In this inspiring episode of Say It Skillfully, host Molly Tschang sits down with Vicky Serany, founder and president of Southern Studio, to explore her unexpected path from architect to business owner. Vicky shares how her passion for design became a mission to create joyful spaces and build a company where people love to work. Through real-life lessons in entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth, Vicky opens up about the power of letting go of control, leading with empathy, and navigating tough conversations with grace. She and Molly talk candidly about the challenges of running a business, finding your voice, and living a life aligned with your values—both in the office and at home. Whether you're a creative professional, business owner, or just someone striving to lead with heart, this episode offers rich insights and practical wisdom you won’t want to miss.

Topics Covered:

• Designing a business that puts people first

• Building a values-based culture

• Leading with authenticity and vulnerability

• The intersection of work, family, and fulfillment

• Tips for skillful conversations as a leader

00:00 – Intro: Designing for Joy & Leadership
Molly introduces Vicky Serany, founder of Southern Studio, and frames the conversation around leadership, values, and personal growth.

02:45 – Vicky’s Journey: From Architect to Entrepreneur
Vicky shares how she unexpectedly became a business owner and the evolution of her design career.

08:10 – Creating a Joyful Work Culture
Discussion around building a company where people genuinely love to work, and why joy is at the center of her leadership philosophy.

13:20 – Letting Go of Control
Vicky reflects on how releasing the need to control every detail has been key to growth, both personally and professionally.

17:45 – Leading with Empathy & Vulnerability
They explore how empathy, especially in tough conversations, builds trust and emotional safety in teams.

23:15 – Designing with Heart: Purpose-Driven Work
Vicky explains how her firm uses design to create environments that uplift and support clients’ lives and values.

29:40 – Finding Fulfillment Beyond Work
A candid look at how Vicky navigates the balance between running a business and nurturing her personal life.

34:55 – Advice for Future Leaders
Vicky offers insights for aspiring leaders on building something meaningful without sacrificing their values.

38:40 – Rapid-Fire Reflections
Fun, fast-paced questions about leadership, learning, and what Vicky’s most proud of.

41:15 – Closing Thoughts from Molly
Molly wraps up the episode with a reflection on skillful leadership and living fully.

In this inspiring episode of Say It Skillfully, Nat Ware—Rhodes Scholar, social entrepreneur, and founder of Forte and 180 Degrees Consulting—shares his journey from a modest upbringing in Sydney to building global systems that unlock human potential. Nat breaks down his revolutionary Forte model, which funds education and healthcare without cost to individuals or governments, by leveraging future tax revenue from increased employment. He also reflects on resilience, happiness, and the mindset that’s fueled his impact—including surviving a gunshot wound the night before Forte’s first launch. A must-listen for anyone passionate about creating scalable, sustainable change.

Learn more at: www.sayitskillfully.com

00:00

Introduction to Nat Ware's Journey

02:55

Childhood and Family Background

05:48

Academic Influences and Early Interests

08:42

First Steps into Philanthropy

11:40

Transition to Global Awareness

14:38

Founding 180 Degrees Consulting

20:32

Pursuing Higher Education and PhD

23:50

Introducing the Forte Model

29:51

Impact Stories and Future Vision

33:59

Unlocking Human Potential through Education Financing

37:56

Scaling the Model Globally

41:07

Innovative Approaches to Education Quality

42:43

Resilience in Entrepreneurship

46:19

The Importance of Partnerships

47:53

Understanding Happiness and Expectations

53:31

Living a Life with No Regrets

01:00:13

Reflections on Personal Growth and Future Aspirations

Molly is joined by Dan Berger, an Israeli-American entrepreneur whose life experiences shaped his understanding of identity, belonging, and resilience. Dan shares his journey from being an orphan to creating spaces for connection through his ventures, including Social Tables and Assemble Hospitality.

00:00 Introduction to Dan's Journey

01:51 Trauma and Belonging: A Personal Narrative

06:10 Life in Israel: Early Memories and Identity

11:51 Navigating Adolescence: Moving to America

20:07 Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Its Impact

23:50 The Role of Entrepreneurship in Healing

29:58 The Transition from Social Tables to Assemble Hospitality

31:38 The Journey of Selling a Company

34:20 Exploring New Ventures and Personal Growth

36:01 Understanding Belonging: A Personal Perspective

39:45 The Four Belonging Personas

41:22 Lessons Learned Through Research and Self-Discovery

43:55 Navigating Tough Conversations

47:22 Hobbies and Personal Interests

49:25 Reflections on Life and Accomplishments

50:43 Future Aspirations and Passions

53:17 The Importance of Addressing Men's Issues