PODCAST · education
Work Sucks, But I Like It
by Tony Tenaglier
How we define work needs to change today. Work Sucks, But I Like It is a show that challenges the narrow way we’ve come to define work. Most people answer the question, “What do you do?” with a job title—but that barely scratches the surface of human potential. This podcast digs deeper as success in our work is not about good luck, it's good "skills". Tony is a Quality Manager in the aerospace industry, columnist writer for Thermal Processing Magazine, and 500RYT Yoga Teacher. He is currently pursuing his PhD in I/O Psychology and is the author of "The Impression of a Good Life: Finding Your Song and Dance" and "Don't Let Life Pass You By: Win the Game of Work and Play".
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E75: How Embracing Your True Self Can Turn Work Into Pure Joy with Saw Myint
Discover how Saw Myint, a Burmese-Aussie mother, CPA, and property developer, transformed her work life from frustration to fulfillment by aligning her career with her passions and values. In this episode, Saw shares her journey of overcoming toxic office politics, balancing family life, and building genuine relationships with her team. Learn how her early experiences with unfair treatment fueled her desire to serve others, turning adversity into a powerful drive to help those around her. This conversation offers actionable insights and heartfelt stories, inspiring you to pursue work that aligns with who you are and to lead with kindness and integrity. Perfect for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking fulfillment, this episode is your blueprint for creating a life of purpose on your own terms.Connect with Saw Myint:https://www.facebook.com/likesawkmyint/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E74: Why the Traditional Concept of Retirement Is Outdated and What Comes Next with Lynn Friesth
Most of us think about retirement as the end of work, but Lynn Friesth sees it as the beginning of a purposeful encore. After 40 years at John Deere, Lynn’s redefining what it means to stay active, impactful, and fulfilled beyond traditional retirement age. His journey from corporate engineer to lifelong learner proves that your best chapter might just be starting at 75—and that your work, no matter your age, can be a source of purpose, connection, and growth. In this eye-opening conversation, Lynn challenges the outdated concept of retirement and reveals how shifting your mindset can unlock new opportunities in your later years. Whether you’re in your 50s contemplating the next move, or in your 60s and beyond feeling burnout or boredom, this episode is your blueprint for embracing the portfolio life—where work becomes an act of intentionality, passion, and continuous learning. Lynn shares practical tools, timeless principles, and candid stories that will inspire you to think beyond the limits of age and job titles, and to craft a life of purpose—well into the years that follow your career. Visit linfreest.com to learn more about Lynn’s coaching, books, and free AI tools that can help you discover your purpose and unlock your potential.Connect with Lynn:https://www.lynnfriesth.com/aboutSupport the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E73: The Surprising Truth About Work-Life Balance for Nine-to-Fivers with Matt Ogonowski
In this episode, Tony's best friend Matt, a community college buyer, shares his journey from burnout in trucking to finding fulfillment in education. He challenges the corporate ladder myth, emphasizing self-awareness, organization, and hobbies for true growth. Discover insights on work-life balance, the importance of patience and workplace culture, and self-care practices like journaling and yoga. Matt's story inspires listeners to prioritize meaning over money and embrace a life rich in purpose and passion, perfect for anyone feeling stuck or yearning for more outside the office.Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E72: Why Chasing a Single Purpose Is a Trap—And How Happiness Evolves Over Time with Mark Decarlo
Unlock the secret to genuine happiness and purpose with Emmy-winning comedian Mark DiCarlo, who shares his journey from a near-death experience to a life centered on joy. Discover how embracing what makes you happy can transform your career and relationships. This episode offers practical tactics like identifying your last 10 happy moments, mastering storytelling and listening, and reclaiming time from social media addiction. Perfect for anyone feeling stuck or searching for deeper meaning, Mark’s insights will empower you to live intentionally and pursue what truly makes you happy. Join us to reimagine success and embrace a more joyful, authentic life.Connect with Markhttps://www.markdecarlo.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E71: Be Inspired By Many, But Influenced By Few (Monthly Reflection)
May 2026 Monthly Recap Themes:Why today's work culture ignores humanity and how to fix itHow vampires reveal the power of familyDoing the work to find the ones that saved you (literally)How to embrace authenticity and happinessThe attitude of never giving upThe hidden cost of living in the wrong identity Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E70: The Hidden Cost of Living in the Wrong Identity—And How to Change It with Bobbi Barrington
