In The Spotlight Liezl Colditz Van Rooyen

Liezl talks to Christine Mullaney, an expert on all things communication, working as a TedX speaker and communication coach.

Liezl and Christine discuss the nature of connected communication and how it can be persistently improved, as well as Christine’s fascinating life journey to date, and how she learned to connect her mind and heart once more.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


It’s important to take into consideration the cultures and backgrounds of those we communicate with.
Effective coaches are those who look at an individual’s needs and tailor their training to provide them with a unique outcome.
When it comes to purpose, patience matters. Instead of striving to discover purpose through effort, it’s often valuable to sit back and wait for purpose to present itself naturally.
Heed your instincts and trust others. Let people in and let them share their stories with you. This is the best way to open yourself to new experiences and foster connected communication.

BEST MOMENTS

"It’s vital to consider the things we say as different cultures and languages – it may mean something entirely different””

"As a coach, we’re not there to explain how something can be different for another person."

"Everything in life will show itself with time."

“Love has always been my key modality”

GUEST RESOURCES

Podcast: https://bit.ly/ConnectedCommunicationPod

Email: christine@languagecouragecoaching.com

Website: http://www.languagecouragecoaching.com/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christinemullaney

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected_communication/

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthespotlightwithliezlInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthespotlightwithliezlFacebook personal: https://www.facebook.com/lcolditzvanrooyen/Instagram personal: https://www.instagram.com/liezl_colditzvanrooyen/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/van-rooyen-liezl/

ABOUT THE PODCAST 

In the Spotlight was born as a platform to share, broadcast and promote the interesting, wonderful and inspiring things that some of the people who crossed Liezl’s path have done. She would love to shine the spotlight on them and share their journeys with you to hopefully inspire you to be the best you, not to give up and to follow your passion or dream.  And in that way, help to make a little difference and share some of the beauty of this world. 

ABOUT THE HOST

Liezl Colditz van RooyenBorn and raised in South Africa, Liezl followed her dream to see the world at age 23 and twenty years on has now travelled to 50 countries and worked and lived in the UK, Belgium and Saudi Arabia. She is a mum of two boys, a chartered management accountant working in large energy projects, a musician, runner, a world citizen but proudly South African and now a podcaster. The incredible people she has met, the amazing places she has seen and the magic of life she has experienced, inspired her to start this podcast.

 

Liezl interviews Debbie, a resilient individual who has faced numerous health challenges throughout her life. From battling infertility to being diagnosed with an auto-immune disease, Debbie shares her inspiring journey of courage and determination.

Despite the setbacks, she has found solace and strength in various activities, such as running and bodybuilding. However, her health took a turn for the worse, leading her to give up running and face the reality of her condition. Through it all, Debbie's faith and sense of humour have helped her navigate the ups and downs, reminding listeners of the power of resilience and finding purpose in the face of adversity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Debbie has shown resilience and a determination to live life to the fullest, participating in activities such as running, race walking, and bodybuilding.
Debbie has found strength and inspiration through sharing their story and connecting with others who have faced similar challenges.
There is great importance in finding purpose and meaning in difficult situations, using pain as a catalyst for personal growth and empathy towards others.
Life is always unpredictable and the need to adapt and make the most of each day, even in the face of adversity, is crucial in finding inner peace.

BEST MOMENTS

"I suffered multiple miscarriages. It was very hard. I became very bitter at times, very, very broken, a lot of despair, a really dark place."

"I was very private that way, especially back then. And no, in the beginning, nobody knew for years, right the way up to actually my miscarriage, which was short, like three years into it already, nobody knew”

"I just sat down and I wrote a long letter to everybody to explain what we'd been through, to explain what I was going through at that time."

