Dani Tan Hi, I'm Danny Tan and if you are here, you are in the right place. Welcome to the Pivot and promotion podcast where we say forget the rules because they weren't written for us. I'm Dani Tan. I'm your host as well as career and leadership coach and a proud advocate for redefining what success and leadership looks like. And here's what I know. You can lead at any level. You can pivot at any age, any. And you can make moves that feel right for you. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder, starting something completely new, or just figuring out your next step. I've got you covered with strategies, stories and straight up inspiration. So let's make some moves. Alrighty. Okay, so today's episode is super fun because I have my client Jasmine here and Jasmine has been on a journey, let's just say we are now entering a year and a half of working together in coaching which has been been a complete joy because she's not only a total badass, hard working and bold, but she's really funny too.

She's a great time. So we're gonna have a really good time on this episode. Jasmine Cousin Thank you. Yes. Dani Tan No, it's all true. It's all true. And also she has amazing style. So if you're watching the video portion of this, you'll see that too. She's always has killer sweaters in the winter. Alright, we already know what stuff is going to be about, so I'm going to go ahead and have Jasmine introduce herself because I always say there's no better hype person than yourself. Jasmine Cousin So. Dani Tan So Jasmine, go ahead and just say hello and give a little background on yourself. Jasmine Cousin Yeah, amazing. So I'm Jasmine. I am currently senior manager of E Commerce at a fitness tech company which I just started a new role which is really exciting.

And I also am currently the San Francisco ambassador for a women's only networking group called Monday Girl in the San Francisco area. So hosting events and really trying to bring community together for women in the area. And then also she said it was funny. I also do improv, so I'm on an improv team and that is my, that is kind of like my outlet in the middle of everything in order to kind of like get myself out of my head and out of my space. So also that as well. But yeah, that's pretty much me. I am in the San Francisco Bay area and multiple other cities before that, but that this is where I am now. Dani Tan I love it. And thank you for throwing in the tidbit about the Improv, because I don't want to forget that.

And that part is golden and so good. So, so excited for Jasmine. Jasmine has, as you, as you heard, just started a brand new job, which is really exciting. And she's navigated so many things even before that. So we'll definitely dive into that. But how we'll kind of start it off is that, I mean, you can hear there's like, you've done right. And so I'm sure for a lot of people, they'll think, oh, well, you know, if you're so driven and motivated and accomplished, like, why coaching? We only go to. There's a problem. But I think also there's other reasons why we go to coaching too. But I won't put words in anyone's mouth. So the question that I will ask you is, you know, what really started the idea for you to want to do coaching?

Like, what even, like, initiated that idea? Jasmine Cousin What? Dani Tan Were there, like, anything that maybe you were getting stuck on or struggling with or needed support? Like, how did that kind of come to be? Jasmine Cousin Yeah, so I would say about two years ago, I was just feeling really stuck in where I was. So I was at manager level and I was like, I feel like I've been in kind of the same level and not being able to move forward. And my role had changed a few times at the company that I was at. And I was like, what, where am I going? What am I doing? And I felt like I knew what I wanted my path to be. Like, kind of like superficially. I was like, I want this and I want to do these promotions and whatever and blah, blah.

And like, this was the end goal, but it kind of felt like it wasn't. I wasn't working towards that goal. But I also felt like I was just kind of like, just stuck. And it was kind of like, how do I move forward? How do I get to where I want to be and what does that look like? And so I went into coaching for a couple of reasons. So one, wanting to figure out that career path and wanting to feel like, okay, like, here's some. Here's some goals, here's some things to reach for, here's some things that are achievable. And this. Is this how you're going to get to the end? And needing, like, a clear path on, like, what that was in order to feel unstuck. And then also wanting to get a promotion or get a new job and knowing what that kind of like, next step was and be able to define both of those, like, what does that look like?

And what do each of those paths look like? And then another thing for me was networking. I know it may not seem like it, I know you guys don't know me, but I like, a year and a half ago, you could not have put me in a room with people and have me speak out loud. I am absolutely an ambivert. I need to, like, when I'm in a situation, I'm either going to be a wallflower or an extrovert. I don't know which one's going to happen. And in networking situation, it was the introvert of it all. And I would just, like, go to event and I would sit in the corner or not want to go and completely, like, panic and just like, we'll have paid for a ticket for something, maybe gotten there and then just been like, good and so really need to work on the networking side of things and just like, wanting to feel more confident in myself in those situations and wanting to really be able to be like, you're here and you, like, own it and, like, don't be scared to, like, be there.

And like, you bring purpose and value. So, like, just do it. So, yeah. Dani Tan And yeah. So if everyone's like, wait a minute, but she does improv and she's the ambassador for Monday Girl. Okay, we'll definitely talk more about that. Something that's good to highlight. And you definitely had a journey and you put yourself out there in so many different ways. So goals are like, the challenges make sense. It's that maybe it was just that was coming up. There was like the stuckness of like, what should my career path be? What should my next step be? Kind of been feeling the same. And so how do I take action? Do something different. I always say that if you're doing the same thing, you're get the same result.

