In this enlightening episode of Permission to Flow, Jessica Hwang is joined by therapist Gabi Koyenov, who shares his fascinating journey from aspiring to be a rabbi to becoming a therapist. Gabi shares his experience overcoming familial expectations and societal norms to embrace a career aligned with his true calling. Together, Jessica and Gabi explore the stigma surrounding therapy, particularly for men, and the vital role it plays in personal growth and empowerment.

Gabi also opens up about the emotional challenges and triumphant moments he’s faced, from his transformative realizations about parental expectations to the ultimate pursuit of joy and purpose in his work. This episode is a must-listen for first- and second-generation people seeking to navigate the often-tumultuous shift from corporate environments to their creative ambitions. Jessica and Gabi emphasize the importance of trusting one’s intuition, embracing vulnerability, and the powerful act of reframing weakness as strength.

Don’t miss Gabi’s invaluable insights on building a successful private practice, the impact of cultural differences on mental health, and the deeply human need for connection and understanding. Tune in for an episode packed with wisdom, courage, and actionable advice tailored for anyone ready to take the leap into their creative potential.

Quotes from the episode:

“I think most people think like this, that adults just know something that we don’t, you know, like, somehow when you become an adult, you get some type of revelation that never happens. It just, it never does.”

“And I think for men especially, we need guidance. We need people that are every Luke Skywalker has the Obi Wan and Harry has stumbled over and whatever.”

Watch my episode on Gabi’s podcast:

How To Escape The 9 to 5 with Jessica Hwang

Connect with Gabi:

The Men’s Therapy Studio

The Gabi Koyenov Podcast

Gabi’s YouTube Channel

Instagram: @journey_with_gabi

Connect with Jessica:

Join the email list 

Book a free sales call

Instagram: @jessicahwangcoaching

Facebook: Jessica Hwang Coaching

Website: Jessica Hwang Coaching

Credits:

Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)

Production and audio engineering by Travis Carr (@traviscarrphoto)