Life + Leadership

The conflict you're avoiding at work? It probably started long before you ever had a job. Tegan and Maggie dig into what actually causes conflict in teams, in the executive suite, and between two people who just can't seem to get on the same page. From unclear roles and accountability gaps to ego dynamics, misaligned incentives, and the CEO behaviors nobody talks about, they cover the full picture. Plus, the one thing Tegan wants every leader to sit with: how curious are you actually being about the other person and about yourself? Resources Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/the-root-cause-of-executive-conflict/  https://info.brightarrowcoaching.com/conflict-as-a-catalyst https://info.brightarrowcoaching.com/the-executive-field-guide-to-sources-of-conflict https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/elite-resource-resolving-c-suite-conflicts/ Connect with Maggie LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching Website Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn

How many layers does it really take to lead well? And when does structure start slowing everything down instead of moving it forward? In this episode, Tegan and Maggie dig into why teams are getting bigger, why organizations are flattening out, and why that shift is forcing leaders to operate in a completely different way. They get into the real tension behind it all, from speed and efficiency to clarity, delegation, and the very human side of leading through change. Resources Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/executive-leadership-in-flat-organizations-what-changes-when-your-team-doubles/ Connect with Maggie LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching Website Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn

Most executive development sounds good on paper, but how much of it actually changes the way leaders show up when it counts? In this episode, Tegan and Maggie talk honestly about why not all coaching firms are the same, how flashy platforms and boxed programs can miss the real work, and what it takes to find a partner who truly understands the pressure and complexity of executive life.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/selecting-an-executive-development-partner-to-support-your-leadership-strategy/    Resources Connect with Maggie LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching Website Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

Most executive "teams" aren't really teams - they're high performers sharing airtime and reporting up. In this episode, Tegan and Maggie Gough unpack what actually makes a leadership team a team: shared enterprise goals, clear decision rights, and the ability to work through conflict without splintering. They talk about why so many strategies die after the deck is delivered, and how team coaching "in the field" creates traction without adding more meetings. If you're wondering why smart people keep spinning but the business isn't moving faster, this conversation will hit home.   Resources Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/are-you-a-team-or-a-group-the-leadership-distinction-that-determines-execution/    Connect with Maggie on Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn Connect with Tegan on LinkedIn Website Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

Ever feel like your plans look great on paper but don't survive contact with real life? Tegan and former co-host Katie Rasoul reunite to talk about how their approach to annual planning has softened, simplified, and become far more intuitive. They share what's changed, their Words of the Year for 2026, and why easing up on structure can actually create more meaning. It's a warm, grounded reset for anyone craving a gentler way into the new year. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/building-the-foundation-for-a-meaningful-year-katie-rasoul/  Resources Connect with Katie on LinkedIn   Previous podcast episodes with Katie on end-of-year planning:  2019: Year-End Review and New Year Planning 3rd Edition  2018: Do Less and Be More in 2019  2017: How to Reflect on 2017 and Plan for 2018   Connect with Tegan on LinkedIn Website Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

Some of the best leaders you know are running an invisible obstacle course every day. In this episode, host Tegan Trovato talks with Bright Arrow coach Cara Wilson about what it really means to be a neurodivergent leader - and how workplaces can do better. Cara opens up about discovering she's both ADHD and autistic later in life, the toll of masking at work, and the surprising rituals that help her recharge (yes, "coffin time" is a thing). Together, they explore how labels, language, and old leadership norms can unintentionally exclude brilliant minds, and what true inclusion actually looks like. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/coaching-neurodivergent-leaders-to-thrive-cara-wilson/  Resources Connect with Cara on LinkedIn Connect with Tegan on LinkedIn Website Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

Feeling off your game and can't figure out why? In this refreshingly honest episode, Tegan sits down with Dr. Amy Moon, founder of the New Moon Center for Women's Health, to talk about how hormones, metabolism, and menopause affect focus, energy, and mood. Dr. Moon debunks myths about hormone therapy, opens up about what women really need to know at midlife, and reminds us that thriving in leadership starts with taking care of ourselves first. Resources Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/dr-amy-moon-on-redefining-womens-health-and-longevity/ North American Menopause Society (NAMS) — https://menopause.org - directory of certified practitioners can be found here The Menopause Manifesto by Dr. Jen Gunter -https://drjengunter.com/the-menopause-manifesto/ Vagina Bible by Dr. Jen Gunter - https://drjengunter.com/vagina-bible/ The Gen Death Podcast by Dr. Jen Gunter - https://drjengunter.com/podcast/ Estrogen Matters by Dr. Avrum Bluming and Carol Tavris - https://estrogenmatters.com/ The New Menopause by Dr. Mary Claire Haver - On Amazon App ''Rosy'' - for sexual health and libido issues - Download here OMG Yes - sexual wellness and female arousal content - OMG Yes Website   Connect with Dr. Amy Wood on LinkedIn New Moon Centre for Women's Health   Connect with Tegan on LinkedIn Website Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn

What if the real edge in leadership isn't about pushing harder, but about learning how to think, reset, and show up with clarity? In this episode, Tegan and Maggie's focus is on the practices that help leaders get into flow, manage energy, and keep burnout at bay. From carving out real thinking time to working that fine line between pressure and performance, it's an honest look at what it takes to perform at a high level and still feel human while doing it.   Resources Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/the-science-of-peak-executive-performance/   Connect with Maggie on Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn Connect with Tegan on Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn Website LinkedIn 

What happens when "good enough" no longer cuts it? In this episode, Tegan Trovato and Bright Arrow's COO, Maggie Gough, dive into how AI is shaking up leadership at every level. From McKinsey's overhaul to the pressures facing mid-sized companies, they explore what leaders must do to balance speed with wisdom, adapt faster than ever, and protect the distinctly human skills of creativity, collaboration, and resilience. If you're wondering how to embrace AI without losing what only people can bring, this conversation is for you. Resources Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ai-and-the-new-rules-of-high-value-leadership/ Wall Street Journal article - ''AI is Coming for the Consultants''   Connect with Maggie on Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn Connect with Tegan on Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn Website LinkedIn  

What if the real challenge isn't the chaos, but how you hold it? In this episode, Tegan gets real about leading through overwhelm, making high-stakes calls without all the data, and the quiet power of intuition. You'll hear practical, human strategies for staying grounded, protecting your energy, and building the kind of support every leader needs but rarely talks about.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at:  https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/enhancing-executive-decision-making-how-to-make-better-choices-under-pressure/    Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

Is your executive team aligned - or just assuming they are? Tegan unpacks why even the best-laid strategic plans often stall after the boardroom - and what to do about it. From misaligned leadership approaches to the common failure to connect big goals to day-to-day operations, we break down what truly effective enterprise goal-setting looks like. Real stories, honest insight, and simple shifts that can make a massive difference. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at:  https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/mastering-leadership-team-alignment-a-core-challenge-for-leaders/    Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

