What happens when you stop trying to fit into a role and start leading as your whole self, story, scars, joy, and all?
In this episode of She Is a Leader, I’m joined by Claudia Sandoval, writer, producer, chef and storyteller, for a deeply honest conversation about identity, self trust, and what it really means to be seen.
Claudia shares her journey beyond the title of “Chef Claudia”, from winning MasterChef to navigating health scares, grief, single motherhood, and the quiet identity crisis that can happen when success moves faster than self reflection. We talk about shedding labels, rebuilding a relationship with your body and your voice, and why storytelling became her way back to herself.
This conversation is about leadership rooted in humanity. About food as connection. About honoring your past without letting it define you. And about choosing compassion, for yourself first, and then for the world around you.
If you’ve ever questioned your right to take up space, felt trapped by a version of yourself you outgrew, or wondered how to lead without abandoning who you are, this episode will stay with you.
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DISCLAIMER:
This podcast is sponsored by AskYvi.com. Some links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.
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🌟 Meet Claudia Sandoval:
Substack: https://substack.com/@chefclaudia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefclaudiasandoval/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-sandoval-93a10b20/
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🌟Connect with Yvi
https://instagram.com/askyvi
https://www.facebook.com/AskYvi/
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🏆 Highlights 🏆
00:00 | Introduction
🌟Connect with Yvi
https://instagram.com/askyvi
https://www.facebook.com/AskYvi/
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🏆 Highlights 🏆
00:00 | Introduction
02:00 | Who Claudia Sandoval really is
06:20 | Imposter syndrome and negative self talk
10:50 | Owning your story without shame
13:10 | Why women struggle to receive compliments
18:45 | Grief, healing, and slowing down
23:45 | Letting go of the “Chef Claudia” identity
31:00 | Food as memory and connection
34:00 | What Claudia is building next
39:30 | Why everyone’s story matters
42:00 | Leading with love instead of fear
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