Stop Digging!

This month, our host Chris Knierem interviews retired Presbyterian pastor Reverend Doug Rumford, who served 44 years across churches in Connecticut, California, and Kansas City before founding Lorica Ministries to equip people for spiritual vitality and intentional living. Rumford describes rewriting his 1996 book Soul Shaping through independent publishing and now coaching pastors and leaders facing cultural pressures, helping them live from the inside out.

This month's episode is something a little different: instead of an interview, host Chris Knierem shares his experience with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Learn how this affected his life, how he chose to change habits to overcome his illness and gain some useful advice about how to help get yourself out of similar situations. 

This month we interviewed Peter Camacho, CFO, HR Expert, EMT-certified and Boy Scouts of America community leader. He and host Chris discuss leading by example, building trust, and how teaching deepens learning, along with the need for proper training and support when promoting employees as well as the problems with punitive cultures and the importance of open communication, asking for help, and treating mistakes as team learning opportunities.

In this episode we interview self-published sci-fi author JR Winton, creator of the Desolation Trilogy and the Witch and the Rifleman series. Winton explains how a Josiey Wales/Star Wars image sparked his “space western” style, how his hero Reed Cooper drew from old-school lawmen he knew as a child and a fighter-pilot father, and how mentors and life events shaped his grit, rewrites, and eventual decision to self-publish via Amazon KDP with improved second-edition covers and edits. He discusses pitfalls like marketing scams, the importance of discernment and learning from anyone.

In this episode of Stop Digging!, Chris welcomes two language experts, Brian Rovito and Dr. Kaitlyn Tagarelli from Mango Languages. Together, they explore the significance of learning new languages for personal travel, professional success, and cultural preservation. Highlighting unique features of Mango’s conversational approach, they discuss the cognitive benefits of multilingualism and the company's initiatives to support endangered languages. Tune in to discover how speaking someone's native language can enrich lives and create genuine connections across the globe.

Introducing the Stop Digging! community podcast, presented by A Squared Lamp Groups.

In this episode of the Stop Digging!, new host Chris and co-host Susan welcome James Dascoli, founder of Sedona Shepherd Sanctuary. The discussion delves into Jim’s passion for rescuing adult and senior German Shepherds, the challenges of running a nonprofit, and the importance of leadership and flexibility. Jim shares insights about his dog training business and how stoicism has shaped his approach. The episode is filled with heartfelt stories and practical advice on building strong human-animal relationships.

In this December episode, Stop Digging! welcomes two business owners at the forefront of the agave-based spirits trend: Brian Neff and Brevin Blach. The conversation delves into the creation of a high-end tequila brand, highlighting the meticulous processes, personal inspirations, and the relentless pursuit of quality that helped them navigate the industry's challenges. With stories of overcoming obstacles and engaging anecdotes, the episode provides valuable insights into the entrepreneurial journey. 

Join us on this episode of the Stop Digging podcast as we speak with Lita Abella about the trauma, burnout, and compassion fatigue faced by professionals in high-stress jobs, and explore her six-step framework from her book 'The Abella Model' to manage these challenges effectively. With hosts Susan and Chris, they explore key concepts from Lita's book, the importance of awareness, and practical steps for achieving a balance between work and personal life.

In this episode of the Stop Digging Podcast, hosts explore the intricacies of building high-performing and inclusive teams with organizational and cultural teamwork specialist Faith Clarke. Clarke discusses the fundamental importance of trust, diversity, and inclusion within teams, offering practical strategies for leaders to create environments that foster belonging and collaboration. Tune in for insights on navigating conflicts, valuing diverse perspectives, and designing team environments that thrive.

In this episode, we welcome digital addiction coach Mary Catherine Liscinski to discuss the pervasive issue of digital addiction. She explores the differences between bad habits and addictions, the impact of the digital age on human interactions, and practical strategies for managing technology use across all age groups. The conversation includes insights into the importance of real-life social interactions, the challenges of digital detox, and resources available for overcoming tech dependency.

This month hosts Susan and Chris talk to special guest Kevin Palmieri from Next Level University discuss the importance of self-development, goal setting, and accountability. Kevin shares his personal journey from superficial success to finding fulfillment through self-awareness and consistent effort. The conversation highlights practical steps for setting and achieving meaningful goals, leveraging accountability, and maintaining personal growth.