So you have to do something different or for there to be some change. And so that all makes sense. So you're pretty clear on what your goals were, vision when it came to going into coaching. Is there anything else, like, specific that you were like, okay, I want to make sure we. Or that why even you decided to work with me specifically. Jasmine Cousin Yeah. So I will go with why I decided to work with Danny. So I had been surfaced, like, and I feel like it was like the universe something. Like I was on LinkedIn and I had seen a video surface from Danny from the podcast, and I was like, I listened through it and I was like, yeah, it was like something I feel like I needed to hear and I can't remember the podcast what it was, but it was.

It was something around, like. Like, confidence or something like that. And I was like, yeah, no, like, I need this. Like, have these tough conversations that I've been shying away from. And then I think because I watched the one video, then I started getting more videos. So not me, like, being, like, on LinkedIn, like, it was Instagram, like, I'm just gonna watch. And I feel like what you were saying, like, resonated so much, and, like, the people that you had on this, like, guest, I was like, it just felt so real. And so I, like, reached out. I feel like I filled out the form or something. And then when we spoke, I was like, yeah, like, we match vibes. And I think it was also because, like, you were at the time, like, and, like, your career path was, like, in the fashion industry, like, retail industry, which is, like, what I was in at the time.

And, like, wanting to be like, okay, like, you understand and will understand the inter. Like, the ins and outs, like, the intricacies and stuff like that of that industry and knowing, like, you've worked through it. And I was like, I'm in the middle of trying to work through it. And I found that so valuable because I think sometimes, at least for me, I was like, I was one who understands where I am and what industry I'm in. Because I feel like there are a lot of similarities for different entries for, like, fashion, retail, but it's definitely its own little niche, and it has its own little things that are very particular. And so I think that was also part of it. It was like, just that, like, I could say merchandising or, you know, planner or whatever, and whatever words that came up like, yeah, yeah, no, no, no.

Like, I know what that is. And not having to, like, you know, explain it at length and be like, we're spending time, and I'm explaining, like, the business of fashion. So I feel like that kind of helped a lot, too. Just be able to kind of just, like, get down to like, even stripping it away, which I didn't realize at the time, to strip it away and just be like, it's you. And not necessarily, like, the, you know, like, industry or whatever, which you're in, like, you can thrive anywhere. And I feel like off the bat, like, you had that energy about you that was like, you can do this. I feel like from day one, I was like, like, you're, like, you're great. And I was like, yeah, yeah, yeah. So it's kind of like it's like, no, like, somebody.

Like, I was like, you just met me, and you're like, you know, I feel like stealing so much confidence. And I feel like the first couple meetings like, we had, I came out of it just like, okay. Like, I definitely made the right choice, and I feel like we can relate on different things and being able to really, like, not only, like, the relatability, but also the accountability part, which was big for me. The accountability part of just of, like, you know, if I needed accountability and I said that, that's what was. That was what was happening. And I think that was also, like, very important to me. Dani Tan Oh, my gosh, that is so funny. I'm so curious what podcast episode that was. That's hilarious.

Well, glad whatever episode that was, whatever past version of me said the thing for you to feel like, yeah, I need this, and I'm going to believe in myself. In myself. And I was like, of course. Of course. I'm going to say you're great enemies. You are. And so I'm so happy that we got to work together. That's. That's my favorite part. And that we're still working together. Jasmine Cousin Year two. I love it. Dani Tan I mean, look, we're still together, guys. All right, so then with that, you kind of like some stuff, but what do you feel like were, like, the things you were navigating that we worked on together specifically, and maybe there was, like, something like. Maybe there were, like, key moments.

You're like, okay, this was a thing that was a little bit challenging. We kind of worked out. Kind of help you overcome it with some support. Jasmine Cousin Yeah. I would say I'm gonna go back to networking because I feel like I've done a hundred percent, like, I don't know, circle success story. I don't know. Excuse me. But as I was kind of saying, like, I definitely, like, I hated networking. And, like, I don't. It was a word worse than hate load. I don't know, loathing networking. And I was super nervous about it. And so I remember, like, you know, one of my three goals was, like, I need to network. Like, I know I'm at the phase of my life or, like, me getting my next role or me, like, advocating myself or whatever is not going to come from me just, like, applying to a job and so.

Or just like, the people who I was surrounded by, you know, like, every day. And so I was like, okay, we need to put on these big girl pants, and you've got to get out there. And I was always very nervous about it. I always Was very reluctant to it. So one of the things that Danny and I worked on was just like a plan for networking events. So. So making sure, like, whatever you need to do to hype yourself up to go to the event. For me, it was either, like, at the time was like calling my mom and me and my sisters. My mom had this thing to where, like, it's like, okay, like, I just need some encouragement right now. And like, you just kind of have like a 30 second, like, you're fantastic, you're whatever, you're amazing, you're optimistic.

