Alena Galan

Check out more of Alena

LinkedIn: /in/alena-galan/

Facebook: /alena.galan.7

Instagram: /alenagalanofficial/

Highway, Original Song Written by Alena Galan: /watch?v=AdKetzeBMJI&t=8s

CBS with Dr. Max Gomez: /2019/07/26/dr-max-gomez-intern-rare-genetic-disease/

Alena Galan, Performing at Carnegie Hall: /watch?v=veQedljrFAY

Alena Galan in Quinnipiac University Chronicle Making A Difference: 

/dreams-do-come-true/

Show Notes

Robert Peterson 0:37
If you dream of changing the world, but you're not sure where to start. The Add valued entrepreneurs podcast will help you transform your life in business. This podcast is for entrepreneurs who want more freedom and fulfillment from their work so they can live the life that they desire. You deserve it, and it is possible. My name is Robert Peterson, Farmer passer turned CEO and the smiling coach. I believe that success without happiness is failing. But there is hope. Join us each week as we bring you an inspiring leader or message to help you. Thanks for investing time with us today. Today's guest beat the odds. She was abandoned by her mother at birth in Siberia, Russia. After being adopted and brought to the United States. She was diagnosed with a rare genetic disease and given little chance of surviving. She beat the odds.

Robert Peterson 1:30
Elena Golan loves the stage and even though her body is small in stature, her heart is as big as the city she calls home New York. She has been on the stage at Radio City Music Hall, Carnegie Hall and in movie productions, she earned an internship with CBS News and found her niche and love for the camera in the world of television. She's earned an MBA she's appeared on reality TV and is committed to making a big impact in the world in spite of her body only being forefoot for proving that big things come in small packages. Elena Golan and Robert discuss her adoption and overcoming many challenges in life to find success. She's a college graduate with an MBA, she's appeared on television as an involved in serving the community currently working with clothing designers to help women of her stature, not need to shop in the children's department. If you're an entrepreneur who started their business with a purpose and a passion that has been lost in the busyness of the daily grind, we get it. That is why we've opened up our free strategy calls a lot of entrepreneurs probably including you just want a sense of clarity on the barriers holding them back that you need to overcome in order to accelerate your growth and achieve your dreams.

Robert Peterson 2:44
These short 30 Minute Calls give you a chance to work with one of our coaches without any commitment or pressure. Scheduling is easy, just go to smiling cole.com. Let's jump on a call and get you the help and clarity you need. Select a time, and let's build your business. It's time for you to add values a lot. Thank you so much for joining me, I'm so excited to have this conversation and just looking forward to sharing your journey.

Alena Galan 3:10
You thank you so much for having me. And I look forward to share my journey with you and getting to hear about you too.

Robert Peterson 3:18
So typically, I let each guest just start the episode with their entrepreneurial journey and, and, you know, the way that how they're trying to make an impact in the world today.

Alena Galan 3:29
Um, yeah, so I mean, I can make an impact since I stepped foot on this earth, I guess. And when I came here, I was the first person in northeast to get an enzyme replacement therapy that saved my life. And so I guess on the medicine side, and personally, I wanted to give back. And so that's when I started lecturing. And I'm so mad medical school and all metal to medical residents, I guess, to inspire people and to get people more aware about my rare genetic disease and how it can help other people who also may have the same disease, and how we can innovate, to maybe make medicine better. So that's, like my way and then also almost losing my life I knew singing was my way of coping with all my challenges. And so I figured, well, let me sing and write music and be the voice for many people, not not only through voice but also through singing and lecturing.

Alena Galan 5:16
Yeah, that's for sure. When we were on, so I was on TLC network, we were on the show smothered. And so I've always loved being on TV. And it wasn't just to, like, it wasn't to become famous or anything. But it was to show people that like, even someone, four feet four can make a difference to make an impact and be a big voice, to help other people show people that you can do anything, anything's possible. And so when I saw that there was a mother and daughter show, I said, this was a perfect show for us to be on because being adopted from Siberia, Russia, my mother and I look alike, and we talk like we act like it's too weird. It's crazy. So we always believe it was destiny. And so I thought, maybe you know what, this is a great way for people to see our special connection. And to see the big things and challenges that we've gone through.

