Business as UNusual

BiCurean Consulting
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Moving beyond standard advice, Business as UNusual is for the independent thinkers and changemakers who know that business as usual doesn't work for them. Hosted by Aicila, a Business Cartographer and strategist, this show explores the unconventional practices driving leaders who prioritize people and the planet alongside profit. We dig into the innovative strategies of guest founders and explore the Energy Equation™—helping you balance Momentum (the drive to finish), Creativity (the spark of ideas), and Connection (the fuel of collaboration). If you are ready to redefine success and find a rhythm that sustains you, tune in to discover what’s unusual—and essential—for your own venture. For more details, visit BiCurean.com/bau. Check out out books mentioned on the show- https://bookshop.org/lists/business-books-for-folks-breaking-the-mold/edit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 3D AGO

    Risky Business

    The personal development world has decided that "what could go wrong" is a pessimist's question. That the more evolved, more positive approach is to ask "what could go right." I'd like to respectfully disagree with that entire premise. Risk is unavoidable. But the desire to avoid thinking about risk? That's where things get costly — not just financially, but energetically. Circling an unexamined risk drains momentum without producing any forward motion. And the unlived risk — the leap you never took — has an energy price too. It just never resolves. In this episode I'm making the case for looking directly at what could go wrong — not as an act of pessimism, but as the foundation for grounded confidence. I share a story from my time running a nonprofit center in Tacoma, where I put a month of my own salary on the line to prove a point — and what that experience actually taught me about the relationship between risk assessment and self-trust. The goal isn't certainty that it will work. The goal is trusting yourself enough to handle it if it doesn't. It's a lot easier to leap when you've mapped the landing. In this episode: Why "what could go wrong" is one of the most underused tools in the solopreneur toolkitHow fear of risk is often a momentum energy problem in disguiseThe real cost of the risk you never takeA simple risk assessment framework that actually builds confidenceThe Tacoma story — and what it taught me about skin in the game Energy prompts from this episode: What risk are you currently circling instead of naming? What's it costing you to keep not deciding? Name one risk you've been avoiding looking at directly. What's the most likely outcome if it happens — and what would you do? What is a risk you're glad you took — regardless of how it turned out? Want to know what's actually draining your momentum? The Energy Equation Snapshot is a free assessment that tells you which energy type is lowest right now — and what to do about it. → bicurean.com/energysnapshot Find Aicila + BiCurean: bicurean.com Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Listen + Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | bicurean.com/bau Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    6 min
  2. Engineering Change

    MAR 16

    Engineering Change

    This episode of Business as UNusual features Radhika Dutt, entrepreneur, product leader, and author of "Radical Product Thinking: The New Mindset for Innovating Smarter." Host Aicila dives into Radhika's alternative approach to driving innovation in business, challenging the traditional gospel of goal and target setting. Instead, Radhika shares her frameworks for empowering teams to solve complex problems through experimentation, trust, and systematic puzzle solving. If you're looking for smarter ways to approach business strategy, leadership, or product development, this thought-provoking conversation will inspire you to reimagine how real change happens. Topics discussed in this episode: Why traditional goal setting often fails in complex, modern business environmentsThe origins and limitations of management by objectives, OKRs, and SMART goalsHow to build organizational trust and foster experimentationThe puzzle-setting and puzzle-solving frameworks for solving business challengesHow leaders can balance guidance, accountability, and team autonomyPersonal lessons Radhika would share with her 18-year-old selfThe motivation and vision behind "Radical Product Thinking" and her upcoming bookPractical ways to engineer meaningful change in any field, from startups to parenting Resources mentioned in this episode: Radical Product Thinking by Radhika Dutt Radhika Dutt on LinkedIn Rethink your business strategy—try Radhika’s puzzle-setting and OHLA frameworks in your next team meeting! Share your puzzle-setting stories with Radhika on LinkedIn—you might even be featured in her next book! Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    30 min
  3. Serendipitous Rebel

