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Finding My Authentic Self in Corporate America
For Stephanie Battaglino, her lifelong journey of self-discovery closely paralleled her daily grind of trudging up the corporate ladder. Amidst the successes and failures of working as a male in the corporate world, Stephanie finally realized that the only path to career fulfillment was to embrace her true self once and for all. That it resulted in her becoming the first officer in the history of New York Life to come out on the job as transgender is not surprising. What was surprising was her abrupt introduction to that generations-old nemesis of working women everywhere, the Glass Ceiling. What she quickly realized was that her embrace of her authentic self came with a price: the loss of male privilege.
Reflections from Both Sides of the Glass Ceiling: Finding My Authentic Self in Corporate America is part memoir, part cautionary tale of what it is like to experience a career on both sides of the gender divide. Stephanie’s unique and very personal experience provides a powerful trailblazing story of inspiration, self-discovery, and triumph – for ALL women.
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Q&A
When and where do you prefer to write?
I generally write in my home office, which has a nice view out over my front patio. My best times for writing are during the day when my mind is fresh. Although, that said, I have had some bursts of inspiration in the evening.
Do you have a certain ritual?
I do like to have soft instrumental – usually piano jazz music – playing while I write. I keep earbuds in while I’m writing.
Do you like a drink or something to nibble on while you write?
Nope. Just water to stay hydrated. I live in the desert, so it’s very arid.
Do you consider writing a different genre or do you already do that?
Not at this time. I have far too many stories from my journey to my true self to share with the world.
What is/are your favourite book(s)?
The Tales of The City series by Armistead Maupin are wonderful. I am currently reading Brandi Carlile’s memoir Broken Horses – it’s an amazing read.
Do you sometimes base your characters on people you know?
Not at the moment. The real-life stories I share in my book don’t require me to make anything up!
If you had the chance to co-write a book. Whom would it be with?
With my spiritual director, Sr. Luisa Derouen. Her ministry to the transgender community, and her positive influence in my life is an inspiration.
Do you take a (digital) notebook everywhere in order to write down ideas that pop up?
Nah. I’m old school: I write notes to myself on whatever scrap of paper, chewing gum wrapper or used napkin is around me at the time!
If you should travel to a foreign country to do research, which one would you chose and why?
I would go to the country of my ancestry, Italy. The origins of my family – at least according to Ancestry.com! – are in the Amalfi coast area. I can easily see myself writing on a sun-washed terrazza in a place like Sorrento overlooking the blue waters of the Mediterranean.
Thank you, Stephanie Battaglino and Pump Up Your Book
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About the author
As the founder and owner of Follow Your Heart, LLC (www.StephanieBattaglino.com) Stephanie is an internationally recognized speaker, workshop presenter, trainer, author and workplace diversity & inclusion consultant. She currently sits on the Board of PFLAG National and is the Chair of their Business Advisory Council.
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Author Links
Website: https://stephaniebattaglino.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StephanieFYH
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followyourheartllc
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Book Links
B for Bookreview 