Narrow Spaces with Holly Mcllwain

Holly Mcllwain

In a world chasing "work-life balance," NarrowSpaces confronts a deeper truth: the space between work and life isn’t always wide. It’s narrow—and that’s where the real leadership happens. Hosted by Holly McIlwain, leadership coach, corporate culture strategist, and founder of the Brave Women Project, this podcast dives into the high-pressure spaces where professionals live, lead, and grow. With each episode, Holly interviews executives, entrepreneurs, and experts from across the country—uncovering hard-earned wisdom, actionable tools, and authentic stories of navigating the tension between purpose and performance. Whether you're a seasoned leader, a working parent, a team builder, or someone trying to lead without losing yourself, NarrowSpaces gives you the mindset, language, and strategies to thrive. From mastering team dynamics to restoring your energy and values, Holly brings clarity to the chaos. Leadership podcast, women in leadership, work-life integration, executive coaching, corporate culture, employee engagement, career development, personal growth, CliftonStrengths, DISC assessments, manager tips, burnout prevention, emotional intelligence, podcast for working professionals 📅 New episodes drop every Monday.💡 Learn more at www.narrowspaces.com

Episodes

  1. NOV 10

    C-Suite Champion

    Episode Title: C-Suite Champion Release Date: November 10 Host: Holly McIlwain Guest: Debra Squyers Episode Summary: In this insightful episode, host Holly McIlwain welcomes a true C-Suite Champion, Debra Squyres, Chief Customer Officer at Bonusly, who shares her remarkable journey as a working mother at a time before legal protections were established for pregnant women in the workplace. Debra's experiences have shaped her into a human-centered leader, emphasizing empathy, transparency, and work-life harmony in her leadership approach. Debra discusses the importance of leading with empathy and prioritizing employee well-being to foster a positive workplace culture. She reflects on her early career experiences and shares strategies for harmonizing work and personal life, stressing the need for leaders to set an example. Debra encourages her team to practice ruthless prioritization, focusing on what truly needs to be done and delegating effectively. Listeners will discover the impact of recognizing and celebrating personal milestones in creating an engaged workforce and gain insights into the evolving nature of work, including the rise of the gig economy and flexible work arrangements. Debra reminds us that “work-life balance is not a thing; it’s about harmonizing our lives,” and emphasizes that when leaders take care of their teams, those teams, in turn, take care of customers and foster a supportive environment. Guest Bio: Debra Squyres is the Chief Customer Officer at Bonusly, where she merges her passion for exceptional customer experience with her commitment to empowering companies to connect, motivate, and engage their employees in building winning workplaces. With over 30 years of experience in senior leadership roles in Human Resources, Debra has worked in diverse areas, including HR consulting, outsourcing, client services, and customer success. Residing in Fort Worth, Texas, she enjoys life with her husband and two dogs. Resources Mentioned: Bonusly WebsiteFamily and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)Connect with Debra Squires: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debrasquyres/https://www.linkedin.com/company/bonusly/ Key Takeaways for Youtube, LinkedIn, and NarrowSpaces.com: The Importance of Human-Centered Leadership: Debra discusses how leading with empathy and prioritizing employee well-being fosters a positive workplace culture.Navigating Work-Life Balance: Debra reflects on her early career experiences and shares strategies for harmonizing work and personal life, emphasizing the need for leaders to set an example.Ruthless Prioritization: Learn how Debra encourages her team to practice ruthless prioritization, focusing on what truly needs to be done and delegating effectively.Celebrating Personal Milestones: Discover the impact of recognizing and celebrating employees' personal achievements and milestones in creating an engaged workforce.The Future of Work: Debra shares her insights on the evolving nature of work, including the rise of the gig economy and flexible work arrangements.Quotes: “Work-life balance is not a thing; it's about harmonizing our lives.”“When you take care of the team, they take care of the customers, and they also take care of you.”