You know how to thrive in situations. And like, we have this list and we kind of like go like, kind of like 30 second, like, hit. And it's like, okay, I'm good. And be like, phone. It's kind of like these like, words of encouragement. And then like, if that's what I needed beforehand, then, you know, doing that and then like, wearing something that made me feel confident. So I feel like I've, like, working and like the fashion retail space. And just like the way I express myself was in my clothing. And I was always coming in, like, the like, one suit that I had or, like, making sure I wasn't like, black or navy or something like that. It was like, wherever, wear whatever you want. Like, whatever makes you comfortable and makes you feel like you're in your skin.

Then, like, do that. And then we also talked about just having, like, a couple of things to, like, say or, like, a couple of things, like questions to ask so that there was like, something to kind of bring up. And so also having like, preparedness of being like, okay, like, walking up to somebody and like, you know, not kind of like I'm Jasmine and kind of leaving it there, being like, you know, like, I'm Jasmine, like, I do this. What about you? Which sounds crazy, just like normal conversation, but like, y', all, what I'm telling you, that was not happening. I would be like, okay. And so, you know, there's that bit and just like, like being prepared going into it and then being there and being like, having a goal of, like, number of people to talk to.

And then because of the fact I would be wearing bright green or orange or whatever, figured out that that works for me. People to come up to me rather than me going up to people. So I was definitely coming in networking events where I feel like everybody else is like, in some type of, like, see whatever, and I'm like, here's hot pink and I'm wearing this. And so having those, like, tips really helping me, like, Kind of like, I'm definitely more person. Like, let me check it off. So I was like, okay, like, I did this. Like, I had myself up. I, like, put on a little makeup. I like, you know, went to this. I made sure that I was, like, not standing on a wall, making sure that I, like, you know, off the bat, like, found somebody to kind of be like, okay, we're going to talk.

And so, you know, having those things, like, really helped me to be able to, like, deal do these events. And yeah, now I'm the ambassador of a networking group. So full circle. Within, like a year. I feel like I had so much confidence and, like, being able to, like, actually go out there and, like, do these things to where, like, now I'm on the flip side of, like, trying to, like, foster community and networking. So full, full circle. Dani Tan Full circle. It completely is amazing because now you're the ambassador for a city that has, I think you said 300 members. Jasmine Cousin Yeah, around that. Dani Tan Yeah, yeah, around that. Or something like that. And so Jasmine is putting on networking events essentially every single month to bring people together.

So she is the glue. So that's. That's pretty awesome. The other thing I was curious about, because I know you'd mentioned it before, it was the idea of like, having these, like, direct conversations or getting clarity through conversations. Do you feel like that is something that you kind of had to, like, work on over time or do you feel like that's something you had? I'm curious about that one. Jasmine Cousin I would say definitely work on over time. I. I feel like for me, especially within, like, work environment and stuff like that, like, I don't want to be the person who you don't like. So not to say that, like, I definitely. I wouldn't call myself a people pleaser because I will say what I need to say, but it's probably going to take me a while in order to say it.

And so I feel like over the past year and a half, as Danny knows, I've had to have some very difficult conversations to different people within companies and needing to have these really difficult conversations. And so I think from that there's also the part of being able to kind of key up those conversations or talk to those conversations or just literally have the conversation with somebody else in order to be like, okay, like, work through this, or, you know, maybe actually don't say that. Like, that might come off a little aggressive or, you know, ways to put things better or ways to navigate certain conversations. I think for me was very helpful because I think in the Past I might have gone about a conversation to where I will have gotten super long winded.

I have not gotten to the point. And now 30 minutes in, we've had a whole conversation about your new dog. And. And I just kept going. I didn't bring up the actual point of talking about a promotion or talking about, hey, I actually can't be on this project, or, you know, being able to, like, just like, advocate for myself. And so I feel like I had a good job of, like, you know, bringing up. Bringing up conversations that needed to happen, but when it came time to execute them and like, have them, that I would honestly talk to the person like three times forever, like, got out what I wanted. And so one. Shorting that timeline, just, like, have the conversation, but. But also having, like, know that you have, like, somebody in your corner to be like, yeah, like, you got this, like, whatever.

And then following up with like, I think the one, like one of the things, many things I love about Danny is that if you want accountability, she's going to give accountability. If you need follow up, you want encouragement, she's going to do that. So after these conversations, I would get like, a message like, okay, like, how did it go? Like, send me a voice message. Like, did you have the conversation? Did you say the things that you needed to say or what have you? And like, being able to, like, work through that was super helpful because I think it's one of those things to where kind of going into this was not wanting to be, especially the community, like, alone. And so kind of like not only Danny being there, but also the other women within the community.

