We leave our workplaces hoping for something better, for growth, but that doesn’t always happen. Kirsten Penaloza has gone through many ups and downs in her career. She’s been in the tech world for years, specifically working in customer experience. This episode is special for me - Kirsten used to be one of my direct reports and left the company we worked at for an opportunity that, on the outside, seemed like a hard one to pass up. But unbeknownst to Kirsten, the company she was joining had many issues and she learned the hard way that some places, you just can’t fix. I sit down with Kirsten to talk about her career journey from tour guide to cx expert to leadership coach and dive deep into self awareness, gaslighting and workplace bullying - and how to deal with those, including how to make the tough decision of walking away and how to evaluate your next employer.With a rich history of living across various countries and delving into diverse cultures, Kirsten Penaloza understands the universal quest for happiness, fulfillment, and purpose. As a transformative leadership coach, she's dedicated to turning these aspirations into reality. Kirsten's multifaceted journey, spanning from teaching to entrepreneurship and a pivotal role in the tech industry, culminated in her founding Noble Mind Coaching. Her unique coaching approach, deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy, is adaptable, empathetic, and tailored to individual needs, making her stand out. Whether leading global teams, navigating personal challenges, or seeking one's niche, Kirsten's commitment is to champion individuality and foster a sense of belonging for all. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com