    41 min

  2. NOV 3

    We Won’t Mention Mental Health with Brett Holtz

    Episode Title: We Won’t Mention Mental Health with Brett Holtz Release Date:  November 3 Host: Holly McIlwain Guest: Brett Holtz Episode Summary: In this compelling episode of the NarrowSpaces Show, we won't just mention mental health, we’ll focus on it! As host Holly McIlwain interviews Brett Holtz, a passionate advocate for global mental health and well-being, we will seek to break through some stigmas attached to discussing mental health socially and in the workplace. Drawing from his unique experiences as a professional baseball player, Brett has witnessed how mental health transcends borders, backgrounds, and beliefs, connecting us all. Now, he channels this insight into transformative work with HR and Benefits professionals, helping organizations create globally equitable wellness programs. Brett is also active in the nonprofit sector, focusing on mental health advocacy for male athletes through MensxMental, an initiative dedicated to fostering open conversations about mental health for men.  His intention is to encourage others to prioritize their overall well-being, informed by his travels playing baseball around the world. Brett believes that mental health is a single thread that connects every person, regardless of nationality, race, or life experience. He works with organizations to transform their wellness programs and actively advocates for male athletes' mental health. His goal is to leave the world better than he found it, and he is grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in this crucial area. His mission is to inspire action and prioritize well-being for everyone, everywhere. Together with Holly, they explore the critical intersection of mental health, work, and life, emphasizing the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health discussions and provide real tools for initiating these life-saving conversations.  Connect with Brett: Website: MensxMental https://mensxmental.org/ https://www.instagram.com/mensxmental/Website: Brave Women Project www.bwp.lifeWebsite: Modern Health https://www.modernhealth.com/ LinkedIn: Brett Holtz https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-holtz-9bb84864/ LinkedIn: Brave Women Project  https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravewomenproject

    41 min

  3. OCT 27

    Committed to Community Mike Harich

    Episode Title: Committed to Community Release Date: October 27 Host: Holly McIlwain Guest: Mike Harich  Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode of the NarrowSpaces Show, host Holly McIlwain welcomes Mike Harich, a dedicated leader who has spent over three decades shaping communities through service, leadership, and purpose. As the President and CEO of the Beaver County YMCA, Mike’s journey began as an intern in 1994, and he has since held nearly every role imaginable within the organization—from youth development and community engagement to leadership training across the YMCA network. Mike brings a unique blend of academic depth and spiritual purpose to his work, holding degrees in Business Management, Sport Management, and Educational Administration. He is not only passionate about youth development and community service but also a six-time Ironman and an ultra-endurance athlete, demonstrating his commitment to discipline and perseverance. Outside of his professional life, he is a devoted husband and father of four, embodying the values of family and service. In this episode, Holly and Mike delve into how he lives in the narrow space where mission meets movement. His life is a testament to faith, discipline, and leadership in action, and they explore how these values have guided him through decades of impactful work. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Join us next week for another insightful conversation on navigating the narrow spaces of work and life! Additional Resources: Learn more about the YMCA and its programs at https://www.ymca.org/locations/beaver-county-ymca Connect with Mike Harich on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-harich-66028299/  Meet Battle & Thrive: https://www.battleandthrive.com Key Takeaways: Career Journey: Mike reflects on his journey from intern to CEO at the YMCA, highlighting the various roles he has held and how each shaped his leadership style. Leadership Philosophy: He discusses his core belief that "hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard" and how this mantra has guided his approach to leadership. Authenticity in Leadership: Mike emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and maintaining authenticity in both personal and professional realms. Work-Life Balance: The conversation explores how Mike navigates the demands of leadership while prioritizing time for family and self-care, including his passion for endurance sports. Mentorship and Values: Mike shares the impact of mentorship on his career and the significance of defining personal and organizational values to guide decision-making. Community Engagement: He discusses the YMCA's mission beyond fitness, focusing on community service initiatives, including food programs and childcare, showcasing the organization’s commitment to making a difference. Lessons Learned: Mike reflects on the lessons he has learned throughout his career, including the importance of time management, discipline, and not letting issues fester.