Like, you got this. And you're like, yeah, I got this. So you kind of have this support system around you and. And even though, like, it's like one of those things, like, never these women in person, you still feel, like, bonded to them. Like, you're going through this together. Like, okay, we're going through these things. So, yeah, I definitely. I think I honestly answered the question, but then I kind of went on something else. Dani Tan No, you're good. You're all good. Jasmine Cousin You're all good. Dani Tan Yeah. I think, like, a big thing I always think about is that being direct does not mean that you're difficult. You can be directing, get clarity from that and have the conversation.

And so for you, I mean, there was like, this. There was one of these meetings that was like a really big thing that you were going to have, and you're like, okay, these are the points that I have. And I was like, these are all great. Points. Let's, like, narrow it down to the top three. And you're like, okay, that's good advice because I want to make sure that I'm, like, succinct and I have, like, X amount of minutes to have this conversation. I'm like, yeah, that makes sense. Jasmine Cousin I think at that time, I think I had, like, a page of notes. Like, I think I had, like, a page. I was like, okay, so here's my page and a half of all things I need to bring up. And you're like, I feel like these can be combined.

Dani Tan I was like, these are all great notes, but also I want to make sure they read them, they hear what you have to say. And so we're going to. We're going to cut it back. But it was. It was really good. Jasmine Cousin Was. Dani Tan It was very, very, very good. I'm also like, I was like, laughing, blushing, smiling, what you're saying about accountability. Because whenever I do these client interviews, that's the one thing that I hear that I don't even think I knew about myself. People are like, you keep us accountable. I'm like, okay, so I'm glad. Jasmine Cousin That's. Dani Tan That's super, super helpful. Well, then I'm curious because I feel like you've already talked about some, like, big moments.

There is a moment of you getting promoted at your current or, like, at your previous company and then getting your new job. I don't want to give all the moments away, but, like, you can either expand on those or there's anything else that's like, a highlight for you. Obviously you talked about going from, like, no networking to, like, the queen of networking, but yeah, any, like, big moments for you or any big shifts from what you said already. Jasmine Cousin Yeah. So I can talk about, like, the, like, promotion part of it. So where I was at my company kind of felt a little undefined. And I knew that I could bring more to the table. I had had experience, a breadth of experience in things around the E commerce world.

And I was like, I know I can bring more to the table. And so I had been advocating for myself for a promotion, but I will say probably not in, like, the. I don't. I don't want to say right way. I don't think there's necessarily right or wrong way, necessarily, but in a way that was, like, not effective and probably wasn't doing it to the right people or getting in front of the right people, front of the number of people and what have you. And realizing that I also needed to. Within the company, which we had Talked about quite as, like, advocating for yourself and being present and visible to the people outside of, like, your team. And so, like, I know on a personal level, it's like, oh, like, I'm friends person and whatever, but from like, a business perspective, like, no, I need you to know what I do.

So if you're in the room that, like, my name comes up, I need to keep my name in everybody's mouth. So, like, that point of, like, like, people need to know who I was and what I brought to the table. And I feel like I definitely was like, I went to like, oh, there's a bright personality in the office and all that kind of stuff, but didn't translate over into, like, I knew that people knew that I worked hard and that I did great work. But from the perspective of, you know, maybe I wasn't always speaking up in meetings, or maybe I wasn't always, like, putting myself out there and then actively doing that. And I will say, a little bit of also, like, improv did help with that, because I feel like I was so in my head to where the point I was kind of like, I'm just gonna say it, and then here we are.

And so kind of going through that, but then also with, like, Danny's help really kind of laying that out of, you know, me, I feel like one day I was like, you know something? I'm going to, like, go for this promotion and I'm going to tell them exactly why I need to be here, exactly what I want, exactly what needs to happen, exactly what I want to own and go into that headstrong and be like, okay, like, here's where I am. Because I feel like before, like, I was going into it and I don't know if necessarily for work or weren't listening or, you know, wasn't getting to the people it needed to be, but. But I'd actually been trying to advocate for myself get promotion for a year. And so it was one of those things to where it was like, I know where I want to be.

I know that I really want this promotion. How do we. How do we work through that and kind of get there? And I will say, like, it was one of those things. Just like, again, having fun in your corner and kind of backing up on all of those things, but also, like, just instilling the confidence to be like, you can have these difficult conversations. It's okay. Because the worst somebody can say is no. And if it's no and it continues to be a no, then we think about. We go on to the next thing. We work on what that looks like next. And so I think, like, without Dana, I would have been like, well, I tried again, and maybe it didn't happen, and maybe it did, but, like, I'm just going to be here, and I'm just going to be in my head about it and be like, all right, fifth time was not the charm to.

