The Ugly Phase

Olya Grovel
  • 5.0 (2)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The Ugly Phase

Growth isn’t always pretty. Every founder hits The Ugly Phase—the plateau, the burnout, the moment when nothing works. But the real challenge? Knowing when to grow, when to pivot, and how to break through. We dive deep into real founder struggles and use battle-tested frameworks like the Sigmoid Curve to give you actionable strategies to push through. 🎯 Learn how to scale smarter, pivot wisely, and avoid burnout. Every entrepreneur faces an ugly phase—but not everyone makes it through. Let’s make sure you do. 🚀

  1. #28 Tired of Forcing It? This Is What Happens When You Finally Lead Like Yourself with Elisa Canali

    3D AGO

    #28 Tired of Forcing It? This Is What Happens When You Finally Lead Like Yourself with Elisa Canali

    If you’re burned out from trying to force your business to work—even when you're doing all the “right” things—this episode is your permission slip to stop pushing and start aligning. In this episode of The Ugly Phase, I sit down with Elisa Canali, a 7-figure entrepreneur, spiritual business coach, and human design expert, to talk about what really shifts when you stop building from pressure and start leading from who you actually are. Elisa shares her journey from chasing success the “traditional” way to completely reimagining her business based on her own energetic blueprint. She dives into how human design helped her stop outsourcing her worth, rediscover her leadership style, and rebuild a business that finally felt like her. What we cover in this episode: Why most people are scaling strategies that don’t align with who they are How human design reveals your true leadership style—and how to work with it The hidden cost of forcing your business to “work” Why knowing yourself is the most underrated growth strategy How to shift from proving energy into magnetic energy The role of nervous system capacity in how much success you can actually hold Why alignment doesn’t mean doing less—it means doing what’s right for you Key takeaways: "You’re not flaky—you’re just trying to force yourself into someone else’s strategy." "Success doesn’t require more effort. It requires more alignment." "You can’t lead others authentically if you don’t know how to lead yourself first." ✨ Playwork: Reflect on this: Are you building from desire or proving? What would it look like to run your business in a way that feels like you—even if it goes against everything you've been taught? This episode is for founders, creatives, and entrepreneurs who are done with hustle and ready to lead in a way that feels real, resonant, and rooted in self-trust. Listen now and learn what happens when you finally stop forcing it—and start leading like yourself. —--------------------------------------------------------------------------- Where to Find Elisa: Instagram: @theelicanali LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisacanalicoaching/ Follow me on IG @olyagrovelofficial LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olya-grovel-ryabinina/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessSavages Website: https://olyagrovel.com/

    58 min
  2. #27 Building a Business without Sacrificing Mental Health with Nicole Gueorguieva

    MAR 21

    #27 Building a Business without Sacrificing Mental Health with Nicole Gueorguieva

    What if everything you’ve been told about success is actually holding you back? In this episode of The Ugly Phase, I sit down with Nicole Gueorguieva, a holistic well-being and productivity coach, to talk about breaking free from hustle culture, redefining success, and building a career that doesn’t come at the cost of your mental health. Nicole’s journey—from corporate climbing to startup burnout to rebuilding her life and business on her own terms—is something so many of us can relate to. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a cycle of overwork, guilt, and burnout, this conversation will make you rethink everything. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why hustle culture is so addictive—and how to break free from it How Nicole went from corporate HR to startup burnout to coaching women on sustainable success The signs of a dysregulated nervous system and how to heal from chronic stress Why productivity doesn’t mean pushing harder—it means working smarter and honoring your energy How to let go of the “all-or-nothing” mindset and actually stick to good habits Memorable Moments: “Burnout isn’t just about how much you work—it’s about the misalignment between what you do and who you are.” “We glorify overworking, but at what cost? Joy, rest, and balance are just as important as achievement.” “If success costs you your well-being, is it really success?” Homework for Listeners: Joy Challenge: Do one thing this week just for fun—no productivity, no end goal, just pure enjoyment. Narrative Awareness: Next time something stressful happens, pause and notice what story you’re telling yourself about it. Is it helping you or holding you back? This episode is for high achievers, recovering hustlers, and anyone looking to redefine what success truly means. What’s one thing hustle culture has made you believe that you now question? Let’s talk. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Where to Find Nicole: Instagram: @soulfullynicole_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-gueorguieva/ Follow me on IG @olyagrovelofficial LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olya-grovel-ryabinina/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessSavages Website: https://olyagrovel.com/

