a solopreneur, discover why innovative leaders are tuning in to the untapped potential of sound in their business strategy.Topics discussed in this episode:Why sonic branding is the next big frontier in brand strategyShez Mehra’s journey from DJ battles to global experience designHow even small businesses and solopreneurs can harness audio brandingThe neuroscience behind sound, memory, and trustSimple steps and big wins: Audio strategy for remote, service-based, and digital-first businessesBuilding brand consistency with intentional sonic experiencesPersonal reflections on entrepreneurial success and rethinking business goalsThe future of audio-driven experiences in businessLearn more about Shez's wok:Shez Mehra’s personal and business site: shezmehra.comWant to transform your brand’s identity? Visit shezmehra.com to learn more about sonic branding and how it can revolutionize your business.Never miss an unconventional business insight! Subscribe, share, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.Ready for Business as UNusual? Think beyond visuals—start crafting your business’s sound experience today!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 sits down with Ines O'Donovan, PhD—also known as the Ageless Futurist and founder of Jeunessima Magazine—to dive deep into the science and strategy of slowing biological aging for entrepreneurs. Ines shares practical tips for boosting vitality and performance, debunks aging myths, and reveals how optimizing sleep, stress, and energy sets leaders apart in today’s competitive landscape. This discussion is a must-listen for founders, executives, and anyone looking to turn their biological age into a business superpower.Topics discussed in this episode:What is biological age and why does it matter for business leaders?Stories from real founders: How reducing biological age boosts energy, creativity, and leadershipThe science behind sleep, stress, and personalized routines for peak performanceWhy wisdom age is the next competitive advantage for companiesPractical, actionable longevity tips for entrepreneurs and executivesNew approaches to futureproofing business through employee wellnessResources mentioned in this episode:Jeunessima MagazineJoin the waitlist for the Longevity Club for Entrepreneurs and Business LeadersBiological Edge Calculator: Free tool for listeners to assess their biological ageUpcoming event on sleep and biological age in autumn—details at Jeunessima Magazinehttps://jeunessima.com/unusualhttps://jeunessima.com,https://inesodonovan.comLI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inesodonovan (best).Also on X: https://x.com/inesodonovan & https://x.com/JeunessimaThe 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 sits down with Jaime Araujo, vintner and founder of Trois Noix, a Certified B Corp wine company in Napa Valley. Jaime’s unique path—growing up in a renowned winemaking family, spending years in Europe, and ultimately returning to Napa to blaze her own trail—is a testament to challenging convention in the wine industry. Jaime shares how she uses community, social change, and transparent business practices to redefine both leadership and legacy in a region steeped in tradition. Listen in for insights on supporting women, queer leaders, and younger generations—and discover why wine can be a surprising catalyst for social change.Topics discussed in this episode:Building a business vision through instinct, luck, and genuine relationshipsWhat is a B Corp? Why Trois Noix made ethical certification a core valueNavigating the generational shift in wine consumers and how transparency winsThe “foam roller” approach: tackling tough topics in a tradition-bound industryDiversity, mentorship, and Jaime’s journey as the first openly gay chairwoman of Napa Valley VintnersThe realities of making wine: costs, challenges, and why profit isn’t always the goalCommunity as a business strength: leadership, giving back, and mentoring women in wineLaunching new wines and the excitement of ongoing innovation at Trois NoixResources mentioned in this episode:Trois Noix Wines: https://troisnoixwine.comB Lab (B Corp Certification): https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/Napa Valley Vintners: https://napavintners.comBatonnage Forum (Women in Wine): https://batonnageforum.comQueer Wine Fest in McMinnville, Oregon: https://remywines.com/event/queer-wine-fest/Stay connected with Trois Noix—sign up for their newsletter to hear about new releases and where to meet Jaime in person!Curious about running a business as a force for good? Explore the B Corp movement and what it means for your industry.Support women and diversity in wine—check out Batonage for mentorship programs and resources.Web: www.troisnoixwine.comIG: www.instagram.com/troisnoixwine/FB: https://www.facebook.com/TroisNoixWineLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/troisnoixwine/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 explores how entrepreneurs can reignite their momentum energy and navigate the hidden friction points that stall progress. Aicila unpacks the psychology behind procrastination, the difference between motivation and momentum, and why burnout is often misunderstood as laziness. Discover unconventional strategies for building sustainable, energy-aware workflows that fuel your business growth—without pushing yourself into exhaustion. Perfect for modern business leaders seeking to disrupt the cycle of burnout and reclaim their workflow.Topics discussed in this episode:Why stalled progress is a momentum problem, not a willpower issueThe critical difference between motivation and momentum energyHow overcomplicated systems and decision fatigue sabotage business momentumIdentifying and repairing invisible energy leaks in your workflowEnergy-aware accountability and redefining productivity for entrepreneursThe power of minimum viable movement to overcome overwhelmCreating rituals, patterns, and sustainable rhythms for long-term business successReady to rebuild your business momentum? Book your Energy Boost Session or sign up for the next workshop at https://www.bicurean.com/services!