Trapped by societal expectations and personal fears, Bobbi Barrington spent decades in the wrong marriage and career, feeling disconnected from her true self. In this transformative episode, Bobbi shares her journey of radical change, revealing how awareness and choice unlocked her true power. Discover practical tools to break free from limiting beliefs and embrace authenticity, as Bobbi discusses her gender transition and the power of emotional regulation. This episode is a masterclass in resilience and living fully, offering insights and a free self-reflection guide to help you rediscover your essence and step confidently into your next chapter.Connect with Bobbihttps://www.bobbibarrington.com/feel-alive-againSupport the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E69: The Power of Purpose Over Retirement with Jay Setchell
Jay Setchell, a Marine Corps veteran and serial entrepreneur, shares his incredible journey of resilience and purpose after surviving 73 surgeries and a near-death experience. Discover how relentless stubbornness, small steps, and intrinsic drive can transform life's obstacles into stepping stones. Jay challenges conventional views on work, success, and retirement, showing that purpose fuels resilience at any age. Perfect for anyone facing setbacks or seeking motivation, this episode offers practical insights on cultivating a mindset that refuses to quit. Get inspired to embrace change, stay active, and realize your inner strength.Connect with Jay:https://neverquittrying.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E68: How Embracing Usefulness Over Status Can Lead to Authenticity and Happiness with Chip Scholz
Chip Scholz transformed his life by embracing usefulness over status after a career wake-up call. This episode explores his journey of finding purpose through simple tools like a lathe and pocket knife, offering profound lessons on living intentionally and authentically. Chip shares insights on mindfulness, such as box breathing and recognizing everyday gifts, to help manage anxiety and enhance emotional resilience. His engaging stories challenge us to live more purposefully, highlighting the power of authenticity in a world obsessed with image. Tune in to learn how to craft a more mindful routine and reignite joy in your work and relationships.Connect with Chip:https://scholzandassociates.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E67: Why Following Your Passion Might be the Worst Advice Today with Ed Mccarthy
Most people spend their careers trading time for money — until a near-death snowmobile accident forced Ed McCarthy to rewrite his entire life approach. In this powerful episode, Ed reveals how one life-altering experience shifted his focus from being an overworked tech CEO to designing a life rooted in purpose, ownership, and freedom. Discover the pivotal moments that led him to embrace a new mindset—one that can help you escape the grind, leverage AI, and build passive income streams, regardless of your current job or industry.Connect with Ed:https://thelifeletters.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E66: How Vampires Reveal the Power of Family Over Society’s Expectations with Richard Spegal
Richard Spiegel shares how he transforms chaos into captivating worlds, revealing the truth behind his vampire saga. His military background and mental health journey fuel realistic fight scenes and vivid imagination. Discover how authenticity and family-centric themes revolutionize vampire fiction, and explore the link between mental illness and creativity. This episode offers fresh perspectives on storytelling and the power of authenticity, inspiring writers and creatives to embrace personal battles and create resonant stories.Connect with Richard:https://richardspegal.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E65: Why Today’s Work Culture Ignores Humanity—and How to Fix It with Vanessa Younts
Vanessa The Vivacious shares her journey from struggle to becoming a voice for humanity 2.0, emphasizing how vulnerability can lead to authentic connection and personal growth. Discover the art of resilience, the power of active listening, and practical ways to build community. Vanessa’s insights reveal why embracing openness and compassion is crucial for societal healing and meaningful change. Perfect for anyone seeking deeper human connections and practical tools to lead with empathy.Connect with Vanessa:https://vanessathevivacious.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E64: The Surprising Power of Yoga to Cultivate Flow and Reduce Modern Stress
Most of us are unknowingly caught in a cycle of nonstop activity, leaving little room to reconnect with ourselves. What if the secret to transforming your work and life lies in a simple, ancient practice—yoga—that's more relevant today than ever? In this episode, Tony Tenaglier flips the script, blending modern neuroscience, philosophy, and practical insights to reveal how slowing down and mastering your breath can unlock flow, reduce burnout, and create real meaning amid chaos.Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E63: Be Inspired by Many, But Influenced by Few (Monthly Reflection)
April 2026 was filled with a lot of great moments from the guests on the show. We explored:- Trusting your gut, not your fear- Moving from paycheck to purpose- The discipline of success- Why leaders actually burnout - Stop faking success as people can see right through you- Working hard vs. staying stuck- The power of your life force- The importance of your identitySupport the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E62: The Hidden Power of Identity: How Changing Your Self-Perception Transforms Your Life with Ken Cox
