Episode 46. Passing the PMP: The Ugly-Cry, Almost-Quit, Actually-Made-It Version
What if the only thing standing between you and your next chapter is the story you're telling yourself? ✨
In this episode, I sit down with my sister, Kim, to talk about the journey of earning her PMP certification—and how it became so much more than passing an exam.
Here's what we unpack:
• Why she decided to pursue her PMP certification
• The fear of not being "smart enough"
• How perfectionism almost held her back
• Building a routine that balanced work, studying, and self-care
• The study tools and strategies that helped her succeed
• What passing the exam taught her about confidence
• Why trusting your gut is often the first step toward growth
If you've been putting off a goal because self-doubt keeps getting in the way, I hope this conversation reminds you that you're capable of more than you think. 💛
Meet Kimberly — My sister and the mastermind behind the scenes at one of Philadelphia's largest corporations, where she works as a Senior Occupancy Planner, turning logistical chaos into seamless moves for teams of 20 to 200+ people. Think of her as part strategist, part diplomat, part real-life Tetris champion, the person who makes sure hundreds of people (and their desks, chairs, and everything in between) land exactly where they need to be.
She recently leveled up with her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, adding some serious credentials to a career built on organization, adaptability, and getting people through change without losing their minds.
Off the clock, Kimberly trades spreadsheets for sidewalks, walking her dogs, catching up on the latest Bravo drama, and soaking up time with the friends and family who keep her grounded (and probably send her memes mid-workday).
She's joining us on Joy Makers to talk about identity in the "messy middle," reinvention, and what her PMP journey taught her about growth, on paper and in life.
00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro
01:15 Quickfire Sister Banter
02:24 Joy Round Favorites
04:28 Why Pursue the PMP
06:59 Resistance and Fear Gremlins
11:05 Study Grind and Routines
14:38 Support And Pressure
15:55 Finding Motivation
17:44 Fear Of Failure
18:56 Time And Priorities
20:22 Study Strategy And Tools
23:04 Passing And Meaning
24:42 Confidence Toolbox
26:55 Trust Your Gut
28:47 Closing Thanks And Outro
Connect with Kim here -
The study app mentioned:
and connect with Nichole here -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholemhoward/
@IamNicholemch on Insta and TikTok! - https://www.instagram.com/iamnicholemch/
Free Resources -
Dream life blueprint/Calculator - total value $497 yours free for listening