046 From Engineer to Empowering Coach: Sairan Aqrawi’s Remarkable Reinvention

In this episode, we are joined by Sairan Aqrawi as she shares her remarkable journey from Kurdish immigrant to successful business coach and mentor. After initially struggling to adapt to life in the US, Sairan discovered her true calling in coaching and personal development, transitioning from a decades-long engineering career. She emphasizes the importance of clarity, focus, and grit when pursuing entrepreneurial goals, drawing parallels between parenting and leading teams. Sairan’s story underscores the value of progress over perfection, and how setbacks can ultimately shape one’s path to success. Whether you’re a young professional or an experienced entrepreneur, Sairan’s advice on identifying your “hidden gems” and not being afraid to pivot will inspire you to reach new heights.

Connect with Sairan on LinkedIn or Instagram for a free coaching consultation.

This week on Traversing Entrepreneurship:

[0:00 – 2:00] Introduction to Sairan Akrawi and her background as a Kurdish immigrant to the US

[2:00 – 6:00] Sairan’s initial struggles and challenges adapting to life in America, and the importance of having the right mindset

[6:00 – 11:00] Sairan’s transition from engineering to coaching and mentoring, discovering her “hidden gem” talents

[11:00 – 16:00] The pivotal moment when Sairan decided to pursue coaching over continuing her PhD program

[16:00 – 21:00] Sairan’s perspective on progress over perfection, and the value of diverse experiences

[21:00 – 26:00] Advice for young professionals and entrepreneurs: clarity, focus, and grit

[26:00 – 31:00] The importance of self-belief, competence, and not being your own worst critic

[31:00 – 36:00] Sairan’s tips on handling disappointments and setbacks as an entrepreneur

[36:00 – 41:00] Parallels between parenting and leading teams, the power of leading by example

[41:00 – 47:00] Sairan’s offer of free coaching consultations, and Derek’s introduction of his own business

Connect with Sairan:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sairan-aqrawi-m-sc-993bb61a3
Email: sairan28@gmail.com

About TreMonte and Traversing Entrepreneurship Podcast

Traversing Entrepreneurship is a show for and about business owners in Traverse City, Michigan and beyond. In each episode, co-hosts Derek Dall’Olmo and Melissa Niedzielski sit down with local business owners and the professionals who serve them to talk about business building, life, money, taxes, family — and all the ups and downs that come with doing something different. Join us to hear their stories and lessons learned — and to get inspired about what might be possible in your own business. 

Derek is the owner of TreMonte Financial Consultants, LLC and TreMonte TreMonte Tax Solutions, LLC (together referred to as “TreMonte”). TreMonte works with business owners and entrepreneurs to develop a proactive tax strategy that maximizes after-tax profits. It is TreMonte’s goal to bridge the gap between Financial Advisors and Accountants by serving as CFO to their clients.

This show is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as personalized financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You should always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Please email Derek Dall’Olmo at derek@tremontefinancial.com with questions and comments or to schedule a one-on-one conversation.

TreMonte Facebook Page | Follow Derek on LinkedIn | Follow Melissa on LinkedIn

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