In this deeply human and illuminating conversation, we sit down with vicki abadesco!, a visionary entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, speaker, coach, and mentor whose life’s work centers on cultivating leadership from the inside out.
vicki! shares how true leadership begins with our inner world—how empathy, clarity, and self-connection shape the way we navigate conflict, build relationships, and create meaningful change. Together, we explore the role of the inner child in moments of tension and misunderstanding, and how tending to our earliest wounds can transform them into strengths that support courageous, purposeful living.
As the co-founder of Soul Shoppe, vicki! has helped bring empathy-building and conflict-resolution practices into elementary schools across the country. Since 2001, Soul Shoppe has reached over one million students, nurturing emotional intelligence, peacemaking skills, and inclusive communities—one classroom at a time. Through this work, and her extensive experience facilitating teams, circles, and leadership spaces, Vicki! has gained profound insight into what people truly need to grow, thrive, and lead with integrity and heart.
Raised in San Francisco as a proud American-born Filipina, vicki!’s leadership is shaped by lived experience, ancestral wisdom, and a lifelong journey of healing and transformation. Everything she offers—workshops, trainings, circles, and coaching—is grounded in the belief that when we deepen our relationship with ourselves, we unlock the ability to create lasting change in our communities and in the world.
This episode is an invitation to slow down, listen inward, and rediscover how connection—within ourselves and with others—can turn conflict into a powerful pathway for growth.
Learn more about vicki!’s work at:
https://www.vickiabadesco.com
Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.