Ever screwed up at work and thought, "Well, that's it for me"? This episode is for you. Tegan is talking about what happens after a leadership misstep - and how owning your mistake can actually build more trust than pretending it never happened. From tough apologies to rebuilding relationships, it's a real look at how leaders recover, learn, and keep moving forward. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at:  https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/bouncing-back-how-leaders-recover-from-professional-blunders/   Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

Why are so many top executives stepping away from their roles - and what kind of ripple effect does that create? This episode looks at the growing trend of C-suite turnover and the disruption it leaves in its wake. You'll hear what's pushing leaders to make their exits, how their departure impacts the wider team, and what kind of support is most needed during these transitions. There's also practical advice for new executives stepping in - how to set the tone early, build resilience, and avoid burning out before you've even settled in.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/navigating-the-tough-tides-of-executive-turnover/    Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

Ever noticed how tension between team members can slowly shut things down - even when no one's talking about it? In this episode, Tegan looks at how conflict shows up in executive teams, how it affects the wider organization, and why emotional intelligence is just as important as brainpower in leadership. You'll hear real examples of how unresolved issues can hold teams back, and how learning to handle conflict well can lead to stronger relationships, better decisions, and a healthier team culture.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/elite-resource-resolving-c-suite-conflicts/   Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

What if innovation isn't just a buzzword, but a leadership responsibility—and one you've been approaching the wrong way? In this episode of the Life and Leadership Podcast, Tegan Travato challenges leaders to reimagine innovation not as a top-down initiative, but as a cultural mindset that must be built, defined, and lived at every level of the organization. From the emotional weight of leading through ambiguity to the very practical need for defining failure and recovery, Tegan explores how executive coaching creates the space leaders need to reflect, experiment, and grow.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/innovation-surpassing-the-benchmark/    Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

What if your leadership team isn't as aligned as you think—and it's costing more than you realize? In this episode, Tegan explores what truly sets high-performing teams apart, revealing why alignment is the backbone of efficiency, reduced conflict, and tangible results. She unpacks the pitfalls of one-off workshops and the power of real-time team coaching to drive lasting change. For leaders ready to rethink how their executive teams function and deliver, this episode offers sharp insight and fresh perspective.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/hidden-truth-about-high-performing-teams   Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

When was the last time you paused to check how uncertainty is affecting your leadership, not just your workload? In this powerful episode of Life and Leadership Podcast, Tegan unpacks the essential habits that help leaders stay composed, communicate clearly, and make sound decisions when the path ahead is foggy. It's a sharp reminder that resilience starts within - and ripples outward. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/how-to-navigate-change-and-thrive-during-uncertainty/   Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn   Subscribe to Life+Leadership on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

What happens when a brilliant tech mind is asked to lead people, not projects? This episode unpacks the real-life journey of a highly technical leader who transformed into a trusted C-suite executive—with the help of coaching, curiosity, and a whole lot of growth at the edge of discomfort. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at:  https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/leading-people-not-projects-developing-essential-leadership-skills/ Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn   Subscribe to Life+Leadership on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

What if the key to thriving isn't doing more, but being more—more present, more authentic, more aligned? In this episode, executive coach and author Marvin Chambers joins Tegan Trovato to explore intentional leadership, especially for men of colour navigating pressure to conform and perform. They unpack Marvin's new book Awakening the Onyx Spirit, which offers mindful practices to reconnect with purpose and lead from a place of inner clarity. From daily reflection to building community, this conversation is a reminder that real power starts within.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/leading-with-authenticity-how-stillness-and-self-reflection-transform-leadership/   Connect with Marvin: Onyx Leadership Collective Awakening the Onyx Spirit (on Amazon LinkedIn Connect with Tegan: Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn   Subscribe to Life+Leadership on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Think executive coaching is just for underperformers or when you're in crisis mode? It's a common misconception. In this episode of Life and Leadership Podcast, Tegan Tovaro busts the biggest misconceptions about executive coaching and reveal why it's a power move for high-performing leaders. From onboarding to growth strategy, you'll learn when coaching delivers the most impact — and how to make the case for it.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at:  https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/debunking-myths-about-executive-coaching   Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn   Subscribe to Life+Leadership on Apple Podcasts or Spotify  

Can leaders truly harness AI's potential without losing the human touch? In this episode of The Life + Leadership Podcast, Oliver Smith, founder and director of Deadalus Futures - a consultancy specialising in responsible AI. He shares how senior executives can integrate AI into their workflows while staying rooted in human connection and emotional intelligence. He emphasizes the importance of firsthand experimentation with AI, challenging leaders to use it as a tool for strategic thinking rather than just automation.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at:  https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/human-leadership-in-the-age-of-ai-oliver-smith-on-ethics-and-transition/   Connect with Oliver Deadalus Futures LinkedIn  Connect with Tegan Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn   Subscribe to Life+Leadership on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Whether or not the language around DEI evolves, the need for organizations to create environments where employees feel valued, engaged, and supported isn't going away. The companies that get this right will not only attract top talent but will also sustain performance and innovation in a rapidly changing world. With over fifteen years of experience in design thinking and social innovation, Nicole has pioneered a data-driven approach to workplace equity, helping organizations build more inclusive and responsive environments.  Under her leadership, Eloquate launched the nation's first workplace equity certification and developed a platform that blends behavioral science, AI, and evidence-based strategies to support employees in creating fair and thriving workplaces. In today's conversation, we dive into the evolving landscape of DEI, how organizations can create systemic change that lasts, and why equity remains a business imperative no matter how the terminology shifts. If you're ready to move beyond performative efforts and build a workplace that truly supports its people, this episode is for you. Let's dive in. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/business-case-for-equity-how-inclusive-workplaces-drive-success/ Connect with Nicole: LinkedIn Connect with Tegan: Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn

At first glance, it may seem as though civil interventions and the corporate sector have nothing in common. But that couldn't be further from the truth. Dr. Kelly Firesheets joins us today to share critical leadership lessons she learned after being tasked with solving the opioid epidemic in her community. She shares innovative solutions she put to the test, the most impactful investments she made, and which changes she implemented are not only still in use, but have been adopted by other communities. Most importantly, Kelly gets us to think critically about how to engage people in a variety of sectors and organizations in order to bring the right people together for a shared end result that positively benefits a community. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/building-uncommon-coalitions-tackle-complex-problems/ Connect with Dr. Kelly: LinkedIn Connect with Tegan: Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn  

