Shine A Light

On this episode of Shine a Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Nolan Hout, SVP of Growth at InfoPro Learning, to unpack how curiosity, calm decision-making, and deep listening shape exceptional leaders. From his early experiences navigating education gaps and confronting bias, to building scalable learning strategies for global organizations, Nolan shares how understanding people—not just processes—drives real impact. Together, they explore why many leaders mistake action for effectiveness, how emotional intelligence shows up in everyday conversations, and why slowing down may be the fastest way forward in today's AI-driven world. Key Takeaways Listening is a leadership superpower: Not just hearing words, but actively seeking meaning and understanding. Doing less can achieve more: Strategic restraint often outperforms reactive decision-making. Curiosity fuels connection: Great leaders ask better questions—and stay open to perspectives different from their own. Empathy can be learned: You don't need to feel everything to understand others—you need the tools to truly listen. If leadership is about unlocking potential, then it starts with one simple shift: choosing to understand before being understood. Lean in, listen deeper—and watch everything change. Host Christine Miles | https://thelisteningpath.com

What if your biggest money decisions aren't about money at all? In this episode of Shine A Light, Christine Miles sits down with financial behavioral specialist Kate Duffy to uncover the hidden psychology shaping how we earn, spend, and think about money. From childhood beliefs to subconscious patterns, Kate reveals why so many of us feel stuck financially—even when we "know what to do." Together, they explore how our earliest experiences quietly script our financial lives—and how awareness is the first step to rewriting that story. In this episode, you'll learn: Why your relationship with money is formed earlier than you think How subconscious beliefs can override logic and sabotage decisions A simple way to uncover your own "money story" and take back control If you've ever wondered why money feels emotional, confusing, or even stressful—this conversation will shine a light on what's really going on beneath the surface. Because when you understand your story, you can finally change it.     Host: Christine Miles – Founder of The Listening Path 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemiles Guest: Kate Duffy – Senior Financial Advisor & Financial Behavioral Specialist 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateduffy  

What if the way you choose relationships… is wired to fail? In this episode of Shine A Light, Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Chris (Coach Chris) to unpack the hidden patterns driving who we're attracted to, and why chemistry alone can lead us into the wrong relationships. Drawing from his background in medicine and emotional intelligence coaching, Chris breaks down attachment styles, nervous system responses, and the unconscious decisions shaping our love lives. Together, they explore how early experiences wire our relationship patterns, why we repeat the same cycles, and how to start choosing partners from a place of awareness instead of instinct. In this episode, you'll learn: Why chemistry isn't love and can actually mislead you The difference between anxious, avoidant, and secure attachment styles The key questions to ask early that reveal long-term compatibility When you learn to listen to yourself differently, you stop repeating patterns and start choosing relationships that truly work.   Host: Christine Miles – Founder of The Listening Path https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemiles/ Guest: Dr. Chris (Coach Chris) – Relationship Coach & Emotional Intelligence Expert https://www.instagram.com/evolvedbychris/ https://www.evolvedbydrchris.com/  

What if one small moment of kindness could completely reshape your life? In this powerful episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with speaker and author Pam Dwyer to explore how a childhood marked by trauma, abuse, and survival led to a breakthrough philosophy that now helps thousands transform their lives. From being unseen and unheard to discovering the life-changing impact of feeling valued, Pam shares how a single moment rewired her sense of self—and became the foundation of her "Plus One" and "Delay the Binge" frameworks. Together, they unpack what's really driving our behaviors, why we stay stuck in patterns, and how awareness—not willpower—is the key to change. In this episode, you'll learn: Why you're not broken—you're patterned How one moment of being truly seen can change everything The simple "pause" that can interrupt any destructive habit This conversation is a reminder that transformation doesn't start with fixing—it starts with understanding. If you've ever felt stuck, unseen, or overwhelmed… this episode will meet you exactly where you are.   Host: Christine Miles 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemiles/ Guest: Pam Dwyer | Speaker, Author, Founder of The Plus One Theory 🔗 https://www.pamdwyerspeaker.com/