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, Aicila explores the concept of "connection energy" and uncovers why so many business owners and leaders feel disconnected—even while appearing engaged online. In a world running on technology and visibility, we dive deep into how true, nourishing connections power both personal and professional communities. Discover strategies to restore your connection energy, set healthier boundaries, and foster genuine relationships that go beyond surface-level interactions. If you’re seeking to combat isolation and build a sustainable network, this episode offers practical tips grounded in the realities of today’s business landscape.Topics discussed in this episode:Why visibility does not equal connection in today’s business worldSigns your connection energy is depleted and how it impacts relationshipsPractical ways to restore connection energy for sustainable leadershipThe myth of being “on” all the time—and how to break freeCreating boundaries to avoid resentment and over-extensionBuilding interdependence and true collaboration in your teamHow intentional disconnection (like tech breaks) can boost real engagementPractice real connection: Set aside your devices for intentional, present moments this week.Rebuild your network: Reach out to one person today for a genuine, non-transactional conversation.Subscribe for more unconventional business insights: Don’t miss an episode—join our Business as UNusual community!—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 dives deep into why creative energy is a core business asset—not just a nice-to-have. She unpacks how most traditional systems prioritize relentless productivity, often at the expense of insights and innovation. Learn practical strategies to protect and refuel your creativity, discover why “back brain time” isn’t wasted, and find out how to strike the right balance between discipline and flexibility in your work. Perfect for leaders and teams who want to do business differently and break free from conventional output-focused systems.Topics discussed in this episode:Why creativity is your business superpower, not a side benefitWhat really drains vs. fuels your creative energyHow to identify and fiercely protect your personal creativity ritualsThe hidden value of non-productive-looking “wander time”Rigid schedules, flexibility, and finding your right structureAction steps to create a team environment that values unique contributionsThe “baby plant” method for building new creative habitsRedesign your calendar: Block time for creative wandering and treat it as non-negotiable.Cultivate your creativity: Identify what fuels you and communicate it to your team.Challenge the status quo: Share this episode with a colleague who needs permission to prioritize insight over output.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 explores the often-overlooked but critical resource every entrepreneur and leader needs: energy. Moving beyond the standard focus on time and money, Aicila breaks down the “energy equation”—creativity, momentum, and connection—as essential components for avoiding burnout and fueling innovative business strategies. Discover actionable ways to manage your energy as a business asset and reclaim your power to stand out in the modern marketplace.Topics discussed in this episode:Why energy is the “third resource” for entrepreneursThe three elements of business energy: creativity, momentum, and connectionHow to recognize and prevent burnout before it happensEnergy management as a strategic business assetThe difference between “creative hard” and “draining hard” workBuilding regenerative energy for leadership and life satisfactionHow self-exploitation is rewarded in business culture—and how to break the cyclePractical steps for fueling your internal batteryResources mentioned in this episode:Learn more about the Business as UNusual philosophy at BiCurean ConsultingStart managing your energy, not just your calendar—share your own energy hacks with us on social!Ready to avoid burnout? Prioritize creativity, connection, and momentum in your business routines.Stand out by fueling your internal fire—subscribe for more unconventional 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 thought-provoking episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila dives deep into the differences between plans, intentions, goals, and outcomes in the context of small business and social impact leadership. Learn why focusing on behaviors you can control, rather than just chasing outcomes, is key to sustaining success and avoiding discouragement—especially in uncertain times. Aicila blends innovative mindset shifts and practical examples to help entrepreneurs and leaders cultivate flexibility and resilience in an ever-evolving business world.Topics discussed in this episode:Why outcome-based goals can hinder motivationThe power of focusing on actionable behaviors for business growthPlans vs. intentions: building agility in a changing landscapeHow to stay motivated through rejection and uncertaintyEmbracing flexibility as your biggest asset✨ Reflect on your current goals—are they based on outcomes or behaviors you control? Shift at least one goal this week!🤝 Stay agile—review your plans and consider where intentions might offer more flexibility.🚀 Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur and keep the conversation going about building business resilience!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.