    53 min

  3. MAR 7

    #26 How to Reinvent Yourself, Overcome Rejection & Build a Freedom-Based Life with Jarrod Evanyshyn

    What if the career, routine, and comfort zone you thought defined you were actually holding you back? In this episode of The Ugly Phase (Business Savages), I sit down with Jarrod Evanyshyn, aka The Next Day Nomad, to discuss reinvention, resilience, and creating a freedom-based life. Jarrod walked away from the film industry, faced constant rejection, and realized he needed more control over his future. That led him to pivot into recruitment, remote work, and entrepreneurship, ultimately designing a career that fuels his love for travel and flexibility. But this episode isn’t just about career changes—it’s about taking control of your life, work, and mindset to create something truly fulfilling. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🎯 Why leaving a “dream career” isn’t failure—it’s often the smartest move. 🎯 How rejection in acting prepared him for success in recruitment & business. 🎯 Are you built for a 9-to-5 or something different? How to know for sure. 🎯 The real future of work: Will traditional jobs even exist in 10 years? 🎯 How to know when it’s time to pivot—and why waiting for the ‘right time’ is a mistake. 🎯 Why getting comfortable with discomfort is the key to personal growth. Memorable Moments: ✨ “Rejection is the best training you’ll ever get. You either let it break you or build you.” ✨ “There’s no perfect time. The perfect time was yesterday.” ✨ “If the thought of your obituary scares you, that’s your sign to start living differently.” Action Step for Listeners: Write your own obituary as if you died today. What would people say about you? Are you living the life you actually want? If not, what needs to change? This episode is for entrepreneurs, career changers, and anyone feeling stuck or uninspired, wondering if there’s a better way to live and work. If you’ve ever thought about breaking free from the traditional career path, this conversation will give you the mindset shifts and strategies to make it happen. Where to Find Jarrod Instagram: @thenextdaynomad LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrodevanyshyn/ Follow me on IG @olyagrovelofficial LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olya-grovel-ryabinina/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessSavages Website: https://olyagrovel.com/

    56 min
  4. #25 Confidence Isn’t About Fitting In—It’s About Owning Who You Are with J2

    FEB 20

    #25 Confidence Isn’t About Fitting In—It’s About Owning Who You Are with J2

    What happens when the career you thought defined you gets taken away? Do you shrink back—or do you reinvent yourself? In this episode of Business Savages, I sit down with J2—artist, speaker, coach, and videographer—who turned his biggest loss into his greatest opportunity. After getting fired from a job people would kill to have, J2 found himself at a crossroads. Instead of letting it break him, he used it as a chance to chase his real purpose. From rebuilding confidence to pushing past fear, J2 shares what it really takes to own who you are—instead of trying to fit into someone else’s version of success. What you’ll learn in this episode: 💡 Why losing his “dream job” was the best thing that ever happened to him 💡 The real reason you can’t stay stuck in one lane (even when people tell you to focus) 💡 How faith, purpose, and service fuel real confidence 💡 The power of just starting—before you feel “ready” 💡 Why helping others is the fastest way to find your own path And some mic-drop moments you don’t want to miss: ✨ “Confidence isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about trusting that you’ll figure it out.” ✨ “You can’t lead others if you don’t first believe in yourself.” ✨ “Nobody else can give you self-worth—you’ve got to claim it.” This episode is for anyone who’s felt lost, doubted their path, or wondered if they have what it takes. J2 keeps it raw, real, and unfiltered—because sometimes, the only way forward is to stop overthinking and start doing. What’s something you thought was a loss, but turned out to be a blessing in disguise? Drop it below in the comments! 👇 --------------------------------------------------------------- Where to Find J2: Instagram:@yea.j2 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5NhgY6AHxrWW1VaUSiKpPd?si=5C-dxVG3TaehddBWQuZApg Apple Music:https://music.apple.com/us/artist/j-2/1552534612  Follow me on IG@olyagrovelofficial LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/olya-grovel-ryabinina/  Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessSavages Website:https://olyagrovel.com/