Most entrepreneurs kill their growth prospects by ignoring one crucial element: their identity. Ken Cox, a seasoned entrepreneur and author of Loading Identity, reveals the mind-transforming power of mastering your "super why" to unlock peak performance and resilience. In this episode, Ken shares how his journey through the Flow Research Collective helped him rewire his identity, conquer addiction, and elevate his coaching and business to new heights.Connect with Ken:https://loadingidentity.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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D61: Why Your Most Valuable Asset Isn’t What You Think — It’s Your Life Force with Delliah Shaffer
Most of us chase material growth—but what if your real asset is your life force? In this episode, Delliah Shaffer, health coach and systems thinker, challenges survival-mode thinking and redefines success through both spiritual and material balance. Drawing from her shift out of the pharmaceutical world, she breaks down how virtues like presence, patience, and optimism directly impact your health, happiness, and business.We explore practical tools—like timeline mapping and breath awareness—to help you measure and strengthen your inner assets, so you can lead, work, and live with more clarity and resilience. If you’re burned out on hustle culture, this is a grounded approach to building a life that actually feels aligned.Connect with Delliah:https://qualycoaching.au/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E60: Work Hard or Stay Stuck? with Alan Lazaros
Alan Lazaros, founder of Next Level University, breaks down what real work actually means in a world chasing shortcuts. From leaving corporate engineering to building a global coaching business, Alan shares why personal development is overlooked, why self-belief is the ultimate skill, and why success comes from doing what others avoid. If you’re tired of quick fixes and ready for real growth in health, wealth, and love—this episode delivers practical, no-BS insight.Connect with Alan:https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E59: Stop Faking Success: Why People See Right Through You with Scott Maderer
What if success isn’t about how your life looks—but how it actually feels? Scott Maderer challenges the myth of “fake it till you make it” and explores why people can always tell what’s real. They break down the difference between relationships and transactions, how to build authentic connections in a surface-level world, and why chasing status, image, and appearances leads to emptiness. Scott introduces powerful mindset shifts like the “film strip vs photograph” perspective and the 250-year legacy question to help you redefine success on your own terms. The real question: are you trying to look successful—or actually be successful?Connect with Scott here:https://inspiredstewardship.com/worksucks/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E58: Why Leaders Burn Out (It’s NOT What You Think) with Naomi Asher
Leadership coach and burnout researcher Naomi Asher breaks down why burnout isn’t caused by overwork—but by lack of growth, misalignment, and misunderstood communication. We explore the truth about work-life balance, nonprofit leadership stress, and how tools like the Enneagram can transform teams, reduce conflict, and create meaningful, sustainable work.Connect with Naomi:https://www.naomithemaven.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E57: From 367 lbs to Disciplined Life: The Truth About Success with Stanley Bronstein
Stanley Bronstein—attorney, CPA, and life coach—shares how he lost 220+ pounds without surgery and rebuilt his life through discipline, not motivation. We dive into his “rigid flexibility” mindset, why most people fail to change, and how small daily habits can completely transform your health, work, and purpose.Connect with Stanley:thewayofexcellence.comSupport the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E56: From Paycheck to Purpose with Larry O'Nan
What if work isn’t about the paycheck—but about purpose?At 82, Larry proves that purpose doesn’t retire—and that thriving is a choice we make daily. Larry shares decades of wisdom on redefining work, discovering your true strengths, and living with intentionality. From walking away from dreams of theater to building a life centered on impact, Larry reveals how to shift from chasing money to creating meaning.You’ll learn how to: Identify your unique strengths and “sweet spot” Build trust and influence through relationships Navigate career pivots and unexpected life changes Lead with intentionality instead of reacting to life Balance strengths, weaknesses, and personal fulfillment If you’re feeling stuck, burned out, or questioning your path, this conversation will help you rethink what work really means.Connect with Larry:https://larryonan.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E55: Trust Your Gut, Not Fear with Jenny C Cohen
