Summer 2022 was the big “dive in.” I spent 12- to 16-hours a day on a TV series I’ll share closer to its air date, I managed behind-the-scenes startup activities for 3QualiTy, our new cryptocurrency-backed fintech firm, and, of course I was thrilled to produce and co-host the gem of it all, our radio/podcast series Before You Go. To even close friends who ask, “How do you do it all, Nicole?”…well, I love it. And my team on each project makes it all worthwhile. But when I do take the Exit Ramp for a breather and look at all that’s going on, I’m aware to most that my operating at top speed—especially as a Crypto COO—could seem super scary. That’ not lost on me. Yet, I do have one lifelong fear that in my 50+ years on life I have yet to fully conquer: Swimming.

It seems like I was born with a fear of water. I failed two water safety classes in childhood, bailed on the college course for students with “a fear of water,” but I was always super comfortable hanging over the side of a speed boat, or skipping ocean waves teetering off the edge of a Hobie Cat. It’s inexplicable. But it’s time for a change.

Amidst all the crazy hours, I took my first of two (or three) adult swim courses and now I get to practice solo in the lap lanes. I’m not killing it out there. I’m still trying to get past five full laps! Oh, just a note. My fear of water has not faded so fast. I swim my laps using a kickboard! I’m hoping my second round of lessons will get me floaty free!

Is there aa fear you’re ready to conquer? Somewhere life is leading you but hesitation get the best of you?

It’s now or never, I say. Let’s dive in!