Whereas with Danny, it was more like, okay, like, if this happened, then, like, we already know next steps. We already know what's going to happen next. We already know, like, we already have this planned out where. If this happens. Where we're going, this. If this happens, and it's going to happen. And so, like, coming out of these conversations and then being like, okay, like, feeling more confident in myself, but also coming back and be like, yeah, I did it. I had this conversation. Well, like, here may have been, like, some sticking points, but, you know, like, this is what I'm. This is on my side, what I'm willing to, you know, like, compromise on. And this is my, like, hard line and things like that.

So I would say that was very helpful. And at the end of the day, I did end up getting promoted, which was great. And, you know, after advocating for myself and things like that, and I feel like the beginning part, even though Day and I were working together at this point, had, like, a year, I wasn't. I. I think there's some parts I was like, I wasn't kind of, like, telling her that. I was like, yeah, I'm gonna try to do this again. And I finally was just like, okay. Like, I feel like I was embarrassed. I was like, oh, my God, I'm gonna do this again. Again. And I feel like you're like, there's nothing to be embarrassed about. Like. Like, there's, you know, like. And I think it's like, that stigma of, like, breaking it down.

Like, it's okay to fail. It's okay to work through things, because it's not really failure, just working through it, and that's perfectly okay. And as a recovering perfectionist, so working on that bit. But, like, for me, it was just, like, it would just hit so hard, and then it would just be like, oh, like, there's. It's just me. And, like, I'm just gonna. I was gonna wall in the corner by myself to where it was like, we come out of these conversations, I'd be like, oh, my gosh, like, you would always let me get it out. And, like, what did. What did you learn from that? Like, did you had the conversation you brought everything you need to bring up and now you just wait. And I'm like, oh yeah, that is what happens next, isn't it?

Like that's okay. And I think you're really big on like rewarding yourself for the things that you're doing because right. I was, I'd always be like, what are you gonna do? And I'd be like, I don't know, watch tv. Like no, like if that's how you're gonna treat yourself, sure. But maybe like leave the apartment, you know, walk or like go get like a sweet treat or go get a coffee that. Or what have you like ever you want to like treat yourself because every little step is still a step forward and it's still an accomplishment. So for me it's like I always needed the big thing to happen in order to like reward myself to. Whereas like I would go to network event, I'd be like, Danny, I talked to one person.

Like go get yourself copy. Like go to yourself. Like you did that from zero to one. Like that's an accomplishment. Or like I walked in the door or like I set up the meeting with this person order to have or like I did like a double skip level meeting and whatever and I had like points ready. And so you know, going into that and like I, you know, even from like applying to jobs, it was kind of like, you know, you're gonna have to. It's gonna be some things maybe uncomfortable, but it's going to be okay. So. Dani Tan That was a big one. It's gonna be okay. I mean so many things from even the part of like the promotion, the promotion planning and us talking about that and taking it from different approaches and like who to involve and who to have conversations with.

It was, I'm always like in the, in the camp which we always talk about. I'm like, I rather you just like go into it head on and find out what the answer is from the person so you can move on to the next thing of like either way it's just like data is just feedback. They either say yes or they say no or they, these are the things that you need and then you have that information to inform you of like how you want to move to the next thing. Which I think just helps us like not try to play the scenarios out in our mind and get stuck being in the same exact place. Right. You're not going to change anything with the same information. You have to get new information and sometimes it's like just scary to ask and to receive it.

But to Realize that it's actually not going to be scary because whenever you get it, then you're like, okay, now I can, like, move on with my life and, like, figure out what you do. Like, maybe I'm staying, maybe I'm not. Like, it's. It's all good. And so I think that part definitely comes true. And I am into the reward system. So, like, for, like, is that working? I'd be like, go. Go take your out. Take yourself out to go do something. Because I think everyone forgets, like, you just. I think it's super important to, like, for everyone to remember, like, to think about is that we don't think we've achieved something until we've ultimately hit the goal. And, like, that is just, like, so unfair to ourselves.

Because I was saying this the other day. It's like, you can go into coaching and say, okay, I want to get a new job or I want to get a promotion. And so the tactical things that you're doing is, like, having conversations, networking, getting your resume ready, like, applying, like, all that stuff. But we completely forget that throughout that time period that we're doing it. We're also working through all of the fears, nervousness, insecurities, all the things that pop up in our minds that have been wired that way the entire time you've existed. And so we're also saying, like, hey, like, maybe that thought's a little bit unhelpful. Like, maybe we should start to work to rewire it so we can help support you to take action to things.

And so that's the thing that comes up, is that someone will be like, I. I keep trying to do the things and it's not working, or, like, I'm too scared to do the thing. So it doesn't mean it's about the thing or, like, necessarily have to, like, change the strategy or change the thing. It's actually like one, like an emotion or a feeling or a fear that we have to, like, sit and work with. That also comes into, like, the timeline of the things that you're doing. So I think that's. I'm always like, no, we have to reward all the things that are moving you towards it because we're, like, rewiring these things for you ultimately in the long run, which is going to be super, super helpful of, like, building your confidence, being able to build yourself trust, like, being like, wait, I can do the thing.

