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The Workplace Wonderers: Workplace Lessons from Experts

by Workplace Wonderer - Blake Cohen

Welcome to ”The Workplace Wonderer,” the podcast where we explore the exciting world of workplace wellness, mental health, burnout, psychological safety, HR, leadership theories, and much more. Join hosts Kara Kirby & Blake Cohen, a leadership expert, as they interview the top professionals in these fields to learn all about the latest trends, best practices, and insights. With an open mind and an eagerness to learn, Blake and Kara takes on the role of a curious wonderers, asking probing questions and diving deep into the most pressing issues affecting modern workplaces. Whether you’re a CEO, manager, or employee, this podcast will inspire you to make positive changes in your workplace and take your leadership skills to the next level. So come wonder with us, as we explore the fascinating world of workplace wellness and uncover the secrets to a happier, healthier, and more productive work environment.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed May 15, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Hidden cost of promotions w/ Ronna Weaver

    In this thought-provoking episode of The Workplace Wonderers, host Blake Cohen (flying solo while Kara Kirby’s on the road) sits down with fellow doctoral cohort member Ronna Weaver to explore one of the most overlooked realities in corporate life: what happens when talented employees get passed...

  2. Sticky Notes & Psychological Safety: Annie Grace on the Science of Facilitation

    Why do great meetings feel effortless while others drain the life out of a room? Facilitator and OD leader Annie Grace joins Kara Kirby and Blake Cohen to explore the neuroscience and psychology of facilitation - from reading the room to building trust and regulating emotion in real time. The…

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  3. When leadership crosses the line w/ Kara and Blake

    In this thought-provoking episode of Workplace Wonderers, hosts Blake Cohen and Kara Kirby dive deep into the evolving conversation around “toxic workplaces” — and why the term may be losing its punch. They explore the spectrum of workplace behavior, from subtle incivility to overt bullying, and...

  4. Ai & HR: What you really NEED to know w/ Surbhi Ugra

    In this episode of The Workplace Wonderers, Blake Cohen and Kara Kirby sit down with HR transformation expert and AI educator, Surbhi Ugra, for a refreshingly honest conversation about what AI really means for HR professionals. From resume scanners and hiring bots to "humans in the loop" and...

  5. Advocacy Starts at Home w/ Dr. Valencia Harris

    In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Valencia Harris—nonprofit leader, educator, mother, and advocate—joins Blake and Kara for a passionate discussion about the intersection of education, mental health, and parenting. With her signature warmth and eloquence, Dr. V shares personal stories about...

  6. Embracing Paradox w/ Mike R. Sweeney

    In this episode, we sit down with Mike R. Sweeney—TEDx Speaker and Founder of Saber Coaching—to explore what it means to lead with nuance, empathy, and emotional intelligence in a world that often demands hard lines and quick answers. Mike shares his powerful perspective on: Embracing “both/and”...

  7. The Angus Barn Way w/ Van Eure

    In this episode of The Workplace Wonderers, Kara Kirby sits down in person with Raleigh legend and hospitality powerhouse, Van Eure, owner of the iconic Angus Barn. More than just a celebrated restaurant, the Angus Barn is a masterclass in workplace culture, leadership longevity, and service...

  8. Mean Girl Mom Culture w/ Dr. Noelle Santorelli

    In this eye-opening episode of The Workplace Wonderers, Kara and Blake are joined by Dr. Noelle Santorelli, clinical psychologist and professor, to explore the complex and often unspoken world of Mean Girl Mom Culture. Together, they dive into: Why some adult female dynamics turn toxic…

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  9. The TEDx Experience They Don't Talk About

    In this episode of The Workplace Wonderers, Kara Kirby turns the mic on her co-host, Blake Cohen, for an honest and insightful conversation about his recent TEDx experience—from the rejections to the red dot. Blake shares: How he was rejected over 10 times before finally landing a TEDx stage The...

  10. Supporting Middle Managers with Chris Williams

    In this episode of The Workplace Wonderer, Kara and Blake sit down with leadership powerhouse Chris Williams, a seasoned advisor with over 45 years of experience building and leading teams—from writing software to scaling departments to serving as VP of HR at Microsoft. Together, they explore the...

  11. Communication Blind Spots with Velma Knowles

    In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Velma Knowles—a Gallup-certified strengths coach, public speaker, and leadership strategist—to dive deep into the communication blind spots that hold teams and leaders back. We explore: ✅ How to identify and overcome common communication gaps ✅ Why...