Alena Galan 6:20
A lot of people don't know, but all through COVID, and everything. The past two years, I had 10 surgeries. And so despite all that, while we were filming, and everything, all behind the scenes with more drama, I had vocal surgery. I almost lost my voice. And so a lot of the stuff like they filmed wasn't put on TV that should have been on TV, because everybody I think could have related to that kind of drama. When when we were filming, they said oh, what do you do with your mom and said, Well, I go shopping, I we do a lot of like we she'll be there for my infusions to celebrate my life. And to show people you know, that you even though I haven't infusion every week, it's something that I'm grateful for, because I got my life back. And so then they asked us, well, do you want to shower together? And I was like, No, that's not what we do. So but on that show, there's mothers and daughters that are super, super, super close, and way too close. So I wasn't all about making anything sensational. Like that. I was about being more inspirational. So that's why we got kicked off the show.

Robert Peterson 7:45
But so so let's talk about authenticity, right? Because there is a temptation in this day and age to to not be your authentic self. And they kind of open the door and saying, Well, do you do this? Or do you do that? And, and so let's talk about a lot of wanting to be here authentic self?

Alena Galan 8:04
Yeah, I mean, so like, if you watch that show, like a lot of people, I mean, I don't want to say but you could tell like, sometimes people want to be on TV, just to be on TV. And I've always been the person that would say it like it was, and I I've always been competent. But I've never been like my fake self. So like, if somebody came up to me and said, Does this look good on you? I'll say, do you want the truth? Or do you want the lie? And I would tell it like it is, and I would help somebody, but I wouldn't be nasty about it, I would always try to motivate somebody and build their confidence up. But tell them, maybe this would look better. Or maybe if you do this, it probably be a better approach. And so I always went about trying to help people so they can be a better version of themselves. And so like for myself, there will always there's flaws to everyone. There's flaws in me, and I know it. And so I always brought out the better side of me and try to shine a light on that and say, How can I be better tomorrow? And how can I be better today? And so that's what I think kept me going. Because there's always room for improvement and room for growth. And I think that um, yeah, even though I walk around confidence is a difference than walking around. Like I know it all. And that's what I don't do. I always tried to make sure that you build your self confidence, but you also make sure that you're humble and that you give back and you don't take anything for granted. Because every day He is, you never know if you're going to be your tomorrow, or wake up. And so you got to make sure that you do everything you always wanted to do that day. Because that may be the last. And so that's how I always lived.

Robert Peterson 10:15
Well, that's so so powerful. So, alright, couple of things. So let's, let's go back and let's put it out there. And let's talk about this. This disease that you were born with, and the miracle cure, that's, that's allowed you to stay with us because you have more to share and more to do and in a bigger impact to make.

Alena Galan 10:34
Yeah, so I'm missing an enzyme. And so I receive an enzyme replacement therapy once a week for five hours. It's a weekly infusion. So my nurse comes to the house does the infusions. And it's a rare genetic disorder. So it's MPR, six, also not mucopolysaccharidosis, or say Supercalifragilistic, scelto. His? Yeah. And so it's a rare disease, that if you don't get the enzyme replacement, then the impurities in your joints and your organs don't break down. And so over time, so there's a wide spectrum, and I least I'm on the lower spectrum. So I wasn't as impacted as some people that I know. Like, they're in wheelchairs, they have tricks, they have a lot of issues, like medical issues. And so if you get the enzyme earlier, this even though there's a wide spectrum, you probably be healthier. And so I was lucky because my body produced that 1%. And so when I got my first infusion, at age seven, being the first person northeast, to get the enzyme replacement, I grew five inches the first year, I started actually not being weak anymore. I was running around rock climbing. And it just done wonders for me. I haven't had many health issues until just the last year, but that's just spinal surgeries, and vocal surgery, because I sing. So but that's more, I guess, the spinal was the MPs. But the vocal was just a natural vocal singers issue. But yeah,

Robert Peterson 12:30
so you mentioned 10 surgeries during during COVID. And so some of those were on your spine because of because of the growth of your body is that.