And. And that's going to teach yourself that, like, oh, when things get scary, this is how I can approach them differently next time. I can like move towards them versus try to like hide or avoid or run away from them. Jasmine Cousin Yeah, I definitely agree with that. And I think one of the other things from that is like, I've definitely taken that onto my own leadership. And so I've had direct reports, you know, during this time and everything like that, and I've had them before. But I think one of the things is that I have definitely taken more notice into just celebrating the small things, which I think anybody who's on a team with me could say so I was like, oh, like, you know, we just did this.

Like, no, we just did this. And that was great. And we need to celebrate that the fact like this happened because I feel like, you know, so many things are just like long term plans or long term projects or you know, you're planning, you know, especially like in the fashion industry, you're, you're, you start planning for what's going to happen on the site or marketing, whatever, so far in advance. By the time it happens, you're like, huh, it's done. And it's like, no, like it's done. Like we went through the last six, seven, eight months planning this entire thing out, you know, mocking it up, making sure that it would look beautiful, working with these different, like, you know, six different teams to make this work.

And it happened. That's like. But along the way there things to just. We got through this new pitch to back, people liked it, couple of changes, but 90% of it we're good. We just got to fix 10%. That's amazing. Like, you know, other teams had to pitch back the entire thing again, like we're doing good. Like, you know, those things along the way, which I think I've also gotten, you know, instilled that into like the way that, you know, I lead and the way that I try to approach like my teams and making sure that, you know, it's like this positive environment and experience and be a manager and develop people. Which I also think I've taken from you of like, you know, wanting to be, you know, the best manager that I can be.

And I think through like us like our development, right? Like, you know, working with me on my development that I've also been like, okay, I've taken some things and being like, okay, like actually I should work this my own leadership style and work this into people's development and things like that and making sure that they don't feel stuck. And if they do feel stuck, they can come to me because we built this trust. Excuse me, that we built this trust. And so I've definitely also taken that as well, which I think is amazing, to be able to be like, okay, like, these. This. This helped, or this helped. And how can I kind of also instill those things to make sure that I'm also a good manager?

Dani Tan So, yeah, I mean. I mean, it takes a lot of bricks to build a house. And so it's like you have to celebrate each one of those as they come. And I was going to ask you that question of, like, how do you feel like your leadership style has evolved? But you kind of already answered that. And so the question that I also want to say is, like, so when you got your promotion at your past company and then you got into your new role, like, what. What was, like, the feelings or thoughts going into your new role, and then we can kind of like, I'll. I'll leave you be. I'll let you get back to. Back to your day, which I know is, like, gonna start. Jasmine Cousin So I think thoughts going in. So there was, like, the one thing of, like, I just did get promoted.

And so I know that, as I just said, like, it was a big hurdle and trying to have these conversations. And then also, you know, going into this, like, new role also that's not inside of the, like, you know, fashion, retail space. And, like, that was a change as well. So, like, just off the bat, like, industry different, needing to think about things differently. And also, like, kind of going into. The people that I worked with were great and amazing and we were close and we knew how we all work together. We knew, you know, somebody was having a bad day. We knew, you know, just leave alone, like, they'll still do the thing. Just leave alone. Or, like, where people needed support and, you know, being able to also just have, like, candid conversations or whatever.

Like, we were close. We were comfortable and everything like that. So. So leaving. That was definitely one of those things to where I, you know, go through the motions. Like, I was sad. Like, I. But I was happy to have this, like, have this new role also sags. I was like, I'm leaving this team. That's really great. But knowing that it was time. Excuse me. Knowing that it was time. And I feel like it's like a mix of emotions when that happens, you know, Mix of emotions because I'd gotten promoted. And then a few months later, I got this new role and definitely just kind of like going back and forth inside of my brain because, you know, it's okay to feel so many things at once. And I feel like, that's where I was.

Because I also was nervous for starting the new job because obviously, I don't know these people. These people don't know me. You interviewed me, but you don't know everything that I might bring to the table or anything like that. So I was like, these people don't know me. These people know me so well. I've been at this company for a while. I was like, I know all these people. And so just kind of having that part, but then also, like, the role in itself and being like, okay, like, there's new aspects to this. Like, you know, like, I know what I'm doing here. Will I know what I'm doing at this new role. Will I, you know, kind of bounce that back? And I think one day, one thing Daniel was like, of course you can, like, duh.

Like, they wouldn't have hired you otherwise. Like, like, this is where you are, and you are great at this. You know, you're great at this. And so just, like, go into it with, like, this, you know, confidence and go into it with, like, it's okay to be nervous, because who wouldn't be nervous when you've been somewhere for years and then going to this new space? And so I think it was, like, kind of like also working through those emotions and transparently, the process for the new job went very fast. And so I think, you know, from the perspective of other hiring things that have happened in the past, you're like, okay, I've been interviewing for three, four months. Like, is this going to happen?

