What do you do when your career, your community, and your sense of belonging are suddenly transformed overnight? In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to introduce you to an extraordinary guest whose story speaks to this very question — the inspiring and resilient Monica Wihongi.
Monica is a seasoned marketing and sales strategist with over 32 years of experience in the Direct Selling industry. Currently the Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at Younique, Monica brings a depth of knowledge and heart to everything she touches.
Her story is one of transition, growth, and reinvention — a path that many in our industry can deeply relate to right now. Monica opens up about what it’s like to move forward after such a profound change, and how to find new purpose and opportunity along the way.
Grab your pen and paper, because Monica will be sharing practical tips for staying present, navigating change, and showing up as the best version of yourself. Let’s dive in!
We’ll be talking about:
➡ [0:00] Introduction
➡ [2:15] How Monica built a 32-year career at Close To My Heart
➡ [6:00] Raising 7 children while advancing professionally
➡ [7:56] Staying grounded, creative, and energised
➡ [10:07] Monica’s practical self-care strategies
➡ [12:12] Handling difficult workplace relationships
➡ [16:00] A transition after 32 years
➡ [22:15] New role with Younique
➡ [26:30] Digital transitions Monica observed in the industry
➡ [31:32] Showing up live
➡ [35:29] Monica’s strategy: Embrace vulnerability and authenticity
➡ [38:50] Monica’s one leadership principle to rely on most
➡ [40:57] How to rebuild trust and momentum at Younique?
➡ [44:11] Cool stuff in the pipeline for Younique
➡ [47:14] Trends we should be watching in the next 12–24 months
➡ [48:22] Monica’s recommended book
➡ [49:55] Monica’s dream superpower
➡ [50:51] Monica’s favourite quote
➡ [55:22] Advice to her past self
➡ [56:53] Final thoughts
About our guest:
Monica Wihongi is a seasoned leader in the direct sales, creative, makeup and skin care industries. As of 2024, she serves as the Global Chief Marketing & Sales Officer at Younique, a role that leverages her extensive experience in marketing, communications, customer support, events, sales, recognition, and training.
Previously, Monica was the President of Close To My Heart (CTMH), a Utah-based paper crafting company, where she played a pivotal role in its growth and transformation. Over the years, she advanced through various positions, including Director of Events and Training, Vice President of Training, Events and Consultant Services, and Chief Marketing Officer, before becoming President in 2018.
Monica is a devoted mother to seven children and a proud abuela of soon to be 7 beautiful grand babies. Her faith and love for God is what keeps her grounded and going.
Resources
Recommended Book:
➡ The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown: https://bit.ly/4dVMok1
➡ The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle: https://bit.ly/4jFFsZq
Quotes:
➡ “If you know, if you really open up to who you are and why you’re here, you can and will make a difference”
Connect with Monica Wihongi:
➡ Monica Wihongi’s Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/monica.wihongi
➡ Monica Wihongi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicawihongi/?hl=en
➡ Monica Wihongi’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicawihongi/
➡ Monica Wihongi’s X: https://x.com/moniwihongi
➡ Monica Wihongi’s Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/moniwihongi/
Connect with Younique:
➡ Younique’s website: https://www.youniqueproducts.com/
➡ Younique’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/younique-products/
➡ Younique’s Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/YouniqueProducts?_rdc=1&_rdr
➡ Younique’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younique_corporate
➡ Younique’s Youtube: youtube.com/user/YouniqueCorporate
➡ Younique’s Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/youniquemakeup/
Connect with Direct Selling Accelerator:
➡ Visit our website: https://www.auxano.global/
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