In this episode of Thriving in Intersectionality, host Lola Adeyemo welcomes Maryam Habashi, a transformational business development coach with nearly three decades of professional experiences across corporate America, sales leadershiphip roles and entrepreneurship. As the founder of INFUSE system, Maryam specializes in implementing systems that drive measurable growth for top producers, team leaders, and executives across the U.S. and Canada.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How diversity creates competitive advantages in business
Strategies for career advancement in male-dominated industries
The truth about corporate careers versus entrepreneurship
Using behavioral profiling to improve professional relationships
The four freedoms that define true success

The Power of Intersectionality
Born in Tehran, Iran, Maryam brings a unique perspective as a Middle Eastern woman who speaks Farsi and Spanish. She explains how diverse teams reach broader markets and solve problems more effectively. While advocating for inclusive recruiting, she emphasizes the importance of hiring qualified candidates rather than filling quotas.
Navigating Career Growth in Corporate America
In the male-dominated insurance and investment industry, Maryam made history in her company by age 37 and earned her first million by 42. When facing gender-based obstacles, she focused on measurable performance, letting results speak for themselves. Her philosophy: "I accepted that I might need to work harder... and I deserve it."
Understanding Yourself Through Behavioral Profiling
As a certified DISC assessment coach, Maryam helps professionals understand their natural tendencies and communication styles. She challenges the golden rule, suggesting instead: "Treat people the way they want to be treated, lead people the way they want to be led." This requires self-awareness and adaptability.
Corporate vs. Entrepreneurship: Breaking False Dichotomies
Maryam counters the myth that entrepreneurship is superior to corporate employment. "I'm tired of hearing that the corporate world is bad," she states. Drawing from experience in both worlds, she emphasizes finding the environment where you'll personally thrive long-term, whether that's corporate stability or entrepreneurial freedom.
How Do you Define Success?
Maryam shares the definition of success through four essential freedom lens:

Freedom of Time - Managing your schedule while prioritizing health and relationships
Freedom of Money - Financial flexibility with uncapped earning potential
Freedom of Mission - Pursuing your purpose and utilizing your unique gifts
Freedom of Relationship - Working with people you want to serve

She emphasizes that these freedoms remain inaccessible to those trapped in a victim mentality or self-doubt. "We're in a country where you could be whatever you are and be amazing at it."
Resources from Maryam
Maryam offers several resources for listeners:

Quarterly Virtual Educational Sessions on sales, leadership, and mindset
Free Initial Business Strategy Session to discuss your goals and challenges
INFUSE System Coaching Programs with access to a private membership site featuring customized materials and weekly live calls
Wheel of Life Worksheet for those scheduling an initial session, helping you identify areas you're thriving in, struggling with, and opportunities for growth

Connect: 
Connect with Maryam Habashi on Linkedin or visit www.infusesystem.com
Connect with Host Lola Adeyemo: LinkedIn Profile
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