Alena Galan 12:41
So there's stenosis around the spinal cord, and, and kyphosis. So, in a PS, sometimes you'll find curvatures in the spine, and you'll find stenosis, compression in your cervical spine. And so if you don't alleviate the compression, you eventually become paralyzed. And so in MPs, the spinal cord will, the polysaccharides will go around the spinal cord, tightening, and then cutting off the spinal cord. So what I had to do was get decompression surgery in my cervical, and that's what alleviated all the nerve tension. And when I had that done, then all my nerves came back and everything, but if people don't catch it, and so that's why you got to get MRIs every year, and make sure you check the body and everything. But um, it all started two years ago, when I had a vocal surgery, and they moved my neck the wrong way. And I almost did get paralyzed. And so they didn't use neuro monitoring, which led to the exacerbation to have the spinal surgeries. So it was Yeah, so with MPs, the surgeries are way more complex. You have to be extra careful.

Robert Peterson 14:15
I imagine almost everything you have to be extra careful at this point.

Alena Galan 14:19
Nowadays, I think everybody should be careful. Right.

Robert Peterson 14:23
So so let's talk about singing and, and, and your opportunity to sing and, and how that's impacted your life.

Alena Galan 14:32
Well, yeah, so I mean, ever since I was younger, I always sang to the time I could speak. And it was the way it was my escape. Growing up, I was bullied and I didn't have as many friends because people always looked at me as I was different. So I use thing as my escape. And so when I was eight years old, I started taking professional voice lessons, I performed that Radio City Music Hall for garden and drinks Foundation. And that's when I knew you know why this is how I can inspire people. And so all the way up to 13 years old, I auditioned for X Factor, made it around back to the producers. And then in 2016, I performed at Carnegie Hall for the Florence Foster Jenkins, movie trail. And I knew, if I made it to Carnegie Hall, I can do anything. And so I continued writing music, and I went to college, I ended up getting my MBA. And I always use music as my cell therapy, but also to inspire the people. And in 2019, was when I lost my voice. And for that year, that I didn't have my voice. When I had all those vocal surgeries, it was kind of a way for me to self reflect how much my voice meant to me, and that the voice is powerful. And now you have to appreciate what you have. And so it was, it was definitely an experience that helped me to self reflect on myself and to appreciate way more than I appreciated my life voice before that. So I think everything happens for a reason. And it definitely made me stronger as a person. But it also made me want to sing more. And I continued to write music. I'm still looking to record more music, but of course, now everything's opening up again. So that's good. Yeah.

Robert Peterson 16:46
So you mentioned obviously appreciating what you have. And earlier you mentioned, living in gratitude. So let's talk about the power of gratitude in your, in your personal development.

Alena Galan 16:59
So, yeah, so I guess, over the years, I always, I guess ever since I was in the orphanage, I knew that life wasn't just life, and that you had to appreciate every moment. And after losing my voice, I found myself actually getting into TV, and I kind of found different avenues of being the voice for people, not only through singing, but I found it through television, through podcasts, through writing music, and just even lyrics. And I think that over the years, like even through in hospitals and everything and seeing other people, there's always people that are worse off than me. So I always try to remember that, if I had this little problem, okay, it like, I'll get through it. And whatever happens, happens, and whatever is meant to be, it's meant to be but not to live life in fear, or to live life. Like, oh, it's a challenging obstacle. It's just something that it's a lesson, and we learn from it. And we're able to hopefully heal from it, and maybe help other people go through similar issues, or get through those issues too.

Robert Peterson 18:35
Nice. So the other thing earlier you mentioned was was the ability to give back and your desire to give back and serve How is how is contributing back to your community and, and serving others driven you.

Alena Galan 18:51
It's definitely every time I go to give back or lecture or anything, I always feel a sense of, like I made an impact in somebody's life. And I think that if I can just make an impact in one person's life, I can make all the difference. When I sing on stage, or if I sing in front of the camera, or if I speak or lecture to medical students, since I know I'm doing something to change somebody's life. And when I see somebody smile, that makes me smile. And it makes me happy to know, I made somebody else happy or I made an impact. It's not necessarily like I always live, not to make myself happy, but to make other people happy. And I think I'm here for a reason. I survived for a reason. So it's my obligation, I think, to live to give back and to help people see the positives in life and not to look at like that they're sick or that there's something wrong with them. But since See that they're special. And they you Nique. And just because they're unique, doesn't mean they can't do anything or they can live a normal life, just like anybody.