What if the biggest problem in your relationships… is something you've never been taught? In this episode of Shine A Light, Christine Miles sits down with educator and author Ari Gerzon-Kessler to unpack a hidden gap affecting schools, workplaces, and families alike: the inability to truly listen. Drawing from decades in education and leadership, Ari shares how mistrust between parents and educators isn't a people problem, it's a listening problem. Together, they explore how small shifts in how we listen can transform conflict into connection, and why most of us have been trained to do the exact opposite of what actually works. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "good communication" often fails without real listening The simple shift that builds trust in high-stakes conversations How asking better questions can completely change relationships When we learn to listen to understand, not respond, everything changes.     Host: Christine Miles – Founder of The Listening Path https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemiles/ Guest: Ari Gerzon-Kessler – Educator, Author, Family Partnerships Leader https://www.linkedin.com/in/arigerzonkessler/

What if the way you lead could mean the difference between failure and survival? In this powerful conversation, Christine Miles sits down with retired Lieutenant General Mark Hertling to explore leadership under the highest stakes imaginable—from commanding 90,000 troops to writing letters to his sons before going to war, unsure if he'd return. Together, they unpack what truly drives people, how great leaders think, and why understanding—not authority—is the real force behind influence. This episode goes beyond military leadership—it's about how we show up for others in business, at home, and in moments that matter most. In this episode, you'll learn: Why one conversation can change the entire trajectory of your life The difference between telling people what to do vs. challenging them to think How to understand what truly motivates others—and lead from that place If you want to lead with clarity, build trust, and bring out the best in others, this conversation will shift how you think about leadership forever.   Connect with Christine: Website: christinemiles.com Instagram: @christinemiles   Guest: Lt. General (Ret.) Mark Hertling – Author of If I Don't Return

What if everything you've been taught about leadership, HR, and workplace culture is wrong? In this powerful episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Lauran Starr—a bold, unapologetic disruptor redefining what it means to lead people and build culture. From growing up in poverty to becoming a Chief People Officer with multiple doctorates, Lauran shares how her lived experience shaped her fearless approach to challenging broken systems—and why "people and culture" must replace traditional HR if organizations want to survive. Together, they unpack the uncomfortable truth: most companies aren't struggling with communication—they're suffering from a lack of real listening, critical thinking, and accountability. And fixing it requires more than good intentions—it requires disruption with purpose. In this episode, you'll learn: Why traditional HR is becoming obsolete—and what must replace it How conflict, when handled right, becomes a catalyst for growth The difference between performative change and real transformation in culture and leadership This conversation will challenge how you think, lead, and listen—and invite you to step into a more intentional, impactful way of showing up. Because real change doesn't come from staying comfortable. It comes from shining a light on what others avoid. Connect with Christine: Website: christinemiles.com Instagram: @christinemiles   Guest: Dr. Lauran Starr – Chief People Officer, Author, Disruptive Thought Leader

What if the thing you think disqualifies you… is actually the start of your greatest strength? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Keith Keating, Chief Learning Officer at BDO, workforce futurist, and author of The Trusted Learning Advisor and Hidden Value. Keith shares his powerful journey from being a high school dropout navigating homelessness and self-doubt to earning a doctorate and becoming a global leader in learning and development. Together, Christine and Keith unpack why traditional ideas about success, education, and job security are rapidly changing—and why learning may be the most powerful skill you can build for the future. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why "job security" is a myth—and what actually protects your career • How learning can unlock confidence, purpose, and opportunity • The difference between the old knowledge economy and today's value economy Keith's story is proof that success isn't defined by where you start—it's defined by your willingness to keep learning and keep going. If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to pivot, grow, or reinvent yourself, this conversation will change how you see your path. Connect with Us Host: Christine Miles – Creator of The Listening Path LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemiles/ Guest: Dr. Keith Keating – Chief Learning Officer, Workforce Futurist, Author Website: https://keithkeating.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithkeating/  

What if the biggest problem in our classrooms, companies, and families isn't communication—but the fact that no one is actually listening? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with longtime educator and school leader Sue Szczepkowski, who has spent more than 30 years shaping how students, teachers, and families learn and grow. From the athletic fields to the classroom to leadership teams, Sue shares what she's learned about building cultures where people feel seen, understood, and motivated to do their best work. Together, they unpack the hidden leadership lessons behind great teaching, why curiosity matters more than control, and what parents and leaders must understand about the modern distractions shaping today's kids. In this episode, you'll learn: Why winning isn't about the scoreboard—it's about the lessons along the way How great leaders earn trust by knowing people's stories The surprising reason teachers—and leaders—are really in sales What parents should know about screens, attention, and raising curious kids How listening and curiosity can transform classrooms, teams, and relationships If you care about leadership, parenting, education, or building stronger human connections, this conversation will challenge the way you think about listening and influence. Because when you truly understand someone's story… everything changes. Connect with Host Christine Miles: Website: christinemiles.com Instagram: @christinemiles Connect with Sue Szczepkowski:  Lower School Head, Germantown Academy | Educator & Leadership Mentor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-szczepkowski