In this episode of Stop Digging! your hosts delve into the transferable skills from athletics to business with former NFL player Glenn Parker. Glenn shares insights into building habits, setting higher aspirations, and fostering team loyalty. He also discusses his transition from the NFL to broadcasting and family life, emphasizing the values of teachability and discernment. 

 In this episode of the Stop Digging podcast, the focus is on global leadership with special guest, comedian and board member Chris Knierim, who shares his insights on the importance of effective leadership. The discussion covers the significant impact of proper leadership training, the difference between good and great leaders, and personal stories about leadership experiences. Emphasis is placed on actionable tips and the role of mentorship in developing and inspiring new leaders. 

In this episode, host Susan interviews Dr. Danny Brassel, a renowned speaker, trainer, and coach, known as the 'Jim Carrey with a PhD.' They discuss the importance of storytelling in personal and professional growth, share insights on public speaking, and highlight how coaching can transform lives. Dr. Brassel also offers a free resource, the 'Free Story Guide,' for crafting impactful presentations.

In this episode of the Stop Digging Podcast, host Susan discusses the theme of Global Works and highlights issues of success and happiness in today's workforce. Joined by bestselling author and serial entrepreneur Betsy Pepine, the conversation delves into the metaphorical boxes that bind us and how to dismantle them for a more fulfilling life. Key topics include emotional intelligence, entrepreneurial mental health, and practical strategies for breaking free of societal and personal constraints.

In this episode of the Stop Digging Podcast, host Susan discusses global toxic work environments and the impact on mental health with guest Maria Escobar Borden, president of the Creating We Institute. They delve into Conversational Intelligence (CIQ), a methodology based on neuroscience, that transforms workplace conversations and relationships to foster trust and reduce stress. The discussion highlights the importance of self-regulation and effective communication in creating healthier and more productive work environments.

In this episode of the Stop Digging podcast, host Susan and guest Chuck Harper from the organization Across Nations discuss the impacts and challenges faced by Navajo and other Indigenous communities. They explore the work of non-profits, focusing on faith-based initiatives, gap year programs for youth, and small business incubators to foster entrepreneurial skills. The conversation highlights the crucial role of relationship building and meaningful work in creating sustainable change and opportunities within these communities.

In this episode of the Stop Digging podcast, we introduce the new Global Works theme and discuss the growing niche of aesthetics in the healthcare industry with Dr. Robert Tracy. Dr. Tracy, a board-certified family doctor with a passion for regenerative medicine, explains various non-invasive aesthetic procedures and their benefits for both men and women, emphasizing the importance of proactivity in skincare and hair care.

In this episode, veteran and veteran's advocate Garret Biss shares his transformative experience transitioning from military to civilian life, facing mental health challenges, and finding support through coaching and mentorship. The discussion highlights the complex struggles veterans face, including PTSD, addiction, and identity crises, and emphasizes the importance of connection, authenticity, and meaning in recovery. 

In this episode, Nancy and Susan introduce their new series on coping with health challenges, focusing on PTSD and workplace stress. They welcome Reverend Linda-Taleo Hope from New Zealand, who shares her personal experiences with spiritual trauma and provides insights on healing, community support, and achieving a '10 space' of well-being. 

Nancy and Susan discuss the impact of hearing loss with guest Jenny Carrick, sharing statistics from the World Health Organization and the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. They explore the causes, challenges, and solutions, including the latest technology in hearing aids and the importance of early detection. Jenny shares her personal journey with hearing loss, workplace accommodations, and advocacy efforts. Practical tips for protecting hearing health and utilizing available resources are also covered. The episode aims to raise awareness and provide support for individuals dealing with hearing loss.

In this episode of the Stop Digging podcast, hosts Susan and Nancy dive into the topic of ADHD and executive functioning skills. They discuss statistical insights, common challenges, and strategies for coping with ADHD. Special guest Kelly Kruger, an ADHD and executive functioning coach, shares her expertise on working with high school and college students, offering evidence-based strategies to foster effective study habits, organization, and a growth mindset. The conversation highlights the importance of individualized support and the potential for success despite the challenges of ADHD.

This episode is about health challenges and redefining success. Guests Jennifer and Lexi share their compelling stories about navigating life with multiple sclerosis (MS) and retinitis pigmentosa, respectively. Jennifer discusses her sudden onset of MS symptoms and the impact on her daily life, relationships, and coping mechanisms, while Lexi talks about her HK1 gene mutation and legal blindness, detailing her challenges and how she finds support through various communities and activities. The episode emphasizes the importance of support systems, individual coping strategies, and the diverse experiences of living with chronic health conditions.

