Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 157, Phyllis Kurlander Costanza shares her story of making mistakes, dusting herself off, and learning to overcome anything. From a young age, Phyllis had a great sense of responsibility and independence. She talks about cleaning houses with her best friend at only five years old for a nickel, which helped spark her entrepreneurial goals. And, Phyllis tells the story of when she learned to have thick skin when handing out political flyers in “enemy territory”. Don’t miss stories from Phyllis’ work as an entrepreneur and around the world in private and nonprofit sectors, including recognizing in government “your currency is your influence”, the tough conversation when she had to fire somebody for the first time, and leaving a dream job in Albany working for the Governor. She shares insights into the different sector needs and how to create win-win collaboration, including how she managed to get one chance from UBS that led to growing their Optimus Foundation from $10 to $200 million. Phyllis also goes in depth about her battle with cancer. She shows gratitude for her family, and shares the ways they supported her during this long endeavor. Phyllis talks about her company, OutcomesX, and how she is helping Ukraine, where she previously spent time living, by supporting children and families in Ukraine and those that have fled. She is focused on improving mental health and learning outcomes of children. Phyllis inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week, from Nelson Mandela: “History will judge us by the difference we make in the everyday lives of our children.”
