RESET with Tonya

Send us Fan MailImagine if every person who used an AI also helped design the next version of it. That’s the future MG Alcock is building toward—one conversation at a time. We sit down with the technologist, cultural strategist, and writer to unpack “perspective economics,” the idea that human experience is the scarce asset modern systems need to learn safely and well. From his early days shaping Disney’s internet era to crafting future‑focused narratives for Microsoft’s global CIO summits, MG shows how real change depends on dialogue that people actually trust.We get practical fast: why the standard pipeline (collect, clean, train, run, repeat) fails at the edge of human systems; how to create the perception of dialogue so high‑stakes rooms stop posturing and start listening; and what happens when companies over‑automate and later rehire for perspective. MG shares field stories that stick—near‑dark factories that still needed five people to make sense of anomalies, a services firm that held at 100 humans because below that, the work lost meaning and resilience. The throughline is clear: perspective isn’t ornamental; it’s operational.MG also reveals the world of his sci‑fi novel, Ogun Shogun, where an AI named Big Al (look closely at the letters) enacts a “Compact of Perspectives v3” and a free market for perspectives drives better systems. It’s a story designed to seed policy, normalize new roles, and help a wider audience tolerate the future without waiting for crisis. We talk trust, governance, and the hard parts—misinformation, low‑quality signals, polarized incentives—and why learning cultures must feel safe before they can be curious.If you care about AI alignment, organizational change, storytelling that moves policy, or simply how to stay human as tools get smarter, this conversation is your map and your wake‑up call. Subscribe, share with a friend who leads through change, and leave a review with the one perspective you think today’s AI most needs to learn.CONNECT WITH MICHAEL 📖LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micalco/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailShaun Mader defies easy categorization. Leadership strategist, brown belt in jiu-jitsu, celebrated photographer documenting resilience in Calcutta's Red Light District — these diverse facets converge around his profound curiosity about people and what makes them thrive.During our conversation, Shaun reveals the genesis of his "TeamFlow Architecture" methodology and forthcoming book "Teamware." Born from frustration watching executives perpetually stuck in crisis management, Shaun developed a system that helps leaders and teams simultaneously grow while doing their actual work. "There was no regular structure in place to develop leaders and teams simultaneously on the work they're actually working on," he explains, highlighting how organizations meticulously maintain their hardware and software while neglecting the human systems connecting them.What makes Shaun's approach unique is how he draws wisdom from seemingly unrelated domains. His jiu-jitsu practice taught him humility and camaraderie through physical challenge, especially meaningful after years battling chronic pain. "It pushes every single button about your own insecurities," he says of the martial art. "Anybody who's got a fragile ego doesn't last." This physical practice becomes a metaphor for leadership development — showing up consistently, embracing vulnerability, and growing through challenge.Perhaps most striking is Shaun's photography work in Calcutta. His story about a woman who initially refused to be photographed until she could dress properly reveals a profound leadership lesson: "I wanted to see her, but she wanted to be seen how she wanted to be seen." This insight directly applies to organizational dynamics, where assumptions and misunderstandings often stem from failing to truly see people as they wish to be seen.Shaun ultimately advocates for a societal reset based on human connection in an increasingly isolated world. "There's something that happens when you're around people where there is trust, where there's a sense of mutuality and camaraderie, that starts to literally light up the brain, the heart, your endocrine system and brings about healthier states."CONNECT WITH SHAUN 🎙️LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-mader/Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1wHBDigKYI9t402Igkfdog?si=80a6e7d80f804781CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when beauty transcends appearance and becomes a pathway to healing? In this soul-stirring conversation, beauty entrepreneur Ofelia Ferere reveals the remarkable journey that led her from answering phones at a salon to founding an innovative wellness center in the exact same location years later.Growing up with a model mother who practiced facial yoga at stoplights, Ofelia's beauty education began unusually early. By age ten, she was already bewildering friends with questions about their moisturizer routines. This foundation propelled her through careers as a makeup artist, plus-size model, and eventually, a beauty business founder. But the path wasn't straight or simple.When COVID struck, Ofelia lost everything—her business, her father, and much of her identity. Relocating to France and facing a cascade of personal tragedies, she turned to alcohol to numb the pain. "I had it all, Tonya," she confesses, "and it can all go away very quickly." Her candid account of addiction and recovery reveals a profound truth: sometimes our deepest struggles become our greatest gifts to others.Today, Ofelia's Beauté Bar represents a revolution in how we approach beauty and wellness. Moving beyond superficial treatments, she focuses on optimizing internal systems—particularly lymphatic health—to create beauty from within. Her wellness lounge concept transforms traditionally intimidating medical treatments into approachable, even fun experiences. "Let's have fun with wellness," she insists, "why not?"Throughout our conversation, Ofelia returns to her mantra: "Love yourself better." More than empty self-care rhetoric, this philosophy challenges us to prioritize our wellbeing not as luxury but necessity. As she poignantly observes, "If you don't, you do end up being the one on the back burner, and then your kids don't get to have the best mommy, your husband doesn't get to have the best wife."Whether you're navigating your own reset, seeking wellness guidance, or simply craving inspiration from someone who's transformed personal struggle into purpose, Ophelia's story reminds us that true beauty begins with healing from within. Ready to revolutionize your approach to self-care? This conversation might just change how you think about beauty forever.CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to walk away from a 20-year career at Oracle and reinvent yourself as the heartbeat of a hospitality brand? In this week’s RESET conversation, Tonya sits down with her longtime friend Reena Miglani, who traded corporate cadence for community, creating Amara Restaurants as a sanctuary in the middle of Silicon Valley.Reena’s story begins with a forced pause: a health crisis in 2018 that introduced her to the realities of burnout. That reset — compounded by becoming an empty nester during COVID — sparked a bold question: What if I built a place that felt like paradise, not just for vacations, but for every day?Today, Amara is that vision realized: a 7,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor space designed to let your shoulders drop the moment you walk in. With custom scents, curated textures, and garden views, Reena has fused design, hospitality, and wellness into something rare: a dining experience that feels like a reset for your nervous system.In this episode, we explore:Resets in Action – how Reena pivoted from corporate tech to creating a restaurant that doubles as a community hub.Leadership with Heart – how being a mother and a tech leader shaped her approach to building teams who feel like family.Experimentation as a Superpower – how Silicon Valley’s “fail fast” mentality shows up in menu design, event planning, and guest experiences.Community Over Convenience – why Reena urges us to “stop ordering DoorDash” and remember that restaurants don’t just serve food, they serve connection.Along the way, you’ll hear candid stories — from guests who requested Amara’s food as their last meal, to local jazz bands being invited to play brunch sets, to the membership club that gives regulars a sense of home and belonging.As Reena puts it, hospitality today isn’t about Instagram perfection, it’s about authentic storytelling and human connection. Her journey is a reminder that resets aren’t endings, they’re remixes that blend old strengths with new purpose.CONNECT WITH REENA and AMARA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reenamiglani/Instagram: @amararestaurantsWebsite: https://www.amararestaurants.com/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat if everything you thought you knew about financial planning was based on an outdated model? Mike Clark, a financial professional who cringes at being called a "financial planner," is revolutionizing how we think about building wealth through collaboration, technology, and education.The traditional approach to finance has been siloed and often mysterious to clients. Financial advisors, CPAs, and attorneys rarely coordinate effectively, leaving clients confused and frustrated. Mike's revolutionary approach builds "digital family offices" where professionals