In this episode of Stop Digging Podcast, hosts Susan and Nancy interview Rhodie Fisher, a podcast host and inspirational leader with a rich multicultural background. The discussion centers on fostering diversity and creating meaningful connections through cultural interactions and shared experiences. Rhodie shares her journey, emphasizing empathy, trust, and the power of breaking bread together to strengthen relationships both in the workplace and beyond. Her insights provide valuable lessons on embracing human differences and building stronger communities.

In this episode, Susan and Nancy from A-Squared discuss their organization's bi-annual international learning trips, focusing on the recent journey to Japan and Alaska. They welcome first-time traveler Nick Ciocco, who shares his transformative experiences and newfound appreciation for different cultures. The conversation delves into the planning and execution of these educational trips, the unique experiences of team members, and the value of cultural immersion. With engaging personal anecdotes and insights, the episode highlights the importance of travel in broadening one's perspective and building meaningful connections.

Join the Stop Digging podcast for this interview with Chasity Malatesta, an educator and equity advocate in Bainbridge Island, Wa. You will learn about the benefits of diversity and the best ways of achieving them.  Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast.   

In this episode of Stop Digging!, Nancy and co-host Susan delve into art and culture's impact on society through an engaging conversation with renowned sculptor Gerard Basil Stripling. The dialogue explores the importance of art in reflecting society's beliefs, rituals, and social interactions. Gerard shares his journey from dabbling in fashion design to becoming a celebrated sculptor, finding his artistic calling in the supportive community of Laguna Beach. The episode highlights Gerard's passion for creating art that stimulates thought about freedom and innocence. 

In this episode of the Stop Digging podcast, hosts Nancy and Susan kick off a new series on cultural diversity, featuring serial entrepreneur Aida Camelich Lowe. Aida shares her journey from a corporate design job to starting her own food business, Aida Food Company, outside Eugene, Oregon. She discusses the importance of food in expressing culture and how she experiments with various recipes, focusing on authentic and fusion Mexican cuisines. Aida also talks about the challenges she faced in starting her business, including getting into farmer's markets, pivoting during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her passion for connecting with her roots through food. Additionally, Aida discovers her passion for entrepreneurship through various endeavors, including a unique venture with Llama Brew, a natural plant food created from llama droppings. This episode underscores the role of creativity, courage, and persistence in entrepreneurial success, along with the power of food in bridging cultural gaps.Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast.   

It's 2024 and that means it's time to reflect on the year that is now behind us and to celebrate the wins! In this episode, hosts Nancy Trader and Susan Zytnik-Künzler discuss the things that made 2023 special: professional successes with A-Squared Lamp Groups, personal resolutions and the amazing guests featured on the Stop Digging! podcast.This is a debrief you won't want to miss!Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast.  

  This month's guest is entrepreneur Lukas Thern Lovén who joins Nancy and Susan to discuss a hot topic: Artificial Intelligence! They discuss this technology's implications for various industries, such as supply chain and content creation, and its potential to replace human tasks in the near future. For a deep dive on the rise of AI, its various types, and its impact on the global workforce, look no further than this episode of Stop Digging!(00:29) - Understanding Artificial Intelligence: Fears and Misconceptions (02:02) - Exploring the Statistics and Impact of AI Adoption (04:40) - The Different Types of AI (06:27) - Guest Introduction and Discussion on AI in Business (11:31) - AI in Creative Industries: Opportunities and Challenges (32:06) - AI in Job Market and Security Concerns (40:26) - Conclusion: The Future of AI  Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast. 

The holidays are upon us: a time to reflect on the year that is almost over and look forward with optimism to the new one to come. For entrepreneurs, this is especially important!Join Nancy and Susan for a cozy, empowering discussion about small business in America in beyond: trends, principles, ideas and experiences.  Drawing from academic studies and a recent A-Squared Lamp Groups survey, our hosts touch on themes including: establishing solid business foundations, adapting to market needs and avoiding common pitfalls by forming a support network. Despite some rockiness in the economy, there are exciting things happening in American entrepreneurship and this is as good a time as ever to get your business idea off the ground. Listen to learn more.Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast.    