    MAR 9

    Serendipitous Rebel

    In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes Wendy Guth and Krystal Eicher, co-founders of Serendipitous Rebel and creators of the Savor Mindset Retreat at Sea. Together, they dive deep into innovative strategies for combating entrepreneurial overwhelm, prioritizing alignment, and building sustainable businesses. Through their unique blend of strategic marketing and deep coaching, Wendy and Krystal share how women business owners can leave chaos behind to reconnect with what they truly want. This conversation offers fresh perspectives for anyone craving success outside the traditional mold. Topics discussed in this episode: How to break out of overwhelm and indecision as a business ownerThe value of holistic resource planning and getting “real” about your runwayWhy magical thinking isn’t a business strategy—but a dose of healthy delusion sometimes helpsCommon pitfalls in online business advice and "guru" formulasThe power of unplugging and masterminds at sea for deep breakthroughsRethinking success and giving permission to define it on your own termsBuilding supportive communities for business growthAdvice to their 18-year-old selves: Worthiness, balance, and joyHow to get involved with Serendipitous Rebel retreats, coaching, and podcast Resources mentioned in this episode: Serendipitous Rebel PodcastSerendipitousRebel.com@serendipitousrebel on InstagramVirgin Voyages (for Savor Mindset Retreat at Sea) Ready to break out of your comfort zone? Explore the Savor Mindset Retreat at Sea with Serendipitous Rebel! Join the Serendipitous Rebel community on Instagram for radical business wisdom and connection. Listen to the Serendipitous Rebel Podcast for more rebel-minded insights and inspiration. Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    42 min
  4. Measure What Matters

    MAR 2

    Measure What Matters

    In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Unknown talks with Neil Callanan, founder of Loose Grip and Grasp. Neil specializes in helping mission-driven companies show that activism isn't just inspiring—it sells. Learn how leaders tie values to measurable ROI and build profit models that benefit people and the planet. Discover practical strategies for measurement, storytelling, and aligning stakeholders to maximize real-world change. Topics discussed in this episode: How to measure values in mission-driven organizationsThe difference between quantitative and qualitative impactChoosing the right metrics for purpose and profitThe power of stakeholder workshops for alignmentMoving beyond vanity metrics to true successReal-world example: Building brand affinity in outdoor gear retailWhy strategy and planning are overrated in today’s fast-paced worldAdvice for young professionals: execution beats ideasLaunching Grasp: a new framework for measuring activism and values Resources mentioned in this episode: Grasp framework and case studies: graspyourimpact.comNeil Callanan on LinkedIn: Neil CallananLoose Grip agency: loosegrip.net Explore Grasp and see how your impact stacks up – visit graspyourimpact.com Connect with Neil Callanan on LinkedIn for insights into values-driven measurement Take the next step: focus on just 2–3 metrics that truly reflect your mission Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    20 min
  5. Myth Slayer

    FEB 23

    Myth Slayer

    What happens when you blend Greek mythology, purpose-driven reinvention, and a refusal to accept business as usual? On this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes two-time TEDx speaker and executive coach Scott Mason to share disruptive ideas for modern leadership and personal development. Scott Mason draws on his experience as a senior executive and attorney who rebuilt his career from collapse, now helping high achievers break free from the internal myths that drain energy and block professional success. Whether you want to escape the trap of successful misery, realign your work and life, or learn why classic business wisdom might not serve you, this episode tackles it all. Topics discussed in this episode: The “toxic myths” blocking professional breakthroughsHow blending Greek mythology with leadership psychology fosters reinventionReal-life examples of myth-driven transformationRedefining work-life balance for elite successAligning work with purpose and joy (and why retirement isn’t the goal)Advice for trusting yourself, even against the oddsScott Masonupcoming four-book “Myth A Leadership Epic” series Resources mentioned in this episode: Scott Mason’s website: myfreedomrocks.comScott Mason on LinkedIn Ready to ditch old narratives? Discover your own myth and break through barriers with Scott Masonframeworks—connect at myfreedomrocks.com! Stay tuned for “Myth A Leadership Epic”—sign up for updates and be the first to grab Scott Mason energizing new series! Join our conversation! Share your myth-busting leadership story with us on LinkedIn. Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    26 min
  6. Flying Thru Life