work together seamlessly, creating clarity and optimizing outcomes. This coordinated team approach eliminates the all-too-common scenario where clients are bounced between professionals who each claim "that's not my department."Mike's journey is fascinating – from a kinesiology undergrad to raising millions for ventures involving China, he's accumulated diverse experiences that shape his holistic approach. When his first grandchild was born, something "snapped" in his brain, driving him to create generational wealth that goes beyond mere dollars. He redefines wealth to include the education and skill sets that enable better financial decision-making, illustrated beautifully through teaching his seven-year-old granddaughter to use AI tools like MidJourney.For listeners feeling uncertain about their financial future, Mike offers reassurance: "Most individuals are in a far better position than they think they are." His approach starts with comprehensive cashflow analysis before any product recommendations – the opposite of typical advisors who lead with products. He also shares insights on democratized investment opportunities through crowdfunding real estate platforms, self-directed IRAs, and using debt strategically.Ready to transform your financial mindset? Connect with Mike on LinkedIn, where he's built a substantial educational library through 119 podcast interviews with various financial experts. His commitment to making financial knowledge accessible and actionable might just change how you think about money forever.CONNECT WITH MIKE 🎙️LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeclarknationalreferralnetwork/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhen you've spent four decades as a punk rock frontman, you've seen it all – the rise and fall of trends, the shifting landscape of music consumption, and the evolution of what it means to be rebellious. In this fascinating conversation, Blag Dahlia of The Dwarves takes us behind the persona that's been shocking audiences since the early 1980s.Starting as college students playing Chicago punk clubs, The Dwarves built their reputation through chaos, controversy, and unapologetic extremity. "We got thrown out of a lot of clubs, we got in a lot of fights," Blag recalls with a hint of nostalgia. "After a while it kind of became a joke and people would say, you know, we're the Dwarves, we're rock legends." This self-proclaimed legendary status wasn't about commercial success but about cultivating an authentic underground presence that has outlasted many of their more commercially successful peers.What makes Blag truly fascinating is his creative range beyond The Dwarves. Under the persona Ralph Champagne, he creates country and lounge music with "more room to kind of sing and more room to have an arrangement." He's also an author, writing fiction that extends his artistic expression beyond music. These contradictions reveal a multidimensional artist who defies easy categorization – someone who loves musical theater and Steely Dan as much as hardcore punk.Through changing audiences and music industry upheavals, Blag has maintained relevance by understanding his niche: "My stuff is more like I'm making a cool underground album for the couple thousand people that are going to understand it... For those 5,000 people, it means everything. For the other 8 billion people it means nothing." This clarity about his artistic purpose has allowed him to navigate decades in music without losing his creative compass.Ready to discover the surprising dimensions of a punk rock legend? Listen now and catch The Dwarves on tour this fall – proving that true rebellion isn't about fleeting youth but about sustaining authentic creative expression against all odds.CONNECT WITH BLAG and THE DWARVES 🎙️Website: https://thedwarves.com/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhen Eric McHenry and his wife LaVerne first joined the Airstream Club fifteen years ago, they didn't see many people who looked like them. As an African American man in a predominantly white organization, Eric might have simply enjoyed the camping experience and kept to himself. Instead, he embarked on a leadership journey that would transform both himself and the entire community.From his early days in Silicon Valley when "the gods still walked the earth" (as he describes Hewlett and Packard) to his role as CIO for the City of Santa Rosa, Eric has always sought meaningful work that makes a tangible difference. This search for purpose eventually led him to assume leadership of the 18,000-member Airstream Club International, where he faced the delicate challenge of modernizing a beloved institution while preserving its cherished traditions.In this wide-ranging conversation on RESET with Tonya, from the beautiful coastline of Half Moon Bay, Eric reveals the leadership principles that guided his success. He shares how he deliberately expanded the club's inclusivity by establishing new groups for single women travelers and LGBTQ+ members. He discusses the art of change management — knowing when to push forward and when to step back, always keeping focused on the "quiet majority" rather than the vocal few.What emerges is a masterclass in community building. Eric describes the sense of family that develops among Airstreamers, creating what the company calls "brand stickiness" — a connection so strong that people remain loyal to Airstream because leaving would mean losing their community. As he transitions to focus on local impact through environmental protection and STEM education initiatives, Eric reflects on finding balance in an increasingly AI-driven world and the enduring importance of genuine human connection.For anyone navigating career transitions, building inclusive communities, or simply seeking more meaningful connections, Eric's journey offers valuable wisdom about leading with authenticity, embracing change, and creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed.CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailImagine navigating the intersection of cutting-edge AI, traditional finance, and corporate governance during history's most significant technological transformation. That's exactly where Joyce Li thrives, bringing her unique experience as a software engineer and investment leader managing billions in hedge funds to help organizations reimagine their futures.Joyce reveals how problem-solving has been her lifelong approach, instilled by watching her engineer father teach himself computer programming in his 40s. "Everything in life is a problem waiting to be solved with your current tools," she explains, "and those tools can change." This adaptable mindset serves as her foundation for guiding others through AI's rapid evolution.Board governance poses particular challenges in the AI era. When quarterly board meetings collide with weekly or even daily technological advances, traditional oversight mechanisms strain under pressure. Joyce offers a brilliant framework that transcends this timing mismatch by focusing leaders on three enduring questions: Does the AI initiative align with long-term business objectives? Is the right talent and culture in place? Are appropriate risk management metrics established?Joyce's love of improv theater shapes her advisory approach. The core principles of improv — curiosity, trust, and collaboration — have become essential tools for helping leaders navigate uncertainty. "Be very curious and open-minded during that curiosity surge," she advises, "but also have trust that things will work out." This mindset allows organizations to embrace exploration while maintaining confidence in their direction.The financial sector amplifies both the challenges and opportunities of AI transformation. Joyce describes how CFO organizations are rapidly adopting AI solutions despite their traditionally conservative nature, reducing financial close processes from over ten days to just three or fewer. This acceleration happens because they've established alignment and put the risk guardrail in place: "when you put the auditable process in place, you can move fast."Connect with Joyce on LI or subscribe to her newsletter "AI Simplified for Leaders" on Substack to join her in building bridges between technology, strategy, and human potential during this transformative era.CONNECT WITH JOYCE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjoyceli/Substack: CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat if you could build a system of 38 AI agents that autonomously researches investors, evaluates their fit with your company, and sends perfectly personalized emails – all while you sleep? That's exactly what tech entrepreneur Jesse Anglen has created, and it's just one example of how Digital Labor is transforming business.In this mind-expanding conversation, Jesse shares his remarkable journey from starting his first construction business at 17 to becoming a pioneer in AI systems that augment human capabilities. With refreshing clarity and zero hype, he explains how he discovered the power of AI when an employee secretly used ChatGPT to complete a six-week process in just four days.Jesse introduces his vision for Ruh.ai – an operating system for digital labor that allows anyone to build sophisticated AI workflows through natural conversation. Want your email organized into urgency quadrants with draft responses prepared twice daily? Simply ask, and your new digital employee gets to work.The most powerful insight comes through Jesse's construction metaphor: "Inside your company right now, probably 80% of what you do is a waste of time... it is moving dirt." This dirt-moving – necessary but intrinsically valueless work – is precisely what AI should handle, freeing humans to focus on vision, curation, and meaningful connection.Unlike many technologists, Jesse balances technological enthusiasm with deep respect for human relationships. He warns about the dangers of synthetic relationships and celebrates how younger generations are returning to authentic human connections after seeing the damage of social media.Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just beginning to explore AI, Jesse's practical wisdom and clear examples will transform how you think about the future of work. The question isn't if digital labor will transform your industry – it's whether you'll be part of shaping that transformation.CONNECT WITH JESSE 🦾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesseanglen/Website: https://www.rapidinnovation.io/Website:  https://ruh.ai/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat if music could respond to you? What if your favorite songs could shift to match your exact mood, energy level, or the vibe of your surroundings? That's the breakthrough Bryan Fenchel and his team at Starchild Music are bringing to life with their revolutionary adaptive music format.Bryan's journey from jazz trumpet virtuoso to music tech innovator reveals how personal challenges can spark profound innovation. After losing feeling in his lips from an illness that temporarily halted his performance career, Bryan pivoted into music production before eventually studying computer science. This unique blend of artistic intuition and technical expertise led him to identify music's untapped potential: while films became immersive and games became interactive, music remained stubbornly static.Starchild Music's solution—adaptive music that "listens back"—transforms passive listening into creative collaboration. Their intuitive platform allows anyone to remix songs in real-time, shifting genres, arrangements, and emotional tones with simple controls on their phone or laptop. No production experience needed. One moment your favorite track might be a gentle acoustic ballad; with a few taps, it transforms into an energetic electronic anthem or a cinematic orchestral piece.What makes Starchild truly revolutionary isn't just the technology but their ethical approach. Artists maintain control over how their music can be adapted, ensuring their vision remains intact while opening new dimensions of fan engagement. The platform's attribution system ensures everyone—from original artists to AI model creators to musicians whose catalogs helped train those models—receives proper recognition and compensation.The implications reach far beyond entertainment. Adaptive music promises to transform gaming experiences, fitness applications, wellness platforms, and even how brands connect with consumers through emotionally tailored sound. As Bryan puts it, "Music becomes truly alive when it makes you feel alive."Ready to experience the future of music? Visit starchildmusic.ai to try their player today and discover how music that responds to you can create deeper, more meaningful connections to the songs you love.CONNECT WITH BRYAN 🎙️Website: https://starchild.music/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-fenchel-3a6048245/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailBehind every thriving cultural institution lies a story of passion, resilience, and community. For Paige Brodsky, now marking 36 years at Streetlight Records, that story unfolds through decades of music industry transformation that would have shuttered lesser establishments."We're the cockroaches of the business world," Brodsky explains with a smile, describing the remarkable adaptability that has kept independent record stores alive through seismic technological shifts. From vinyl's dominance to cassettes, CDs, digital downloads, and streaming, Streetlight Records—now celebrating its 50th anniversary—has transformed each potential threat into an opportunity for connection.What emerges from Brodsky's journey is a profound lesson in creating community through shared passion. When young fans gather for pre-release listening parties, strangers become friends through their love of an artist. When customers browse vinyl records—some without even owning turntables—they're participating in a multisensory ritual that digital platforms simply cannot replicate. The colored vinyl, gatefold artwork, and warm analog sound represent more than nostalgia; they're artifacts that connect people across generations.Perhaps most remarkable is Streetlight's ability to respond to its specific communities, with distinct musical preferences between their San Jose and Santa Cruz locations. This local connection, combined with the national network of independent record store owners sharing strategies and support, creates a resilience that corporate chains never achieved.Join us at Streetlight Records' 50th anniversary celebration on Saturday, July 26th at both locations, featuring DJs, giveaways, and a special book signing of "South Bay Flashback" about San Jose's psychedelic underground. Whether you're a vinyl aficionado or simply curious about how some businesses stay vibrant for half a century, you'll discover how passion makes work feel like anything but.CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when an AI pioneer discovers his true purpose lies in building human connections? Piyush Malik's journey from IBM Watson innovator to community builder reveals how technology and spirituality can beautifully intertwine to create meaningful impact.Our paths crossed through a Pomeranian named Sushi, but our connection deepened through shared values about leadership, wisdom, and purpose. Piyush opens up about his 15-year mindfulness journey that began with watching his grandmother meditate in lotus position as a child. This foundation shaped his approach to technology leadership at IBM Watson and beyond, where he learned to see the goodness in people's souls instead of only their professional capabilities.The conversation takes fascinating turns through the evolution of AI – from Watson defeating humans at Jeopardy to today's transformative applications. As someone who witnessed AI's commercial birth, Piyush dismisses fears that it will end humanity. Instead, he envisions technology eliminating mundane tasks to elevate our uniquely human qualities: "The future of work will be more human-centric than people expect."His work transforming the American Society of Engineers of Indian Origin from virtually no gender diversity to chapters with over 50% women leaders demonstrates his commitment to inclusion. This same dedication drives his mentorship of young people, which has grown from annual talks to weekly engagements with students who lack adequate guidance.It's very interesting to understand Piyush's holistic perspective on success. While technically brilliant, he thinks about being creative again (painting) and recently joined a drum circle to nurture his artistic side. "Embrace your wholeness, bring your whole self to work," he advises, revealing that authenticity trumps perfection in both leadership and life.For anyone navigating today's rapidly changing technological landscape while seeking deeper meaning, Piyush's wisdom offers a refreshing north star. Follow his journey on LinkedIn and discover how treating failures as "stepping stones to the next big success" might be the reset you've been looking for in your own path.CONNECT WITH PIYUSH 🎙️Podcast: https://piyushmalik.substack.com/podcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malikpiyush/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhen was the last time you truly listened to your body's wisdom instead of your conditioned "shoulds"? Megan Lambert, author of "Eros: The Journey Home" and creator of the Los Gatos Mama's Circle, offers a compelling perspective on reconnecting with our intuition and desires."Guilt is the moment when your desire runs contrary to your conditioning," Megan shares, articulating why so many women—especially mothers—struggle to trust their inner knowing. From early childhood, we're taught to follow rules and put others first, creating a disconnect between our authentic selves and our learned behaviors.But what if our desires aren't selfish indulgences but sacred guidance? Megan reframes Eros not simply as romantic love but as "the feminine embodied soul, creative life force" that brings color to our existence. This life force speaks not through logical pros and cons lists, but through our bodies—our gut, heart, and pelvis—and learning to listen requires reconnecting with ourselves below the neck.Through her Mama's Circle gatherings, Megan creates spaces where women can share without judgment, be witnessed in their stories, and remember parts of themselves they thought were lost. Using the beautiful metaphor of redwood trees that appear separate above ground but remain connected through their roots, she illuminates how women can support each other while maintaining their unique identities.Whether you're a mother by birth, adoption, or through nurturing projects, communities, or creative works, Megan's wisdom offers a path back to yourself. Follow her on Instagram @MeganDLambert or explore her book to discover practices that might help you reconnect with your own intuition, desire, and the full spectrum of your being.What forgotten parts of yourself are waiting for an invitation to emerge? When might you create space to listen to your body's quieter