Olga Khabinskay, our esteemed Director of Operations, requires no introduction. Her exceptional professionalism, outstanding business acumen, and unwavering responsiveness are well-known to all. However, today, we aim to present a different facet of Olga. We are certain that by glimpsing this side of her, you will find even more reasons to be captivated by Olga, as admiration for her is truly inevitable.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and where you grew up?
I immigrated to the United States from Kyiv, Ukraine, alongside my parents when I was just 11 years old. As we navigated our way through the challenges of adapting to a new culture and learning the language, we settled in New York. During this period, my father encouraged me to start an ophthalmology career specializing in vision care. However, despite having no fears about aspects like blood, I couldn’t see myself thriving in the field of working with patients. It simply didn’t resonate with me.
After careful consideration, our family explored an alternative path, leading me to the field of speech pathology. Recognizing the tremendous opportunities it offered, particularly for women, and being a high-demand career, I embarked on this journey at Brooklyn College. Later, I continued my education at Adelphi University, earning my bachelor’s degree in Health and Science Communications.
While pursuing my studies, I juggled employment, a skill I acquired early on at the age of 14 with my first job at Dunkin’ Donuts. Subsequently, I worked as a cashier in various retail stores and later found myself in a pediatrician’s office, where Dr. Boris Ripa became my first employer. My professional journey continued, leading me to WCH, a pivotal point where I crossed paths with Alex Romanychev, at that moment a managing partner at Dr. Ripa’s practice.
Alex started his own business and invited me to cooperate. It opened the door for me to join WCH, a company initially named “We Can Help.” Starting in a role as a credentialer, I gradually progressed through various positions, including credentialing manager, general manager, and director of operations. I’ve always embraced growth opportunities and continued to balance my role as a full-time employee while pursuing further education.
The success and expansion of WCH eventually prompted me to shift my educational focus to business management. Through continuous learning, I climbed the ranks to my current position. My journey has been one of continuous growth, both professionally and academically, and it’s through these experiences that I find myself where I am today.
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
My hobbies and interests are quite simple yet bring immense joy to my life. I have a profound love for the outdoors. Whether it’s taking leisurely walks or riding my bike, I find solace and happiness in spending time in the fresh air, which gives me that delightful rosy glow on my face.
When it comes to incorporating exercise and fitness into my routine, I wouldn’t call myself a perfectionist, but I do follow a certain schedule. Engaging in sports serves as both motivation and a means to unwind, allowing me to release the daily challenges and stressors that life often presents, be it in my personal or professional spheres.
My chosen sports activity varies, and it could involve running, swimming, or any other form of physical activity. However, I consider myself a dedicated Peloton rider, pedaling away on my bike around five days a week. It’s my precious time for self-reflection and relaxation, providing me with a space to detach from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
One of my favorite sports is volleyball, and I often play it with my daughter. While I’m not a professional player, the joy of being outdoors and savoring the weather, regardless of the season, is what makes it special for me.
Who is someone that has inspired you in your life, and why?
I prefer not to highlight famous figures as my sources of inspiration but rather focus on individuals who have faced remarkable challenges, like my mom. At the age of 35, she immigrated from Ukraine to New York, embarking on the daunting task of building an entirely new life. It’s truly awe-inspiring to contemplate how she navigated the complexities of learning a new language, securing employment, managing household expenses, and establishing a family.
My mom has achieved significant milestones, including property ownership, and has played a pivotal role in shaping our family’s life in a new country. I consider her to be my personal everyday inspiration, especially now that I’m in my 40s. It’s challenging to fathom the possibility of uprooting oneself, taking the children, and relocating to a place where the language is unfamiliar.
Witnessing her resilience, determination, and ability to thrive, regardless of the circumstances, fuels my motivation. Leaving behind everything familiar for the promise of a better life exemplifies true grit. I draw inspiration from my mom’s unwavering commitment to creating a brighter future, especially since their decision to move was primarily driven by the desire to provide me with enhanced opportunities. She is undeniably my role model, someone I look up to, and a source of inspiration that I discuss with admiration.
What is your favorite movie or TV show, and what do you like about it?
I have a penchant for movies and TV shows that fall under the drama genre, particularly those with criminal or mafia-related themes like The Sopranos. I find joy in narratives where intricate plots, akin to a mafia game, engage my mind, prompting me to decipher and piece together the puzzle of the storyline. The complexity and depth of such dramas captivate me, making the viewing experience both thought-provoking and compelling.
My preference leans heavily towards dramatic genres, especially criminal dramas with intense narratives, such as The Bourne Identity and Mission: Impossible. These types of movies have a unique ability to keep me wide awake and fully engaged, as opposed to inducing drowsiness. Although I occasionally enjoy a good comedy, my favorites usually gravitate towards the dramatic and intense, as they stimulate my senses and keep me on the edge of my seat.