In this powerful interview, Jenny C. Cohen shares her journey through cancer, trauma, and self-discovery—and how dance became the bridge to healing.We dive into the power of embodiment, self-care, and trusting your intuition, along with practical tools to help you reconnect with your body, build resilience, and show up more fully in your life.If you’ve ever felt disconnected, stuck in your head, or unsure how to navigate life’s challenges—this conversation will give you a new path forward.Key takeaways:Why self-care is non-negotiableHow movement and dance can heal traumaThe role of visibility and authenticity in growthSimple somatic practices to ground and resetThis episode is your reminder: Trust your gut, not fear—and find your own rhythm in life.Connect with Jenny:https://www.dancetohealpodcast.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E54: Be Inspired by Many, But Influenced by Few (Monthly Reflection)
March 2026 recap. It was filled with the show hitting 50 episodes and the not so fun management of being ghosted by guests. But the influence of the guests that did show up, did not disappoint with their wisdom and practical advice for navigating work today. It is not what you do. It is who you are becoming. It is not the game you play. It is how you show up to play it. Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E53: Burnout, Hustle Culture & Performance: Why “More Work” Is Failing You with Rob Tracz
Are you working harder but getting nowhere? Rob Tracz breaks down burnout, hustle culture, and why movement doesn’t equal momentum. Learn how to build resilience, create real impact, and perform at your best—without burning out.Connect with Robhttps://robtracz.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E52: Told He’d Never Work Again… He Proved Everyone Wrong (Incredible Story) with Ken Kunken
After a devastating football injury left him paralyzed at 20, Ken Kunken was told his life would be limited—if not over. Instead, he became a trailblazing quadriplegic lawyer, Cornell graduate, and father of triplets.In this powerful episode, we unpack resilience, identity, and the mindset shift that turns limitations into purpose. If you’ve ever been doubted, labeled, or underestimated—this story will change how you see yourself.Connect with Ken:https://kenkunken.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E51: 20-30% of Work Should be Enjoyable with Trisha Vinatieri
Work is supposed to give you purpose. So why does it feel like it’s slowly taking it away?In this episode, I sit down with Trisha Vinatieri, Chief Well-Being Officer, who says burnout isn’t about being tired — it’s about getting disconnected from what brought you into the field in the first place. When only 20–30% of your job fuels you, that might be enough… until volume crushes quality and your values start to collide with your calendar.From therapy dogs buried under two years of bureaucracy to middle managers drowning in bandwidth issues, we unpack the real epidemic inside corporate culture: doing more with less while pretending resilience will fix it.You don’t need all the answers. You need better conversations. And maybe fewer “boulders” stealing your energy.If you’ve got more bad days than good — tune in! Connect with Trisha:https://www.cliniciancareconsulting.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E50: Why You’re Leading at Work But Failing at Home (And How to Fix It) with Joe LaRussa
What if the leadership skills that make you successful at work are the exact ones missing at home?In this episode, Joe LaRussa breaks down how leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence can transform your family dynamics, work-life balance, and personal development. From structured communication and family meetings to navigating corporate America and the creator economy, Joe reveals why household leadership is the ultimate test of real leadership.If you’re thriving at work but struggling at home, this conversation will challenge how you lead, communicate, and show up where it matters most.Connect with Joe:https://homegrownleadership.net/about/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E49: Why Successful People Stop Living by the Clock with Kirk McCarley
What happens when the clock keeps ticking… but your values start slipping?In this episode, Kirk McCarley — HR executive turned coach and longtime contributor with ESPN — pulls back the curtain on corporate life, ethical pressure, and the moment he refused to compromise his integrity. After 35+ years in HR, he shares what really drives good people out of organizations — and why leadership today often confuses profit with purpose.From lessons learned in the boardroom to stories connected to University of Connecticut athletics, this conversation challenges you to ask a hard question:If you graded your values at work right now… would you pass?Connect with Kirk:https://theseedsowercoach.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E48: Leaders Overlook this Key Thing with Edward Howard
Leaders today are overlooking an important aspect to being effective today. The key, the simple awareness of breath. Ed Howard reminds us that in a fast paced world, we need to become more aware of our breath to become more connected in high-pressure moments. Connect with Edhttps://www.onebreathleadership.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E47: Learn to Say No with Mark Struczewski
Are you productive — or just busy?We confuse social media distractions with being productive. Mark Struczewksi joins the show to break down the real keys to time management, intention, discipline, and personal development. We talk about these social media distractions, the power of saying “no,” and why accountability is essential for protecting your focus and work-life balance. If you’re ready to stop defaulting to the scroll and start building intentional productivity habits, this episode is for you.Connect with Mister Productivity:https://misterproductivity.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E46: Chameleons at Work with Mary Eldridge