voice?CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailImagine a world where AI doesn't just respond to your commands but proactively handles entire business processes without supervision. That's the promise of agentic AI, and few understand its revolutionary potential better than Jim Recker.After decades in the tech industry working with giants like WebEx and BlueJeans, Jim has embarked on his most ambitious journey yet – building Invenir, a company leveraging agentic AI to transform how businesses bring products to market. "I've never been so excited to be involved in technology as I am now," Jim says with genuine enthusiasm that's impossible to miss.In our conversation that originally aired on KPCR 92.9FM, the distinction he draws between generative and agentic AI crystalizes what makes this moment so pivotal. While generative AI requires human prompting for each task, agentic AI works autonomously toward objectives. This shift from reactive to proactive technology promises to accelerate business processes dramatically, potentially cutting go-to-market cycles by 60% by Jim's estimates. "This will be a revolution larger than the industrial revolution in the 1800s," he declares, predicting business processes will be unrecognizable within 4-5 years.What's particularly fascinating is how Jim's varied career experiences – from sales engineering to product management to marketing – have converged to inform his vision. Each role provided unique insights into the challenges of bringing products to market efficiently. Even his early stint touring with the Grateful Dead (yes, really!) contributed to his adaptable mindset. His journey demonstrates how accumulated wisdom can spark innovation at any life stage, challenging conventional narratives about entrepreneurship being exclusively for the young.When asked what signals it's time to move on from a job, Jim's answer is refreshingly simple: "When I'm not having fun anymore." This philosophy of pursuing meaningful work that brings joy grounds his approach to business building and serves as a powerful reminder for anyone contemplating their next career move.Ready to witness the future of business automation? Follow Jim's journey on LinkedIn or visit invenir.ai to learn how agentic AI might transform your industry sooner than you think.CONNECT WITH JIM 🎙️LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/recker/  Invenir: https://www.invenir.ai/ CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailThis week's RESET with Tonya shares a story about a lifelong technologist building a sanctuary for Silicon Valley's brightest minds to escape the digital world. Mike Prince, serial entrepreneur and AI pioneer, takes us on a fascinating journey from his early programming days to his vision of our AI-powered future.Originally broadcast on Pirate Cat Radio 92.9FM, the episode reveals how Mike began programming an Atari 2600 at age 10 and recognized something profound that would shape his career: "I could teach one person to do a job, or I could write a program that does the work of a thousand people." This insight led him through decades of innovation, from automating restaurant systems to developing cryptography for the armed forces.Mike focuses on what he calls "the end of the digital dark ages" - building AI agents that genuinely represent human interests instead of corporate goals. He explains how in the near future, each of us will have dozens or hundreds of digital agents working on our behalf, negotiating with other agents, filtering information, and arranging meaningful human connections. But this future depends on something critical that few are discussing: trust protocols that allow agents to securely identify and authenticate each other.Mike is also building "The Decelerator" at an 1838 ranch where technologists reconnect with analog skills like milling lumber, cooking over open fires, and engaging in deep fireside conversations. This beautiful counterbalance to our digital lives reminds us that true innovation will serve human connection, not replace it.Mike's philosophy is captured in his guiding principle: "Live long and prosper." He believes technology should extend our lives and enhance our well-being while giving us more time for authentic human experiences and nature. As he puts it, "If we embrace technology in the correct way, with it being benevolent to us, it'll give us more time to be human and to talk to each other in real life."Explore how technology can enhance rather than diminish our humanity. Connect with Mike on LinkedIn to follow his work on AI agents, trust protocols, and creating spaces where technology serves our deepest human needs.CONNECT WITH MIKE 👨🏼‍🌾"Agentic Profile" Blog: https://www.agenticprofile.ai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-prince-7713/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailTechnology partnerships don't just happen — they're carefully cultivated through trust, long-term thinking, and a relentless focus on customer outcomes. Vladimirs Sazonovs brings 25 years of Cisco wisdom to this fascinating conversation about what makes transformational partnerships work in an era of unprecedented technological change.From opening the Baltics for Cisco in the early 2000s to now leading their Global Infrastructure Funds, Vladimirs has mastered the art of bringing together diverse ecosystem players to solve complex problems. His simple yet profound insight? "Do they do what they say they will do?" This foundational question guides his approach to building partnerships that withstand the test of time and deliver meaningful results.The parallels between the networking revolution of the early 2000s and today's AI transformation are striking. Both represent moments when technology enables previously unthinkable possibilities. Vladimirs shares how companies can navigate these shifts by distinguishing between their core competencies (what truly differentiates them) and context (what can be handled through partnerships). This strategic clarity becomes especially crucial as AI, high-performance computing, and NeoCloud providers reshape the technology landscape.Perhaps most compelling is Vladimirs' perspective on technology's ultimate purpose — human flourishing. Whether enabling healthcare breakthroughs or improving productivity across sectors, technology serves as a sophisticated tool that amplifies human potential rather than replacing it. This human-centered viewpoint provides a refreshing counterbalance to dystopian AI narratives.For leaders navigating digital transformation, this conversation offers a masterclass in partnership thinking. You'll gain insights on evaluating potential partners, structuring win-win relationships, and maintaining focus amid rapid technological change. As Vladimirs notes, sometimes the most important strategic decisions aren't about what you do — they're about what you choose not to do.Ready to transform how you approach partnerships? Listen now and discover why purpose-driven collaboration might be your most powerful competitive advantage.CONNECT WITH VLADIMIRS 🎙️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vsazonov/ CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to reinvent yourself after decades in the corporate world? John McGowan, a Silicon Valley veteran who helped build Hewlett Packard during its formative years, shares his journey through multiple careers, four retirements, and the pursuit of passions that keep life meaningful at every stage.Our conversation begins with John's unconventional path from "really bad engineer" to corporate executive. Despite his father's insistence on an engineering degree, John found his true talents in sales, negotiation, and contract law — ultimately becoming a vice president at Agilent Technologies. Throughout his corporate ascent, he balanced his demanding career with law school, raising children, and cultivating serious hobbies that demanded complete presence.These pursuits — flying planes for animal rescue missions, traveling across North America in Airstreams, and mentoring younger enthusiasts — weren't just pastimes. They were deliberate counterbalances to corporate demands, providing what John calls "a way to separate myself from the work world." His perspective on technological evolution is equally fascinating, having witnessed the transformation from "typewriters and mimeograph machines" to today's always-connected reality where work boundaries have virtually disappeared.Most compelling is John's approach to retirement and aging. Rather than seeing his seventh decade as a time of decline, he views it as an opportunity to pursue bucket list adventures and contribute meaningfully through volunteer work. His 50-year marriage to Diane, built on complementary strengths and mutual respect, demonstrates how partnership evolves through life's transitions. For those intimidated by AI and emerging technologies, his advice is refreshingly simple: "Just try it. You can't hurt it. Play with it."Whether you're contemplating your own career transition or seeking inspiration for life's third act, John's story reminds us that purpose and possibility extend far beyond the corner office. Subscribe now to hear more conversations with thought leaders reshaping how we think about work, technology, longevity, and purpose.CONNECT WITH JOHN 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mcgowan-539211/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a brilliant mind trained in electrical engineering turns her talents toward community service and humanitarian aid? In this thought-provoking