Robert Peterson 20:16
So good. We will be right back after this short break. This episode is sponsored by perfect publishing a different approach to publishing a book. Perfect publishing carefully chooses heroes of Hope, who exemplify living a life they created through faith, hope, patience, and persistence. No matter what page you open to, in this mini cube of hope, you will find a leader with a big heart, you will see you are not alone. The authors may share similar challenges that only hope and action could resolve. Get your free ebook at get a dose of hope.com Welcome back, let's get back to more greatness. So how did how did you develop your confidence for public speaking for putting yourself out there?

Alena Galan 21:00
So So actually, I was a very strange kid. When I was three, I think three years old. It I mean, I think ever since I was born, I always had confidence. But even for, like, for example, like even when I was at the orphanage, and my mom picked me up, I just hopped in the car, like I've been, I've been driving, sitting in cars all my life, like, I had no fear of exploring. And it's simple. It's like tasting foods, I was always someone who would just try new things, try new foods, and I wasn't afraid to go for it. And so the moment when I went up on that stage at Radio City Music Hall, when I was eight years old, I just went up on that stage and was like, I own this, this is my home. And I knew that something like, this is gonna be dangerous, because I, I just was so confident. But I knew like, I'm helping other people. And so that's what drove me to just keep going. And if I'm living, then I just got to keep going. Like, if something bad happened, just get up and just just try to fix it or make it work. And I think that, like they say, like, you got to fake it till you make it. So just keep going.

Robert Peterson 22:27
Nice. So let's talk a little bit about some more on the business side. Now, you're also doing some things with clothing, right?

Alena Galan 22:35
Yes. So I've been, well, like, kind of collaborating with Mindy Shire. She's from Runway of Dreams. And a few years ago, I actually walked for Fashion Week for her event. And she's making, she's partnering up with different companies like Zappos, Victoria's Secret. She even partnered up with Sephora, she tried to get other different places, but she's making companies more aware of people who need accessibility and clothing. And I think it's, like, so important because even me like, like, I think that the way I was able to be confident was because even clothing help to build that confidence. And if I had something that I love, I felt good in my body and good in myself. And so I think it's important, even people that feel different, should be able to feel good about what they look like, how they, like, walk, how they are presented. And if you're able to feel good in your, your clothing, then you're probably able to feel good in your skin. And I think a lot of issues is that like, there's not that much opportunity to or availability of clothing and like when I've gone to so like, um, kids size, so now they're making clothing. That's more grown up by back then they will childish. So. So runaway trains is trying to make clothing or so that it's adaptive in the sense that if people can't button their clothes, or shirts, they're Velcro. And so she's trying to make things so they're more accessible, and more like, I guess, like, like, more adaptable like adaptive to put on even I partnered up with Tiffany's. So we were making class that were easier to put on because a lot of people not even with any challenges, but People who have had dexterity issues are not able to class necklaces odd, like I even have that issue. And so I thought it was great that they're making jewelry adaptive so that it could be available to a wider range market. So yeah, so we're doing like little things here and there, and even making like high heels for like small petite people, or, like pants that are easy to get on with Victoria's Secret they're trying to make. So like people that are in wheelchairs, or that people that can't bend, now, they should be able to feel sexy. So they're making like panties that are snaps or Velcro. So you can get them on to also easily, and bras that are more comfortable. So like without wiring and stuff. So there's like little things that companies can adapt, that can make all the difference. And people couldn't have more availability.

Robert Peterson 26:02
That's so good and so powerful. And another place where you can be an advocate, right, and a voice for those that don't necessarily have the connections and have the voice that you have. So another great way to make an impact.

Alena Galan 26:16
That is sure.

Robert Peterson 26:19
So let's talk about connection and the power of connection. And obviously, you've been making connections, your whole life, right in seeing opportunities into the TV opportunity and, and of course into these marketing opportunities and getting companies to, to do more. And so from an entrepreneurial perspective, how do you develop connections and maintain connections.