Toxic workplaces can quietly erode your confidence, authenticity, and self-worth — especially for women navigating sexism and male-dominated environments. How we sometimes have to act outside of who we are. Mary Eldridge shares how nervous system regulation, courageous self-trust, and intentional coaching can help you recover and grow. It's not about trying to survive, but rather to use your mind to thrive. Connect with Mary:https://www.mindtothrive.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E45: Be Inspired by Many, But Influenced by Few (Monthly Reflections)
Monthly recap for February on the Work Sucks, But I Like It podcast:- The skill of influence- The power of vulnerability- Awareness of pride in the workplace- Finding your Ikigai- Thinking of drugs in a different lightSupport the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E44: Why High Achievers Still Burn Out with Jeff Luther
"I had to step into fear."What if burnout isn’t about working too much… but about working on the wrong things? Jeff Luther explores why high achievers can’t relax and gets vulnerable with sharing how a near-death (twice!) experience forced him to redefine work, fear and what success actually means. Connect with Jeff:https://www.jeffluther.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E43: Don't Be Your Best Self... Be Your Unique Self with Nicholas Kemp
Ikigai isn’t just a trendy Japanese word. It’s the intersection of purpose, belonging, contribution, and awareness. It’s about balancing the intrinsic (meaning, fulfillment, joy) with the extrinsic (income, titles, recognition) components of work. It's beyond what coaches and leaders today are telling you, "be your best self". Instead Nick reminds us to be our "unique self" through Ikigai. And here’s the twist Nicholas Kemp indicates you don’t just have one Ikigai. You can have many.Connect with Nick:https://ikigaitribe.com/His upcoming book A Year of Ikigaihttps://ikigaitribe.com/a-year-of-ikigai-book/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E42: Pride Gets in the Way with Leaders Today with Ryan Sullivan
"You have to show them that you can be trusted"Pride. The number one enemy in Corporate America today. And when this can be broken down by leaders in the workplace, their people will follow them into any problem or challenge to make the company successful. Ryan Sullivan provides practical advice for people navigating the skill of building trust in the workplace today wanting to make a really successful team. Connect with Ryan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-sullivan-9534b74a/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E41: The Skill is Influence with Carol Enneking
"The skill is influence"Corporate America is a dumpster fire today. But it doesn't have to be this way when you "rebalance" your life and the work you do. Carol Enneking reflects on why influence is needed more than ever today in Corporate America. She has walked the "talk" of becoming a vice president to now serving others in balancing their values in why they show up to work. Connect with Carol:https://carolenneking.com/https://www.youtube.com/@carolennekingspeakerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/caroltenneking/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E40: Transparency Is the Skill Corporate America Refuses to Teach with Ryan Reichert
“I wasn’t tired from working—I was tired from working without meaning.”What if smiling and using manners could really be the missing ingredient needed today when interacting with others? Ryan shares his journey from serving in the military to realizing that transparency is a necessary skill for those in corporate America today and states that retirement actually sucks. Connect with Ryan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanreichert78/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E39: "I took acid to confront" with Julie Cyvonne
"Psychedelics can be a tool for confronting personal challenges"Typically we think drugs are bad. And typically we label taking something like acid to avoid something in our lives instead of the opportunity to take acid and confront it. But former attorney Julie Cyvonne sheds a new light through all the propaganda on this when you are given the right amount, with the right facilitator. It can be life changing. Contact Julie:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliecyvonne/https://www.juliecyvonne.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E38: Be Inspired by Many, But Influenced by Few (Monthly Reflections)
Most podcasts don't make it past 6 months. It's time to recap the recent growth of Work Sucks, But I Like It with a review of past guests and to look forward in how the conversation of work is changing today. Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E37: Work-Life Balance: A Seesaw of Priorities with Wes Towers
