
Narrow Spaces with Holly Mcllwain
In a world chasing "work-life balance," NarrowSpaces confronts a deeper truth: the space between work and life isn’t always wide. It’s narrow—and that’s where the real leadership happens.
Hosted by Holly McIlwain, leadership coach, corporate culture strategist, and founder of the Brave Women Project, this podcast dives into the high-pressure spaces where professionals live, lead, and grow. With each episode, Holly interviews executives, entrepreneurs, and experts from across the country—uncovering hard-earned wisdom, actionable tools, and authentic stories of navigating the tension between purpose and performance.
Whether you're a seasoned leader, a working parent, a team builder, or someone trying to lead without losing yourself, NarrowSpaces gives you the mindset, language, and strategies to thrive. From mastering team dynamics to restoring your energy and values, Holly brings clarity to the chaos.
Leadership podcast, women in leadership, work-life integration, executive coaching, corporate culture, employee engagement, career development, personal growth, CliftonStrengths, DISC assessments, manager tips, burnout prevention, emotional intelligence, podcast for working professionals
📅 New episodes drop every Monday.
💡 Learn more at www.narrowspaces.com
Narrow Spaces with Holly Mcllwain
Shuck and Jive with Sigi Loya
Episode Title: Shuck and Jive
Release Date: September 29
Host: Holly McIlwain
Guest: Sigi Loya
Episode Summary: In this vibrant episode of the NarrowSpaces Show, host Holly engages in a lively conversation with Sigi Loya, a multifaceted entrepreneur, musician, and the founder of a holistic medical practice. Known for his infectious motto, "You've got to Shuck and Jive," Sigi shares his eclectic journey from corporate America to business ownership, emphasizing the importance of work-life integration and personal growth. With a diverse background in real estate finance, coaching, and performing music, Sigi offers invaluable insights into the complexities of leadership and entrepreneurship, all while infusing the conversation with his passion for performance.
Guest Bio: Sigi Loya is the dynamic owner of The Alternative Board in Pittsburgh, where he empowers forward-thinking business owners to boost profitability and enhance their lives through local business advisory boards, private coaching, and strategic services. A proud graduate of the University of Notre Dame with a degree in Business Administration – Marketing, Sigi began his career in the employee benefits sector in Chicago. Over the years, he transitioned from working with major insurance firms to becoming a consultant for large organizations, eventually founding his own commercial and residential mortgage firm after moving to Pittsburgh.
In 2007, Sigi and his wife opened The Hormone Center, a holistic medical practice that continues to thrive today. With a wealth of experience as both a TAB Member and a coach/facilitator, Sigi brings a unique perspective to business leadership. He is also a passionate musician who believes in the power of performance to connect and inspire. Originally from Brownsville, Texas, Sigi's commitment to personal growth and joy makes him a compelling voice in entrepreneurship and leadership.
Connect with Sigi:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sigi-loya/
The Alternative Board Pittsburgh: www.TAB-Pittsburgh.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tabpgh/
Go Lattitude: https://golattitude.com
Key Highlights:
Diverse Background: Sigi discusses his transition from working with major insurance firms to becoming a consultant for large organizations. His journey led him to establish his own mortgage firm and eventually launch a holistic medical practice with his wife in 2007.
The Role of Music: As a musician, Sigi draws parallels between performing music and leading a team. He emphasizes that both require confidence, connection, and the ability to engage others. Performing allows him to bring joy to audiences, a principle he applies to his leadership style.
Work-Life Integration: Sigi believes in the importance of integrating personal passions with professional responsibilities. He encourages others to bring their true selves to work, stating, “If you have to be somebody that you're not, then you should quit.”
Learning from Mistakes: Sigi advises aspiring entrepreneurs to learn from the mistakes of others to avoid common pitfalls. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's market and the challenges of attracting clients, especially in competitive industries.
Family Businesses: Sigi shares insights on navigating the dynamics of working with family, particularly his experience with his wife in their medical practice. He stresses the importance of clearly defining roles and responsibilities to ensure a healthy work-life relationship.
Encouraging Growth: Sigi champions the idea that business owners should not be afraid of failure. He encourages them to embrace change and make plans to pursue their passions, reminding them that it’s never too late to pivot or try something new.