  12. Beating Burnout with Nina Nesdoly

    In this enlightening episode of The Workplace Wonderers, hosts Blake Cohen and Kara Kirby engage with Nina Nesdoly—burnout and corporate stress management speaker, neuroscience researcher, and PhD candidate in Management. Nina shares her unique blend of scientific insights and practical…

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  13. Leading them out of a job w/ Henry Lucas

    In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode of Workplace Wonderers, hosts Blake Cohen (Founder of Mind Capital & Corporate Speaker) and Kara Kirby (Leadership Development Expert & Founder of Insight Leadership Group) sit down with the brilliant and beloved Henry Lucas, LCSW—owner of Louisville...

  14. Can A.I. Replace Great Leaders? Exploring the Future of Leadership & Technology

    Artificial Intelligence is changing the way we work, learn, and lead — but can it ever replace great leadership? In this episode of Workplace Wonderers, Kara Kirby and Blake Cohen tackle a big question: Will the rise of A.I. make human leadership skills obsolete, or will it make them more…

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  15. How to Comfort Grief at Work w/ Jason Seiden

    Welcome back to all of our listeners! This week, we have Jason Seiden on the podcast to discuss his mission of improving how organizations cope and communicate with grieving team members. Jason and his wife have a powerful story that influenced their decision to start a passion project called...

  16. Developing Insight with Kara Kirby

    Welcome back to you all! Today's episode is deep dive into the Workplace Wonderer's new cohost, Kara Kirby. Kara details her professional journey telling us how she went from a small town in Texas, to teaching kids English in Mexico, to helping sell tires, to being the owner of a successful...

  17. From Mental Health to Leadership Psychology

    Hello to you all! Welcome back to another episode of the Wonderer Podcast hosted by Kara Kirby, Insight Leadership, and Blake Cohen, Mind Capital. On today's episode, Kara decided she wanted to take some time to interview Blake! They explore how he went from overcoming his own struggles with…

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  18. Forming, Norming, Performing without Storming! Welcome Kara!

    Well, folks, we're back! On this episode, we welcome Kara Kirby to the team as the new co-host of Workplace Wonderer Podcast alongside Blake Cohen. On this episode, we take time to establish our working relationship live on the podcast! We cover a wide range of topics and most importantly, how we...

  19. Corporate Values Attract Customers W/ Jonathan Bennett

    On this episode of the Workplace Wonderer, Blake Cohen sits down with his guest, Jonathan Bennett, to discuss the impact of creating a value-based organization on attracting customers. The conversation explores this topic in detail and then turns to the two men's personal journies of growth and...

  20. Clear Communication Saves Teams W/ Peggy Umbarger

    Clear #communication across your #team and #organization is crucial to the #success of your #business. However, you may want to ask yourself, "How well am I doing at communicating clearly with my team?" The odds are that you think you're doing better than you actually are. In this episode of the...

  21. Great Leaders Do this w/ Lori Saitz

    The question we have for the audience is, "Does spirituality have a place in the workplace?" We think so! This engaging conversation is informative and affirmative that a mindfulness practice may be the secret to success in the business world (and life). Lori Saitz, the founder of Zen Rabbit…

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  22. Cultural Competency w/ Vanina Hochman, LMFT

    This week's episode of the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons from the Experts is an important one. Our guest is Vanina Hochman, Licensed Therapist and Family Ambassador for Family First Adolescent Services. The topic we discuss is Cultural Competency. Get ready to enjoy a lively conversation between...

  23. Burnout and Being Boundaryless w/ Marc Kantor

    Everything in life has a cost, but sacrificing our self for a job sure is expensive! Today, we're joined by Marc Kantor, Founding Partner and Corporate Director of Versa Pointe, to discuss the dangers of burnout and being boundaryless when it comes to work. This discussion is not about shying…

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  24. Leadership in Behavioral Healthcare w/ Jamie Bassos

    How are behavioral health organizations different than other industries? Do they require a different type of leadership? Do employees who work in mental health treatment need more attention if they wish to have long and successful careers? We think so! Welcome to another episode of the Workplace...

  25. Conversations at work w/ Kara Kirby

    Do our conversations at work affect our workplace's productivity, success, corporate culture, and morale? We think so! On this episode of The Workplace Wonderer: Lessons from the Experts, our host, Blake Cohen, sits down with Leadership and Workplace expert Kara Kirby to explore the impact of...

  26. Leaders and Trauma w/ Esin Pinarli, LCSW

    It's not common for people to consider one's trauma when discussing leadership or workplace dynamics, but is that a mistake? We believe so! Our past shapes who we are and how we show up in our jobs. Whether you are a leader, an employee, or just someone navigating our complicated world,...

