School of Self-Worth

Nicole Tsong
  • 5.0 (41)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

School of Self-Worth is a purposeful podcast and community for the ambitious woman who knows she is worthy of an astoundingly great life. Join us weekly as we redefine success, set and sustain boundaries, and reclaim your self-worth. Hosted by Nicole Tsong, bestselling author, former journalist, and work/life balance coach, who helps professional women live an aligned life. We will have diverse and meaningful conversations with successful women from all walks of life who share insight about what it takes to be brave, joyful, and yourself every day. Every single episode is thoughtfully designed to leave you feeling empowered, with tangible tips and advice that will lead you to your next breakthrough.

  1. 4D AGO

    Ep 126: {YCC Alumni Series} Breaking the Cycle of Achievement with Ash

    Have you ever reached a huge milestone, only to wonder, “Is this it?” In this YCC Alumni series, I had the pleasure of sitting down with my former client, Ash. When she first came to me, she had just moved to a new city and was feeling more grounded in her career but less clear about her relationships, friendships, and family. By the end of Your Clear Calling, she had completely changed her perspective, improved her family relationships, and came out confident about her future. Ash’s story is a beautiful example of how transformative it can be when you’re fully committed to the work, open to new experiences, and ready to step into your own purpose and self-worth. THE TOP LEARNINGS IN THIS EPISODE:   Understanding the impact of cultural conditioning on self-worth and ambition Shifting focus from constant achievement to holistic fulfillment  The power of open vulnerability and community connection in group coaching Practicing boundaries: the “I am, you are” mindset for healthy relationships  Embracing energetic detox, value trying new personal growth modalities  Learning to appreciate presence over striving for the next accomplishment Ash is a first-generation migrant, daughter, caretaker, and entrepreneur, juggling multiple hats.  If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram stories, and tag @nicoletsong so we can give you a shout-out and thank you for your support!  Asian Visibility System: Want to permanently reverse cultural conditioning and step into a life where you feel purposeful and thrive? Grab the Asian Visibility System: go.nicoletsong.com/visible. Do you struggle with boundaries? Discover the blind spots holding you back and take the Boundary Tendencies Quiz: nicoletsong.com/quiz Want to build morning habits that last so you jump out of bed with energy and clarity every morning? Join Nicole’s 5-Day Morning Challenge: go.nicoletsong.com/morning-habits Haven’t left a review yet? We’d love for you to at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-self-worth/id1678655504 For full show notes, transcript, and links, visit nicoletsong.com/podcast. Have a question or topic you’d like Nicole to touch on in a future episode? Email podcast@nicoletsong.com to share any thoughts or feedback.  Catch up with Nicole:  Website: nicoletsong.com Subscribe to her newsletterInstagram: nicoletsongTiktok: @nicoletsong_Facebook community: Balance + BoundariesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-tsong/

    42 min

  2. OCT 22

    125: What I learned about surrender and rest during pregnancy

    Do you ever feel like slowing down means you’re falling behind?  Do you have a hard time letting go of control?  What if I told you that the moment you surrender is the moment everything could start to align? In this week’s episode, I dive into the powerful and under-discussed themes of surrender and rest–two key practices that are often missing for high-achieving Asian American women who’ve been taught that worth comes from productivity.  Tune in to learn how to reverse the cultural conditioning of this deeply rooted belief, and easy steps you can take to immediately start practicing surrender and rest.  Whether you’re navigating a major life transition or simply craving more spaciousness in your days, this episode will show you how surrender and rest can open the door to clarity, peace, and unexpected momentum.  THE TOP LEARNINGS IN THIS EPISODE:   Surrendering to what supports you physically  The power of asking for and receiving help   Reversing cultural conditioning around worth    Redefining success beyond professional achievement   Identifying and releasing the grip of control   Embracing rest and pause as a pathway to growth  ✨ Mentioned in This Episode My Seattle Times article on staying strong in pregnancy Episode 105: The Power of Non-AttachmentIf this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram stories, and tag @nicoletsong so we can give you a shout-out and thank you for your support!  Asian Visibility System: Want to permanently reverse cultural conditioning and step into a life where you feel purposeful and thrive? Grab the Asian Visibility System: go.nicoletsong.com/visible. Do you struggle with boundaries? Discover the blind spots holding you back and take the Boundary Tendencies Quiz: nicoletsong.com/quiz Want to build morning habits that last so you jump out of bed with energy and clarity every morning? Join Nicole’s 5-Day Morning Challenge: go.nicoletsong.com/morning-habits Haven’t left a review yet? We’d love for you to at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-self-worth/id1678655504 For full show notes, transcript, and links, visit nicoletsong.com/podcast. Have a question or topic you’d like Nicole to touch on in a future episode? Email podcast@nicoletsong.com to share any thoughts or feedback.  Catch up with Nicole:  Website: nicoletsong.com Subscribe to her newsletterInstagram: nicoletsongTiktok: @nicoletsong_Facebook community: Balance + BoundariesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-tsong/

