In this uplifting episode, Elena Armijo is joined by keynote speaker, podcast host, and beatbox entertainer Parker Kane. Known for his viral McDonald’s performance that reached over a billion views, Parker shares the deeply personal story behind that moment, and the emotional journey that led to it. From a low point of burnout and disconnection to finding renewed purpose through creativity and community, Parker’s path is a powerful reminder that small decisions can lead to life-altering change.

Check out Elena’s website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you.

The conversation highlights the importance of presence, resilience, and self-expression during difficult times. Elena reflects on personal practices for nervous system regulation, from morning walks in nature to breathwork during moments of tension. Parker shares how rhythm and music helped him stay grounded, and how reconnecting with others - even through something as simple as a late-night meal - can reignite hope.

Elena and Parker unpack the impact of real connection in leadership and community, touching on mental health, authentic communication, and creative leadership. Parker’s mantra, “real over loud,” encourages leaders to listen deeply and lead from grounded presence rather than performance. The episode invites anyone facing burnout or stagnation to engage with life again, to interact instead of isolate.

This episode is a celebration of purpose, possibility, and the creative spark that lives in all of us. Whether you’re in a leadership role or simply navigating personal growth, it’s a reminder that presence, creativity, and trust in yourself can change everything.

Parker’s McDonald’s beatbox commercial

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Parker Kane:

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Podcast

This podcast was produced by the following amazing team:

Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer

Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron’s music via Instagram)

Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this heart-centered episode, Elena Armijo speaks with bestselling author and global empathy advocate Mimi Nicklin. With a mission to reconnect one million people through the power of empathy, Mimi brings years of research, corporate training, and lived experience to a timely and transformational conversation - one that reveals how empathy shapes leadership, drives innovation, and transforms the way we connect with ourselves and others.

Check out Elena’s website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you.

Mimi shares the pivotal moment that redefined her career: a simple yet life-changing question posed by a coach “Is it intuition or empathy you’re using to lead?” That question led her down a path of deep exploration into empathy as a skill, not just a feeling. From the neuroscience behind attunement to real-life stories of unexpected connection, Mimi illustrates how empathy is not just a soft skill, but a necessary foundation for resilient cultures and impactful leadership.

The conversation also addresses common misconceptions that empathy means agreement or emotional overload. They invite leaders to see empathy as a form of grounded presence - one that enables performance, clarity, and deeper human connection. Whether in a boardroom or a coffee line, the smallest acts of care can create lasting ripples.

This episode is an invitation to slow down and reconnect - with yourself, with others, and with the purpose behind your leadership. It offers a powerful reminder: empathy isn’t optional. It’s a strategic essential for sustainable impact, meaningful connection, and real change. If you’re ready to lead with more presence, intention, and heart, let this be your starting point.

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Learn more about The C-Suite Collective

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Mimi Nicklin:

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | Amazon

This podcast was produced by the following amazing team:

Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer

Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron’s music via Instagram)

Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this heartfelt Mother's Day episode, Elena Armijo is joined by a very special guest - her mother, Sky Armijo. For the first time on the podcast, Elena invites a family member to share a deeply personal and moving conversation about motherhood, leadership, resilience, legacy, and the strength passed down through generations.

Check out Elena’s website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you.

Elena opens by reflecting on the five most meaningful gifts she received from her mother: resilience, the belief that everyone belongs, the courage to fly, the value of working through hard things, and the enduring power of love.

Sky shares her remarkable journey from aspiring veterinarian to decades of service in nursing, including labor and delivery, school nursing, and disaster relief. Her story reveals the deep well of compassion and strength required to show up for others, even in the most challenging circumstances. Together, they explore how maternal wisdom shows up in quiet moments - through service, healing, and the unseen labor of care.

They reflect on the evolving relationship between mothers and daughters, the magic and messiness of raising bold-hearted children, and the importance of allowing them to chart their own path. Sky shares her dream of building community programs that support intergenerational healing and speaks to the vital role grandparents can play in fostering resilience in younger generations.

This episode is a tender celebration of the women who shape us - reminding us that leadership often begins not with a title, but with the simple act of being there. Whether you’re honoring your own lineage, raising the next generation, or finding your way back to family, this conversation offers warmth, wisdom, and hope.

Let’s Get Social!

Want to hear more from Elena? Click here!

Learn more about The C-Suite Collective

Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram

Connect with Elena on LinkedIn

This podcast was produced by the following amazing team:

Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer

Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron’s music via Instagram)

Jo van Eeden, Project Manager