What does it mean to be a leader? To be resilient? When faced with a life-threatening situation, is it possible to not only survive, but thrive?These questions and more are explored on this month's episode of Stop Digging, presented by A-Squared Lamp Groups. The guest is Mark Rodriguez, a stonemason, double lung transplant survivor, motivational speaker and man of faith. Mark's incredible story of dogged perseverance and resilience in the face of (almost) certain death will inspire anyone facing difficulties. Learn how Mark embraced his "warrior spirit" to push through his fight with lung disease, how he discovered the "Why?" that motivated him to never give up and how you too can cultivate the resilience and leadership skills to help you "stop digging" yourself into whatever hole you're in and start building the life you want.Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast.   

 Relationships: we all want 'em but sometimes we can't handle 'em!But relationships are not always romantic, family or work-based. Sometimes they're something else, a kind of blend of all the above. One such example is the relationship between members of a band. In this month's episode of Stop Digging, hosts Nancy Treder and Susan Zytnik-Künzler talk to Paul Mata and Jay Abuan, two musicians with years of experience playing in bands. They discuss how to maintain and strengthen relationships with people that are both your friends and business partners, pitfalls to avoid and mindsets to adopt. Even if you're in a band, there's a lot to be learned!More on the artistsListen to Paul Mata's band Midlife Crisis: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100040186130102Listen to Jay Abuan's band Fix the Blame: https://www.youtube.com/@fixtheblame Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast.  

Are you tired of the political rancor that seems to engulf every conversation these days?So is this month's guest, Elizabeth Doll. That's not because she doesn't have political opinions of her own. Doll is a conservative living in a very blue area of Washington state, a political minority in her community. She's also the director of Braver Politics within Braver Angels, an organization working to bridge the political divide in the United States by helping people re-learn how to love and respect one another despite partisan disagreements by having difficult conversations.It's not easy work, but many have done it and are doing it and so can you. This interview with Elizabeth Doll will inspire you to join those who are working to build a future where political differences divide us at the ball0t box, not everywhere else.Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast. 

What does it mean to be a good citizen?Obeying the law, respecting civic institutions and exercising your democratic right to vote are elements of good citizenship that come to mind. But good citizenship is more than that. It's about positive engagement in your community. It's about thinking global and acting local.Greg Nance is a shining example of a good citizen. He is an entrepreneur, non-profit leader, political candidate, distance runner, substance abuse survivor and mentor to many. He is also the guest on this month's episode of Stop Digging.Join this energetic, inspiring conversation and learn about how you too can improve your life and the lives of those around you by embracing the principles of good citizenship.Follow Greg Nance:https://www.gregnance.org/https://www.electgregnance.com/Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast.  

Is your organization healthy?Organizational health is about more than just profitability. Turnaround, openness, clarity of corporate values and many other factors are just as important, and contribute to an organization's ability to bring in revenue. Perhaps most important of all is culture. A healthy corporate culture is only possible when members are able to identify and address those problems that everyone knows are plaguing the organization but are too afraid or too complacent to do so. In other words, they must be able to tag the elephant in the room.Stacie Morgan is an organizational truth-teller and author of the upcoming book The Elephant Hunter: Speaking Truth in Organizations. She's also this month's podcast guest.Listen to this episode to find out how you too can begin tagging the elephants in the room!Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast.   

In this episode, we are joined by individuals from The Roland Center, a service-based non-profit that helps members of the disabled community in California to access education, training and employment.Our conversation centers around the importance of providing opportunities to all, the value of education and the role of non-profit in providing human services. Listen to this inspiring conversation, complete with stories of people overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals.Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast.  

In this first episode of "Stop Digging!", we're joined by Adriana Medina Cagan, a bodybuilder and personal trainer (fuentefitness.com). Our conversation centers around the importance of physical fitness in empowering oneself and improving mental health. We delve into how fitness can help build self-discipline, resilience, and confidence. Adriana also shares her personal journey of how fitness has helped her overcome challenges and achieve her goals. Join us for an inspiring discussion on how to take control of your life through physical fitness. Get your Stop Digging free development worksheet & join the free online podcast group to interact directly with host, co-host, & guests at asquaredlamps.org/podcast. 

Introducing: Stop Digging, a podcast hosted by Nancy Treder and Susan Kunzler.Only you can decide how to move through whatever pile of dirt your life or work struggles have put in your way. But we can help. Explore pain-point topics of health, learning, relationships, and organizations with Nancy Treder and Susan Kunzler through engaging panel conversations and interviews. Then get practical tools and resources to create your own unique success plans so that they work for you. Serious change makers can download our free course-of-action worksheet to use and are personally invited to converse with us in our private LinkedIn group called “Stop Digging! – We’re Listening to You.”