Alena Galan 26:44
Um, so I have always been a person, I would just go up to somebody and start speaking, and networking, I think it's very important to have business cards handy. What I always have done was I had my own kind of angle. And I know it's not the traditional business angle, but I've always had my picture with the name and the email, because I think it's important that if somebody has a face to connect to the card will remember you. And so I've always done that. And now I actually add a QR code to the back of my business card. So you can actually hear me sing. And you can also get connected to my LinkedIn. And so I think it's very important that somebody is able to access something very quick, but also is like new, remember it. And another thing is making sure to build that connection by keeping that connection. And so I've always touch base with the person. And I just naturally stay connected with people anyways, I probably talk too much. So I love socializing, mingling. And making sure that that person is heard too. And I'm getting to know that person, not just talking about myself.

Robert Peterson 28:14
I love that you didn't stone assume that people are remember you That's That's beautiful. Send you pictured and include that include that. Love that your QR code includes a chance to hear you sing, as well. So that's so powerful. Yeah. All right. So let's talk a little bit about your, your personal growth journey. And, and however mentors helped a lot to grow.

Alena Galan 28:41
Yeah. So I guess the through my connections, I've done podcast I've networked with people. So along the way, I picked up, I guess, connections, and that's how I was able to gain other opportunities to help other people. It just kind of came naturally. Like I was doing another podcast for my school. And that's how I got connected with Runway of Dreams. So it's amazing how you just connected people like another part was when I was eight years old, and I got my first infusion. Dr. Max Gomez from CBS two news, interviewed me. And for all these years, we stay connected, which is amazing. And so when I in 2019, he actually gave me an internship to intern at CBS two news. And we had we were able to spend that summer together, which I thought was just so special because anybody could make a connection. But if you're very close with someone, I think it means a lot more because you're able to connect not only on a person to a level but you're able to connect and be able to learn, be more open to learn, because you're, you're connected, if that makes sense. Yeah,

Robert Peterson 30:12
absolutely. So what do you love to do in your free time?

Alena Galan 30:16
Oh, gosh, do I have any free time? So, I guess, while I've been writing music thing, I actually have been studying my it. But I also love to swim. I love going on vacation. I love the beach so much. But I've been just, I do a lot of networking. So even when I'm free, I'm always networking. I'm always trying to find new opportunities to help other people, and to see what more I could do to get back in the world because I think life's too short to waste time. And so I'm always going, going going, so I probably need to take a step back. But even when I'm in surgery, it's funny, I'm doing auditions. And people, like, you're on our hospital, and you're doing an audition. And I'm like, of course, like, so. That's like my kind of work ethic. I just keep going and going and going.

Robert Peterson 31:22
Nice. So obviously, infusions is a regular routine for you. And a part of your, your weekly life. What are the routines are important to you?

Alena Galan 31:35
Um, well, I? Well, a little, that's so well, I'm always I'm always making sure to give some time to my mom, because she is older. And so I want to make sure that I value my time with her. I had a routine of going to school, college, when COVID hit, everything kind of got chipped in. And so I do a weekly podcast for ability media, with Quinnipiac, and that the channel for disabilities. So it's for, to tell stories about people with differences. And other than that I've been I do checkups I go. I'm trying to write up another children's book right now. The first book that I wrote was differences are blessings, which was about a tall giraffe. That was the opposite sides of me cheer that giraffe. And not only animals, small animals would talk to her. And so by the end, everybody learns to accept her, even though she's different. And so that book I actually wrote when I was in seventh grade, and then I actually made it more professional when I got into high school. So now I'm trying to write another book. But yeah, and I'm starting from it. And I still do modeling gigs here and there. And I'm still trying to, I guess, pick it back up. Since COVID. Add hit. So yeah.

Robert Peterson 33:22
So So what was the impact of of writing your book? Obviously, you wrote it, and then rewrote it. And then I assume now it's published. So what was the impact of having? Or your your draft books not published yet?

Alena Galan 33:35
No. So I actually did all my own clipart. And, and I got them printed, but it's not pop. It's not? Like it's Nope, I don't have a publisher. So I sell them to hospitals, and I read them, libraries and scores. I did it for a gold award. But I'm still looking for a publisher.

