Chapter 1: Breaking Barriers

I was raised in a conservative environment where my career options as a woman seemed severely restricted. The choices presented to me were limited to becoming a teacher, nurse, or secretary. If I pursued higher education, it was primarily to find a husband, with education coming second. The underlying message was that if I couldn't secure a partner to support me, I would have to rely on those three professions.

Yet, deep within me, a voice insisted, "There's more for me," which fueled feelings of confusion and rebelliousness.

Throughout my formative years, I endured sexual abuse, neglect, and various forms of physical and emotional trauma. Despite this, that persistent voice echoed, "There's more for me."

Faced with few options and burdened by emotional scars, I began using drugs at the age of 15. My substance abuse escalated, ultimately leading to my dropping out of school at 17. I took my GED exam with a vial of cocaine hidden in my pocket and what many would consider a bleak future ahead of me. I started working in restaurants, but soon progressed to heroin and eventually resorted to prostitution. Still, the voice inside me cried out, "There's more for me."

After entering rehab, I navigated through homelessness and sobriety, making mistakes along the way but holding onto the belief that I could change. I eventually secured an apartment and another job in the food industry. After three years, I landed a position as a receptionist at an advertising agency, earning a salary of $23,000 a year—more than I had ever made before. The voice roared, "There's more for me," pushing me to seek opportunities to assist the media buyers, which eventually led to my promotion.

Over the next five years, I ascended the corporate ladder, though fear kept me from exploring opportunities elsewhere. I became the lead Client Service representative for national campaigns at a radio advertising agency. One day, my boss encouraged someone to learn search engine marketing (SEM). Determined, I purchased a "SEM for Dummies" book and successfully ran my first campaign on Yahoo for Cingular. Once again, the voice proclaimed, "There's more for me."

Filled with trepidation yet fueled by hope, I applied for numerous jobs across Houston. I was hired at a recruitment advertising agency, achieving a salary of $35,000—entirely on my own merit. In this small company, I demonstrated my strengths while working on campaigns for Subway and Blue Cross. Three years later, that voice became louder than ever, insisting, "There's more for me." At 29, I thought I might be too old for new ventures, believing this was the peak of my career.

Then, a pivotal meeting occurred when Yahoo approached our agency about recruitment ads for the Army. Unbeknownst to me, this meeting would alter the course of my life. A few weeks later, the man I met reached out, offering me an interview for a role he believed I was perfect for in New York City. Despite my anxiety and self-doubt, I heard the voice once again, "There's something more for me."

Just six weeks later, I found myself in New York City, embarking on a new chapter at a major online publisher. My career began to thrive; I received promotions and managed a small team. However, when the recession struck and I faced personal loss with my brother's passing, I felt trapped. Yet, the voice returned, reminding me, "There is more for me."

Amidst the challenges, I knew it wasn't wise to seek new employment during such difficult economic times, but I pursued my desire for change. I relocated to Maine, craving tranquility, and became the Marketing Director at a financial institution. This role allowed me to heal from my grief while gaining insights into client-side marketing.

As I healed, I began to feel unchallenged, leading me to move back to New York City, working remotely. Yet again, that voice called out, "I know there is more for me." Through a friend's connection, I landed a job at my first startup, where I earned a six-figure salary. After five years, I advanced to a director role, successfully managing my team, but the voice continued to echo in my mind.

Reflecting on my journey, I realize I could have easily settled for a life as a receptionist, a path that seemed predetermined for me. However, I chose to listen to that inner voice, knowing there was more for me to achieve. I committed myself to thrive, and I did everything in my power to make it happen.

Today, I hold the position of Vice President at another startup, earning over $200,000 a year. I have always trusted my instincts and never ignored the voice within me. Although challenges and mistakes will always be part of life, it's crucial to listen to that voice that resonates from your very soul. Never ignore it and never give up on yourself.

In this insightful discussion, industry leaders examine whether tech companies should take a proactive role in addressing smartphone addiction, exploring the responsibilities they hold towards their users.

Chapter 2: Transformation Through Adversity

This compelling video chronicles the inspiring journey of Ken Barun, who transformed from a drug addict to the Vice President of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, highlighting the power of resilience and redemption.