conversation, Harbir Bhatia reveals the surprising connections between corporate experience and community impact.Growing up in a Sikh tradition, Harbir was taught from age five that active participation in community service wasn't optional — it was a way of life. This foundation, combined with her father's feminist perspectives and her mother's strength, created a powerful template for leadership that would serve her throughout her career journey from Lockheed Martin to humanitarian aid for Ukraine and leadership at the Central Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce.The most illuminating aspect of Harbir's story is how skills developed in corporate environments become invaluable tools for community service. As she explains, "These are not two separate worlds; it's a continuum." The analytical thinking, crisis resolution, and negotiation tactics she honed in technology companies enabled her to mobilize resources quickly when Ukraine needed generators during wartime. Her ability to frame humanitarian needs in business terms created win-win scenarios that delivered real-world results.Harbir and Tonya explore the changing landscape for small businesses in the AI era, suggesting we're at a pivotal moment where entrepreneurial ventures will accomplish more with fewer resources. They challenge the notion that enterprise is king, instead proposing that the pendulum is swinging back toward smaller, nimbler organizations that can leverage technology while maintaining the personal touch that creates community. As Harbir powerfully states, "Small businesses are the heart of any community."For those seeking to make meaningful change, whether in business or humanitarian efforts, this conversation offers a masterclass in applying professional skills to community challenges. Harbir's journey demonstrates that purpose and possibility merge when we bring our whole selves—with all our skills and passions—to every endeavor we undertake.CONNECT WITH HARBIR 🇺🇦LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hkbhatia/Web: https://www.SVCentralChamber.com/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when your career path zigzags across continents, disciplines, and roles? In this enlightening conversation, Keshia Theobald-van Gent reveals how her unconventional journey from Middle America to Laos, the Netherlands, and ultimately Silicon Valley shaped her distinct approach to venture capital.Named a 2025 Woman of Influence, Keshia shares how studying conflict, religion, and globalization — plus a chance meeting with her future husband — led her through roles in international development, AmeriCorps service, educational entrepreneurship, and eventually to her current position as Vice President at BDev Ventures. "The through line is probably a combination of service and learning," she explains, illuminating how these core values drive her work investing in B2B software companies at the late Series B to Series C stages.The conversation explores how Keshia's founder experience provides her with deeper empathy for entrepreneurs, allowing her to ask different questions than colleagues with traditional finance backgrounds. "I've cried those tears," she admits, describing her approach to giving honest, constructive feedback to founders, even when the answer is no. Her insights on navigating different company cultures reveal how her global experiences trained her to quickly adapt to varied systems and organizational dynamics.Beyond professional insights, Keshia and host Tonya Long discover delightful personal connections through their shared love of Airstreams, CrossFit, and comfortable yet uniquely stylish shoes. Their candid discussion about women's evolving roles in tech and venture capital highlights how Silicon Valley's culture has matured over the past decade, creating more opportunities for diverse leadership styles.Connect with Keshia on LinkedIn to learn more about her investment approach and how BDEV Ventures provides systematic value to portfolio companies through their unique lead generation tools and operational expertise.CONNECT WITH KESHIA 🥿 👢👡LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keshia/BDev Ventures: https://www.bdevventures.com/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to go from hauling water buckets in Nigeria to structuring billion-dollar deals on Wall Street to launching a cutting-edge venture capital fund? Belinda Ephraim's journey embodies a masterclass in resilience, strategic reinvention, and challenging conventional wisdom.Growing up in Nigeria as the eldest of six children, Belinda's childhood was defined by both privilege and profound challenge. Sent to boarding school at age 10, she learned self-sufficiency by farming her own plot of land and carrying ten-gallon water containers when supplies ran short. These early experiences forged a resilience that would become her superpower through life's unexpected twists.When political turmoil forced her family to flee Nigeria and seek asylum in America, Belinda's world changed overnight. From attending private school on her family's dime, she suddenly had to drop out of university and work three jobs at a Marriott hotel to support herself and help her parents. Rather than surrendering to circumstances, she strategically consolidated three positions within the same company and eventually pivoted to wealth management where CNBC sparked her fascination with investment banking.The most compelling segment of our conversation challenges popular startup mythology. Drawing from her experience structuring over $37 billion in M&A deals and now raising $50 million for her deep tech venture fund TENSEUR Capital, Belinda boldly asserts that "venture capital is wrong for 90% of startups." She brilliantly illuminates why through the Atlassian case study – explaining how the company operated for eight years, reaching $58 million in revenue before taking venture money, allowing the founding team to maintain 75% ownership at IPO.Whether you're building a business, navigating a career transition, or simply searching for inspiration, Belinda's story reminds us that our greatest strength often emerges from our deepest challenges. Subscribe, share, and join us next week for another transformative conversation on Reset with Tonya.CONNECT WITH BELINDA 🌍LinkedIn:   /belindaephraim/Podcast:  https://open.spotify.com/show/4Ta9xGMeApvsnHshcdag44?si=32a3033c0a6c4465 CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat if the path to genuine happiness doesn't require adding anything to your life, but instead releasing what no longer serves you?Justin Wenck, PhD — former Intel leader turned emotional wellness expert — reveals how his journey through crippling depression launched him into an unexpected career helping others navigate their emotional landscapes. With disarming candor and gentle humor, Justin shares how traditional success left him feeling empty until personal crisis forced him to explore meditation, yoga, and a completely different relationship with himself."In any loss, there's so much to be gained," Justin explains, offering a refreshing perspective on life's difficult transitions. Whether discussing job loss, relationship endings, or even the death of loved ones, he illuminates how these painful experiences create space for profound growth and new possibilities. The conversation takes fascinating turns as Justin and host Tonya explore the liberation that comes from releasing rigid identities, finding your authentic tribe, and the surprising power of curiosity as a pathway to joy. Perhaps most compelling is Justin's vision for technology as our servant rather than our master. "The role of technology should be to serve us however we desire, period," he states with refreshing clarity, challenging listeners to reclaim their agency in an increasingly digital world.CONNECT WITH JUSTIN 🎤Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/787193LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/justinwenckphd/ "Engineered to Love" Book: https://www.engineeredtolove.com/Website: https://www.emotionsenCONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a Russian teenager relocates to America and discovers the power of trial and error in both cultural adaptation and technological innovation? In this captivating episode, Igor Krasnykh takes us on his remarkable journey from a small Russian town to Silicon Valley entrepreneurship, revealing how life's pivotal moments shaped his approach to business, technology, and personal growth.Igor shares the fascinating story of arriving in California at 17 and experiencing culture shock—not from language barriers alone, but from the overwhelming abundance of consumer choices that Americans take for granted. This experience taught him patience and deep listening skills that later became invaluable in his business pursuits. His early introduction to computers, sparked by his nuclear scientist father, ignited a passion for technology that evolved from playing rudimentary games to building websites through sheer determination and experimentation.The conversation takes a profound turn when Igor discusses his entrepreneurial philosophy. Having learned from multiple "failed" startups, he advocates for testing ideas in the market before investing significant resources. "Don't build it and hope they'll come," he advises. "Have conversations first, secure pre-commitments, even if small, to validate demand." This practical wisdom applies universally, whether launching a product or service.As our discussion explores networking, Igor challenges conventional thinking about