Robert Peterson 33:58
So it's so it's self published at this point. Yes.

Alena Galan 34:01
self published, was edited. So multiple times.

Robert Peterson 34:06
Yes. So so obviously, there's been some impact of the book because you got opportunities to read it at libraries and hospitals. And so So what's what was the impact of the book for you?

Alena Galan 34:19
Up For me, I think it definitely gave me more confidence. And it gave me closure from my path. It definitely helped, I think, people who have been bullied and with my experience of being bullied, I was able to share with other children, that you're not alone, and that there are ways to stand up for yourself but not in a rude or bad way but a way that will help you to get around navigate in this world. And I think that is truly important because when you're in high school or middle school, you're kinda in this bubble. And nobody really knows how to navigate the world when they get out of high school. And so I think it's so important that people know how to stand up for themselves. Because when you start going into work, while you still start going into a college setting, or any kind of workplace setting, it's important that you know how to respectfully stand up for yourself and know what's right and wrong. And that to not let people step all over you, just because it's something like it's it, there's just no reason that people should put you down. And even if you're different, everybody has feelings, and everybody should be treated the way they want to be treated. And, like, yeah, and I think it's important that because a lot of parents also tell their children, oh, you're ill, or you have this or that. And I think that lowers somebody's confidence. And what my mother always did was say, No, you're not, you know, you just have to get medicine every week, that's keeping you alive, but you could do anything. And I think it's so important that everybody knows that you can do anything, but you just got to find the strength to bring yourself up.

Robert Peterson 36:28
Oh, that's so good. And so, so good of your mom to, to encourage you in that way. Because you're right, so many people get labeled by their illness or labeled by a disease or labeled by a disability. And then it becomes a part of their identity. And I think the most powerful people are the ones that recognize that, that's just a piece of you. That's not all of you. And there's so much more to you than then then this illness that, you know, this missing enzyme, the rest of you is, is more than complete, and more than enough. And so that's so powerful. So, let's talk a little bit about what inspires you.

Alena Galan 37:13
Well, definitely, my mom has inspired me so much. If it weren't for her, I don't know who I'd be today. But she definitely helped me to spread my wings and help to lift me up to be the person I am today. I mean, if it weren't for her, I wouldn't have done all the thing that I've done, and all the thing engagements, or the charity work that I've done. And a lot that also inspires me is my music and my lyrics and, and the people that are listening, I think being able to hear other people's impactful stories has given me hope that, like, it's not the end, and that you can do anything and life may have its obstacles, but just the lesson and it's something that is it's gonna just be something that makes you stronger, and you can't lose your confidence and you can't lose yourself, just because it's an obstacle. And so my mom has really helped me to get through all my challenges. And I think like she always tells me, I've I've helped her. I mean, so yeah, it's it's,

Robert Peterson 38:39
that's alright. Ilana what's, what's your big dream?

Alena Galan 38:44
My big dream one day is to have my own TV talk show. So I can help inspire other people. And maybe one day, be able to bring other stories on there, too.

Robert Peterson 39:00
That's so good. So with all all the success that you've had, and all the things that you faced, what's your biggest challenge?

Alena Galan 39:09
Um, I think my biggest challenge is like, what people don't know is that, yes, I smile on the outside. But I think it's sometimes accepting myself and being able to I guess, facing the disease challenges, because I hope that everything keeps going well, but nobody really knows what the future holds. And so it's a challenge having that fear, but I don't let it hold me back.

Robert Peterson 39:47
Good for you. Alright, so are entrepreneurs have been listening to you for just over 30 minutes, and you want to leave them with a lot of words of wisdom. What would you share?

Alena Galan 39:56
Well, I just want everyone to know that don't give up on dreams keep going for. If it's an invention, it's TV. If it's anything so small that you think it's so small, just go for it, because you never know what doors will open.

Robert Peterson 40:17
Well, thank you so much for joining me today and for sharing from your heart. I appreciate your authenticity. Appreciate your story and, and I hope that my audience is inspired by you as I am.

Alena Galan 40:30
So thank you and you've inspired me to, I appreciate it.