"It's important to create human connections in business."How many of you can relate to life's ups and downs roller coaster? What if you actually embraced work and life like a see saw that isn't balanced, but going up and down. Because let's face it, a balanced see saw is no fun as Wes put it when he opens up the burnout and excitement he has had in growing his marketing business today. Wes also reminds us that we can get locked behind our technological devices too much and we have to remember that we need to see people face to face or talk with them!Contact Wes:https://uplift360.com.au/https://www.linkedin.com/in/westowers/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E36: From Chaos to Boss: Transforming Your Work Life with Lynette Sorrentino
"Work should be joy-filled or fun"In this episode, I found myself sitting with the tension so many of us feel—wanting meaningful, joyful work while navigating systems that often drain it out of us. I spoke with Lynette Sorrentino, a seasoned business leader and coach with over 30 years of experience, about what it really takes to find joy in work without ignoring the hard realities of corporate life and entrepreneurship. We talked about people-first leadership, why personal connection still matters in an increasingly tech-driven workplace, and how generational gaps can either divide or deepen understanding if we’re willing to listen. Lynette shared reflections on employee engagement, mindset shifts, and the uncomfortable but necessary work of personal growth, tracing her own journey from chaos to boss as proof that transformation is possible. The conversation kept circling back to one simple but powerful question—what actually gives you joy—and why answering it might be the most important work any of us can do.Connect with Lynette:https://chaostoboss.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynettesorrentino/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E35: Empathetic Communication is Key for Leaders with Deborah Laurel
"Small talk defines us as human beings"In this conversation, I found myself reflecting on how much of our frustration with work comes from what goes unspoken. Deb Laurel, a workplace learning and performance improvement consultant, brings clarity to the evolving definition of work, the outsized impact of management on employee satisfaction, and the quiet power of workplace culture. Drawing from her experience across industries and cultures, she explores why so many employees feel unseen, under-communicated with, and disconnected from meaning in their roles. We talk about empathy as a leadership skill, the importance of small talk in building trust, and how understanding personal values can support healthier work-life balance. The conversation also touches on generational differences, flexibility, and how administrative noise can pull us away from the heart of our work—ultimately reminding us that culture isn’t what we say it is, but how people are treated every day.Connect with Deb:https://laurelandassociates.com/about-us/https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-laurel-master-trainer/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E34: Traveling from "Back Stage" to "On Stage" in Life with Kerry Damiano
"It's Never Too Late to do It" In this episode, Tony Tenaglier interviews Kerry Damiano, known as Miss World Traveler, who shares her experiences traveling to over 130 countries and her journey to financial freedom. Kerry discusses her passion for travel, the importance of overcoming fears, and how her experiences in pageantry have shaped her confidence and coaching methods. She emphasizes the joy of work, the significance of planning in travel, and the skills necessary for success in both travel and pageantry. The conversation highlights the empowerment of women through travel and personal growth.For more information:https://msworldtraveler.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E33: Self-care is a Daily Necessity with Daniela Wolfe
"Self-care is a daily necessity"In this episode, Daniela Wolfe, a burnout prevention specialist, shares her insights on managing work-related stress and achieving a healthy work-life balance. She discusses the importance of setting boundaries, the role of mental fitness, and how to find joy in work. Daniela also reflects on her journey as a social worker, author, and podcaster, emphasizing the need for continuous personal growth and the value of self-care. The conversation explores the differences between entrepreneurship and traditional employment, and how individuals can navigate their careers while maintaining their well-being.For more information:https://www.bestdlife.com/For her podcast:https://www.bestdlife.com/podcastSupport the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E32: Actively Human with Jake Kennington
"Strong column, weak beam"In this episode, Tony Tenaglier interviews Jake Kennington, a former structural engineer turned entrepreneur and coach. They discuss the evolution of work, the importance of redefining success, and the philosophy behind Jake's coaching practice, Actively Human. Jake shares his journey from feeling trapped in a corporate job to finding fulfillment in entrepreneurship, emphasizing the need for balance between work and personal life. The conversation explores the significance of leadership, delegation, and the importance of reconnecting with loved ones. Jake also provides insights into his coaching framework and the challenges he faces in his current work.For more information:https://activelyhuman.com/Own Your Life Playbookhttps://activelyhuman.com/#playbookSupport the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E31: You are Responsible for Your Life with Heather Stewart
