What The Shift
The Podcast for Your 2am Thoughts
What the Shift is a podcast for women navigating the thoughts, questions, and quiet realizations that show up when everything finally gets quiet.
The ones about exhaustion you can’t quite explain.
Success that no longer fits.
Boundaries you know you need—but feel guilty setting.
And the feeling that something is shifting, even if you don’t have words for it yet.
No one taught us how to stop people-pleasing.
Or overfunctioning.
Or holding our feelings without apologizing for them.
They just assumed we’d figure it out.
This show creates space for the conversations women are having with themselves at 2am, but rarely out loud. Through honest, no-BS conversations, we interrupt the patterns behind quiet burnout, self-silencing, and the pressure to “handle it all.”
This isn’t therapy.
It’s not fixing.
And it’s definitely not another productivity strategy.
It’s context.
Clarity.
And the relief of realizing you’re not broken, you’re conditioned.
Hosted by Gia Lacqua, What the Shift is where late-night thoughts turn into real conversations—and real shifts.
The Podcast for Your 2am Thoughts
What the Shift is a podcast for women navigating the thoughts, questions, and quiet realizations that show up when everything finally gets quiet.
The ones about exhaustion you can’t quite explain.
Success that no longer fits.
Boundaries you know you need—but feel guilty setting.
And the feeling that something is shifting, even if you don’t have words for it yet.
No one taught us how to stop people-pleasing.
Or overfunctioning.
Or holding our feelings without apologizing for them.
They just assumed we’d figure it out.
This show creates space for the conversations women are having with themselves at 2am, but rarely out loud. Through honest, no-BS conversations, we interrupt the patterns behind quiet burnout, self-silencing, and the pressure to “handle it all.”
This isn’t therapy.
It’s not fixing.
And it’s definitely not another productivity strategy.
It’s context.
Clarity.
And the relief of realizing you’re not broken, you’re conditioned.
Hosted by Gia Lacqua, What the Shift is where late-night thoughts turn into real conversations—and real shifts.
Life doesn’t stay the same—and neither do you
What the Shift is the podcast for those moments.
The conversations women are already having with themselves at 2am—about exhaustion, boundaries, people-pleasing, overfunctioning, and the quiet realization that something needs to change.
This isn’t about fixing your life or becoming a new version of yourself.
It’s about understanding the patterns you’ve been living inside—so you can decide what still fits, and what doesn’t.
If it’s been keeping you up, you’re in the right place.
Be a Guest On What The Shift!
Your story has power. Let’s use it to make shift happen.
If you’ve ever realized—quietly or all at once—that something in your life stopped fitting, this conversation is for you.
What the Shift isn’t about polished success stories or perfectly packaged lessons. It’s about the moments no one prepares women for—the patterns you’ve outgrown, the rules you stopped following, and the truths you finally let yourself say.
We’re inviting guests who are willing to talk honestly about the questions that show up when everything gets quiet. The ones you don’t usually share on stage or on LinkedIn. The ones that actually change how you live and lead.
This isn’t therapy.
There’s no coaching or fixing.
It’s a real conversation—with impact.
If your experience includes a moment where you thought, “I can’t keep doing this the same way,” you’re exactly who we’re looking for.
Let’s talk.
Episodes
Jun 14, 2024
Jun 14, 2024
37 min
Join Gia in this empowering episode as she welcomes Mal Wrenn Corbin, author of "Raising Wrenns." Mal shares her inspiring journey of overcoming childhood trauma, poverty, and adversity to achieve success. Through resilience, adaptability, and self-discovery, Mal redefines success and finds pride in her past. Discover the power of post-traumatic growth and the importance of self-worth in this transformative conversation. Don't miss this insightful episode on healing, empowerment, and embracing your next chapter.