Among the genres, one romantic movie that holds a special place in my heart is Love Actually. It stands out as one of the best creations in portraying the lives of diverse individuals through the lens of a screen. The storytelling and portrayal of various characters’ lives make it my top choice when it comes to romantic movies.
How do you stay motivated and focused in your work and personal life?
Given that I have a husband, two kids, and a family, keeping everything organized is crucial. My daily routine begins with a mental snapshot of the day’s tasks, much like organizing a shelf. This mental image helps me prioritize and tackle what needs to be done.
Starting at 6:30 in the morning, I focus on personal tasks. Ensuring my kids get to school on time, having breakfast, and addressing the little morning necessities are my initial priorities. Once they are off to school, I transition to planning my professional life during my commute to work. I check my calendar, review the day’s meetings, and set the tone for my workday.
While the planning process occurs in stages, it is a necessary and meticulous routine. Without proper planning, chaos would ensue. Setting priorities is a key aspect of my organizational strategy. Over the years, I’ve learned to address challenging tasks and potential stressors first thing in the morning. Whether it’s dealing with insurance denials or reaching out to someone who hasn’t responded, I make a conscious effort to tackle these challenges head-on.
In the past, I made the mistake of leaving these challenging tasks for later in the day, only to find myself exhausted and less motivated to handle them. Recognizing the importance of addressing challenges early has significantly improved my efficiency and reduced stress levels in managing my day.
What is something you’re grateful for today?
Today, I find myself reflecting on the immense gratitude I hold for the fortunate path my life has taken. While acknowledging the efforts I’ve invested in achieving my goals, I recognize the invaluable aspects that make my life fulfilling.
In my personal life, I am grateful for my health and happiness. Building a loving family and nurturing meaningful relationships with friends over the years has been an achievement I hold dear. I cherish the fact that these connections have remained steadfast, as life often leads people to grow apart. I feel fortunate to have found individuals with whom I share deep and lasting connections.
Expressing gratitude extends beyond grand gestures; it’s about appreciating the small, tangible things that surround me every day. These little things, the ones I can touch and experience regularly, contribute significantly to my sense of humanity. It’s not about material wealth or brand names; rather, it’s about how I feel each day and the joy derived from being with people who treat me well, love me, and create a cherished environment together.
What I value most are the memories we create—the shared experiences and moments that etch themselves into our collective history. This, coupled with the gift of good health, provides the strength and resilience that shape who I am. In essence, I am grateful for the intangible elements that truly define the richness of my life.
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
If I could choose anyone for a dinner conversation, it would undoubtedly be Warren Buffett. He stands out as an inspirational figure in the world of finance, having started from scratch and built a financial empire. What intrigues me most about him is not just his wealth but the profound meaning he assigns to life and his wealth of experiences.
Warren Buffett’s journey reflects a genuine understanding of success, not merely in terms of luxuries or material possessions but in comprehending the essence of a fulfilling life. Starting from humble beginnings, he has navigated the complexities of success, and I believe there’s much wisdom to glean from his insights.
What draws me to Warren Buffett is not just his financial acumen but also his commitment to identifying and supporting individuals with the desire to achieve similar levels of success. His ability to recognize those in need and extend a helping hand adds another layer to his character.
Imagining a dinner with Warren Buffett, I envision more than just a delightful meal—perhaps a shared appreciation for a good steak. It would be an opportunity to delve into conversations about life, success, and the principles that have guided him on his remarkable journey. I am confident that such an encounter would be filled with valuable lessons and enriching perspectives.
What is a goal or aspiration you have for the future?
My aspirations and goals are driven by a desire to explore more of the world. Traveling has always been a dream, and I yearn to immerse myself in different cultures, taste diverse cuisines, and engage with people living in various places. The prospect of discovering new landscapes and meeting individuals with unique stories fuels my curiosity, providing a broader perspective on the world.
This goal extends beyond mere tourism; it’s about gaining a profound understanding of how people live in different parts of the globe. Contrasting lifestyles and values can offer valuable insights into what we, in the United States, hold dear and cherish. I believe this firsthand experience will enrich my worldview and foster a deeper appreciation for diversity.
Additionally, a significant part of my aspirations revolves around my children. I aim for them to grow into good individuals—individuals who find joy and fulfillment in their pursuits, treat others with kindness and possess an appreciation for the beauty of life. Their happiness and positive contributions to the world matter more to me than any quantitative measure or monetary value. Ultimately, my goals are intertwined with the broader themes of exploration, understanding, and fostering goodness in those I care about.
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