"You are responsible for your life."In this episode, Heather Stewart, a coach and yoga teacher, shares her journey from a successful corporate career to helping individuals find their purpose and satisfaction in life. She discusses the importance of curiosity, the challenges of going inward, and how yoga serves as a reflection of one's internal state. Heather emphasizes the need for intentional living and the skills required to navigate life's complexities, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique paths and raise their vibrations.For more information:https://heatherstewart.coach/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E30: Turn Your Burnout into a Breakthrough with Garrett Wood
"Turn your burnout into a breakthrough"In this episode, Garrett Wood, a clinical hypnotherapist and wellness coach, discusses his journey from traditional jobs to finding passion in his work. He explores the concept of burnout, its stages, and the impact of technology on seeking help. Garrett emphasizes the importance of coaching, creating psychologically safe work environments, and the need for collaboration over competition in the workplace. He also shares insights on the challenges of marketing in today's digital age.For more information:https://www.gnosistherapy.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E29: Getting your voice out is essential for self-discovery with Alex Sanfilippo
In this episode, Tony interviews Alex Sanfilippo, a prominent figure in the podcasting world, discussing his journey from aerospace to entrepreneurship in podcasting. They explore the definition of work, the importance of community, and the challenges of navigating social media and burnout. Alex shares insights on enhancing communication skills, finding passion, and the significance of meaningful experiences in both online and offline interactions. The conversation emphasizes the need for purposeful activity and the evolving landscape of podcasting.Learn more about Alex:https://alexsanfilippo.com/Check out his Podcasting Work and even join the PodMatch community! :) https://podmatch.com/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E28: Internal work is necessary for external success with Dr. Caroline Sangal
“Outwardly successful, inwardly unfulfilled.”In this conversation, Dr. Caroline Sangal shares her transformative journey from a successful career in polymer science to becoming a career architect and life coach. She discusses the predictable stages of career transitions, the importance of self-discovery, and the need for work-life integration. Dr. Sangal emphasizes that authentic success is about understanding one's true self and aligning it with one's work. She introduces her Next Success Method, which focuses on mental fitness, communication styles, and personal values. The conversation highlights the significance of community support and collaboration in achieving personal and professional growth.Check out Caroline's work:https://nextsuccesscareers.com/Connect with Caroline on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-sangal/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E27: There's no excuse not to have a presence online with Al Kushner
"Be more comfortable with AI technology."In this conversation, Al Kushner discusses the importance of embracing AI technology and the various tools available to enhance productivity and content creation. He emphasizes the necessity of having an online presence and utilizing AI tools to optimize profiles and create engaging content.Check out Al's work here:https://linkedvantage.com/Connect with Al here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/al-kushner/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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E26: Finding Your Flow: The Key to Productivity with Dr. Kevin Gazzara
"I need more project work and less routine"In this conversation, Dr. Kevin Gazzara discusses the concept of flow as defined by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, emphasizing the importance of balancing challenge and skill to achieve optimal productivity and satisfaction in work. He explains how too much challenge with low skill leads to anxiety, while too much skill with low challenge results in boredom. The goal is to find a balance that allows individuals to operate in a state of flow, enhancing their overall work experience.Check out Kevin's work here:https://magnaleadership.com/Connect with Kevin here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevingazzara/Support the showWant to find out more? Check out the website:www.worksucksbutilikeit.com
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
How we define work needs to change today. Work Sucks, But I Like It is a show that challenges the narrow way we’ve come to define work. Most people answer the question, “What do you do?” with a job title—but that barely scratches the surface of human potential. This podcast digs deeper as success in our work is not about good luck, it's good "skills". Tony is a Quality Manager in the aerospace industry, columnist writer for Thermal Processing Magazine, and 500RYT Yoga Teacher. He is currently pursuing his PhD in I/O Psychology and is the author of "The Impression of a Good Life: Finding Your Song and Dance" and "Don't Let Life Pass You By: Win the Game of Work and Play".
HOSTED BY
Tony Tenaglier
CATEGORIES
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