In this episode, Don MacPherson, researcher, futurist, and host of the 12 Geniuses podcast, joins Tegan Trovato to challenge the common narrative of decline and instead offer a data-backed perspective on human progress. Drawing from decades of research on leadership, workplace culture, and global trends, Don breaks down why looking at the bigger picture over time tells a far more hopeful story about our world. From advances in healthcare and technology to the rise of abundance and longevity, he makes the case for why humanity is on a positive trajectory—even if it doesn't always feel that way. This episode is a must-listen for leaders, changemakers, and anyone ready to shift their mindset from fear to informed optimism. Tune in to discover how you can use a broader perspective to navigate uncertainty, lead with confidence, and embrace the opportunities ahead. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/reframing-the-future-a-data-backed-look-at-human-potential/ Links & Mentioned Resources 12 Geniuses 12 Trends That Are Changing the Way We Work and Live Home at Home Lifespan by David Sinclair Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari Think2Perform Future Leaders Academy Man's Search for Meaning Enlightenment Now  What We Owe the Future  Connect with Don: LinkedIn Connect with Tegan: Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn

We live in a world filled with leaders who are using tools to lead that worked 10-15 years ago. To bring leadership toolkits up to speed requires clarity around core values, resilience, emotional intelligence, and most of all—curiosity. Today's guest, Dr. Russell Robinson, is extremely well-versed in this topic. He's involved in leadership development and is a professor at American University. In this conversation you're about to hear, Dr. Russell guides us through what must replace command and control leadership, the importance of asking the right question, the value of pacing over agility, and why voice culture is critical in this moment of change. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/bringing-curiosity-into-leadership-with-dr-russell-robinson/ Related Episodes: Rethinking Wellness in Leadership with Maggie Gough How to Build Human Connections at Work with Jason Lauritsen Connect with Dr. Russell: LinkedIn Connect with Tegan: Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn

You may not have heard the concept of human energy, but it impacts your productivity on a daily basis. The research and findings around this topic will specifically impact executives and senior leaders in the very near future. Joining us on the podcast today is the world's foremost practitioner on Human Energy™, Josh Allan Dykstra. He's been in the work of helping work not suck for as many humans as humanly possible for nearly two decades. Josh shares his extensive insights about the future of work, the importance of human energy in the workplace, the collective impact of leadership on changing core systems, and how to maximize AI.   Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at  https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/the-future-of-work-and-how-to-fix-it-with-josh-allan-dykstra/   Mentioned Links & Resources  Reality Check: Leaders, Your Systems Shape Everything  TEDx Talk Connect with Josh: LinkedIn Website Connect with Tegan: Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn

Futurists study the future by researching trends. These findings and predictions can be particularly useful to those in leadership positions because of the impact it has not only on the team but the organization as a whole. Today, we welcome Rebecca Ryan back to the podcast. She was last on 5+ years ago—pre-pandemic. The focus of this conversation is largely on a thought piece she and her team published about 10 Trends for the Next 10 Years. In this conversation, Rebecca shares what you need to know about churn as a leader, the unwinnable model of the CEO role in an organization, how senolytics could change the workplace model, and her prediction of what to expect from the future of AI. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/3-trends-to-watch-out-for-over-the-next-decade-with-futurist-rebecca-ryan/  Connect with Rebecca: LinkedIn  Connect with Tegan: Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn

You've heard the adage "the only constant is change." That couldn't be more true than within an organization. And that means leaders are tasked with getting teams on board with and motivated to enact these changes—when change is almost always seen as a threat.  On this episode of the Life + Leadership podcast, hear from Dr. Elizabeth Moran who also helps humans and organizations change. Her career has taken her to ADP, Bloomberg, Lehman Brothers, Getty Images, and Time Inc. Dr. Elizabeth took her experience and research and published her book Forward: Leading Your Team Through Change. In this conversation, she shares what makes her approach uniquely effective, if it's possible to lead through change even when you're not fully bought in, and how to utilize neuroscience as a leadership tool. In this episode, we cover: Why Dr. Elizabeth's approach to change management is so unique Why she focused on neuroscience very early on in her book, Forward What leaders need to know about the neuroscience of change How to effectively communicate change to your team so they're motivated A high-level overview of negativity bias The importance of authenticity to leaders as they're navigating change If it's possible to lead through changes even if you're not fully bought in What switch costs are and how it applies to change leadership For leaders navigating organizational change, Dr. Elizabeth brings the topic of neuroscience forward in a way that's energizing and intellectual. This episode is a valuable resource for deepening the understanding of neuroscience and how it can be used as a tool during times of uncertainty. Continue the conversation with us on LinkedIn! More About Dr. Elizabeth Moran Dr. Moran is an experienced leader, consultant, and speaker, providing neuroscience-based guidance to successfully navigate change. Partnering with business and HR leaders from Fortune 500 companies to technology start-ups, she has successfully supported large and small-scale transformation efforts through practical advice and actions that simplify change leadership and management. She is the author of the Amazon Bestselling book Forward: Leading Your Team Through Change (2023), designed to make her practical approach accessible to all people leaders globally.  Prior to starting Elizabeth Moran Transformation, she was Vice President of Global Leader, Team & Organization Development at ADP. She also held talent development roles at Bloomberg, Lehman Brothers, Getty Images, and Time Inc. She holds a masters and doctorate in clinical psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies, a PCC-level coaching certification from the International Coaching Federation and a certification as a Neuro-Transformational Coach. Links & Mentioned Resources Forward: Leading Your Team Through Change (2023) Kotter Stacking the Deck Bridges Transition Model Connect with Dr. Elizabeth Moran: Website LinkedIn Connect with Tegan: Website LinkedIn Bright Arrow Coaching LinkedIn

What does it take to successfully transition into the C-Suite? In this episode, we're unpacking the key mindset shifts and leadership strategies with Lars Schmidt, Founder & CEO of Amplify Talent, and executive coach Suzanne Coonan. Adapted from our Bright Arrow webinar Charting Your Course from VP to the C-Suite, we explore how to expand your focus from your department to the entire organization and why building strong relationships is essential at the highest levels of leadership. We also dive into the importance of staying curious and being honest about what you know—and don't know. Tune in for practical advice and real-world stories to help you navigate the challenges and rewards of moving into the C-Suite.