    45 min
  4. Take that Risk by Renee DeMay

    OCT 20

    Take that Risk by Renee DeMay

    Episode Title: Take That Risk Release Date: October 20 Host:  Holly McIlwain Guest:  Renee DeMay Episode Summary:  In this empowering episode of the NarrowSpaces Show, titled "Take That Risk," host Holly sits down with Renee DeMay, a distinguished global leader with over 30 years of experience in go-to-market strategies, operations, and business optimization. Throughout the episode, Renee shares her brave, strong, and daring attitude towards risks, illustrating how her willingness to step outside her comfort zone has shaped her professional roadmap. From smaller private companies to executive roles at renowned technology firms like PTC and ANSYS, she has led critical projects, including responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing her tremendous empathy, leadership capacity, and tenacity. Renee discusses her deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as her passion for nurturing the next generation of leaders is evident in her work. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of emotional currency, consistent communication, and personal growth in navigating the narrow spaces of work and life. In addition to her corporate achievements, she serves on the Penn State University Alumni Association Council and the board of directors at the South Hills Interfaith Movement, further demonstrating her dedication to community and leadership development. Tune in to this episode to discover how taking risks can lead to profound personal and professional growth, and learn valuable insights from Renee DeMay's inspiring journey!   Connect with Renee: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-demay-833a74/  Key Takeaways: Navigating Career Transitions: Renee reflects on her career path, highlighting that there was no set plan but rather an openness to seizing opportunities as they arose. She shares how saying no to certain roles can sometimes be just as important as saying yes. The Importance of Self-Awareness: Over the years, Renee has learned the value of self-reflection and understanding her own limits. She emphasizes the need for leaders to show up authentically and to recognize how their presence impacts their teams. Building Emotional Currency: Consistency in communication and actions is vital for fostering trust within teams. Renee discusses the practices she implemented to maintain engagement and morale, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. Work-Life Integration: Renee advocates for a holistic approach to work and life, encouraging leaders to create environments where employees feel supported and empowered to take time for themselves when needed. Focus on What You Can Control: In times of uncertainty, Renee advises narrowing your focus to what you can control, allowing for better clarity and decision-making.

    48 min

  5. OCT 17

    Human Centered Leadership with Ronnie Bryant

    Episode Title: Keeping it Between the Lines Release Date: October 13 Host: Holly McIlwain Guest: Ronnie L. Bryant Episode Summary: In this episode of the NarrowSpaces, Holly welcomes Ronnie L. Bryant, a renowned executive coach and community leader from Charlotte, North Carolina. With over 35 years of leadership experience in economic development, Ronnie shares his journey of navigating the narrow spaces of work and life. Author of “Driving from the Backseat: Tips for Surviving As a Not-For-Profit CEO”, Ronnie gets into the work of keeping it between the lines and maintaining momentum in the leadership space. He discusses the significance of mentorship, integrity, and community engagement in shaping effective leadership. Ronnie Bryant is the founder and lead consultant of RLB LLC, specializing in executive coaching, organizational management, and board development. With a rich history in economic development, he has held leadership roles in various organizations, including a 15-year tenure as President and CEO of the Charlotte Regional Partnership. Ronnie is also an advocate for community engagement, serving on multiple boards and sharing his knowledge as a lecturer at prestigious institutions. Connect with Ronnie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rlbryant54 Website: Ronnie L. Bryant, LLC https://www.rlbryantllc.com/ Driving From the Backseat: Tips for surviving as a not-for-profit CEO  https://www.amazon.com/Driving-Backseat-surviving-not-profit/dp/1090861591 Go Lattitude: https://golattitude.com Thank you for watching! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your friends and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue sharing valuable insights on navigating the narrow spaces of work and life. Key Highlights: The Power of Mentorship: Ronnie reflects on how mentorship has significantly impacted his career. He credits his early mentor for challenging him to reach his full potential and emphasizes his commitment to mentoring others as a way to give back. A Journey Through Economic Development: Ronnie recounts his unexpected entry into economic development and how he has dedicated his career to enhancing communities. He emphasizes the importance of making decisions that positively impact people's lives. Driving from the Backseat: Ronnie's book, "Driving from the Backseat: Tips for Surviving as a Nonprofit CEO," presents an analogy for nonprofit leadership, highlighting the dynamics between a CEO and their board. He discusses the importance of understanding one's role and influence within an organization. Human-Centered Leadership: Ronnie advocates for a bottoms-up management approach, where leaders engage their teams and genuinely care about their well-being. He shares how building personal relationships with team members fosters a supportive work environment. Work-Life Balance: Emphasizing the importance of work-life balance, Ronnie encourages leaders to prioritize their personal lives and well-being. He believes that taking time off and supporting family responsibilities is crucial for overall success. Integrity in Leadership: Ronnie underscores that integrity is foundational to effective leadership. He encourages leaders to be true to themselves and maintain honest relationships with their teams.