"I had my own plot twist again. And after running a race, suddenly became quite ill the week after."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbie.ivins2

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debbie.ivins

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthespotlightwithliezlInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthespotlightwithliezlFacebook personal: https://www.facebook.com/lcolditzvanrooyen/Instagram personal: https://www.instagram.com/liezl_colditzvanrooyen/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/van-rooyen-liezl/

ABOUT THE PODCAST 

In the Spotlight was born as a platform to share, broadcast and promote the interesting, wonderful and inspiring things that some of the people who crossed Liezl’s path have done. She would love to shine the spotlight on them and share their journeys with you to hopefully inspire you to be the best you, not to give up and to follow your passion or dream.  And in that way, help to make a little difference and share some of the beauty of this world. 

ABOUT THE HOST

Liezl Colditz van RooyenBorn and raised in South Africa, Liezl followed her dream to see the world at age 23 and twenty years on has now travelled to 50 countries and worked and lived in the UK, Belgium and Saudi Arabia. She is a mum of two boys, a chartered management accountant working in large energy projects, a musician, runner, a world citizen but proudly South African and now a podcaster. The incredible people she has met, the amazing places she has seen and the magic of life she has experienced, inspired her to start this podcast.

Liezl interviews Sue Parker, a female lifestyle entrepreneur who shares her journey of leaving her corporate job to pursue her passion and create a business that allows her the time and location freedom she desired as a mother of three.

Sue opens up about her experience with burnout and the challenges she faced in the corporate world, as well as the pivotal moment when she realised she needed to make a change. She offers valuable insights and tips on how to find balance between work and family life, build an audience, and transition from a corporate job to entrepreneurship. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Finding balance between work and family life is a common struggle, but it is possible to make changes and create a lifestyle that allows for both.
Burnout can be a wake-up call and a catalyst for change. It is important to prioritise self-care and listen to your own needs.
The corporate world often does not support the needs of working parents, and there is a need for cultural change to accommodate more flexible schedules and work-life balance.
Building an audience and creating an email list are important steps in starting a business. It is essential to focus on providing value and connecting with your target audience.
Making small changes and setting clear boundaries can help create time for pursuing your passion and building a business, even while juggling a demanding corporate job and family responsibilities.
BEST MOMENTS

"I hit burnout. And that was probably one of the worst experiences of my life." 

"Being a parent to me is the first and foremost, the biggest, most important job in the world. But after that, I do have a you, an identity, a purpose to fulfil in the world." 

"When you fill that cup up and when you feel like you're doing something good, you're progressing, it makes you show up better at home and with the kids." 

"Entrepreneurship is a roller coaster. We go in these ebbs and flows of self-doubt and it's training and pushing past the resistance, building that strength, building the really good, healthy habits that keep us going." 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Sue Parker - https://sueparker.io

Sue's community https://sue.team/

Sue is on Instagram or TikTok @Iamsueparker

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthespotlightwithliezlInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthespotlightwithliezlFacebook personal: https://www.facebook.com/lcolditzvanrooyen/Instagram personal: https://www.instagram.com/liezl_colditzvanrooyen/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/van-rooyen-liezl/

ABOUT THE PODCAST 

In the Spotlight was born as a platform to share, broadcast and promote the interesting, wonderful and inspiring things that some of the people who crossed Liezl’s path have done. She would love to shine the spotlight on them and share their journeys with you to hopefully inspire you to be the best you, not to give up and to follow your passion or dream.  And in that way, help to make a little difference and share some of the beauty of this world. 

ABOUT THE HOST

Liezl Colditz van RooyenBorn and raised in South Africa, Liezl followed her dream to see the world at age 23 and twenty years on has now travelled to 50 countries and worked and lived in the UK, Belgium and Saudi Arabia. She is a mum of two boys, a chartered management accountant working in large energy projects, a musician, runner, a world citizen but proudly South African and now a podcaster. The incredible people she has met, the amazing places she has seen and the magic of life she has experienced, inspired her to start this podcast.