    1h 9m
  5. #24 The Power of Being the Outsider with Niamh Donnelly

    FEB 11

    #24 The Power of Being the Outsider with Niamh Donnelly

    In this episode ofBusiness Savages, I sit down with Niamh Donnelly, co-founder of Akara Robotics, to talk about her journey as a woman in mechanical engineering and robotics—two of the most male-dominated industries out there. From being one of only two women in her college class to pioneering robotic disinfection technology for hospitals, Niamh shares the challenges, wins, and lessons she’s learned along the way. We dive into how growing up with an engineer father shaped her early curiosity, why embracing discomfort became one of her greatest assets, and how she’s navigating the startup world while advocating for more diversity in STEM. What you’ll learn in this episode: 🔑 Why being one of the only women in the room became Niamh’s superpower 🔑 The real challenges women face in engineering & how to push through them 🔑 How mentors (even unofficial ones) play a role in career growth 🔑 Why diversity in engineering & robotics is still a challenge—and how to change it 🔑 The surprising struggles of bringing robotics into healthcare  But this conversation isn’t just about STEM—it’s about resilience, growth, and redefining what’s possible: ✨ “Being uncomfortable became my advantage—it prepared me for entrepreneurship.” ✨ “Women in engineering are often subtly guided toward ‘easier’ fields. That needs to change.” ✨ “I spent six months in a nursing home testing our robot—turns out, older adults love technology.” From tackling imposter syndrome to breaking into industries where women are underrepresented, Niamh’s insights are both eye-opening and inspiring. Homework for Listeners:🔍 Research a woman in STEM from your local area or country. Learn about her contributions, and take a moment to appreciate the impact of women in science and engineering. Where to Find Niamh & Akara Robotics: 🌐 Website: akara.ai 📩 Connect with Niamh on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/niamh-donnelly-akara-robotics/  Follow me on IG @olyagrovelofficialLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/olya-grovel-ryabinina/  Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessSavages Website:https://olyagrovel.com/

    46 min
  6. #23 LinkedIn Myths Busted: Why You’re Using It All Wrong— Abbey Naylor's No-Nonsense Guide to Authentic Branding

    JAN 29

    #23 LinkedIn Myths Busted: Why You’re Using It All Wrong— Abbey Naylor's No-Nonsense Guide to Authentic Branding

    Think LinkedIn is just a job board or a platform for endless self-promotion? Think again. In this episode of Business Savages, I sit down with Abbey Naylor, a LinkedIn personal branding coach who helps professionals transform their relationship with the platform. Abbey shares her journey from HR and recruitment to coaching entrepreneurs, and she gets real about what it takes to build a sustainable personal brand. Whether you’re starting a side hustle, growing a business, or simply trying to stand out, this episode is packed with actionable tips and powerful insights. What you’ll learn in this episode: 🔑 Personal branding doesn’t mean sharing your entire life—it’s about intentional storytelling (05:21). 🔑 You can’t be for everyone—if you try, you’ll be for no one 🔑 How to align your LinkedIn content strategy with your goals 🔑 Your LinkedIn headline isn’t just a title—it’s your first chance to stand out 🔑 Why mindset work is the foundation of personal and professional growth But it’s not just about strategy—Abbey gets real about the struggles behind the scenes:✨ “Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you’re not good enough—it means you care about getting it right.”  ✨ “Motherhood redefines you—but so does entrepreneurship.” ✨ “Stop trying to fix yourself—start understanding why you are the way you are.”  From tackling imposter syndrome to understanding the power of your own story, Abbey’s candid advice will inspire you to stop chasing algorithms and start focusing on what truly matters: building a personal brand that feels like you. Follow Abbey on IG @_boldmood LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbey-naylor/ Follow me on IG @olyagrovelofficialLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/olya-grovel-ryabinina/  Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessSavagesWebsite:https://olyagrovel.com/

    1h 3m
  7. #22 The Truth About Being a Mom and an Entrepreneur Nobody Tells You with Alexis Charkiw

    JAN 21

    #22 The Truth About Being a Mom and an Entrepreneur Nobody Tells You with Alexis Charkiw