  27. Can Employees be "poached?" w/ John Puls, LCSW

    This week's episode of the Workplace Wonderer explores the concept of employees being poached by competitors. How should a leader react? Does the leader's reaction affect the business? The way you work through the organizational issue may surprise you with how much it affects your corporate...

  28. Attract and Retain Top Talent w/ Richard Triggs

    It's a #competitive world out there in the #CorporateLife! On this week's episode of the #Workplace Wonderer, Richard Triggs joins us to offer his insights on how #Organizations can find their edge by attracting and retaining top talent! Richard Triggs, founder of Arete Executive, one of...

  29. A Conversation with a Business Guru... I think?

    This week's episode of the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons from the Experts, hosted by Blake Cohen, is not our usual style of episode. Jonathan Peppers, or as he calls himself "Dr. Business" joined us for a conversation that gets off track pretty quickly. "Dr. Business" is a self-proclaimed...

  30. Leaders Embrace Change w/ Cristina Oliveri

    Tune in to a transformative conversation on leadership and self-discovery in the latest episode of 'The Workplace Wonderer: Lessons from the Experts.' Hosted by Blake Cohen, this episode features special guest Cristina Oliveri, an Organizational and Leadership Expert. Together, they delve into…

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  31. Mental Health Literacy w/ Laura Kunz

    Explore the critical topic of mental health literacy in the workplace on the latest episode of 'The Workplace Wonderer: Lessons from the Experts.' Join host Blake Cohen and special guest Laura Kunz, Vice President of Spirence Wellness, as they delve into strategies for fostering a supportive...

  32. Power of the People w/ Annie Laing

    Delve into the dynamics of #followership on the latest episode of 'The #Workplace Wonderer: Lessons from the Experts.' Join host Blake Cohen and special guest Annie Laing, a Leadership and #Organizational #Expert, as they unravel the significance of followership in organizational settings. From...

  33. Leading with Heart w/ Klifton Fehr

    Embark on a profound exploration of authentic leadership in the newest episode of 'The Workplace Wonderer: Lessons from the Experts.' Hosted by Blake Cohen, this episode features the expertise of Klifton Fehr, LMHC, an Organizational and Leadership Coach. Together, they unravel the intricacies of...

  34. Organizational Trauma W/ Dimple Dhabalia

    🌟 Join us on "The Workplace Wonderer: Lessons from the Experts" as we delve into the profound topic of Organization Trauma with the incredible Dimple Dhabalia, writer, human-centered leadership coach, and founder of Roots in the Clouds. 🌱 Discover the transformative journey from vicarious…

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  35. Foraging for the Authentic Leader Within W/ Anthony Meek

    Anthony Meek joins the podcast as our first repeat guest to discuss what it takes to actually become an authentic leader. Anthony explains the road of introspection and the work required of us as we search to better serve our teams, communities, families, and beyond. We dive into understanding…

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  36. Creating an Ownership Culture W/ Niki Avraam

    Join Niki Avraam and me on an episode of the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series to discuss Creating an Ownership Culture. About Niki Avraam: Nikki is a legal entrepreneur pioneering a new leadership and workplace transformation era through speaking and business advice. With a...

  37. Substance Misuse & Employees W/ Cheryl Brown Merriweather

    Join Cheryl Brown Merriwether and I on the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on the topic " Substance Use/Misuse & Employees." About Cheryl Brown Merriwether: Cheryl is the VP and Executive Director at ICARE International Center for Addiction and Recovery Education, a division…

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  38. Collaborative Cultures W/ Mary Polanco

    Join Mary Polanco, MSSL, and me for this week's episode of the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on Creating Effective Collaborative Cultures. About Mary Polanco: Mary Polanco is a retired Air Force Veteran, Author, experienced leadership trainer and curriculum developer. Her...

  39. Recruiting and Retaining Diversity w/ Andrea Parker

    Join Andrea Parker and I on the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on the topic "Recruiting & Retaining Diversity." About Andrea Parker: Andrea Parker began her career as a teacher in international education. Andrea has taught English Language Learners in Elementary, Middle, and...