What if the real math crisis isn't about numbers — but about identity? In this powerful episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with national education leader and math expert Beth Zhang to unpack America's math crisis — and why so many of us still believe, "I'm just not a math person." Beth shares her unexpected journey from political science major to leading K–12 math transformation efforts across the country, revealing how mindset, listening, and instructional shifts can radically change outcomes for students. Together, they explore why math anxiety is often a story we inherit — and how educators, parents, and leaders can rewrite it. In this episode, you'll discover: Why "listening to" is more powerful than "listening for" answers How growth mindset transforms math identity — for kids and adults The alarming data behind America's math crisis — and what can actually fix it Why math is less about formulas and more about confidence If you've ever said, "I'm not a math person," this conversation might just change your mind. Because when we shift the narrative, we don't just improve outcomes — we unlock potential. Connect with Us: Host: Christine Miles – Creator of The Listening Path® LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemiles Guest: Beth Zhang – National Education Leader & Math Expert, Lavinia Group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethzhang

Most leaders think they're emotionally intelligent — the data says otherwise. In this powerful episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Ekta Vyas, Chief Human Resources Officer at Keck Medical of USC and expert in organizational transformation, to unpack why emotional intelligence is declining at the exact moment leaders need it most. Drawing from global research, real-world leadership experience, and her own personal journey from India to the executive suite, Dr. Vyas reveals why EQ isn't a "soft skill," but the deciding factor in whether people — and transformations — succeed or fail. Together, Christine and Ekta explore what emotional intelligence actually is, why most leaders misunderstand it, and how listening, awareness, and intentional response can radically change outcomes at work and at home. In this episode, you'll learn: Why 70% of organizational transformations still fail The critical difference between reacting and responding How emotional intelligence shapes trust, culture, and leadership impact If you've ever wondered why smart strategies fall apart — or how to lead with clarity in emotionally charged environments — this conversation will change how you think about leadership, listening, and yourself. ✨ This is your invitation to slow down, listen deeper, and lead with intention. Connect with Host Christine Miles: Website: christinemiles.com Instagram: @christinemiles Connect with Guest Dr. Ekta Vyas, PhD Chief Human Resources Officer, Keck Medical of USC LinkedIn: Dr. Ekta Vyas Website: https://ektavyasphd.com

What if the decision you're avoiding is the one that changes everything? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Amy Lessinger, former President of RE/MAX and creator of The Irreversible Step, to unpack how leaders make bold decisions when the stakes are high and certainty is nowhere in sight. From building a billion-dollar real estate brokerage during the Great Recession to walking away from success to find deeper impact, Amy shares what it really takes to lead with clarity, courage, and conviction. Together, Christine and Amy explore what happens when leaders slow down long enough to truly listen - to themselves, to their teams, and to what's actually true—before taking action. In this episode, you'll learn: Why indecision always carries a cost and why it gets heavier over time How listening builds performance, trust, and resilience in leaders and teams What an "irreversible step" really is and how to take the right one If you're standing at a crossroads, feeling stuck, or sensing it's time for a change but don't know what comes next, this conversation will help you shine a light on the decision that matters most. Connect with Host Christine Miles: Website: christinemiles.comInstagram: @christinemiles Connect with Guest Amy Lessinger Former President of RE/MAX | Leadership & Decision-Making Strategist 🌐 https://amylesinger.com🌐 https://theirreversiblestep.com  

What if the voice guiding your life isn't the one you should trust? In this powerful conversation, Christine Miles sits down with bestselling author and intuition teacher Happy Ali, whose life was transformed by a near-death experience at 17—and later tested by unimaginable loss. Happy shares how learning to distinguish between the soul, the mind, and the body can change how we make decisions, heal from trauma, and create a life rooted in clarity instead of fear. Together, Christine and Happy explore why most people think they're listening—to others and themselves—but are actually following the wrong signals, and how self-awareness becomes the gateway to real transformation. In this episode, you'll learn: How to tell the difference between intuition, fear, and conditioning Why your brain is constantly reinforcing what you already believe How conscious listening can shift your choices, energy, and direction If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure which inner voice to trust, this episode will help you shine a light on what's really guiding you—and choose differently.   Connect with Christine  Website: christinemiles.comInstagram: @christinemiles Connect with the Guest Happy Ali Bestselling Author & Creator of Soul Tapping 🌐 https://happyinsights.net  