    44 min

  6. OCT 6

    Business IS Personal with Nicole Lerda

    Episode Title: Business IS Personal with Nicole Lerda Release Date: October 6 Host: Holly McIlwain Guest: Nicole Lerda Episode Summary:  In this inspiring episode of the NarrowSpaces Show, Holly sits down with Nicole Lerda, owner of MaxxCole Salon and Skin Spa, and founder of HerMission Granted. With over 20 years of experience in the male-dominated financial services industry, Nicole shares her empowering journey of leadership and commitment to uplifting women. After rescuing a failing salon during the pandemic, she transformed it into an award-winning business that champions community and supports women. Nicole's compassionate approach creates a safe and nurturing environment for her team and clients, and she emphasizes the magic of work-life harmony and setting boundaries in both business and personal life.    Recognized with numerous accolades, including the Woman-Owned Business of the Year award and the Woman of Influence Award, Nicole continues to inspire others through her advocacy work in nonprofits and community boards. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Join us next week for another enlightening conversation on navigating the narrow spaces of work and life! Connect with Nicole M. Lerda,  Owner, MaxxCole Salon & Skin Spa Founder, Her Mission: GRANTED Board Member: Brave Women Project MaxxCole Salon:  https://www.maxxcole.com MaxxCole Salon & Spa - https://www.facebook.com/maxxcolesalon https://www.instagram.com/maxxcolesalon https://www.linkedin.com/in/ndemartino Meet Brave Women Project:  https://www.bwp.life https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravewomenproject https://www.facebook.com/BraveWomenProject  Key Takeaways: Work-Life Harmony: Nicole emphasizes that the perfect work-life balance is a myth. Instead, she advocates for harmony, where work and life coexist seamlessly. Life's ups and downs require flexibility and adaptability. Setting Boundaries: Nicole discusses the importance of setting expectations and boundaries in both personal and professional settings. This practice fosters a sense of calm and clarity, allowing for more meaningful engagement in "narrow spaces." Empowering Women: With a commitment to uplifting women, Nicole has dedicated her career to mentoring and providing financial education. She highlights the unique challenges women face and the need for planning and independence. Narrow Spaces: Nicole aligns with the concept of "narrow spaces," moments in life that allow for joy and presence. She encourages listeners to identify and create these spaces to enhance their overall well-being. Self-Care Practices: Nicole shares her personal approach to self-care, which includes being honest about her availability and prioritizing her mental health. She believes that true self-care starts with setting boundaries and saying no when necessary.

