First Time Experiences: Travel Stories and Laughing Through Hardships with Lavinia Grosanu and Asher Wright

Hustle Culture Recovery: A Live As If Podcast

Have you ever taken a leap into the unknown? In this episode, alongside Asher and Lavinia, I’m sharing one of the most transformative firsts of my life: moving to Costa Rica in 2020. What started as a three-week vacation turned into a five-month adventure, my first solo experience away from family, and the beginning of a life I never imagined.

This wasn’t just a physical move—it was a mindset shift. At 38, I had spent my life grinding, raising kids, and doing what society told me was “normal.” But Costa Rica taught me the power of slowing down, embracing rest, and making bold decisions. Since then, I’ve built a home there, started a luxury Radical Rest Retreat, and discovered that when you lean into first-time experiences, the world opens up in ways you can’t predict.

In this episode, I talk about:

• The courage it takes to embrace firsts, especially when they feel uncomfortable.
• How rest isn’t just a pause—it’s a powerful tool for growth and clarity in life and business.
• Building real estate projects internationally and navigating cultural differences.
• Why stepping out of your comfort zone triggers more firsts and builds a muscle for bravery.
• My first-ever Radical Rest Retreat in Costa Rica—what it offers and why I created it.

Through my story and my co-hosts’ journeys, we explore how first-time experiences—from climbing Kilimanjaro to scuba diving to taking a solo trip—can teach you to live fully, be present, and thrive. If you’ve ever felt stuck or hesitant to try something new, this episode is your sign to take that leap.

Stay until the end—I’m sharing all the details about my Radical Rest Retreat in Costa Rica, complete with private planes, a beachfront stay, and a curated experience of rest, renewal, and reflection.

If this resonates with you, subscribe to my channel for more personal stories and business insights. Hit the like button if you’re ready to embrace your own first-time experiences, and drop a comment sharing one bold first you’ve taken—or one you’re planning. Follow me on Instagram @coachshaleced for updates, or visit my website www.liveasif.co to learn more about the Radical Rest Retreat.