connections. Quality trumps quantity, he argues, and effective introductions require understanding mutual value exchange between parties. His guiding principle — "be a giver, not a taker" — resonates throughout his approach to business relationships and content creation.Looking toward the future, Igor offers a bold prediction: AI will fundamentally change how businesses scale, allowing entrepreneurs to reach seven to nine figures with fewer employees than ever before. This isn't just theoretical—he's seeing it happen already.No matter what your situation is, Igor's journey offers valuable insights on resilience, strategic thinking, and embracing possibility.CONNECT WITH IGOR 🎤LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/igorkrasnykh/ Website:  http://technweb.comCONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a digital marketing veteran with 23 years of experience discovers a new calling in Age Tech? Andreas Mueller's journey is a masterclass in purposeful transition, demonstrating how our diverse life experiences prepare us for unexpected opportunities.In this deeply insightful conversation, Andreas shares how growing up bilingual in Germany with an American mother shaped his worldview and eventually led to his mastery of seven languages. This linguistic versatility developed his exceptional listening skills—a talent that powered his success in digital marketing and now guides his approach to age tech. Having helped industry giants like LinkedIn with their SEO strategy, Andreas brings a wealth of technical knowledge to his new focus on technologies that support healthy aging.The seemingly chance encounter with Age Tech at a Portuguese startup event illustrates how remaining open to possibilities can lead to profound purpose. Andreas explains how community support was crucial to validating this pivot, emphasizing the vital role of curated connections over casual introductions. His perspective on patience during transitions resonates with anyone facing uncertainty: "If I'm having a moment of horrible fear about the future... I look back and realize this happened before. Is it still a burning concern? No, it's resolved."What makes Andreas' approach unique is his blend of technical expertise with deep appreciation for diversity, art, and human connection. As longevity increases globally, his focus on technologies that address isolation and support aging populations fills a critical need. His advice for those navigating their own pivots? Find communities and mentors who truly listen and support your journey.Ready to explore your own purposeful pivot? Connect with Andreas on LinkedIn or visit his company, Bloofusion, to discover how embracing new possibilities can transform your professional journey and impact.CONNECT WITH ANDREAS 🗣️LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/searchenginemarketing/Website: https://bloofusion.com/ CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailA painful corporate workforce reduction after two decades in tech became the unexpected catalyst for Reena Miglani's beautiful reinvention. When her long career at a major Silicon Valley company ended abruptly in late 2023, she found her way to an entirely new path - joining her husband's restaurant business to create Amara, a breathtaking Mediterranean fusion restaurant in Belmont, California.What makes Reena's story so compelling is her discovery of creative talents she never knew she possessed. Despite no formal design background, she personally curated every aspect of Amara's aesthetic - from custom scents to textiles, lighting, and atmosphere. The result is a sensory sanctuary where hurried Silicon Valley professionals can experience the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, even if just for a few hours."We have this notion where we save our best China, best silverware for what, one day?" Reena explains. Her mission is to change that mindset, encouraging people to enjoy life's finest experiences daily. This philosophy guides everything from the restaurant's design to its food presentation, where plates overflow with abundance rather than being strictly coursed in traditional fine dining style.I love how Reena's corporate leadership expertise enhances rather than conflicts with the hospitality industry. She's reimagined traditional roles (hostesses are now "customer experience officers"), implemented sophisticated CRM technology, and focused on building a culture where transactions become personalized meaningful interactions. "This is not just about cuisine or ambience," she emphasizes. "It's about bringing that Mediterranean way of living here."Join us for this inspiring conversation about embracing change, discovering hidden talents, and creating community through food and hospitality. Whether you're contemplating your own reinvention or simply appreciate stories of creative transformation, Rena's journey from tech executive to restaurant owner offers a beautiful blueprint for turning life's unexpected turns into opportunities for growth.CONNECT WITH REENA 🍽️LinkedIn: /reenamiglani/Restaurant Website:  amararestaurants.com/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailIn a world defined by constant change, finding solid ground can feel increasingly challenging. Yet, for Anna Krasnykh, transitions have become not just inevitable disruptions but authentic opportunities for growth and self-discovery.Anna's remarkable journey begins in a "closed city" in Russia, a place so secretive it remained unmarked on maps until the 2000s due to its military and scientific significance. At just fourteen, she experienced her first major reset when her family moved to America. This early transition instilled a resilience that would serve as her foundation through future changes.While building an impressive career at Amazon Web Services, Anna climbed the corporate ladder rapidly, doubling her pay in just three years. She embodied the high-performance culture that defines tech giants, working nights and weekends to achieve recognition. But when her role was unexpectedly eliminated — her computer screen literally going dark as she prepared for a major client meeting — she confronted a pivotal moment of reckoning."I felt betrayed," Anna reveals with striking candor. "But then I asked myself: what does it really mean to be a winner?" This question led to a stark realization that while chasing accolades and titles, she had lost sight of her deeper purpose. The corporate hamster wheel had taken its toll.Now an entrepreneur who recently relocated her family from Austin to the Bay Area, Anna approaches leadership with transformed priorities. Her children describe her superpower as "super love" — a reflection of how motherhood has enhanced her professional approach with greater patience and empathy. She advocates for environments where people can bring their whole selves to work, believing that embracing individual needs ultimately yields greater innovation and impact.For listeners contemplating their own transitions, whether geographical moves or career pivots, Anna offers liberating advice: "You don't have to know the how. You'll figure it out along the way." Her story reminds us that our greatest setbacks often reveal our truest paths, and that purpose emerges not despite our challenges, but because of them.CONNECT WITH ANNA LinkedIn:  anna-krasnykh-mba/Website:  https://technweb.com/ CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhen a patient dies because staff can't find essential emergency equipment, most people feel powerless. Melinda Yormick decided to build a solution. This former perioperative nurse manager's journey from healthcare professional to tech entrepreneur reveals what happens when frontline experience meets technological innovation — and the remarkable personal transformation that occurs along the way.Melinda's story begins with a devastating moment: losing a patient because her team couldn't locate critical equipment fast enough. This preventable tragedy became her catalyst for creating CLARA, a revolutionary navigation system she describes as "Waze plus air traffic control" for hospitals, ensuring people with specific skills and essential equipment can reach patients when seconds count.Her path hasn't been straightforward. While managing operating rooms, Melinda simultaneously pursued an Executive MBA, initially to climb the healthcare leadership ladder. Instead, she found herself using those business skills to build a tech startup. She temporarily relocated from Seattle to San Francisco, leaving her husband and teenage daughter behind to immerse herself in the founder ecosystem — even moving into a "hacker house" with 30 other entrepreneurs to surround herself with innovation.What might surprise you most about Melinda isn't just her nursing background but her fifth-degree black belt in martial arts, which she credits for preparing her to command respect in male-dominated spaces. Or perhaps it's her newfound passion for spoken word poetry, performed in chalk circles on San Francisco street corners, where she processes the emotional weight of her entrepreneurial journey.Throughout our conversation, Melinda's vision remains clear: technology should enhance human care rather than replace it. "We can't remove the human from healthcare without removing the word 'care'," she emphasizes. Ready to see healthcare innovation from a frontline perspective? Connect with Melinda on LinkedIn or visit claraguide.com to learn how her team is transforming hospital operations and saving lives through thoughtful application of AI.CONNECT WITH MELINDA 