    32 min
  7. Shuck and Jive with Sigi Loya

    SEP 28

    Shuck and Jive with Sigi Loya

    Episode Title: Shuck and Jive Release Date: September 29 Host:  Holly McIlwain Guest: Sigi Loya Episode Summary: In this vibrant episode of the NarrowSpaces Show, host Holly engages in a lively conversation with Sigi Loya, a multifaceted entrepreneur, musician, and the founder of a holistic medical practice. Known for his infectious motto, "You've got to Shuck and Jive," Sigi shares his eclectic journey from corporate America to business ownership, emphasizing the importance of work-life integration and personal growth. With a diverse background in real estate finance, coaching, and performing music, Sigi offers invaluable insights into the complexities of leadership and entrepreneurship, all while infusing the conversation with his passion for performance. Guest Bio: Sigi Loya is the dynamic owner of The Alternative Board in Pittsburgh, where he empowers forward-thinking business owners to boost profitability and enhance their lives through local business advisory boards, private coaching, and strategic services. A proud graduate of the University of Notre Dame with a degree in Business Administration – Marketing, Sigi began his career in the employee benefits sector in Chicago. Over the years, he transitioned from working with major insurance firms to becoming a consultant for large organizations, eventually founding his own commercial and residential mortgage firm after moving to Pittsburgh. In 2007, Sigi and his wife opened The Hormone Center, a holistic medical practice that continues to thrive today. With a wealth of experience as both a TAB Member and a coach/facilitator, Sigi brings a unique perspective to business leadership. He is also a passionate musician who believes in the power of performance to connect and inspire. Originally from Brownsville, Texas, Sigi's commitment to personal growth and joy makes him a compelling voice in entrepreneurship and leadership. Connect with Sigi: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sigi-loya/ The Alternative Board Pittsburgh: www.TAB-Pittsburgh.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tabpgh/ Go Lattitude: https://golattitude.com Key Highlights: Diverse Background: Sigi discusses his transition from working with major insurance firms to becoming a consultant for large organizations. His journey led him to establish his own mortgage firm and eventually launch a holistic medical practice with his wife in 2007. The Role of Music: As a musician, Sigi draws parallels between performing music and leading a team. He emphasizes that both require confidence, connection, and the ability to engage others. Performing allows him to bring joy to audiences, a principle he applies to his leadership style. Work-Life Integration: Sigi believes in the importance of integrating personal passions with professional responsibilities. He encourages others to bring their true selves to work, stating, “If you have to be somebody that you're not, then you should quit.” Learning from Mistakes: Sigi advises aspiring entrepreneurs to learn from the mistakes of others to avoid common pitfalls. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's market and the challenges of attracting clients, especially in competitive industries. Family Businesses: Sigi shares insights on navigating the dynamics of working with family, particularly his experience with his wife in their medical practice. He stresses the importance of clearly defining roles and responsibilities to ensure a healthy work-life relationship. Encouraging Growth: Sigi champions the idea that business owners should not be afraid of failure. He encourages them to embrace change and make plans to pursue their passions, reminding them that it’s never too late to pivot or try something new.

    47 min
  8. Beauty from Ashes with Dorothy Andreas

    SEP 22

    Beauty from Ashes with Dorothy Andreas

    Episode Title: Beauty from Ashes with Dorothy Andreas Release Date: September 22 Host: Holly McIlwain Guest: Dorothy Andreas Episode Summary: In this powerful episode of the NarrowSpaces Show, host Holly McIlwain engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dorothy Andreas, an accomplished entrepreneur whose journey is a testament to resilience and transformation. At just 19, Dorothy took a bold leap of faith by leaving college to pursue her dream of entrepreneurship, opening her first salon. Throughout her journey, she faced significant challenges, including financial struggles and personal growth, ultimately establishing nine successful businesses across various sectors. Dorothy shares poignant stories, including the devastating loss of her salon to a fire and the subsequent burning of her home just as she was up for a pivotal leadership role. These experiences shaped her understanding of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of integrity in leadership. The conversation touches on the value of client relationships, the necessity of ruthless prioritization, and the evolving nature of work, particularly as younger generations advocate for mental health and work-life integration. Join us as we delve into Dorothy's inspiring journey, exploring how she has found beauty from ashes and continues to uplift others in their own quests for success. Connect with Dorothy Andreas: https://streamlinesuccess.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Dorothy-Andrea...   / dorothy.andreas    / dorothy-andreas-1047b91  Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your friends and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue sharing valuable insights on navigating the narrow spaces of work and life.