Liezl welcomes Theodore Brun, a former lawyer turned author, who embarked on an incredible journey of self-discovery and adventure. Theodore shares his story of leaving his high-paying job and comfortable life to cycle from Hong Kong back to his home in Norfolk, England. Along the way, he faced challenges, met fascinating people, and found the courage to pursue his passion for writing. Theodore discusses the transformative power of the journey, the importance of following one's true calling, and the process of becoming a successful author. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS


The importance of following your passion and designing your life based on what you love to do.
The significance of taking small steps towards your goals and not getting overwhelmed by the larger vision.
The power of perseverance and being persistent in pursuing your dreams, even in the face of failure or challenges.
The value of embracing adventure and being open to the unknown as it can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.
The role of self-confidence and belief in oneself in pursuing a new path or career, and the importance of finding joy and fulfilment in what you do.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was in a relationship with this beautiful journalist who could speak a million languages. And we were living in one of the most romantic districts in Paris, the Ile Saint-Louis." 

"I just remember working out the days because it was the last weekend of the Oktoberfest. And I was like, I've got to make it, I've got to make it to that." 

"I had this this kind of joy in my heart that I haven't felt for a long time. Something was just birthed in that moment." 

"I think that's a really good point actually, because it about passion. There's a few different threads in terms of what might guide you forward in life, there's purpose, there's your identity, there's your passion." 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Theodore Brun - https://www.theodorebrun.com/

Blog of his journey: http://www.asfaraseastisfromwest.com/

4 min video of his trip: https://www.theodorebrun.com/single-post/2017/08/14/my-epic-journey-10000-miles-on

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthespotlightwithliezlInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthespotlightwithliezlFacebook personal: https://www.facebook.com/lcolditzvanrooyen/Instagram personal: https://www.instagram.com/liezl_colditzvanrooyen/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/van-rooyen-liezl/

ABOUT THE PODCAST 

In the Spotlight was born as a platform to share, broadcast and promote the interesting, wonderful and inspiring things that some of the people who crossed Liezl’s path have done. She would love to shine the spotlight on them and share their journeys with you to hopefully inspire you to be the best you, not to give up and to follow your passion or dream.  And in that way, help to make a little difference and share some of the beauty of this world. 

ABOUT THE HOST

Liezl Colditz van RooyenBorn and raised in South Africa, Liezl followed her dream to see the world at age 23 and twenty years on has now travelled to 50 countries and worked and lived in the UK, Belgium and Saudi Arabia. She is a mum of two boys, a chartered management accountant working in large energy projects, a musician, runner, a world citizen but proudly South African and now a podcaster. The incredible people she has met, the amazing places she has seen and the magic of life she has experienced, inspired her to start this podcast.

Drawing from personal experience, Liezl shares her expertise and tips for making the travel experience less stressful when accompanied by babies and toddlers. From considering the timing of the flight to choosing the right seats on the plane, Liezl provides practical advice for parents. She also discusses the importance of packing wisely, feeding the baby during take-off and landing, and bringing entertainment to keep the little ones occupied.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Consider the timing of your flight: Try to fly at night for long haul flights or during nap times for short haul flights to increase the chances of your baby or toddler sleeping during the flight.
If traveling with an infant, opt for front row seats with bassinets. If traveling with a toddler, consider seats with more legroom or on the aisle for easier movement.
Bring essential items like diapers, wipes, formula, extra clothes, and small blankets in a carry-on bag. Consider using a backpack for easy mobility.
Feed your baby during take-off and landing: Give your baby a bottle or breastfeed during these times to help alleviate ear pressure caused by changes in altitude.
Stay calm and ask for help: Your baby or toddler can sense your mood, so staying calm and positive can help them relax. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance from airport staff or fellow passengers if needed.

BEST MOMENTS

"The majority of airlines let you take your stroller or pram all the way up to the gate and up to the airplane door."

"Remember to have some milk in a bottle ready to feed to your baby during take-off and similarly have enough left for feeding them during landing."

"I find that the most tricky age to travel is roughly between the age of 12 and 24 months, the time when the baby wants to walk and they don't understand why they need to sit still

"Your baby or your toddler can sense your mood. So staying calm and positive can help them to be relaxed."