Jun 7, 2024
Jun 7, 2024
34 min
In this empowering episode, Gia chats with Financial Coaches, Shana and Vanessa as they share their journey to financial freedom and success. They emphasize the importance of mindset shifts, organization, and planning in achieving financial goals. By providing practical tips, such as conducting a 90-day financial review and utilizing their smart money system, they empower high-achieving women to take control of their finances. Shana and Vanessa's passion for helping others achieve financial success shines through as they discuss the impact of generational wealth and the importance of teaching financial literacy to the next generation. Their message of empowerment and success resonates with listeners, inspiring them to redefine success and take charge of their financial future. Tune in to this episode for valuable insights and actionable steps to transform your financial mindset and achieve financial success.
May 30, 2024
May 30, 2024
37 min
In this episode, Gia engages in a powerful conversation with Rino Murata, a certified trauma-informed coach specializing in communication, parenting, autism, and neurodiversity. Rino shares her personal journey as a mother of neurodivergent children and how it led her to redefine success and parenting strategies.
The discussion delves into the concept of gentle parenting, emphasizing collaboration, self-advocacy, and building trust with children. Rino also highlights the importance of being principle-based rather than rule-based in parenting. The episode explores the significance of self-advocacy in both parenting and workplace environments, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Rino's insights encourage listeners to embrace small changes in their parenting approach and redefine success as being present in the moment.
May 23, 2024
May 23, 2024
29 min
Join Gia in an empowering conversation with international speaker and award-winning author, Simone Knego, on overcoming self-doubt, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, and redefining success. Simone shares her journey of self-discovery and the creation of the Real Method to inspire and impact women. Discover the power of positive affirmations and practical tips for managing a bustling household while prioritizing self-care. Tune in to learn how to rewrite the rules of success and step into your next chapter with authentic confidence.
May 17, 2024
May 17, 2024
36 min
In this important episode, Gia had the pleasure of welcoming back Kristen Radke, a seasoned clinical therapist, to dive deeper into the topics of anxiety, trauma, and how they uniquely affect high-performing women.
Kristen shared her insights on the neurobiology of trauma, emphasizing the importance of understanding the connection between our mind, experiences, and nervous system. She explained the difference between the parasympathetic (rest and digest) and sympathetic (fight, flight, freeze, or fawn) nervous systems, and how trauma can disrupt this balance, leading to symptoms like anxiety and panic attacks.
They discuss the challenges high-achieving women face when dealing with trauma, particularly the defense mechanisms and walls built to protect against shame.
The conversation also touches on the concept of imposter syndrome, exploring how it's can be rooted in deep-seated shame from childhood experiences for some.
For those struggling with trauma-related anxiety, Kristen recommends starting with nervous system regulation techniques, such as proper breathing exercises, to establish stability before tackling emotional healing. She also spoke about the benefits of somatic yoga, which combines breath with movement to help release stored emotions and trauma from the body.
To learn more about Kristen's work and to find additional resources, visit her website at kristenradke.com.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988, chat 988lifeline.org or your local mental health helpline.
May 10, 2024
May 10, 2024
46 min
In this captivating episode, Gia sits down with the remarkable Traci Peterson, founder and CEO of Elevate Wellness and Aesthetics, and visionary behind the mother-daughter movement, BE.
Traci shares her personal journey of triumph over self-doubt and external validation, revealing how a pivotal moment in her adolescence shaped her understanding of confidence and leadership. Despite facing backlash and years of people-pleasing, Traci's story is one of resilience and empowerment.
During our conversation, Traci offers practical advice for mothers and daughters to develop together, emphasizing the importance of one-minute moments and her seven woman lessons. She encourages listeners to prioritize activities that regenerate energy and align with their values, leading to a more fulfilled life.
Listeners will be inspired by Traci's insights into living a full life and reclaiming one's divine gifts. Join us as we uncover the power of embracing authenticity and leading by example for the next generation.
May 3, 2024
May 3, 2024
38 min
Join Gia in this empowering episode as she welcomes Amanda Greaves, an interior designer, author, and mentor. Amanda shares her transformative journey of overcoming limiting beliefs and finding inner healing, leading to the realization of her true purpose. Through her book, "The Chameleon Diaries," Amanda inspires high-achieving women to embrace change and prioritize self-love. Discover the power of saying no, aligning mind, body, and spirit, and defining success on your terms. Tune in for a transformative conversation that will empower you to prioritize your well-being and embrace your next chapter with authenticity and confidence.