Whatever? And this was very, very quick. I think it was, which I do applaud because I think more companies should get going, go and get it done. I think in total, from first reach to, like, hiring, I think it may have been 30 days, maybe 35. And so it was kind of like feeling like I need to, like, wrap it up or, you know, like, kind of like anticipating, like, you know, you know, kind of like the slow weave down or whatever, anything like that. Just kind of like, okay, like, goodbye. But, like, you know, whatever. But it is also interesting, fun fact. This is the first job that I've gotten where I'm in the same city in the same state, honestly. So also that part of, like, leaving this job, but also knowing that, like, I made had some really good relationships and didn't leave in a negative way.

And so, you know, having those. Still having those relationships and still being able to, like, still talk to people, some of them are, like, my really good friends and stuff like that. And knowing that that is still going to exist even through this new job has also been very different than what's happened before. So I'm just like, all right, I'm leaving. But very different than has before to where I think that also kind of helped in, like, the, you know, transition process and stuff like that. And I think coming into the new role also just kind of like level setting myself and being like, you don't have to do everything off the bat. You work here, lay out the plan. You don't have to know everything.

You don't have to. Everything off the bat, put together what you need to know, like, what you need to know what the important key things are and level setting and prioritizing the rest of it. Because I am a person who wants to know everything, wants to involve everything, and was able to work on things. And I'm just going to be enthusiastic about these things, but needing to, you know, going from place where you do know, you do know what you, you know, you do know all the ins and outs and things like that, and now getting to go, you know, something new, and you need to kind of work through that, that I'm not going to know everything. I shouldn't know everything. I just started so less than two months ago.

And so it's kind of like you shouldn't. But embrace it and continue to learn and continue to kind of like work through that. Like, you know, some days I'm still nervous, some days I'm still like, oh, my gosh, like, I'm here and, you know, like, this is something new, but also embracing that. And I, I think it's totally fine, like, there. You don't have to. I mean, for me, it's kind of like you don't have to feel a hundred percent all the time. That's fine. Former perfectionism going on here. So, like, you know, like 100 all the time. And that's okay. And needing to know that's okay in this new role because, you know, I don't know. And it is a new industry. So I'm also looking at different competitors, different, different sets of things where I'm just like, oh, I need to go, like, you know, go test this out, or I need to go like, look at this.

And, you know, how does, how does, how does this, you know, are they going to come out with a new bike? You know, whatever. And so very different, like, oh, what's the color of this season? Like, oh, my God. Very different in that aspect to where it's kind of like, yeah, no more colors. Of the season. But no more trends. But there is still trends within fitness. Absolutely. So just need to, you know, use the baseline and go from there. Which, you know, I think which we, we've talked about, it's like, you know, yes, the skills are the foundation and you can take those skills everywhere. And we talked about this where I was like, I don't know if I could leave fashion, retail. I loved the space and I was like, I don't know if I'll ever want to leave.

But I always talked about it would take like the right opportunity for that to happen. And yeah, that's kind of what happened. So it's kind of a bit of a ramble there. Dani Tan But no, it's all good. Jasmine Cousin I woke up with the coffee. Dani Tan Now she's ready, she's ready. No, that's all good insight though because I think the biggest thing is that your industry change. And I think for and for all like the merch e commerce girlies that are listening to this. Anybody? I think there's like such a big fear to leave merchandising. It's like it's, I can't go like, how can I apply these things? And I think my biggest thing is always like folks who work in merchandising, retail, e commerce, like you are an entrepreneur because you're learning how to market, you're learning how to run inventory, you're learning how to sell, you're learning how to do all these things.

And I feel like I don't know what it is in the water that they're kind of like not allowing us to see that. But you have such strong skill sets, more than average, I'm not going to say other roles. So there's so much that you can bring to anything else. And so with the industry shift, I think it was like very nerve wracking, like, can I do this? And I was like, no. I have seen firsthand, like based off the skills and the things that you've learned and you know that it is possible. And so it is scary. And so it's funny because I feel like year one of you being in the group program, the pit of motion community was about like you getting this internal promotion, like you were saying, like, I didn't want to at first.

I wanted to, you know, I just didn't know how to navigate thing. I want to go for it again. And then when we did, I was like, you're allowed to do that. Fine. And then that came to be, which is great. And then like a few times like whatever a Few months later, you getting into this new role and going into a new industry. So it's just like a really mark of now for, like, year two. Our conversations are different. Our conversations about, like, you are new in a role, you're new in industry, and you don't have to do everything. Like, how do we plan out, how you build that out for yourself when you're in a new role? And so that's, like, what that support looks like now. So I appreciate you so much for sharing all of this.

