We’re looking forward to introducing you to Roxanne Mangabay Farkas. Check out our conversation below.
Roxanne, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
Yes, I would absolutely hire myself based on my life experience and consistent strength in navigating and growing through life’s challenges. After being laid off, I embraced early retirement and made the bold decision to relocate out of state. That transition—from California to Idaho—came with a six-month period of adjustment, during which staying positive and self-aware was both my biggest challenge and greatest achievement.
Throughout my career, my purpose and intentions have always centered around service and uplifting communities. My time in San Diego had come to a natural close, and I saw an opportunity to begin a new chapter. As a seasoned career coach, I’ve now shifted my focus toward helping retirees and individuals who’ve been outplaced due to layoffs, guiding them toward a balanced and fulfilling life.
I share my journey because it reflects a deep truth: careers, homes, friendships, and communities are rarely permanent. Adapting to change—especially cultural shifts—can be difficult, but it’s also a gateway to growth. In retirement, I’ve discovered a joyful outdoor lifestyle and new friendships rooted in shared passions. My days are filled with yoga, e-biking, hiking, and meaningful part-time work coaching and selling wellness apparel for a global brand.
Life will always bring uncertainty, but it also offers new adventures, opportunities for joy, and the chance to redefine oneself. Change can be intimidating—but it can also be exhilarating.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Currently, I’m part of two incredible organizations—lululemon and INTOO.com—where I focus on sales and coaching. Both roles bring me joy and allow me to connect with wellness-focused individuals and those seeking guidance toward meaningful opportunities. I work part-time with full flexibility, setting my own schedule and working entirely remotely, which gives me the freedom to stay active and engaged.
After over 25 years of supporting students and clients in their employment journeys, stepping away from that chapter wasn’t easy. Yet, I’ve transitioned into exciting new avenues that still align with my passion for education and service. As an independent consultant for Oliveda International, I introduce clients to waterless, organic skincare products—a natural extension of my love for clean, non-toxic living. It’s incredibly fulfilling to share these solutions and help people care for their skin in a mindful way.
Feel free to explore more about my coaching work: 🔗 My Coaching Profile
And check out my wellness and skincare offerings: 🌿 My Skincare Linktree
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
✨ Supporting women in leadership is one of my greatest passions—especially those taking the bold leap into entrepreneurship. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or deep in the building phase, sharing knowledge is how we rise together.
A few standout resources that have shaped my leadership path:
Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans – a brilliant guide for intentional living and purposeful design.
Entrepreneurial StrengthsFinder – essential for discovering and applying your natural talents to business.
What To Do When It’s Your Turn (and It’s Always Your Turn) by Seth Godin – a powerful push toward embracing your moment.
👩💼 It’s no secret—many women face barriers advancing in corporate spaces and nonprofits. My biggest tips for success? Prioritize networking and embrace lifelong learning.
I was fortunate to learn these lessons early on. At just 12 years old, my grandmother Julieta Bumanlag taught me the art of connection, while my grandmother Lucia Mangabay instilled in me the spirit of business. Their strength, grit, and wisdom laid my foundation—and their legacy fuels me whenever challenges arise.
💡Being authentically YOU and tapping into your inner power is the most profound leadership strategy there is. Your uniqueness is your superpower—and the world needs more of it.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
Let go of the blame and complaints—some things are simply out of your control.
Over the years, I’ve learned to place trust in something greater than myself, with spirituality playing a profound role in my upbringing and my present. Life doesn’t always unfold on our timeline, and learning patience—especially through the lens of motherhood—has taught me how to regulate my mental well-being.
As a coach, having a strong support system has been deeply rewarding. Life can be demanding—balancing work, parenting, and relationships isn’t easy—but the presence of spirituality grounds me.
One transformative tool on my journey was the Gallup StrengthsFinder Wellness book, which helped me identify key areas for growth. I’m a passionate advocate for self-assessments, and I actively incorporate them into my coaching practice. I hold certifications in Gallup StrengthsFinder, MBTI, and Yoga, blending these tools to support others in cultivating balance, purpose, and emotional resilience.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
Too many smart people are missing the mark when it comes to social connection—especially through social media.
My advice? Take the leap to engage in real life, even if it feels intimidating. Courage comes from choosing to show up—whether that means meeting people face-to-face, trying something new, or joining clubs based on your interests. Get involved in your community. Volunteer. Connect with organizations or companies whose values align with yours.
Social media wasn’t part of the world I grew up in. My foundation was built on day-to-day experiences with neighbors, schools, clubs, education, and work. Authentic, in-person connection was how relationships thrived—and it still matters more than ever today.
Building meaningful friendships and networks adds genuine richness to life. Human connection is one of the greatest aspects of wellbeing and personal growth.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
One of my biggest regrets is not traveling internationally more often. With increasing rules and regulations, exploring other countries and immersing myself in new cultures has become more challenging. I have a long bucket list that I hope to start checking off during retirement—places like Italy, France, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Belize, Japan, and the Philippines all spark my curiosity.
For now, I’m focusing on domestic travel and making the most of what’s accessible, but I look forward to the day I can experience the beauty and diversity of these countries firsthand. Here’s to future adventures and embracing the joy of discovery.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gallup.com/learning/certification/en/2526706/profile.aspx
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannefarkas/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/RoxyF
