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
Mar 10, 2024
Mar 10, 2024
40 min
In this episode, Gia dives deep into the topic of mental health with highly experienced clinical therapist Kristen Radke.
Kristen shares her insights on anxiety, belief systems, and the power of neuroplasticity in transforming our lives. Discover how aligning with your values can lead to inner peace and success.
Join Gia and Kristen as they explore the journey of healing and empowerment, offering valuable advice on seeking help and creating new neural pathways for a brighter future. Tune in to gain valuable insights and tools to navigate the challenges of high-functioning anxiety and redefine success on your own terms.
Mar 7, 2024
Mar 7, 2024
28 min
In this episode, Gia interviews Lesley Logan, a second-generation certified Pilates teacher and mindset coach. Lesley shares her journey of discovering Pilates, overcoming perfectionism, and redefining success. She emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfection and the impact of Pilates beyond physical fitness, focusing on mind-body connection and inner healing.
Lesley discusses how Pilates helps in building strength, balancing imbalances, and improving posture, leading to better body awareness and overall well-being. She highlights the significance of impact and freedom in defining success, shifting the focus from monetary goals to personal growth and evolution.
Mar 3, 2024
Mar 3, 2024
30 min
In this episode, Gia interviews Sandra Kenoff, President and CEO of Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey. Sandra shares her professional journey, starting from a career in marketing and advertising to her current role in empowering girls through Girl Scouts.
The conversation delves into the importance of sisterhood, mentorship, and the evolution of women's empowerment in the business world. Sandra provides valuable advice for women striving to reach the C-suite and emphasizes the significance of finding a supportive network, mentorship, and continuous learning.
The episode highlights the mission of Girl Scouts in building girls of courage, confidence, and character, and how this contributes to their leadership development. Sandra also discusses the progress made for women in business, opportunities that still exist, and the need for diverse leadership. The conversation concludes with insights on defining success, leaving a legacy, and the importance of supporting future generations of female leaders.
• Fifty-six percent (56%) of women in the 117th Congress are Girl Scout alums.
• Seventy-one percent (71%) of current female senators are Girl Scout alums.
• Fifty-three percent (53%) of current female delegates and representatives in the House of Representatives are Girl Scout alums.
• Five of the nine current female governors are Girl Scout alums.
• Every female secretary of state in U.S. history is a Girl Scout or Girl Guide alum: Madeleine Albright, Condoleezza Rice, and Hillary Clinton.
[Girl Scout Alums Lead, 2021]
Feb 29, 2024
Feb 29, 2024
27 min
In this episode, Gia interviews Erin Russell, a medical student with a diverse background in digital health and entrepreneurship. Erin shares her journey from the digital health industry to pursuing a career in medicine, highlighting the importance of self-reflection and setting personal goals for success. The conversation delves into the challenges high-achieving women face, such as burnout and self-advocacy in the workplace, offering valuable insights and advice for navigating these obstacles.
Erin discusses the future of women's health and healthcare, emphasizing the need for improved access to care and the role of digital health innovations in advancing healthcare delivery. She also touches on the significance of prioritizing self-care and efficient time management to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being.
Tune in to gain valuable insights into setting personal goals, redefining success, and embracing your inner guidance. Erin's journey serves as an inspiration for women seeking to make career transitions and prioritize their well-being in a demanding world.
Feb 25, 2024
Feb 25, 2024
38 min
In this episode, Gia is joined by bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and mind-body expert, Cortney McDermott. They dive deep into the topic of personal transformation and the power of trust.
Cortney shares her own journey of feeling unfulfilled despite achieving success in her corporate career. She discusses the concept of the "arrival fallacy" and how it can lead to a constant pursuit of external achievements without finding true fulfillment. Cortney also introduces the idea of "nudges" or intuitive impulses that guide us towards growth and change.
The conversation explores the importance of reconnecting with our bodies and inner wisdom, as well as the role of identity in our lives.