In today's fast-paced corporate landscape, authenticity is a powerful tool that can set leaders apart. Yet, many professionals face internal doubts, unconscious biases, and societal pressures that hinder them from fully embracing their unique leadership styles. On this episode of Life + Leadership, Tegan Trovato, Founder and CEO of Bright Arrow Coaching, is joined by Kisha Wynter, CEO of Wynter Rich Enterprises, to discuss her journey, her DIVA Method, and her new book, *Your Power Unleashed: How Savvy Women Use Courage to Get Promoted, Get Paid, and Find Fulfillment.* Kisha's insights are rooted in over 20 years of corporate experience and a commitment to empowering leaders to break down barriers. Together, Tegan and Kisha explore actionable strategies for building self-awareness, navigating biases, and enhancing career advancement. Key Highlights: Self-Doubt as a Growth Opportunity  Kisha dives into the idea that self-doubt and fear are natural when pushing beyond comfort zones. By reframing these feelings as indicators of growth, leaders can learn to embrace new challenges rather than shy away from them. Understanding Perception Gaps in Leadership Leaders often face "imposter treatment" or perception gaps that arise from unconscious biases. Kisha emphasizes the need for leaders to be aware of their impact and to create psychologically safe spaces where all voices can be heard and valued. The DIVA Method for Career Advancement   Kisha introduces her four-part DIVA Method, which includes delivering results, cultivating a personal brand (image), gaining visibility with decision-makers, and building an advisory network. Each component is designed to empower leaders to strategically advance in their careers. Curious about the DIVA Method? Take The Get Promoted Savvy Quiz The Role of Allies and Sponsorship  Allies and sponsors play a vital role in advancing equity within organizations. By creating inclusive environments and advocating for diverse voices, senior leaders can help bridge gaps and support meaningful career growth for underrepresented groups. Intersectionality and Inclusion Kisha underscores the importance of recognizing intersectionality—the idea that gender, race, religion, and other identities shape unique workplace experiences. Leaders who seek to create inclusive cultures must be willing to adapt and accommodate a range of lived experiences. Why Listen?For leaders looking to deepen their self-awareness and elevate their impact, Kisha's insights offer both inspiration and practical guidance. This episode is a valuable resource for understanding how authenticity and courage can transform personal and professional success. Key Takeaway   You don't need to change who you are to be successful—authentic leadership comes from understanding and leveraging your unique strengths while supporting an inclusive environment where others can do the same. Tune in to hear more from Kisha on embracing your authentic self and overcoming barriers to success. Don't miss out—subscribe to Life + Leadership on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube Music today!

How do strong peer relationships impact executive teams? In this episode, we're breaking down the essentials of trust, respect, and open communication with Cheryl Schofield, executive coach at Bright Arrow Coaching.  Cheryl shares her insights on building deeper connections within leadership teams and explains how small actions like responsiveness and curiosity can strengthen partnerships. She also discusses the challenges of negative dynamics and the crucial role senior leaders play in modeling the right behaviors. Tune in for practical tips to enhance your leadership relationships and drive better business outcomes.

When communication falters, everything else unravels. In this episode of Life + Leadership, Jen Benz, Senior Vice President and Communications Leader at Segal Benz, explains why effective communication is the foundation of strong leadership. Jen shares her insights on managing stress, creating flexible and kind workplaces and the importance of clarity in communication. If you're a leader looking to build a more engaged and high-performing team, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to elevate your leadership and foster a thriving work culture.

Why is wellness so important for executive leadership? We're sharing how to balance high performance and personal well-being in this conversation with Maggie Gough, COO at Bright Arrow Coaching. She discusses her unconventional career path from dietician to corporate exec and provides a refreshing perspective on wellness that emphasizes flexibility and self-awareness over rigid standards. She also highlights practical strategies for leaders to support their well-being and that of their teams.

In this episode of Life + Leadership, we're talking with Jess Von Bank, a global thought leader, analyst and advisor on HR transformation, digital experience, and workforce technology at Mercer. She also leads Diverse Daisies, a Minneapolis nonprofit providing enrichment and empowerment activities for young girls. Our conversation highlights the power support systems for young women and at work. Jess also offers valuable lessons for enhancing workplace culture and employee development.

 In this episode of Life + Leadership, we're talking with Jason Lauritsen, a keynote speaker, author, co-founder of Check-In To Thrive, about building real human connections at work, the power of check-ins and how leaders can go first in improving human connection. Plus, we discuss how technology is affecting the workplace and how performance management is changing.

In this episode of Life + Leadership, we're diving deep into the topic of grief and its impact on the workplace with Jason Seiden, co-founder of Comfort Communications, which aims to normalize the conversation around grief in the workplace.  A trigger warning for this episode: We candidly discuss sensitive topics related to grief, including illness and suicide. Jason discusses the journey of grief, how it intersects with the modern organization, and how to support employees experiencing grief while creating a culture that allows space for healing.

Get ready for new episodes of the Life + Leadership podcast, hosted by Tegan Trovato, founder and CEO of Bright Arrow Coaching. Through this podcast, we explore how individuals like you can transform business obstacles into opportunities for personal growth. Stay tuned for our first episode next week — a candid conversation about grief with Jason Seiden. His insights promise to be both enlightening and transformative.

Leadership has become something different. In light of the pandemic, political turmoil and socioeconomic changes over the last two years, leaders are being asked to develop brand new skills. Employees want us to take a stand on social justice issues and be more emotionally available at work. So, what does the leader of the future look like? That's the central question of my new podcast, Workplace Forward. Today, I'm discussing where the idea for Workplace Forward came from and considering what skills the leader of the future needs to be successful. I name drop some of the authors, thought leaders, innovators and C-level executives I'm interviewing on the new show and share some of the leadership topics covered in both live and upcoming episodes. Listen in for insight into the themes of embracing desirable difficulty, storytelling to drive action and the business case for empathy we explore on Workplace Forward. Themes explored in this week's episode: Where the idea for the Workplace Forward podcast came from How leadership is evolving in light of the pandemic, political turmoil and socioeconomic changes in the last 2 years The central question of Workplace Forward: What behaviors, practices, beliefs and skills does the leader of the future need to be successful? The authors, thought leaders, innovators and C-level executives I'm interviewing for Workplace Forward Some of the topics covered in my live episodes of Workplace Forward—embracing desirable difficulty, leading through liminal space and storytelling to drive action What you will learn from Workplace Forward about the business case for empathy and how relationship drives innovation Ideas around decision-making, managing risk in crisis and creating psychological safety we explore in upcoming episodes Resources from this episode: Learn more about desirable difficulty with Suzanne Coonan Explore the business case for empathy with Leisel Mertes Develop your insight muscle with consumer anthropologist Gina Fong Discover the transformative power of liminal space with Deb Loftus Find out how relationship drives innovation with Sue Bevan Baggett Leverage business storytelling to drive action with Esther Choy Learn more about high-profile leaders Elaine Boltz, Dane Mathews and Justin Seamonds Get to know thought leaders Brett Townsend, Sherianne James and Dorie Clark I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me @TeganTrovato Email [email protected] Follow me on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching Follow me on Instagram @TeganTrovato Connect with me on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/