🩺LinkedIn:  /melinda-yormick/Website:  www.claraguide.com   Email:  [email protected] WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the wisdom of communal societies meets cutting-edge technology?Our thought-provoking conversation with Enoch Allotey bridges worlds often seen as separate but increasingly intertwined.Enoch's remarkable journey from Ghana to the United States reveals profound insights about how cultural values shape our relationship with emerging technologies. Growing up as part of the only Christian family in a Muslim neighborhood taught him early lessons about embracing differences while maintaining connection – wisdom that now influences his work in healthcare AI and data strategy.The contrast between Ghana's technology adoption patterns and Western approaches is striking. Ghana recently ranked number one globally for mobile money adoption, transforming phone numbers into bank accounts and enhancing community ties. Meanwhile, many Western societies struggle with technology that can separate rather than connect us. "Human connections that exist in different parts of the world are essential for your being, whether you know it or not," Enoch observes, cutting to the heart of why some societies thrive with new technologies while others resist them.Our conversation explores how AI could revolutionize healthcare by addressing physician shortages in underserved regions, potentially allowing one doctor to function as many and dramatically reducing health inequities. Enoch envisions personalized medicine becoming accessible to all, not just those with financial privilege – a vision rooted in communal values rather than individual advancementPerhaps most compelling is Enoch's observation that "curious people never left their childhood behind." This childlike wonder, combined with his patient approach to discovering purpose rather than anxiously pursuing it, offers a refreshing alternative to our productivity-obsessed cultureReady to explore how ancient wisdom might guide our technological future? Listen now and join the conversation about creating technologies that enhance our humanity rather than diminish it. Let's discover what happens when purpose truly meets possibility. CONNECT WITH ENOCH 🩺LinkedIn: /enochallotey/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when your greatest strength is suddenly taken away? For J Lee, a Stanford-trained mathematician with an eidetic memory, a violent attack resulting in traumatic brain injury completely altered her life trajectory. Instead of letting this setback define her, she transformed her new cognitive limitations into a remarkable innovation methodology that's helping Fortune 500 companies save millions.The conversation takes us through J's journey from delivering groceries after her injury to founding Prototype Thinking Labs, where she's developed an approach to innovation that embraces uncertainty and experimentation. Her process breaks down the "hidden phase" of innovation—that crucial space between having an initial idea (10% confidence) and knowing exactly what to build (60% confidence). By accepting that you can only gain about 15-20% more confidence in one step, J shows how small, iterative experiments lead to breakthroughs that endless planning sessions never could.Perhaps most fascinating is how J applies her framework to personal reinvention. Whether you're navigating career transitions, exploring new business ideas, or adapting to technological disruption, her approach offers practical steps to move forward amid uncertainty. "You just have to design the way to exist that works for you, but be willing to be flexible about everything else and all of your other assumptions," she explains. This mindset — based on her own experience overcoming limitation — offers a powerful template for anyone facing change.As the landscape of work continues to evolve, J's story reminds us that humans connecting with humans will never change—and that our adaptability may be our greatest strength. Her journey from brain injury to business innovation is more than inspiring; it's a masterclass in turning constraints into advantages and finding purpose through possibility.Wondering how to navigate your own RESET moment? Listen now to discover how our biggest challenges lead to our greatest contributions.CONNECT WITH J ⚙️LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jfanli/Website: https://www.prototypethinking.io/Substack: https://prototypethinking.substack.com/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a corporate project manager trades billion-dollar implementations for a mission to help small businesses thrive? In this illuminating conversation, Lisa Talbot, founder of True North PM Solutions, shares her remarkable journey from managing massive corporate transformations to creating streamlined solutions for entrepreneurs.Lisa's story begins with a moment many professionals will recognize—dropping her child at daycare, crying all the way to the office, then spending 15 minutes in the bathroom composing herself before work. Feeling trapped between the corporate world and stay-at-home motherhood, she eventually discovered a third path that aligned with her values, skills, and joy.The heart of Lisa's approach is making small, intentional changes that compound into significant results. Drawing parallels between marathon training and business transformation, she reveals how incremental improvements create sustainable progress without overwhelming business owners. Through compelling examples—like helping a client automate customer communications to reclaim hours of evening family time—Lisa demonstrates how technical solutions can serve deeper human needs.Perhaps most refreshing is Lisa's practical decision-making framework: the "tacos or pickles" test. When faced with choices, she asks whether an option feels like tacos (which she loves) or pickles (loves... not so much). This accessible metaphor offers listeners a simple yet powerful tool for aligning decisions with their values and purpose.For listeners contemplating their own career transitions or seeking to improve their businesses, Lisa offers wisdom that's both practical and profound: start with small experiments, reflect on what brings you joy, and recognize that your path forward doesn't have to match anyone else's definition of success. Whether you're feeling stuck in a corporate role, seeking to streamline your small business, or simply searching for more purpose in your work, this conversation provides a roadmap for finding your own True North.CONNECT WITH LISA 🏃🏻‍♀️LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talbotlisa/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/true-north-pm-solutions/Website: https://www.truenorthpmsolutions.com/CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailIn a world that often leaves us coping with uncertainty and anxiety, discovering clarity and purpose becomes more essential than ever. This episode of RESET with Tonya dives into the intricate relationship between purpose and personal transformation, featuring our purpose-impassioned guest, Ian Chamandy, co-founder of PurposeU. Together, we explore how clearly articulated purpose can serve as a guiding light in making life’s challenging decisions.   Ian shares his unique methodology, the "Blueprint for Purpose," which assists individuals in identifying their core strengths and articulating them in seven words or less. We discuss the power of simplicity, discussing how a clear purpose statement can elevate us beyond the complexities of life, transforming confusion into confidence. Through engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking examples, Ian reveals how individuals and organizations alike can benefit from this clarity.   Listeners will learn about the practical steps involved in uncovering their own purpose, along with the profound impact that a well-defined purpose can have on their personal and professional lives. We also address the struggles many face in finding their unique gifts in our ever-changing world.  This episode ultimately encourages a journey of introspection and active engagement with one’s purpose, extending a special offer for listeners to access a course that aids in this discovery process. Take the next step towards living your best life by embracing the clarity and confidence that comes with understanding your unique purpose.00:00 Introduction to the Power of Purpose04:43 Discovering Your Unique Purpose: The Seven-Word Statement06:12 Purpose as a Decision-Making Tool22:30 Navigating Purpose Across Different Life Stages34:46 The Importance of Emotional Triggers37:03 Criteria for a Purpose Statement45:04 The Value of Simplicity59:38 Special Offer for ListenersCONNECT WITH IAN AND PURPOSE U 💫 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianchamandy/Website: https://purposeu.ai/Book: "Why Should I Choose You (in Seven Words or Less)?"Discount Code:  Get 50% off the Gift of Purpose with code RESET50CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan Mail“I would rather leave a hundred good stories behind than have a hundred million dollars.”  