    21 min

  3. OCT 8

    124: Dealing with Judgemental People

    Have you ever held yourself back because you were afraid of what other people might think? If the fear of being judged has ever stopped you from speaking up, showing up, or going after what you want, then this episode is for you. In today’s episode, I explore one of the biggest fears that keeps Asian American women stuck: the fear of being judged.  Listen to learn how you can stay grounded, compassionate, and confident—no matter what anyone thinks. You’ll walk away from this episode with concrete strategies for dealing with judgmental people in your life, and a new outlook on judgment that will set you free.  THE TOP LEARNINGS IN THIS EPISODE:   Understanding the root of judgmental behavior The distinction between judgment and discernment   Why not to react to judgmental people Simple responses to diffuse judgment   The link between self-judgment and judging others  Breaking free from the cycle of judgment  If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram stories, and tag @nicoletsong so we can give you a shout-out and thank you for your support!  Asian Visibility System: Want to permanently reverse cultural conditioning and step into a life where you feel purposeful and thrive? Grab the Asian Visibility System: go.nicoletsong.com/visible. Do you struggle with boundaries? Discover the blind spots holding you back and take the Boundary Tendencies Quiz: nicoletsong.com/quiz Want to build morning habits that last so you jump out of bed with energy and clarity every morning? Join Nicole’s 5-Day Morning Challenge: go.nicoletsong.com/morning-habits Haven’t left a review yet? We’d love for you to at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-self-worth/id1678655504 For full show notes, transcript, and links, visit nicoletsong.com/podcast. Have a question or topic you’d like Nicole to touch on in a future episode? Email podcast@nicoletsong.com to share any thoughts or feedback.  Catch up with Nicole:  Website: nicoletsong.com Subscribe to her newsletterInstagram: nicoletsongTiktok: @nicoletsong_Facebook community: Balance + BoundariesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-tsong/

    16 min

  4. SEP 24

    123: Rising from Refugee Roots to CEO with Samantha Le

    In this episode of School of Self-Worth, I had the pleasure of interviewing Samantha Le, an inspiring Vietnamese American refugee, and CEO of the Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce. Our conversation dives deep into grit, resilience, and what it truly means to own your journey, especially while navigating cultural barriers and building self-worth from the ground up. We also explore Samantha’s rapid professional ascent, from customer service to VP to CEO, and the mindset that fueled her success. She credits her fast growth to determination, a desire to prove her worth in the face of bullying and discrimination, a willingness to learn from others, and a commitment to giving back by teaching what she learned. Whether you’re navigating cultural expectations, stepping into leadership, or seeking ways to positively impact your community, this episode is filled with actionable insights, empowering stories, and heartfelt wisdom to inspire your next breakthrough. THE TOP LEARNINGS IN THIS EPISODE:   The power of mentorship and access to resources for growth  Overcoming internal barriers and embracing self-worth  Handling criticism and envy when stepping into your power  The importance of evolving relationships and letting go  Navigating cultural expectations as an Asian American woman  Giving back to the community through supporting local businesses GUEST BIO: Samantha Le is a passionate community leader and proud Vietnamese American refugee rooted in South King County. As President and CEO of the Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director of the Success Foundation, she champions equitable economic and workforce development.  A fierce advocate for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and women entrepreneurs, she works to ensure access and representation across industries. Her efforts have earned her regional acclaim, including recognition as a 2025 Puget Sound Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram stories, and tag @nicoletsong and  @thesamanthastyle so we can give you a shout-out and thank you for your support!  Want to permanently reverse cultural conditioning and step into a life where you feel purposeful and thrive? Grab the Asian Visibility System: go.nicoletsong.com/visible. Do you struggle with boundaries? Discover the blind spots holding you back and take the Boundary Tendencies Quiz: nicoletsong.com/quiz Want to build morning habits that last so you jump out of bed with energy and clarity every morning? Join Nicole’s 5-Day Morning Challenge: go.nicoletsong.com/morning-habits Haven’t left a review yet? We’d love for you to at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-self-worth/id1678655504 For full show notes, transcript, and links, visit nicoletsong.com/podcast. Have a question or topic you’d like Nicole to touch on in a future episode? Email podcast@nicoletsong.com to share any thoughts or feedback.  Learn More About Samantha Le :  Seattle Southside Chamber@thesamanthastyleLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-l-5045a828/Catch up with Nicole:  Website:

    51 min

  5. SEP 10

    122: How to Unlearn Asian Guilt

    Have you ever asked yourself what it would feel like to live a life without guilt?  I mean, would that be a gamechanger or what? But guilt, especially Asian guilt, is something that might be haunting you wherever you go.  In today’s episode, I’m going to share a two-step process for how to give up the guilt! I also go over what caused it in the first place, and how to permanently reverse it.  If you’re ready to live a life without guilt holding you back, this episode is for you! THE TOP LEARNINGS IN THIS EPISODE:   Understanding how guilt drives decision-making and limits self-worth Recognizing cultural conditioning and guilt tripping in family dynamics Identifying when you're being guilt tripped versus self-imposed guilt Gaining clarity on your desired relationships to combat guilt tripping Learn the two-step process to release guilt How to reclaim power and self-worth by practicing non-attachment in work and life If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram stories, and tag @nicoletsong so we can give you a shout-out and thank you for your support!  ASIAN VISIBILITY SYSTEM: Want to permanently reverse cultural conditioning and step into a life where you feel purposeful and thrive? Grab the Asian Visibility System: go.nicoletsong.com/visible. Do you struggle with boundaries? Discover the blind spots holding you back and take the Boundary Tendencies Quiz: nicoletsong.com/quiz Want to build morning habits that last so you jump out of bed with energy and clarity every morning? Join Nicole’s 5-Day Morning Challenge: go.nicoletsong.com/morning-habits Haven’t left a review yet? We’d love for you to at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-self-worth/id1678655504 For full show notes, transcript, and links, visit nicoletsong.com/podcast. Have a question or topic you’d like Nicole to touch on in a future episode? Email podcast@nicoletsong.com to share any thoughts or feedback. Catch up with Nicole:  Website: nicoletsong.com Subscribe to her newsletterInstagram: nicoletsongTiktok: @nicoletsong_Facebook community: Balance + BoundariesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-tsong/

    17 min

  6. AUG 27

    121: {Best of Podcast} 3 Main Causes of Overwhelm

    I’m bringing back one of the most downloaded episodes of the podcast because it’s that relevant right now. In this replay, I break down the three biggest causes of overwhelm for Asian-American women  — and share one powerful, yet simple tool you can start using today to shift out of survival mode so you can thrive again. Inside the episode, you'll learn: Why overwhelm isn’t just emotional — it’s culturalHow the Asian Pressure Cycle keeps you stuck and exhausted The deep connection between worthiness and burnout How to reprogram the way you think about your own needs and desiresIf you’ve been putting everyone else first (again), this episode is your permission to come back to yourself. ASIAN VISIBILITY SYSTEM: Want to permanently reverse cultural conditioning and step into a life where you feel purposeful and thrive? Grab the Asian Visibility System: go.nicoletsong.com/visible. Do you struggle with boundaries? Discover the blind spots holding you back and take the Boundary Tendencies Quiz: nicoletsong.com/quiz Want to build morning habits that last so you jump out of bed with energy and clarity every morning? Join Nicole’s 5-Day Morning Challenge: go.nicoletsong.com/morning-habits Haven’t left a review yet? We’d love for you to at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-self-worth/id1678655504 For full show notes, transcript, and links, visit nicoletsong.com/podcast. Have a question or topic you’d like Nicole to touch on in a future episode? Email podcast@nicoletsong.com to share any thoughts or feedback.  Catch up with Nicole:  Website: nicoletsong.com Subscribe to her newsletterInstagram: nicoletsongTiktok: @nicoletsong_Facebook community: Balance + BoundariesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-tsong/

    19 min

  7. AUG 13

    120: Breaking the Cycle of Financial Anxiety with Shang Saavedra of Save My Cents