A single moment can rewrite everything you believe about life — and Ray Catania learned that firsthand. After surviving a near-death experience at 20, Ray spent decades wrestling with what he saw, felt, and understood on the other side. That journey eventually unlocked intuitive abilities, a new understanding of consciousness, and a mission to help people break free from the subconscious patterns that limit them. In this conversation, Ray and Christine explore how trauma, belief, and perception shape our lives — and how we can rewrite the story. In this episode, Ray shares: How his NDE shattered atheism and opened intuitive abilities Why most of our decisions come from subconscious programming His "Say It Three Ways" method for manifesting real change How emotion and frequency shape what you attract The courage required to pursue your true path Ray's story is a reminder that you can retrain your mind, reshape your life, and become truly limitless — if you're willing to listen within. Connect with Ray Catania: Website: raycatania.com Books & Programs: The Atheist and the Afterlife, You're Still Alive—Now Act Like It, Say It Three Ways Course Connect with Host Christine Miles: Website: christinemiles.comInstagram: @christinemiles  

AI may be transforming marketing, but the teams behind it still rise—or fall—on human connection. In this episode, two-time CMO and AI-driven go-to-market strategist Lisa Sharapata shares how her early dream of becoming an astronaut unexpectedly shaped her leadership philosophy, her career in marketing, and her ability to align teams like mission control. Lisa opens up about using AI responsibly, fostering psychological safety, and the real conversations leaders must have to bring out the best in their people. In this conversation, Lisa and Christine explore: How AI is reshaping the buyer's journey—and why humans matter more than ever What great leaders do to build cultures of accountability and trust Practical ways to create psychological safety and unlock team innovation Lisa's story is a reminder that when leaders explore boldly and communicate authentically, teams can achieve lift-off together. Tune in to be inspired. Connect with Lisa Sharapata: LinkedIn: lisasharapata  

What if the life that looks perfect on paper is quietly draining your soul? In this powerful conversation, Jeff Munn—a former lawyer turned transformational coach—opens up about the invisible walls that keep high achievers trapped in careers and relationships that no longer fit. From panic attacks in law school to the courage to walk away from "good enough," Jeff shares how learning to listen to himself changed everything. Together, he and Christine Miles unpack what it really means to live authentically, how fear disguises itself as practicality, and why calm doesn't mean losing your edge. Key Takeaways: Why "success" can become its own kind of prison The moment Jeff found the courage to be disliked How calm and creativity can coexist in high-performance lives This episode will make you pause, reflect, and ask yourself: What's that thing you know you need to do? 🎙 Guest: Jeff Munn — Transformational Coach & Creator of "Extraordinary Futures" 🔗 linkedin.com/in/jeffmunn 🌟 Host: Christine Miles — CEO of EQuipt and Creator of "The Listening Path" 🔗 christinemiles.com  

What if the fastest way to change your culture is to stop rushing through the conversations that matter most? In this episode, Christine Miles—author, keynote speaker, and creator of The Listening Path—shares a powerful real-world story of an HR team that went from burnout and frustration to becoming strategic leaders inside their organization. Through practical tools, honest reflection, and a transformative "slow down to speed up" mindset, Christine reveals how listening to understand can shift credibility, rebuild trust, and unlock true influence. Key Takeaways: Why most teams start conversations "in the middle"—and how to get the full story The six essential questions that uncover what people really mean How leaders can earn credibility through understanding, not force A real example of listening tools solving a high-stakes crisis By the end, you'll see how shining a light on the whole story changes the way people relate, communicate, and lead.  

What if everything you've been taught about listening is wrong? In this powerful episode, Christine Miles—therapist turned executive coach and creator of The Listening Path—reveals how a childhood shaped by her mother's hidden pain taught her the deeper truth about human connection. She shares the emotional story behind her life's work and breaks down the three steps that transform listening from a passive habit into a leadership superpower. You'll learn why most people start their stories in the middle, why "I understand" almost never communicates understanding, and how shining a light on someone's experience can change the way you lead, parent, and connect. In this episode, Christine breaks down: The emotional moment that revealed the high cost of not listening Why only 2% of people have formal listening training The 3-step Listening Path that helps teams communicate with clarity How to uncover insights people can't articulate themselves Why real listening isn't silence — it's direction If you want to build stronger teams, deeper relationships, and a more aligned culture, this conversation will change how you communicate forever.