Grow Through What You Go Through with Liz Carlson

Episode Summary:

In this heartfelt and energizing episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka sits down with Liz Carlson, a communication strategist, professor, public speaker, and advocate for neurodivergent individuals. With raw honesty, Liz shares her journey through personal challenges and professional evolution, revealing how she turns adversity into purpose, both at home and in the workplace.

Meet Liz Carlson

Liz Carlson is a dynamic force committed to human connection, growth, and authenticity. A seasoned corporate leader and MBA professor in Sioux Falls, she balances her professional calling with raising three neurodivergent children and supporting her husband through illness. Her experiences fuel her mission to bring light into the workplace through empathy, strategy, and sincere communication.

The Path to Communication Strategy

Liz’s transition from corporate leadership to higher education—and ultimately to communication strategy—was a gradual yet purposeful one. While teaching, her practical insights and engaging presence led to requests for workplace trainings and talks. With each "yes," Liz leaned into what energized her: sharing stories and empowering others through meaningful dialogue.

Merging Personal Experience with Professional Insight

Parenting neurodivergent children changed Liz’s lens on leadership. She discovered that what works at home—grace, presence, patience—also transforms workplaces. Her message is clear: when we understand and support neurodiversity, we create environments where everyone can thrive.

Breaking Free from Expectations

Liz discusses “cutting the leashes” of societal expectations, particularly for women. She challenges the binary notion that women must choose between motherhood and professional success, advocating instead for integration and authenticity. Her lived experiences inform her leadership and communication principles, blending presence and purpose.

Grace, Presence, and Priorities

Burnout is real, especially for high-achieving women. Liz opens up about hitting her personal limits and realizing that grace—not hustle—is essential. Rest isn’t laziness; it’s preparation. Presence is power. And understanding where “you end and others begin” brings clarity and joy to both work and home.

Three Tools to Elevate Workplace Connection

1. Listen to Learn – Enter every conversation with curiosity and no agenda beyond learning.
2. Be Intentional – Speak and write with purpose. Communicate clearly, concisely, and kindly.
3. Lead with Kindness – Choose inclusive, respectful language. Your tone builds trust and connection.

How Liz Lives a Fantastic Life

Liz believes we must "grow through what we go through." She views life’s challenges as opportunities for expansion, learning, and deeper human connection. And above all, she reminds us to have fun—to celebrate the belly laughs, the hugs, and the little joys of every day.

Connect with Liz Carlson:

🌐 Website: www.liz-carlson.com

🔗 LinkedIn: Liz Carlson

📺 YouTube: Liz Carlson Professional Development

📸 Instagram: Coming soon!

Connect with Dr. Allen Lycka:

🌐 www.drallenlycka.com

💌 Sign up for his Golden Pearls newsletter and discover weekly inspiration to live your most fantastic life.

BIO:

Liz is a communication strategist, a public speaker, business writer, college professor and a champion for people. Liz’s mission is to shine light in the workplace through connection, support and growth. This mission is fueled by the challenges of raising 3 neurodivergent children, battling illness and determination to follow her heart not just at home, but in the workplace.

Social Media:

Website: lizcarlsonpro@gmail.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lizcarlsonprofdev (currently getting updated, will be ready by 4/1

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-carlson-1599baa/