We all need support and guidance in our personal and professional lives. But how do you build a network of people who will lift you up when you need it? How do you know if your current situation calls for a mentor, a sponsor or a coach? And what if you're ready to BE an advocate for someone else? Today on the podcast, we're sharing the distinctions among mentoring, sponsorship and coaching and describing how to build a network of supporters who can solve any problem that might come up. We explore what makes an effective mentor and why it's crucial to define what you want the mentoring relationship to look like. We go on to discuss the connection between doing your job well and finding a sponsor who will advocate on your behalf. Listen in for insight on when it's appropriate to seek help from a mentor, sponsor or coach and learn how YOU can benefit from being a champion for others. Themes explored in this week's episode: The distinctions among mentoring, coaching and sponsorship What an effective mentor looks like and why it's important for mentees to be clear on what they need How to find mentors based on specific needs + how we each select and serve mentees The three primary types of mentorship—traditional, peer circles and reverse mentoring Why it's crucial to agree on what you want the mentoring relationship to look like The relationship between doing your job well and finding a sponsor willing to advocate for you Keeping the person you sponsor top-of-mind and speaking up on their behalf When you might need a mentor, a sponsor or a coach How to build a network of supporters who can solve any problem that might come up Resources from this episode: Watch this episode of the show on the Life & Leadership Podcast YouTube channel Read Tegan's blog, 'How the Gift of Mentorship Changed My Life' Learn 'How to Be a Next-Level Mentor' in Tegan's Forbes article Explore Ed Batista's piece on getting feedback in Harvard Business Review Find out 'How to Get the Feedback You Need' in Carolyn O'Hara's HBR article Learn more about reverse mentoring in this New York Times piece Understand how coaches, mentors and sponsors differ via this Catalyst infographic And just for fun, listen to Michael Bolton's hit song, "Soul Provider" We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

It's easy for entrepreneurs and leaders to get so caught up in the day-to-day that we fall into a kind of sleepiness. And for many, it takes a dark night of the soul to wake us up to what's really important. But what if we'd rather not wait for a crisis to find our way? How can we develop the self-awareness to lead with intention and follow our calling? Today, we're joined by E. Keller Fitzsimmons, the author of Lost in Startuplandia: Wayfinding for the Weary Entrepreneur. An accomplished tech entrepreneur and artist, she earned the Silvertip PwC Entrepreneurship Award and Speech Technology's Luminary Award. Kelly's VR production company, Custom Reality Services, premiered its first two projects at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, and her work has appeared in Network Computing, InformationWeek and Inc. Kelly begins by sharing the health crisis that inspired Lost in Startuplandia and helped her step into her role as a creative. She explains how she learned to appreciate her strength of positivity and challenges us to own our strengths—and accept our shadow side. Listen in for Kelly's insight on why entrepreneurs and leaders need support from a 'triad of truth tellers' and learn how to cultivate the self-belief it takes to move through heartbreak and live your purpose. Themes explored in this week's episode: How curiosity + creativity serve as the through line in Kelly's eclectic career The health crisis that inspired Kelly to write Lost in Startuplandia and redirected her to a path more in line with her purpose How Kelly learned to appreciate her strength of positivity and understand how it gave her the fortitude to be an entrepreneur The dark night of the soul that helped Kelly get in touch with her shadow side How we fall down as leaders when we make decisions to make ourselves look good Kelly's strategies for cultivating self-belief through little acts of courage and turning down our inner critic Knowing when to 'stay in the game' and when to take a step back and heal Why we all need to establish a triad of truth tellers who help us make important decisions Kelly's current work with artists and musicians + how she is leaning into her own creativity Resources from this episode: Watch our conversation with Kelly on the Life & Leadership YouTube Channel Learn more about Kelly's work at Lost in Startuplandia Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn or Instagram Get your copy of Lost in Startuplandia: Wayfinding for the Weary Entrepreneur Explore Now, Discover Your Strengths or Strengths Finder 2.0 Discover the Center for Authentic Leadership Reframe your inner critic with Katie's Hidden Brilliance + Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic Listen to Chip Conley's interview on Sounds True Find out more about the Modern Elder Academy Explore Daniel Kahneman's work on cognitive biases Read about decision-making in Annie Duke's Thinking in Bets We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

Most of us involved in the practice of leading and coaching teams take a relational approach, focusing on group dynamics and resolving conflicts as they arise. But what if we're treating symptoms without getting to the root cause? All the conflict resolution in the world won't help if a team lacks the underlying conditions necessary to be successful. So, how do we create an environment that puts our teams on a positive trajectory from the start? Today, we're joined by Dr. Ruth Wageman and Dr. Krister Lowe, part of the core team of Team Diagnostics, LLC and co-hosts of the 6 Conditions Podcast. Ruth is one of the creators of the 6 Team Conditions Framework and Team Diagnostic Survey. She is one of the foremost scholars in the field of team performance, having led original research programs as a professor at Columbia, Dartmouth and Harvard Universities. She co-authored Senior Leadership Teams: What It Takes to Make Them Great. Krister is an organizational psychologist and team coach. He is the founder of the professional training platform The Team Coaching Zone. As a 20-year veteran of the team coaching space, he has developed an expertise in providing learning and development solutions for leading organizations around the globe. Ruth and Krister begin by walking us through the 6 Team Conditions Framework, explaining what makes their design more effective than a relational approach and what teams can do to assess their standing in each of the 6 areas. Ruth and Krister discuss the most common dysfunctions they encounter among the wide range of teams they coach and share what they are ultimately trying to accomplish through this work in fostering true collaboration. Listen in to understand what trends Ruth and Krister notice in their work with teams, what they are doing to support team leaders in meeting these challenges, and how YOU might benefit from a deeper understanding of the 6 Team Conditions Framework. Themes explored in this week's episode: The 3 essentials and the 3 enablers that make up the 6 Team Conditions Framework Why conflict resolution fails when we don't create the conditions for a team to be successful Ruth and Krister's advice on defining a clear, specific purpose and making sure the whole team is on the same page The wide range of teams Ruth and Krister have worked with + the most common dysfunctions they encounter What issues SHOULD drive the agenda for senior leadership team meetings (and why it is NOT updates) What Ruth and Krister hope to accomplish through their work around team collaboration Redesigning organizations around collaboration and distributed authority How we can leverage the 60-30-10 Principle to meet the challenge of leading effective teams and bring more joy into the collaborative process The trends Ruth and Krister notice around team leaders and why the popular 1:1 management style doesn't promote collaboration Who might benefit from pursuing certification in the 6 Team Conditions Framework Resources from this episode: Learn more about the framework at 6 Team Conditions Follow Ruth and Krister's work on LinkedIn Connect with Ruth on Instagram + Krister on LinkedIn or Twitter Read Senior Leadership Teams: What It Takes to Make Them Great and The Practitioner's Handbook of Team Coaching Listen to The 6 Conditions Podcast or The Team Coaching Zone Podcast Get more information about The Nautilus Experience Explore the work of Richard Hackman Get certified in the Team Diagnostic Survey Enroll in the 6 Team Conditions Advanced or Master Certification Training Learn more about The Coaches Training Institute Revisit our discussion on community with Lola Wright on The Life & Leadership Podcast We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