  40. The Alcohol and Workplace Cocktail W/ Heather Lowe

    Join us on this episode of The Workplace Wonderer in which we sit down to have a conversation with the charming, Heather Lowe! Heather Lowe is the President and Founder of Ditched the Drink, a wellness company whose mission is to help professionals evaluate their relationship with alcohol to…

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  41. Mental Health & Law Firms W/ Brian Cuban

    Welcome back to another episode of the Workplace Wonderer! This week's guest is the, one and only, Brian Cuban! Brian Cuban, the younger brother of Dallas Mavericks owner and entrepreneur Mark Cuban, is a Dallas-based attorney, author and addiction recovery advocate. He is a graduate of Penn…

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  42. Inclusive Leader & Workplaces w/ Gregory Mazzeo

    Join us on this week's episode of the Workplace Wonderer where we welcome our guest, Greg Mazzeo, in discussing Inclusive Leadership. Greg sheds light on what it means to become an inclusive leader, develop an inclusive workplace, and offers insight into why inclusivity is more relevant today…

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  43. The Loyalty Fallacy w/ Brian Wall

    Join Brian Wall and I on the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series where we discuss the topic of "The Loyalty Fallacy". About Brian Wall: Brian possess over two decades of expertise in steering individuals and teams to advance clinical objectives. He's a leader in the implementation...

  44. Becoming an Authentic Leader w/ Marsha Stone

    Join Marsha Stone and I on this week's episode of the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on the topic: Authentic Leadership in Behavioral Health. About Marsha Stone: Experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the health and wellness industry....

  45. The Black Female Leadership Experience w/ Dr. Brandi Derr

    Join Brandi Derr and I on the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on the topic: The Black Leadership Female Experience. About Brandi Derr: Dr. Brandi Derr is the Director of the Leadership PsyD program at William James College and is the founder of Cosmos Consulting. Dr. Derr is…

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  46. Happiness and Leadership w/ Ryan Gallik

    Join Ryan S. Gallik 🧠 (He/Him) and I on this week's episode of the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on the topic: Happiness as a Leader. About Ryan Gallik: After working nearly two decades as a Firefighter/ Paramedic, Ryan discovered that the lack of focus on mental hygiene...

  47. Meditation, Breathing, and Work W/ Matt Cardone

    Join Matt Cardone and I on the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on the topic: Meditation and It’s Power for Employees. About Matt Cardone: Matt Cardone is a transformational leader focused on creating positive change through collaboration, gathering insights, and strategic...

  48. No one size fits all approach to Global Wellness w/ Allison Stark

    Join Allison Stark and I on this episode of the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on the topic: No One Size Fits All Approach To Global Wellness. About Allison Stark: Allison Stark is the Senior Manager of Global Wellness at Hewlett-Packard Enterprises. She is an HR professional...

  49. Navigating Generational Differences at Work w/ Priscilla Torres

    Join Priscilla Torres, M.S. and I on the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on the topic Navigating Generational Differences at Work! About Priscilla Torres, MS: Priscilla Torres is a dynamic HR professional with over 15 years’ experience mostly working in the healthcare…

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  50. Having Difficult Conversations with Grace w/ Dr. Enin Rudel

    Join Enin Rudel and Blake Cohen on the Workplace Wonderer: Lessons From The Experts Series on the topic of Facing the Difficult Conversations with Grace! About Enin Rudel, Dr. Enin Rudel holds a PsyD. in Organizational Leadership Psychology with a concentration in the Neuroscience of Leadership,...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to ”The Workplace Wonderer,” the podcast where we explore the exciting world of workplace wellness, mental health, burnout, psychological safety, HR, leadership theories, and much more. Join hosts Kara Kirby & Blake Cohen, a leadership expert, as they interview the top professionals in these fields to learn all about the latest trends, best practices, and insights. With an open mind and an eagerness to learn, Blake and Kara takes on the role of a curious wonderers, asking probing questions and diving deep into the most pressing issues affecting modern workplaces. Whether you’re a CEO, manager, or employee, this podcast will inspire you to make positive changes in your workplace and take your leadership skills to the next level. So come wonder with us, as we explore the fascinating world of workplace wellness and uncover the secrets to a happier, healthier, and more productive work environment.

HOSTED BY

Workplace Wonderer - Blake Cohen

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Workplace Wonderers: Workplace Lessons from Experts have?

The Workplace Wonderers: Workplace Lessons from Experts currently has 52 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Workplace Wonderers: Workplace Lessons from Experts about?

Welcome to ”The Workplace Wonderer,” the podcast where we explore the exciting world of workplace wellness, mental health, burnout, psychological safety, HR, leadership theories, and much more. Join hosts Kara Kirby & Blake Cohen, a leadership expert, as they interview the top professionals in...

How often does The Workplace Wonderers: Workplace Lessons from Experts release new episodes?

The Workplace Wonderers: Workplace Lessons from Experts has 52 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

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You can listen to The Workplace Wonderers: Workplace Lessons from Experts on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Workplace Wonderers: Workplace Lessons from Experts?

The Workplace Wonderers: Workplace Lessons from Experts is created and hosted by Workplace Wonderer - Blake Cohen.
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