    48 min
  9. Life by Design…not Default with Daniel Horgan

    SEP 14

    Life by Design…not Default with Daniel Horgan

    Episode Title: Life by Design…not Default Release Date: September 15 Host: Holly McIlwain  Guest: Daniel Horgan Episode Summary: You’ve found the first episode of the NarrowSpaces show. This is a masterclass in leadership and integrated living, that you can watch like a miniseries or listen to like a podcast. Host Holly sits down with Daniel Horgan, a visionary leader whose journey from launching a nonprofit at just 18 to steering community affairs for a major financial institution is nothing short of extraordinary.  Daniel's work with renowned brands such as LinkedIn, Apple, Taco Bell, SHRM, and Starbucks showcases his ability to amplify impact across diverse sectors, including schools, nonprofits, and government agencies. As a dedicated board member of the Taco Bell Foundation and an advocate for community service, Daniel exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose. Recognized as one of Pittsburgh’s 40 Under 40 Honorees, Daniel has not only facilitated hundreds of training sessions and keynoted numerous conferences but has also shared his insights through articles on Forbes.com. His first book, Tell Me I Can’t... and I Will, has inspired many, and his latest release, We Got This: A Pocket Guide to Thriving in Our Careers and Life, offers practical wisdom for navigating the complexities of modern life and work. Together, they discuss the challenges of navigating narrow spaces in both work and life, the importance of defining personal success, and the power of curiosity and connection in building relationships. Join us as we continue to explore the narrow spaces of work and life, helping individuals navigate their unique journeys and find fulfillment in their careers. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations! Connect with Daniel Horgan: LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielghorgan Website  https://www.colabl.com/about/ Meet Battle & Thrive: https://www.battleandthrive.com Key Takeaways: Defining Success:  Daniel emphasizes the importance of defining success on one's own terms rather than conforming to external expectations. He encourages listeners to explore their unique pathways and understand that success is often non-linear. Navigating Adversity:  Daniel shares personal experiences of overcoming challenges and culture shocks when transitioning from nonprofit to corporate settings.  He highlights the importance of mindset, energy management, and intentional goal setting in overcoming workplace negativity. Building Authentic Connections:  Curiosity is key to forming deep connections. Daniel suggests approaching networking with purpose and asking meaningful questions. Trust sustains relationships. Being fully present and engaged in conversations fosters stronger connections. Mindset and Self-Awareness:  Continuous self-reflection and feedback are crucial for personal growth. Daniel advocates for regular assessments of one's energy flow and values.  He advises listeners to recognize their own power in their daily decisions and to cultivate a supportive network. Living Life by Design:  Daniel's motto, "live life by design, not default," encourages intentional living and meaningful contributions to others. His book, "We Got This," offers practical tools and insights from his 20 years of coaching and mentoring, aiming to support individuals at all stages of their careers.

    40 min
  • 9 Episodes

About

In a world chasing "work-life balance," NarrowSpaces confronts a deeper truth: the space between work and life isn’t always wide. It’s narrow—and that’s where the real leadership happens. Hosted by Holly McIlwain, leadership coach, corporate culture strategist, and founder of the Brave Women Project, this podcast dives into the high-pressure spaces where professionals live, lead, and grow. With each episode, Holly interviews executives, entrepreneurs, and experts from across the country—uncovering hard-earned wisdom, actionable tools, and authentic stories of navigating the tension between purpose and performance. Whether you're a seasoned leader, a working parent, a team builder, or someone trying to lead without losing yourself, NarrowSpaces gives you the mindset, language, and strategies to thrive. From mastering team dynamics to restoring your energy and values, Holly brings clarity to the chaos. Leadership podcast, women in leadership, work-life integration, executive coaching, corporate culture, employee engagement, career development, personal growth, CliftonStrengths, DISC assessments, manager tips, burnout prevention, emotional intelligence, podcast for working professionals 📅 New episodes drop every Monday.💡 Learn more at www.narrowspaces.com

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