We all assess how we're feeling physically on a daily basis and use that data to inform our decisions. (If our knee hurts, we don't run that day.) But we don't do that with our mental health. Despite the fact that it drives our physical health and the way we see the world, we tend to consider mental wellness a luxury rather than a foundational piece of our wellbeing. Today, we're joined by Alexa James, the Executive Director of the Chicago Chapter for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), an organization dedicated to providing hope and improving the quality of life for people affected by mental health conditions.  A licensed clinical social worker with Master's Degrees in Social Work and Child Development, Alexa has devoted her professional life to serving people living with mental illness as well as those impacted by poverty and trauma. Alexa begins by explaining how biology, genetics and environment impact our mental health, offering insight into what a toxic community looks like and what we can do to create communities of wellness. She introduces us to the idea of proactively asking employees what accommodations they need to navigate stress and describes how she set the tone for her team by prioritizing her own mental health. Listen in for advice on using person-first language to talk about people living with mental illness and learn what YOU can do to remove the stigma associated with mental health. Themes explored in this week's episode: How Alexa defines mental health as the ability to manage stress in a way that doesn't interfere with our relationships, our work or our sense of self How our mental health impacts our physical health and guides the way we see the world How biology, genetics and environment contribute to the development of mental illness The idea of creating treatment declarations around what accommodations we need when we get stressed Alexa's insight on what a toxic community looks like Alexa's understanding of wellness as the responsibility she has to set the tone in the organizations she works with Why NAMI focuses on resources and environment to create communities of wellness Alexa's take on the unique mental wellness needs of high-profile leaders and why it's powerful when they acknowledge their challenges How the media and our healthcare system perpetuate the stigma around mental health Why sharing our lived experiences is the first step in removing the stigma associated with mental illness Using person-first language to talk about people living with mental illness Resources from this episode: Learn more about NAMI Chicago at https://www.namichicago.org/ Reach out to the NAMI Helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) Read E. Keller Fitzsimmons' Lost in Startuplandia Find your local chapter of NAMI at https://nami.org/Home Access the NAMI Chicago fact sheets Explore resources on mental health + mental health stigma Get more information about stress management Learn how to support a loved one with mental illness We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

"Anybody can become angry. That is easy. But to be angry with the right person and to the right degree and at the right time and for the right purpose and in the right way? That is not within everybody's power—and is not easy." —Aristotle We've been socialized to see anger as a bad thing. So, we ignore it and let it fester. Or we lose control and unleash it. But what if there's a third option? What if we can learn to work WITH our anger and channel it to, say, solve problems or fight for justice? What if we can use our anger for good? Today, we're discussing where anger comes from and what purpose it serves. We address the stigma around anger in our culture, reframing it as a neutral emotion that has benefits when we can choose it as a response. We go on to explore the relationship between the way anger is modeled for us as children and our ability to name and express it as adults. Listen in for insight into the research on gender differences and anger at work and learn how to leverage your anger to take action for the greater good! Themes explored in this week's episode: The definition of anger and what inspired Tegan's deep dive on the subject The stigma around anger in our culture and why so many of us try to pretend it doesn't exist Where anger comes from and the purpose it serves in removing obstacles The questions around whether anger is a primary or secondary emotion How the way anger is modeled for us as children impacts our ability to name and express it as adults The benefits of anger in terms of motivating us to solve problems and fight for justice Choosing anger as a response rather than a reaction that is out of our control How our biological perception of men's vs. women's faces influences the way we receive anger based on gender Why female leaders who express anger at work are perceived to be less competent than their male counterparts Our top strategies for working with your anger and leveraging it for good Resources from this episode: Watch this episode of the podcast on the Life & Leadership YouTube Channel Learn more about the Energy Leadership Index Assessment Review the 2019 Gallup Global Emotions Report Read J. Ruth Gendler's description of anger personified in The Book of Qualities Explore Dr. Ursula Hess' research on the communication of emotions Discover The Field Guide to Human Emotions by Dan Newby and Curtis Watkins Check out the Fall 2019 issue of Tricycle magazine on the topic of anger Look at Ursula Hess' chapter on anger in The Positive Side of Negative Emotions Study the positive side of anger with these articles in Good Therapy, Emotion Researcher, Psychology Today and Sharecare We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

A habit is not something you do sometimes. Even something you do 'most of the time' doesn't qualify. To be a true habit, the practice has to be a part of you. Something you do so regularly that it's hard to give it up. And the quickest route to being a better leader is to establish habits that support the way you want to show up for your team. Today, we are sharing the five areas of habit development that have the greatest impact on leadership prowess. We discuss the communication habits you can use to inspire employees, explaining how storytelling and emotional language expand our ability to communicate effectively and guide a team. We introduce you to the power of planning to set boundaries around your time and energy and explore the tactical leadership habits that make for more meaningful and efficient meetings. Listen in to understand how being present with your people benefits both you and your team—and get our advice on how to cultivate new leadership habits that align with what matters to you! Themes explored in this week's episode: The five areas of habit development that afford the greatest impact for leaders Leveraging storytelling and a coaching approach to communicate effectively How to inspire employees with vision casting and speaking greatness over your team The power of short- and long-term planning to set boundaries around your time and energy How emotional intelligence informs our ability to lead and what we can do to develop greater self-awareness The tactical leadership habits that make for more effective meetings How setting intentions around being present with your people benefits both you and your team The practice of updating your calendar retroactively to become a time management ninja What gets in our way as we work to develop new habits Our advice on how to cultivate a true habit Resources from this episode: Look behind the curtain at the Life & Leadership YouTube Channel Learn more about forming new habits on our podcast re: 90-Day Commitments Read about the art of storytelling in Pixar Storytelling and The Writer's Journey Revisit our podcast episode on Being Present Explore James Clear's approach to forming habits in his book Atomic Habits Check out Tegan's blog posts on leadership habits, emotional intelligence and coaching skills We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