    FEB 16

    Flying Thru Life

    How do you turn passion, purpose, and disruption into legacy-driven impact? In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes Robert DeLaurentis, known as the “Peace Pilot,” Navy Gulf War veteran, author, and founder of the Citizen of the World for the World global peace movement. Robert DeLaurentis shares the secrets behind scaling a movement, leveraging business for good, and overcoming unimaginable challenges. Discover how he connects spirituality, aviation, and entrepreneurship to drive innovative change and foster peace. Topics discussed in this episode: Redefining Success: From business profits to pursuing legacy and impactThe Power of Teamwork: Building mission-driven teams and communityBusiness for Good: Breaking the “business vs. good” myth and tripling business through applied spiritualityOvercoming Obstacles: The role of persistence, faith, and no-excuses leadershipScaling a Global Movement: Completing polar circumnavigations and turning science into actionTransformation and Joy: Why joy—not happiness—is the true measure of a life well-livedAuthenticity in Business: Spiritual concepts that translate to real-world resultsInspiring Future Leaders: Engaging young minds through aviation, technology, and hands-on experience Resources mentioned in this episode: Peace Pilot Movie: Available on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and Google TV PeacePilotTheMovie.comRobert DeLaurentis’s books including Flying Through Life, Zen Pilot, and The Little Plane That CouldRobert’s Website NASA Wafer-Scale Spacecraft ProjectUC Santa Barbara research on microfibers and global plastic pollutionDeLaurentis International Airport and community programs for youth 🚀 Calls to Action: Watch Peace Pilot and experience Robert’s incredible journey: Find it on Amazon, Apple TV, or Google TV!Connect with Robert and join the mission for worldwide peace: Visit the Peace Pilot website or follow on socials.Rethink your approach! Incorporate purpose, spirituality, and authentic connection into your business for true impact.Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    36 min
  7. Self at Work

    FEB 9

    Self at Work

    Join Aicila and guest Sandhya Sudhaker, founder of Self at Work and host of the Working Your Way podcast, for a dynamic conversation about transforming workplaces through trauma-informed leadership and the power of the Enneagram. Discover innovative strategies to develop authentic teams, enhance belonging, and redefine what success means in business. Whether you’re a fast-paced leader or a curious professional, this episode shares actionable insights on team engagement, business growth, personality frameworks, and inclusive leadership. Topics discussed in this episode: How the Enneagram unlocks deeper team dynamics and sustainable successDepersonalizing workplace differences to foster belonging and engagementReal-life stories of team transformation with trauma-informed practicesWhy popular tips like the compliment sandwich might backfireDefining authentic success: moving beyond revenue goals and burnoutSandhya Sudhaker“three Cs” for diagnosing and solving team challengesWays to reimagine meeting structures for greater wisdom sharingTips for leaders to thrive through rapid change, reorgs, and delegation Resources mentioned in this episode: Self at Work: https://selfatwork.comWorking Your Way Podcast: Available on YouTube and audio platforms Sandhya Sudhaker on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandhya-sudhakar/ Listen to the Working Your Way podcast for real stories and Enneagram insights! Empower your team—connect with Sandhya Sudhaker for custom leadership workshops. Explore more tools for authentic success at Self at Work! Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    29 min
  8. Letting Go of Hustle

    FEB 2

    Letting Go of Hustle

    In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with ADHD and autism coach Neely Kimey to break down how neurodivergent business leaders are transforming traditional workspaces. Neely Kimey shares how self-trust, self-compassion, and brain-friendly systems are at the core of authentic and sustainable success. Tune in to discover how rejecting productivity myths, prioritizing joy, and designing supportive environments drive transformation for high-achieving, creative minds. Perfect for entrepreneurs and leaders who want to build a business by their own rules. Topics discussed in this episode: Why self-trust matters more than productivity hacks for neurodivergent entrepreneursThe hidden costs of “cosplaying” as neurotypical in businessHow self-compassion unlocks authentic alignment and innovationReal-life coaching examples: From burnout to breakthroughs in work and relationshipsDitching toxic business advice—why building your own path wins every timeRedefining success: Ease, joy, and saying goodbye to the Sunday scariesThe power of community, playfulness, and experimentation for business growth Intentional Oversharing podcast by Neely Kimey Prioritize ease and alignment in your business—define success on your terms! Subscribe to Business as UNusual for more conversations challenging the status quo. Ready for brain-friendly strategies? Follow Neely Kimey on LinkedIn or check out Weird and Wired Book Club to connect with fellow changemakers. Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    28 min
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5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Moving beyond standard advice, Business as UNusual is for the independent thinkers and changemakers who know that business as usual doesn't work for them. Hosted by Aicila, a Business Cartographer and strategist, this show explores the unconventional practices driving leaders who prioritize people and the planet alongside profit. We dig into the innovative strategies of guest founders and explore the Energy Equation™—helping you balance Momentum (the drive to finish), Creativity (the spark of ideas), and Connection (the fuel of collaboration). If you are ready to redefine success and find a rhythm that sustains you, tune in to discover what’s unusual—and essential—for your own venture. For more details, visit BiCurean.com/bau. Check out out books mentioned on the show- https://bookshop.org/lists/business-books-for-folks-breaking-the-mold/edit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    BiCurean Consulting
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    172
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved, BiCurean Consulting
  • Show Website
    Business as UNusual