    Growing up with Asian parents, you might have a frugal money mind-set that makes you risk averse. That’s what happened to Shang Saavedra, personal finance expert and author of "Wealth is a Mindset.” Which is why her story is so powerful. In this episode, she talks about how her frugal upbringing, cultural conditioning and her parents’ aversion to risk-taking influenced how she looked at money. But when she was in her 20s, she and her husband decided to go to extreme frugality in New York City to retire early by 31 — and then delves into all the lessons she’s learned since about the importance of grounding herself in the present, shifting your mindset toward abundance and looking at financial decisions from a place of calm rather than fear. Shang shares some simple, practical  tips for how to deal with some of the biggest financial stressors — unexpected expenses and how to make big purchases manageable.  I loved talking to her about how to shift the relationship between emotions and money patterns. You don’t want to miss this healing conversation about money!  THE TOP LEARNINGS IN THIS EPISODE:   How your cultural upbringing shapes financial habits and mindsets The importance and challenges of risk-taking for financial growth  The reason generational trauma influences money worries and behaviors The decision and sacrifices behind early retirementEmotional health directly impacts financial decisions Building self-awareness and positive money talk is essential for wealth mindset GUEST BIO: Shang Saavedra is a published book author and the founder and CEO of Save My Cents, a nationally recognized personal finance expert. Shang finished saving for her retirement by the age of 31, and is America's leading expert on saving for retirement with joy. Her insights have been published by Business Insider, CNBC, Forbes, Fox Business, USA Today, Time / NextAdvisor, Nasdaq, and more. Shang was educated at Harvard and University of Chicago, and has worked in strategy for various Fortune 500 companies. Her book, Wealth Is a Mindset, was published in January 2025 with Third State Books. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram stories, and tag @nicoletsong and Shang Saavedra   @savemycents so we can give you a shout-out and thank you for your support!  ASIAN VISIBILITY SYSTEM: Want to permanently reverse cultural conditioning and step into a life where you feel purposeful and thrive? Grab the Asian Visibility System: go.nicoletsong.com/visible. Do you struggle with boundaries? Discover the blind spots holding you back and take the Boundary Tendencies Quiz: nicoletsong.com/quiz Want to build morning habits that last so you jump out of bed with energy and clarity every morning? Join Nicole’s 5-Day Morning Challenge: go.nicoletsong.com/morning-habits Haven’t left a review yet? We’d love for you to at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-self-worth/id1678655504 For full show notes, transcript, and links, visit nicoletsong.com/podcast. Have a question or topic you’d like Nicole to touch on in a future episode? Email podcast@nicoletsong.com to share any thoughts or feedback.  Learn More About Shang Saavedra at :  savemycents.comhttps://savemy

    44 min

  8. JUL 30

    119: The Thing Asian-American Women Get Wrong about Gravitas

    Have you ever gotten the feedback that you lack gravitas? Or that you don’t have the presence of a leader? In this episode, I dive into just what gravitas is — and the essential thing you’re getting WRONG about gravitas (and what you really need to understand about it to get your next promotion.)  Gravitas is often misunderstood, especially among Asian American women, who think it's about emulating the people who have it. But here’s the thing you’re missing — real gravitas can only come from inside you. It’s part of your unique presence and power. In this episode, I dive in deeper on how to access your inner gravitas, including simple techniques to step into your power and presence.  Gravitas CAN be simple! You don’t want to miss how easy to make it, so tune in!  The top learnings from this episode:   Understanding gravitas and its real meaning for leaders. [00:01:51]  How cultural conditioning impacts your leadership. [00:05:06]  Why gravitas comes from authentic self-power, not imitation. [00:05:48]  How to build presence (and stop thinking out loud.). [00:08:03]  Simple vocal techniques to project authority and confidence. [00:08:46]  Steps for moving from feedback to self-empowered leadership. [00:09:31]If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram stories, and tag @nicoletsong so we can give you a shout-out and thank you for your support!  ASIAN VISIBILITY SYSTEM: Want to permanently reverse cultural conditioning and step into a life where you feel purposeful and thrive? Grab the Asian Visibility System: go.nicoletsong.com/visible. Do you struggle with boundaries? Discover the blind spots holding you back and take the Boundary Tendencies Quiz: nicoletsong.com/quiz Want to build morning habits that last so you jump out of bed with energy and clarity every morning? Join Nicole’s 5-Day Morning Challenge: go.nicoletsong.com/morning-habits Haven’t left a review yet? We’d love for you to at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-self-worth/id1678655504 For full show notes, transcript, and links, visit nicoletsong.com/podcast. Have a question or topic you’d like Nicole to touch on in a future episode? Email podcast@nicoletsong.com to share any thoughts or feedback.  Catch up with Nicole:  Website: nicoletsong.com Subscribe to her newsletterInstagram: nicoletsongTiktok: @nicoletsong_Facebook community: Balance + BoundariesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-tsong/

    11 min
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41 Ratings

About

School of Self-Worth is a purposeful podcast and community for the ambitious woman who knows she is worthy of an astoundingly great life. Join us weekly as we redefine success, set and sustain boundaries, and reclaim your self-worth. Hosted by Nicole Tsong, bestselling author, former journalist, and work/life balance coach, who helps professional women live an aligned life. We will have diverse and meaningful conversations with successful women from all walks of life who share insight about what it takes to be brave, joyful, and yourself every day. Every single episode is thoughtfully designed to leave you feeling empowered, with tangible tips and advice that will lead you to your next breakthrough.

Information

  • Creator
    Nicole Tsong
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    127
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 School of Self-Worth
  • Show Website
    School of Self-Worth

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