They discuss brainwave frequencies and how different states of mind, such as relaxation and trust, can enhance creativity and overall well-being. Cortney encourages listeners to find ways to relax and trust in the unfolding of their lives, even in challenging times.
Feb 22, 2024
Feb 22, 2024
33 min
In this episode, Gia interviews Mylene Isler, Certified High Performance Coach and founder of MLA HR Consulting and Coaching. Mylene shares her journey of transitioning from corporate America to entrepreneurship and the pressing need for a fresh approach to high-performing habits and employee engagement. She emphasizes the importance of energy management and implementing daily habits that focus on physical and mental strength.
Mylene also discusses the process of reinvention and overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome. She encourages listeners to take action and start small in order to redefine success and make a sustainable impact. Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration for stepping into your next chapter with authentic confidence.
Feb 18, 2024
Feb 18, 2024
34 min
In this episode, Gia welcomes the incredibly talented Alyce Chan to the show. Alyce is a speaker, writer, producer, and stand-up comedian with an international presence. Alyce is also the creative force behind MOMCOMNYC, a parenting platform with a devoted following of 200,000 fans.
During the episode, Alyce shares her journey in the comedy world, her experiences as a daughter, wife and parent, and how she finds humor in the everyday chaos of parenthood.
Join Gia and Alyce as they delve into the world of comedy, parenting, and fulfilling all the roles of being a high achieving woman. This episode is a must-listen for extraordinary women ready to step into their future with humor and empowerment. Discover how to find humor in the chaos of everyday life and step into your next chapter with authentic confidence.
Feb 15, 2024
Feb 15, 2024
37 min
In this episode, Gia interviews Dr. Chris Pernell, a dynamic physician leader and social change agent.
Dr. Chris shares her journey of becoming a doctor and the challenges she faced. She emphasizes the importance of self-efficacy and self-advocacy for women in healthcare and discusses the need for universal access to healthcare and preventive care. Dr. Chris also redefines success and highlights the value of learning from failures and setbacks. Tune in to gain insights into health equity, preventive medicine, and redefining success in your own life.
Feb 11, 2024
Feb 11, 2024
27 min
In this episode, Gia interviews Olivia Costanzo, the CEO of Aligned and a real estate investor. Olivia also discusses the concept of holistic success and how it goes beyond just financial achievements. She emphasizes the importance of taking a holistic approach to success, considering all aspects of life including mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, relationships, and personal growth.
The conversation delves into the power of mindset and energy in achieving success. Olivia shares practical tips on overcoming limiting beliefs, connecting with your inner power, and shifting mindset to align with one's goals and desires. She also recommends some insightful books and resources for personal development.
If you're a high-achieving woman looking to redefine success and create financial freedom, this episode is a must-listen. Join Gia and Olivia as they explore the path to holistic success and harnessing the power within to create the life you desire.
Feb 8, 2024
Feb 8, 2024
37 min
In this episode, Gia interviews Dr. Gilly Khan, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neurodiversity, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Khan shares her expertise on neurodivergence, explaining that it refers to a category of neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. She emphasizes the importance of understanding neurodiversity as a condition rather than a disorder, highlighting the unique ways in which neurodivergent individuals think and process information.
Dr. Gilly talks about the mental health challenges faced by high-achieving women, particularly in relation to anxiety. Dr. Khan explains the concept of rejection sensitive dysphoria, a heightened sensitivity to perceived criticism or praise, which can lead to intense emotional and physical reactions. She also highlights the benefits of hyperfocus, a state of deep interest and passion, which can be a source of fulfillment for individuals with ADHD.
Dr. Khan shares her insights on managing anxiety, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and exposure therapy. She encourages individuals to embrace their anxiety and get curious about it, rather than trying to control or suppress it.
Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into neurodiversity, anxiety, and mental health for women and children, offering a fresh perspective on understanding and managing these challenges.

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.