And so the last thing I'll ask you as we wrap up is, like, if someone is considering or thinking about coaching, like, what would you say to them? Like, what would what, like, advice or insight would you give them? Jasmine Cousin Yeah, I think off the bat and this. I don't know, maybe directing, I was like, just do it. Just do it. Have the call. Have the. Have the intro call. I think you don't know, and you don't know what you don't know. And so I think for me is, like, I knew that I wanted a career coach. Like, I was like, this is the next step. I can't do this by myself. I tried. I was like, this is. I'm going around in circles and spinning. But I think it's like, have the intro call, and if that means, you know, multiple people, you have to, you know, have intro calls, whatever, to find the person that works for you, I think it's like one of those things, like, kind of like finding a therapist.

Like, you're gonna be talking to this person every single week for, like, you know, a year or more. And so you need to be able to have that connection and, you know, and being able to find the person that fits for you. And then I would also say, like, going into it, like, I think for me, like, when we talked about goals initially, like, that was the part that kind of stuck for me. I was like, I know that I want to do this in, like, 10 years and like, that. But I think I was just kind of like, even from the first calls, like, okay, let's break that down. Like, how do we get there? And so I think it's one of those things, like, you don't have to have your goals defined going into career coaching.

Like, maybe broadly, you're like, I want to do this, or I feel this. I mean, I went into it just being like, I feel so stuck. And these are. This is what I think I want to do. But being able to, like, work on those goals and define them, like, you don't have to know what that necessarily goal is off the bat or knowing, you know, there's a reason why you. You sought out career coaching so or something idea that you've had. And I would just say like, you know, maybe if the like Danny has like the podcast and that you had like LinkedIn series and things like that, like even like looking at the resources that they have off of the bat, like, and if that's somebody who you would want to work with or they like, you know, are talking about conversations or you're like, yeah, like that, that resonates with me and kind of like starting and going from there.

And so I would definitely say that. And yeah, I think just like off the bat kind of like that that beginning part can be difficult to even be like, yeah, I need guidance through this and yeah, just like needing guidance through it. So yeah, I would say that and I would say it's honestly like one of the best decisions that I've made. Like, and being able to like work with Danny and being able to really just like one have somebody there has me advocate and Danny has so many like things that you can kind of like self work through, work through together and like different like exercises and things like that to where I was like, no, I should actually write this down and like things that go back in reference.

And so I think that, you know, kind of like also like coaching style is important and so like, you know, having that also align. And so yeah, I think that. And I think from those initial conversation or conversations, like, you'll know pretty, you'll know pretty quickly. And yeah, I think that's what I have on that bit. But I say just do it. Just go for it, start it, do it, start the process. And it's okay if it's not right now. I think that's the other thing is like, just because you have these conversations doesn't mean that like tomorrow I, you know, we need to start this. You know, I think things, you know, over time, like, you're like, okay, I have these conversations, but this isn't the right time.

Or I had these conversations. Maybe I need three months or six months or I'm in the middle of something really big at work and I won't be able to like, dedicate any time or something like that or carve it out or whatever, because it is it. I. I will say it was work. Like, it was like, I was like, you just like have your career coaching time set on your calendar. And I think, yeah, meaning that actually block times, they're like, I Didn't do it. Yeah, I was like I said. But it's like, okay, now I need to set, like, time or whatever. And I think working through that with somebody is, like, really helpful. So I say, you know, whether it's right time or not, just have those conversations and then you can come back to it.

Dani Tan Yeah, that's all really, really good advice. And I completely agree. It's not like one person is the perfect person for coaching. And so you should definitely, like, see what resources they have available, get a feel for them. Like they have whatever email, newsletter, podcast, workshop, like, just get an idea for who they are and then, like, with them and see how that kind of sits and resonates. And just knowing that, like, just because you have an intro call doesn't mean you have to commit to it. You just get to meet the person and get an idea for it. And I think that part is really important because it kind of like, gives you more, like, feedback or data or information to help you decide what to decision you want to do.

And so it kind of just is like that step forward to making change and working towards what it is you want to work towards versus, like, staying in, like, the sameness, which leads us to feeling like we're in the stuckness. So. Oh, my gosh, Jasmine, thank you so, so many, so many beautiful, amazing things in here, and it's always a joy. So I really appreciate having you and thank you so much. Is there anything else you want to share before I close this up? Jasmine Cousin Not really. I feel like I said a lot, but no, it was really great to come on today and I really appreciate it. And it was funny because I feel like after, like, the approach in the job, I was like. I was like, I feel like this is a podcast episode and now it's coming to fruition, so which is really great.

And yeah, that's pretty much all it. And yeah, appreciate, like, all the work we've done together. And I'm in the second year of the program and it's been great and just like, meeting, you know, new women and it really is like our little, like, community. And yeah, that's. That's really all I got. Dani Tan That's amazing. Thank you so much. So thank you everyone for listening and for getting to hear Jasmine's story. com that's-A N I T A N dot com. You can learn more. But I will be here. And thank you so much.