VALUABLE RESOURCES Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthespotlightwithliezlInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthespotlightwithliezlFacebook personal: https://www.facebook.com/lcolditzvanrooyen/Instagram personal: https://www.instagram.com/liezl_colditzvanrooyen/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/van-rooyen-liezl/

ABOUT THE PODCAST 

In the Spotlight was born as a platform to share, broadcast and promote the interesting, wonderful and inspiring things that some of the people who crossed Liezl’s path have done. She would love to shine the spotlight on them and share their journeys with you to hopefully inspire you to be the best you, not to give up and to follow your passion or dream.  And in that way, help to make a little difference and share some of the beauty of this world. 

ABOUT THE HOST

Liezl Colditz van RooyenBorn and raised in South Africa, Liezl followed her dream to see the world at age 23 and twenty years on has now travelled to 50 countries and worked and lived in the UK, Belgium and Saudi Arabia. She is a mum of two boys, a chartered management accountant working in large energy projects, a musician, runner, a world citizen but proudly South African and now a podcaster. The incredible people she has met, the amazing places she has seen and the magic of life she has experienced, inspired her to start this podcast.

Liezl catches up with her friend Will Hawkins, the frontman of the LA-based band Nine Mile Station. They discuss the exciting recent developments in Will's music career, including the release of their first full-length album and a headline performance at the legendary Troubadour in Los Angeles. Will reflects on the challenges and rewards of pursuing his passion for music, and how the quiet time during COVID allowed him to fully embrace his role as an artist. They also touch on the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people and finding happiness in the simple things. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There is value to be found in pacing oneself and not burning out in the pursuit of success. Will compares the journey to a marathon rather than a sprint, highlighting the need to prioritise self-care and energy management.

Will reflects on the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown, which provided him with a period of quiet and reflection. During this time, he was able to fully immerse himself in his art and produce some of his best work. He values the importance of having the space and freedom to be creative without distractions.

Will values the importance of surrounding oneself with people who genuinely support and celebrate one's successes, as well as the need to set boundaries with those who do not.

Will's definition of success has shifted over time. While he once measured success by financial achievements and external accomplishments, he now prioritises happiness, fulfillment, and the ability to pursue his passions. He recognises the value of a simple life and the importance of finding joy in the present moment.

BEST MOMENTS

"I miss who I was at that time. I wish that I had… it kind of shows me what we could have… if we lived in a different kind of culture where we didn't have to spend 8 to 12 hours a day creating revenue for ourselves to be able to do these passion projects.""I've realised what I do truly need to be happy… I don't need a whole lot of money to do that… if I can make a record every two years, tour every year, and just generate enough to make sure I feed and clothe and house myself and have a nice dinner once in a while, I'm completely content with that." "There's a reason why Nero sent the philosophers off to live in exile, you know, because they see the truth… and when we have time enough to be able to spend on ourselves and not be distracted by bills and deadlines, we do see what life is really about and we see what our goals should be or could be.""If they can't share in those successes, if they can't share in those wins, then those aren't people I really want to have around me… I need a team that can love me in a way that I know I need to be loved."VALUABLE RESOURCES

Nine Mile Station - https://www.ninemilestationmusic.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthespotlightwithliezlInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthespotlightwithliezlFacebook personal: https://www.facebook.com/lcolditzvanrooyen/Instagram personal: https://www.instagram.com/liezl_colditzvanrooyen/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/van-rooyen-liezl/

ABOUT THE PODCAST 

In the Spotlight was born as a platform to share, broadcast and promote the interesting, wonderful and inspiring things that some of the people who crossed Liezl’s path have done. She would love to shine the spotlight on them and share their journeys with you to hopefully inspire you to be the best you, not to give up and to follow your passion or dream.  And in that way, help to make a little difference and share some of the beauty of this world. 

ABOUT THE HOST

Liezl Colditz van RooyenBorn and raised in South Africa, Liezl followed her dream to see the world at age 23 and twenty years on has now travelled to 50 countries and worked and lived in the UK, Belgium and Saudi Arabia. She is a mum of two boys, a chartered management accountant working in large energy projects, a musician, runner, a world citizen but proudly South African and now a podc