    Get ready for an honest and empowering discussion with Alexis Charkiw, founder of Right Click Accountancy and a mom of twins. In this heartfelt episode of Business Savages, Alexis shares her transformative journey from a corporate career to launching her own thriving accountancy firm. What started as a business born out of necessity became a pathway for rediscovering herself, especially after navigating the challenges of IVF, postpartum depression, and balancing motherhood. Through candid reflections, Alexis opens up about losing and rebuilding her identity, integrating her love for finances with her role as a parent, and finding purpose through her business. Together with Olya Grovel, they dive into the realities of being a working mom, the importance of financial confidence, and the value of a strong community for personal and professional growth. This episode is for anyone juggling life’s complexities, especially moms and entrepreneurs, offering relatable insights and practical advice for creating a life you truly love. In this episode, you will learn: How to transition from a corporate identity to rediscovering your personal and professional purpose. Why starting a business out of necessity can spark unexpected passion and opportunity. Realistic ways to balance work and family life without striving for perfection. The fundamentals of financial confidence for small business owners, from bookkeeping to cash flow. How to find and cultivate a supportive community that aligns with your values and goals. Follow Alexis on IG @alexis_rightclick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charkiwalexis/ Follow me on IG @olyagrovelofficialLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/olya-grovel-ryabinina/  Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessSavages Website:https://olyagrovel.com/

    58 min
  8. #21 Turning Struggles into Strength: A Journey to Success and Fulfillment with Gary Rankin

    12/18/2024

    #21 Turning Struggles into Strength: A Journey to Success and Fulfillment with Gary Rankin

    In this episode ofBusiness Savages, Olya Grovel interviews Gary Rankin, a life and mindset coach, about his transformative journey from depression and self-doubt to becoming a thriving entrepreneur. Gary shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, from hitting rock bottom after a breakup to finding his calling through a self-help book. They discuss the importance of physical health, emotional resilience, and living in alignment with core personal values. Tune in to hear Gary’s honest and inspiring story, as well as actionable tips for designing a fulfilling life and business. Learning Takeaways: The Power of Rock Bottom as a Catalyst:Understand how hitting rock bottom can ignite a journey of self-discovery and change. Physical Health as a Foundation for Success:Explore how prioritizing physical well-being impacts mental clarity, energy, and overall resilience. Discovering Your Core Values:Learn how identifying personal values helps shape a meaningful and fulfilling life and career. The Importance of Flexibility and Self-Care:Recognize how self-discipline balanced with self-compassion leads to sustainable progress. Overcoming Challenges as an Entrepreneur:Gain insights into navigating self-doubt, societal expectations, and personal struggles while growing a business. Homework: Define Your Core Values:Spend 20–30 minutes reflecting on what matters most to you. Write down your top five core values and consider how they align with your current lifestyle and goals. Create a Vision Aligned with Your Values:Envision a fulfilling life centered around your core values. Outline specific steps to integrate these values into your daily habits and professional goals. Reframe Priorities:Reassess your time management by replacing the phrase “I don’t have time for this” with “I’m not prioritizing this.” Notice how it shifts your perspective and decision-making. Introduce Flexibility to Your Routine:Identify one habit or routine where you can adopt a more balanced and flexible approach. For example, adjust your dietary habits to focus on sustainability rather than strict perfection. Reach Out for Support:If coaching interests you, research or connect with a coach who aligns with your goals. Use the opportunity to gain clarity and actionable steps toward your vision. Follow Gary on IG @garyrankin_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-rankin/ Follow me on IG @olyagrovelofficial LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/olya-grovel-ryabinina/  Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessSavages Website:https://olyagrovel.com/

    50 min
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    5
    out of 5
    2 Ratings

    About

    Growth isn’t always pretty. Every founder hits The Ugly Phase—the plateau, the burnout, the moment when nothing works. But the real challenge? Knowing when to grow, when to pivot, and how to break through. We dive deep into real founder struggles and use battle-tested frameworks like the Sigmoid Curve to give you actionable strategies to push through. 🎯 Learn how to scale smarter, pivot wisely, and avoid burnout. Every entrepreneur faces an ugly phase—but not everyone makes it through. Let’s make sure you do. 🚀

    Information

    • Creator
      Olya Grovel
    • Years Active
      2024 - 2025
    • Episodes
      28
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © Olya Grovel
    • Show Website
      The Ugly Phase

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