And I believe him. Matt Drago is a human with so much heart. He’s compelled to tell stories to help shape the experience of our lives. Join me as I help share Matt’s story with you…  We’ll talk about his journey from Virginia to the vibrant world of acting in NYC and LA – a story that is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Matt shares how his love for storytelling catapulted him from community theater to starring in films like "Somewhere in Montana" with Graham McTavish. We explore the resilience it takes to stay true to oneself while embracing life’s many transitions, showcasing how Matt has managed to balance a thriving acting career alongside real estate.Family and mentors have a profound influence on our lives, and Matt’s story is a testament to that. We reminisce about the magic of attending musicals like "Cats" with loved ones and how such shared experiences can ignite lifelong passions. We dive into Matt's relationship with acting teacher Terry Schreiber, whose mentorship not only shaped Matt's acting craft but also led him to Los Angeles and introduced him to his future wife. These touching narratives underscore the importance of community, intention, and honoring legacies in our personal and professional lives.Matt's story is one of constant reinvention and courage to follow your intuition. From his decision to transition from Broadway to LA, to balancing dual careers, Matt's journey encourages us all to embrace change with open arms. Whether he's sharing anecdotes about serving a $5,000 bottle of wine or the parallels between acting and real estate, Matt offers valuable insights into the art of navigating life's shifts. Join us for a conversation packed with reflection, inspiration, and the power of storytelling as a tool for growth.CONNECT WITH MATT  🎙️ 🎥Instagram:  /mattdragoWebsite:  mattdrago.com IMDb:  Matt on IMDBMovie:  "Somewhere in Montana" trailerCONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailVery few people get a podcast for their birthday – Happy Birthday, Morgan! 🎂 Join me as I talk with a dear friend and pioneering leader in data governance, Morgan Templar, in this captivating episode of RESET. Morgan, the CEO of First CDO Partners, shares her remarkable journey from the corporate world to leading her own consultancy. Discover the challenges she faced in leaving the security of a corporate career and the skills she honed in the process, including leadership, data strategy, and AI integration. Morgan’s insights extend beyond professional expertise to her personal endeavors: her influential books on data governance are an industry benchmark, and her thoughts on "action through inaction" are a message we can all lean into to  better align with the flow that will support success.Explore how the future of leadership is being shaped by AI and the transition to distributed workforces. Morgan and I discuss why openness, transparency, and vulnerability are now crucial in building trust within organizations. AI is more than just a tool; it’s a collaborative partner that requires thoughtful management akin to human teams. Learn how adapting leadership styles and clear communication can help navigate the unknowns of integrating AI, embracing the importance of flexibility and adaptability in today’s dynamic work environment.We also discuss deeply personal stories of resilience and adaptability, reflecting on how life's unexpected challenges shape us. From navigating significant medical crises within her family to blending spirituality with professional authenticity, we explore how personal and professional lives intertwine and inform each other. Finally, we ponder AI's potential to serve as a societal equalizer, promoting equity and bridging the tech divide. Tune in for an episode that offers a thoughtful exploration of leading through change and the ongoing transformation technology presents.CONNECT WITH MORGAN🎙️LinkedIn: /morgantemplarData, AI, and How We'll Live podcastBoth of Morgan's books are available on Amazon at this link"Get Governed""A Culture of Governance"CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat if love is more than just a romantic feeling? Join our chosen family at RESET as we celebrate the gift of modern love. In this special Valentine's Day episode, we explore how love is evolving in the age of AI through eight remarkable conversations about connection, belonging, and transformation. From Russ & Audrey Elliot’s 47-year marriage built on "small everyday stuff" to GenZ Berkeley student Maxwell Stern’s revolutionary vision of expanding rights for chosen families, our guests challenge traditional definitions of love while offering wisdom for navigating relationships in our rapidly changing world. Join host Tonya J. Long and guests including Silicon Valley community builder Nick Larson, Frontier Futurist John McElligott, and author of “Engineered for Love” Justin Wenck as they examine how technology is reshaping romance and what happens when deeply held traditions meet artificial intelligence.  Hear from radio personality and teacher, Jackie Dilworth, why the Greek language needs five words for love while English has just one, and be inspired by LinkedIn Top Voice and data visionary Morgan Templar as she describes being “married to her best friend” and the sacrifices we willingly make because for love.  Whether you're curious about AI's role in future relationships, seeking wisdom about lasting partnerships, or interested in how younger generations are redefining family and connection, this episode offers fresh perspectives on love's many languages. From polyamory to platonic bonds, from self-love to community connection, we explore how love transcends traditional boundaries while remaining our most powerful compass for navigating change.RESET: Where Purpose Meets Possibility. Because in times of quantum shift, love speaks all languages.#ModernLove #FutureOfRelationships #ValentinesDay #AIandLove #ResetPodcastWith deep love and appreciation for these friends and chosen family that contributed, in order of interviews:💙 ⁠John McElligott⁠♥️ ⁠Morgan Templar⁠💚 ⁠Justin Wenck⁠🧡 ⁠Jackie Dilworth⁠🩷 ⁠Russell⁠ & Audrey Elliot🩵 ⁠Nick Larson⁠🩶 ⁠Maxwell Stern⁠CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailJoin us for a compelling conversation with John McElligott, a Marine and son of a missionary who has transformed into a leading technologist and futurist. As the host of PBS's "AI: Unpacking the Black Box," John shares his unique perspective on the intersection of AI and humanity. We explore his dedication to making AI accessible beyond tech hubs and his innovative methods for engaging communities that are sometimes resistant to technological change, particularly in Middle America. Through empathy, patience, and creative outreach like The Frontier Futurist Tour, John illustrates how meaningful dialogues can spark interest and understanding in even the most skeptical audiences.The episode takes a deep dive into the ethical implications and urgent challenges posed by recent advancements in AI, highlighting the recent impact of DeepSeek. John and I discuss how these developments could reshape the global AI landscape, emphasizing the critical need for collective action. We also touch on the transformative power of AI and quantum computing, not just in tech but across society, urging a balanced approach that leverages these tools for the greater good.Finally, we envision a hopeful future where AI serves as a catalyst for personal and communal growth by enhancing wisdom. Through the potential of AI to act as digital companions, offering guidance based on individual experiences, we explore how technology could revolutionize both personal lives and community dynamics. Concluding with stories of human-AI collaboration, we underscore the promise of a future that harmonizes technological advancement with enduring human values, focusing on enhancing human potential and connectivity. This episode offers wisdom from someone who's walked the path from pulpit to Pentagon to the bleeding edge of innovation. Join us.RESET with Tonya J. Long: Where Purpose meets Possibility.CONNECT WITH JOHN 🦾LinkedIn:  /jrmcelligott/Website:   https://thefrontierfuturist.com/  PBS Show:  https://www.pbs.org/show/ai-unpacking-the-black-box/ CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a systems engineer mindset applies analytical thinking to engineering Life After Corporate? In this episode of RESET, we explore an extraordinary journey with Russ Elliott, whose transformation from corporate executive to cycling enthusiast and mentor reveals powerful lessons about purpose, community, and resilience.Russ isn't just enjoying retirement – he's redefining it. His story demonstrates how to build meaningful communities and find new purpose while maintaining the analytical mindset that served him throughout his corporate career.RESET with Tonya J. Long: Where Purpose Meets Possibility.[2:54] Corporate Journey & Transitions[4:41] Discovery of Physical Transformation[13:38] Building New Communities[20:32] Startup Experience & Learning[42:07] Navigating Health Challenges[51:35] Structure in Freedom[54:07] Wisdom for OthersCONNECT WITH RUSS 🚴🏻‍♀️LinkedIn: /rwelliotPlease reference this episode and what resonated with you when connecting on LinkedIn.CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob 

Send us Fan MailWelcome to RESET, where Purpose meets Possibility. Join Tonya J. Long in the inaugural episode of RESET, a podcast that blends Southern grace with Silicon Valley insights while emphasizing the power of courage, clarity, and community in times of transformation. Discover how RESET will address work, technology, longevity, and purpose with practical wisdom and insightful conversations featuring diverse voices. Subscribe now and be part of a community that curates moments of transformation #together.CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonyaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlongFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more! #thejourneyisthejob