Thanks for joining me today. I’m excited to share some of the stories and insights I discussed during a fireside chat with graduate students at Columbia University School of Professional Studies’ Wealth Management program. As the CEO of ExecutiveBound, I’ve had the privilege of helping thousands of individuals and many organizations unlock their full potential. The power of relationships has shaped my journey, which I want to explore with you today.

My Origin Story: The People Who Lifted Me Up

I often share my origin story because it’s a powerful reminder of how the people in our lives can make all the difference. Many of you may already know parts of my story if you’ve attended my masterclass or participated in programs for my Fortune 500 clients. 

As many of you know me today, I am a transformational speaker, leadership coach, career strategist, and #1 bestselling author of my two books so far, Fearless Women at Work and Healing Leadership—and I am planning to publish my third book very soon.

However, this hasn’t always been the case. As a young immigrant from the Dominican Republic, I arrived in the United States at 14 with limited English skills and a deep desire to create a better life for myself. The people I surrounded myself with—my classmates, teachers, counselors, and mentors—guided me, supported me, and ultimately helped me succeed. 

As a young teenager in Jersey City, relationships became my lifeline, helping me not just to survive but thrive—the friends I made in school and sports, my teachers, and even my counselors. They were the ones guiding me through.

From navigating the challenges of a new culture to excelling in my studies and launching my career, the relationships I built were the foundation upon which I built my success. And that’s a lesson I carry with me to this day. In business, as in life, the people make all the difference. 

The Business of People: Building Authentic Relationships

When I tell this story and reflect on my journey, I always notice the importance of the people around me at this time. There has always been a thread of people who have been pivotal in advancing my way of thinking, supporting my promotions and career growth, and helping me become the woman I am today.

As a woman, a professional, or however you identify yourself, I want you to reflect: 

Who has been your cast of characters? 

Who are the people that you rely on and lean on? 

If you lack a supportive network, consider making changes in the upcoming year. Identify the culprit and take steps to correct your course. If you’re not surrounded by people you can call allies, perhaps it’s time to cut cords with some and develop new, more supportive relationships.

While you may think, “Ginny, how can these relationships be organic if I’m looking to build them?” I want to remind you that intention doesn’t sacrifice authenticity. It means prioritizing yourself and the importance of a supportive network of relationships.

I enjoy sharing my origin story in this way because I find it healing to acknowledge those who have contributed to our growth and the development of who we are today.

In business, as in life, we are in the people business. Who you surround yourself with can make or break your career. The people in your life—personal and professional—form the fabric of support. These genuine, authentic relationships are essential for survival and growth.

So, I pose this question to you: 

How are you currently viewing and honoring the relationships in your life? 

Whether these be your loved ones, people you work with, people you interact with daily, people related to your health, finances, or others, people support you in all aspects of your life.

The Mission of ExecutiveBound

As I transitioned from my corporate career to becoming a leadership coach and speaker, I knew I wanted to focus my efforts on empowering women and underestimated leaders. That’s why I founded ExecutiveBound–a mission-driven organization dedicated to transforming the lives of more than a million women and leaders and the companies that need them.

Through ExecutiveBound, I have the privilege of working with individuals and organizations to help them develop the self-leadership, communication, and influence skills needed to thrive. Whether coaching executives, speaking at corporate events or supporting employee resource groups, my goal is to help create work cultures where everyone can reach their full potential.

At the heart of this work is the belief that when we invest in developing strong, confident leaders, especially women and underrepresented groups, we unlock immense value for our organizations and communities. By building authentic relationships and providing the proper support, we can help individuals overcome self-doubt, navigate complex workplace dynamics, and claim their seats at the table.

I hope that absorbing and listening to what I’ve shared today inspires you to reflect on your network and the people around you and evaluate where you are in your career journey. 

Reflect on the challenges you’re currently facing. 

How can you address them? 

And as an organization, what are you looking for in terms of talent development? 

How can they best be supported and developed to their fullest potential?

Call to Action: Let’s Build Together

I would love to sit down with you as an individual or senior leader representing your company’s leadership and talent development branch. Together, we can uncover what is really getting in the way—what you truly desire, what’s keeping you up at night, and what we can do about it. I would love to be your thought partner and deliver a high ROI for you or your team. If you want to connect with me, email info@executivebound.com and join our community for valuable strategies and expert advice. Visit DrGinnyBaro.com. 

Your network, your career journey, and your organizational goals matter. Let’s work together to make meaningful changes this year.

Live with purpose, live with joy!

Coach Ginny