By 2030, millennials will make up 75% of the global workforce. So, how do they differ from Gen Xers and boomers? And what can companies do to accelerate millennial leadership development? Today, we're joined by Lindsay Boccardo, the founder of Lindsay Boccardo Training and Coaching, a practice dedicated to helping companies understand how generational differences among employees impact their relationships at work. A highly sought-after professional speaker, Lindsay travels the US educating organizations seeking to maximize the talent of multiple generations in the workforce. She has been a professional iPEC Coach since 2012, supporting millennial clients in their transition to the 'real world.' Lindsay starts by sharing the differences among boomers, Gen Xers and millennials in terms of their expectations around work. She offers her take on what's behind the 'Okay Boomer' meme and why it's dangerous to overgeneralize any generational group. Lindsay also discusses how the definition of leadership has changed, explaining the value of qualities like emotional intelligence, in-person communication skills and project planning for millennial managers. Listen in for insight around how your organization can support employees in developing learnability and find out why relevant, high-quality professional training and development is crucial to the future of work. Themes explored in this week's episode: What inspired Lindsay's study of generations The differences among boomers, Gen Xers and millennials in terms of expectations around work How boomers, millennials and Gen Z view authority differently based on how they were raised Lindsay's take on the 'Okay Boomer' meme and why it's so contentious How the definition of leadership has changed + why EQ has become more important than tenure or performance How we can prepare millennials to lead older team members The in-person communication and project planning skills millennials tend to lack How companies can support employees in maintaining a growth mindset What companies are doing well when it comes to accelerating millennial leadership development Why relevant, high-quality professional training and development is crucial to the future of work Lindsay's insight around owning where you're at on your journey and taking the next step to get better Resources from this episode: Connect with Lindsay at lindsayboccardo.com Follow Lindsay on Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn Check out Lindsay's 'Okay Boomer' Video Access Lindsay's Resource Library Explore Gallup's Employee Burnout Study Follow Manpower Group's research on work-readiness Learn more about GE's rotational development programs We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Watch the podcast on the Life & Leadership YouTube Channel Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: www.brightarrowcoaching.com and www.teamawesomecoaching.com

What intentions did you fulfill in 2019? Where did you fall short? Did unexpected circumstances change your plans? As driven, high achievers, we want to be in control of life's outcomes. But life doesn't always go according to plan. In fact, the most rewarding parts of life are often the most unpredictable. So, how do we plan for a new year knowing we can't know everything? How can we set intentions without getting attached to a particular outcome? Today, we are walking you through our process for reflecting on 2019 and creating a vision for 2020. We look back at the last 12 months, sharing what we learned about tapping into a new level of commitment and welcoming the cycles of life—even when it's painful. And we get real about the challenges we faced in this year's planning process. We introduce you to the Life Purpose Reading that informed our process and discuss our personal intentions for the new year, describing how unknowns (like becoming a mom!) shift the way we plan and why it's crucial to appreciate action in ALL its forms. Listen in for insight around focusing on who you want to BE versus what you want to DO and learn our framework for setting intentions in a way that embraces the unexpected. Themes explored in this week's episode: The distinction between intentions and resolutions How Tegan's intention to be all-in in 2019 helped her tap into another level of commitment Katie's transformative and painful year of rest, reflection and healing + what it taught her about welcoming the cycles of life The Life Purpose Readings we used in the reflection and planning process How being an expectant mother shifted the way Tegan thought about planning + the challenge she faces in freeing herself from attachments The temptation to judge or rank your actions and why it's crucial to appreciate action in all its forms Focusing on who you want to BE versus what you want to DO Katie's big intentions for becoming a next-level speaker and author in 2020 Tegan's intentions around postpartum healing, practicing mindfulness and fostering joy and fun in her marriage The power in reflecting on why you didn't fulfill certain intentions Overcoming destructive historical patterns of limitation Resources from this episode: Look behind the curtain at the Life & Leadership YouTube Channel Learn more about life cycles with Martha Beck Access Dr. Robert Waldon's Life Purpose Readings Read Tegan's blog re: questions for reflection Discover Tegan's year-end guided meditation Revisit previous years' episodes: Do Less and Be More in 2019 and How to Reflect on 2017 and Plan For 2018 We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

Would you believe that a simple business initiative can decrease turnover by 50% AND inspire double-digit improvements in engagement and productivity? And it all starts with making work more human. Today, we're joined by Derek Irvine, the Senior VP of Client Strategy and Consulting at Workhuman, the fastest-growing social recognition and continuous performance management platform in the world. Workhuman is on a mission to shape the future of work by helping organizations connect culture to a shared purpose. In his role, Derek supports clients in leveraging proven strategies and best practices to elevate employee engagement, increase retention and improve bottom-line results. A renowned speaker and author on the topic of making work more human, Derek is the coauthor of Winning with a Culture of Recognition and The Power of Thanks, and his work is regularly featured in the country's top HR publications. Derek starts by sharing Workhuman's mission to help people bring their humanness to work, discussing how anyone in an organization can initiate that change. He describes Workhuman's dual focus on gratitude and employee recognition as well as continuous performance management. Derek also offers insight around how a high frequency of recognition positively impacts other business metrics, including productivity, engagement and employee retention. Listen in to understand what differentiates Workhuman Live from other conferences of its kind and learn how to make the business case for making work more human. Themes explored in this week's episode: How Derek's background in performance improvement and brand marketing inform his work at Workhuman The difference between Theory X and Theory Y management styles The toxicity of a work culture where feedback is weaponized Workhuman's aim to help people come to work as themselves and how anyone can initiate that change in the workplace Workhuman's dual focus around gratitude and employee recognition + continuous performance management How the concept of social recognition empowers ALL employees to recognize each other How a shift from governance and control to humanness impacts pay equity, diversity and inclusion, and performance management How recognition leads to double-digit improvements in business metrics like productivity, engagement, retention and connectedness The disproportionate focus on constructive over positive feedback in traditional performance management systems What differentiates Workhuman Live from other conferences of its kind and how organizers live the message with unique opportunities for gratitude and recognition Leaning into your values and having the courage to bring them to life Resources from this episode: Connect with Derek at https://www.workhuman.com/ Access the Workhuman Resource Center for Case Studies Visit the Workhuman Blog or attend Workhuman Live Learn more about Derek's books on social recognition Explore the work of Gary Hamel, Brené Brown and Dan Pink Meet FOCUS Brands President Kat Cole or Urban Monk Pandit Dasa Understand Brené Brown's system for living into our values We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