Apr 26, 2024
Apr 26, 2024
35 min
Join Gia on an empowering journey with special guest John Mollura, a personal performance coach and professional speaker. In this episode of Your Future Starts Now, John shares his remarkable transition from a rocket scientist to a multi-award-winning portrait photographer.
Discover how John's experiences leading teams in missions to Mars and protecting fighter jet pilots led him to rediscover his true self and find fulfillment. Dive deep into discussions on imposter syndrome, self-confidence, and redefining success. Gain valuable insights on overcoming self-doubt, increasing self-confidence, and aligning actions with values. Don't miss out on practical tips and exercises to boost your self-confidence and embrace authenticity. Tune in to this episode to embark on a transformative journey towards self-acceptance and empowerment.
Apr 22, 2024
Apr 22, 2024
33 min
In this empowering episode, Gia has an important conversation with Dr. Paige Gutheil, a holistic healthcare expert, as they delve into the transformative world of women's health and the concept of whole health. Dr. Paige shares her journey from traditional medicine to a holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of addressing the mind, body, spirit, and life in health care.
Discover the signs and symptoms of perimenopause, the importance of insourcing your health journey, and how to be your own best advocate for wellness. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical tips to navigate your unique health path with confidence and authenticity.
Apr 19, 2024
Apr 19, 2024
39 min
In this captivating episode, I had the honor of delving deep into the remarkable journey of Conor Murphy, a Navy veteran, certified CrossFit trainer, and managing partner of Big Night Fitness.
Conor delves into the interconnectedness of physical and mental strength, advocating for a holistic approach to wellbeing. He bravely opens up about personal challenges, his experience with personal reinvention, and shares transformative insights on resilience and personal growth.
He delves into important lessons learned from his life experiences, emphasizing the value of being useful to others as a key to success and happiness. Conor's candid reflections on personal reinvention, owning mistakes, and the power of positive self-talk offer valuable insights for listeners. Through his story of growth and transformation, Conor inspires listeners to embrace resilience, authenticity, and the belief in their own worth.

GIA LACQUA
Host of What the Shift | Author of PowerShift | Speaker
Gia Lacqua is a former Fortune 100 Vice President turned Chief Empowerment Officer of elivate, where she helps high-achieving women redesign success to fit who they are now, not who they had to become to succeed. As a trauma-informed empowerment coach, speaker, researcher, and author, she draws on two decades of corporate experience and a decade of executive leadership, neuroscience, and trauma-informed practices to guide women in shifting out of survival-mode success and into lives they don’t have to survive. Her thought leadership has been featured in Forbes, Newsweek, Thrive Global, WorkLife, Scary Mommy, and more, and she is a proud member of the Forbes Coaches Council.
Gia is the author of the book PowerShift and the Limitless Little Leaders children’s series. She also serves as First Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey, advancing the next generation of female leaders. A Professional Certified Coach and Certified Neurological Fitness™ Trainer, Gia blends research, lived experience, and bold leadership to help women shift from performance-driven success to purpose-driven self-leadership.
Let's make shift happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
🔹 How can I apply to be a guest on the podcast?
If you have a compelling story, expertise, or insight that aligns with our mission, we’d love to hear from you! All potential guests must submit an application through our official form. Apply here.
🔹 What kind of topics do you cover?
We focus on bold, transformative conversations that help women going through career, relationship, identity, . Our discussions include leadership, mindset mastery, personal reinvention, resilience, priority, mindset shifts, and more.
🔹 Can I suggest a guest for the show?
Yes! If you know someone who would be a great fit, please encourage them to submit an application here. We review all submissions carefully and will reach out if there’s a fit.
🔹 How can I collaborate or partner with What The Shift?
We’re open to partnerships, sponsorships, and collaborations that align with our mission. To explore opportunities, email us at WTS@gialacqua.com.
🔹 Where can I listen to the podcast?
Tune in on Podbean, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.