Are you curious about how current trends might impact the future? If so, you may be a futurist. In fact, we can all apply strategic foresight to plan for what's ahead, exploring the current tends in our own lives to think through how the future could unfold—and then building a plan around the things we can control. Today, we're joined by Rebecca Ryan, the futurist and economist behind NEXT Generation Consulting, Inc, a forecasting firm dedicated to leaving the world a better place for future generations. She also serves as the Resident Futurist at the Alliance for Innovation, Senior Advisor at the Governing Institute, and Board Chair & Faculty at the Institute for Zen Leadership. A thought leader in the realm of strategic foresight, Rebecca is the creator of Futurist Camp and the author of ReGeneration: A Manifesto for America's Next Leaders. Rebecca starts by defining what it means to be a futurist and sharing an exercise for becoming the futurist of your own career and life. She explains why technology is making us less human and challenges listeners to a weeklong digital detox. Rebecca also offers her take on the future of truth in a time when belief trumps reason, and she weighs in on what's in store for the middle class in the years to come. Listen in for Rebecca's insight around the current period of Winter we are experiencing in America and learn what YOU can do to advocate for others and call Spring forward! Themes explored in this week's episode: What it means to be a futurist and how the recession inspired Rebecca to dive into the deep end of the foresight pool The powerful glass and rubber balls analogy for guiding your priorities The multistep process for becoming the futurist of your own career and life How to live in the present as a futurist Why Rebecca believes technology is making us less human + her Digital Detox Challenge for Life & Leadership listeners Rebecca's take on the future of truth and the current assault on science, journalism and the intelligence community The premise that America is in a period of Winter and what we can do to call Spring forward Rebecca's insight on the future of the middle class The value in thinking through what a direct competitor might do to take your place Resources from this episode: Connect with Rebecca at rebeccaryan.com Watch Rebecca's TED Talk Create a Better World for More People Follow @rebeccaryanfuturist on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn Help Rebecca workshop ideas through her blog on Medium Check out Rebecca's Futurist Camp Access ReGeneration: A Manifesto for America's Next Leaders Read Rebecca's post 'I Screwed Up My Last Book' Learn more about the University of Houston's Foresight Program Study the work of Richard Florida and Peter Bishop Revisit Jason Lauritsen on Life & Leadership S2EP03 Find out if you have futurist traits with the Gallup Strengths Finder Join the World Future Society or the Association of Professional Futurists View Rebecca's webcast on applying foresight to your own life Review NATO's 2018 Strategic Foresight Analysis Report Explore Tristan Harris' work with the Center for Humane Technology Read Make Time by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky Discover Laurie Anderson's artwork We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

Work culture is everyone's responsibility. No matter your job title, your actions have an impact on other people's experience in the workplace. And your inaction has an impact, too. So, what can you do to get off the sidelines and OWN your leadership? Today, we're joined by Mike Rognlien, the founder of Multiple Hats Management, a consulting team out of Chicago created to help clients build awesome cultures in every organization, at every level. He has nearly 20 years of experience building learning and development teams in the technology, financial services and management consultancy space. Best known as a founding member of Facebook's L&D team, Mike specializes in cultural leadership, unconscious bias, and program strategy and design, and he is the author of This is Now Your Company: A Culture Carrier's Manifesto. Mike begins by defining organizational culture and explaining why it's everyone's job. He discusses why neutrality at work is NOT a good thing, describing why simply not contributing to a problem is not enough. Mike also shares the difference between spectator mode and leader mode and offers insight around how you can own your career and be a leader—no matter your role in the company. Listen in to understand the value of showing up as your authentic self at work and learn why quality leadership involves both WHAT you accomplish and HOW you accomplish it. Themes explored in this week's episode: How Mike got into learning and development + how company culture was the common denominator among the roles he loved Why culture is EVERYONE'S job Why neutrality at work is not a good thing Mike's idea of organizational Stockholm syndrome How entitlement erodes organizational culture and what you can do about it The difference between spectator mode and leader mode + how to take an active role in the employee-manager relationship How Mike defines quality leadership as a combination of WHAT you accomplish and HOW you accomplish it Mike's take on emotional intelligence and the value of showing up as your authentic self at work Measuring the health of a relationship based on the lag time between a problem being identified and that problem being discussed Resources from this episode: Connect with Mike at https://multiplehatsmanagement.com/ Hire Mike to train your team on Managing Unconscious Bias Follow @multiplehats on Instagram or LinkedIn Get a copy of Mike's book This is Now Your Company Access Facebook's Unconscious Bias Training Learn more about the work of Marcus Buckingham Check out the Hudson Institute's Coaching Certification Training Explore Ken Blanchard's work on Situational Leadership Discover Joseph Grenny and read Crucial Conversations We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/

Maya Angelou famously said, "I have written 11 books, but each time I think, 'Uh oh, they're going to find out now. I've run a game on everybody, and they're going to find me out!'" This phenomenon of feeling less capable or talented than people think—despite ample evidence to the contrary—is known as imposter syndrome, and it impacts 70% of the population. So, how does imposter syndrome impact our behavior? And what can we do about it? Today, we're joined by Dr. Valerie Young, the internationally recognized authority on imposter syndrome and author of the award-winning book, The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: Why Capable People Suffer from the Imposter Syndrome and How to Thrive in Spite of It. Valerie's career advice has been cited in media outlets such as BBC Radio, CNN Money, The Wall Street Journal and O Magazine, just to name a few. She has been invited to speak at 90-plus universities around the globe and for prestigious corporate clients such as Boeing, Facebook and Microsoft. Valerie begins by defining imposter syndrome and explaining how it manifests differently in men and women. She walks us through the 'perfectly good reasons why you might feel like a fraud,' sharing the social and situational factors that fuel self-doubt. Valerie also discusses the concept of stereotype threat and offers examples of how being an outlier influences our behavior. Listen in for insight around the coping mechanisms we use to protect ourselves from imposter syndrome and learn how to reframe imposter thoughts and replace them with new ways of thinking! Themes explored in this week's episode: How Valerie defines imposter syndrome and her personal experience with feeling like an imposter The perfectly good reasons why you might feel like a fraud How imposter syndrome manifests differently in men vs. women Examples of icons who own up to imposter syndrome and why creatives are more susceptible Why it's crucial for leaders to understand imposter syndrome and how it impacts our behavior at work How people who don't feel like imposters think differently about competence, failure and fear How people with imposter syndrome minimize or discount their accomplishments The concept of stereotype threat and how it affects our behavior The connection between imposter syndrome and overachieving or overproducing How to use Valerie's list of rights as a foundation for managing imposter syndrome Resources from this episode: Connect with Valerie at impostersyndrome.com Follow @ValerieYoung on Twitter or Facebook Buy Valerie's book The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women Read the Clance & Imes paper on the Imposter Phenomenon Access Valerie's blog post on Michelle Obama Explore the research around the Dunning-Kruger Effect Read Betty Rollin's article in The New York Times Look at Claude Steele's work on stereotype threat Watch Valerie's TED Talk on imposter syndrome We would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want us to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with us! Tweet us! @tegantrovato and @TeamAwesomeMKE Email us: [email protected] and [email protected] Follow us on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching and @TeamAwesomeCoaching Follow us on Instagram @TeganTrovato and @katie_rasoul Connect with us on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato and Katie Rasoul Download free tools and sign up for our newsletters, events and workshops by visiting: https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/ and https://www.teamawesomecoaching.com/