Learning From Your World

Strong relationships are not found, they're built. In this episode, I talk with relationship expert and leadership educator Carole Robin, former Stanford Graduate School of Business faculty member and co-author of Connect: Building Exceptional Relationships with Family, Friends, and Colleagues. Together, we explore the practical skills that help people build trust, strengthen communication, and create meaningful relationships at work and in life. We discuss: - The difference between functional and exceptional relationships - Why being willing to be seen and known builds trust - How curiosity strengthens relationships - The role of vulnerability in effective leadership - How to use the 15% Rule to step outside your comfort zone - One practical step to strengthen a relationship this week   This episode is for you if you: - Want stronger relationships at work or at home - Lead people and want to build trust - Feel stuck in surface-level communication - Want practical tools to build better relationships - Believe connection is essential to success and well-being   Resources: Carole's LinkedIn Connect Book

Most leaders struggle because they’re trying to figure it out on their own. In this conversation with Allen Hauge, we talk about what changes when you’re in the right room. After more than 30 years working with CEOs, Allen shares how trust, vulnerability, and the right peer community help leaders gain clarity, and make better decisions. In this episode, we discuss: - Why leaders make worse decisions in isolation - The “experience trap” and how it limits your thinking - Why clarity and connection are the foundation of strong leadership If you’re leading a team, building a company, or trying to navigate complex decisions, this conversation offers a powerful reminder: you don’t have to do it alone. 

Making friends as an adult is hard, especially when you move somewhere new and don’t know anyone. In this episode, I talk with Holly Cooke, founder of The Lonely Girls Club, about what it actually looks like to build friendships and community as an adult. Holly shares how she started the London Lonely Girls Club, why showing up matters more than confidence, and what it takes to keep going when things feel uncomfortable or uncertain over time.

Happiness was never meant to be an individual pursuit. In this conversation, Nic Marks, founder of Friday Pulse and creator of the Happy Planet Index, explains why happiness evolved as a social emotion, and why our brains light up in connection with others. We explore why so many of us are stuck in “okay” lives, why individualism has unintentionally disconnected us from what makes us thrive, and how our relationships are the most powerful predictors of our health and longevity. Nic also reveals why anger spreads faster than joy and how trust transforms entire communities. And in a world where people report more loneliness, more fear, and more fragmentation than ever, his message is a wake-up call: happiness isn’t something we chase alone. It’s something we create together.

What actually helps you trust again after you’ve been hurt or manipulated? In this episode, author and educator Tracy A. Malone joins me to talk about what it takes to rebuild self-trust after narcissistic abuse. We unpack why awareness alone isn’t enough, how “sweet words” without consistent action break trust, and why self-forgiveness is often the hardest (and most freeing) part of healing. We explore how fear and people-pleasing keep us stuck in old patterns, how to recognize your role without blaming yourself, and what it really means to trust your own voice again. You’ll walk away with simple, real-life ways to rebuild confidence, set boundaries without guilt, and choose relationships that feel mutual, safe, and real.

Love is not chemistry, compatibility tests, or waiting for someone who magically “gets us.” According to Dr. Harville Hendrix and Dr. Helen LaKelly Hunt, the couple behind Getting the Love You Want, love is a practice that rewires us over time. In this episode, we talk about how two therapists who literally wrote the book on marriage came within inches of divorce, and why their relationship became stronger not by knowing more, but by doing things differently. We explore how conflict can actually be a doorway into connection, why our brains go to war with the people we love, and how simple daily habits (like asking for permission before speaking, mirroring, and genuine affirmations) can change how safe we feel with others… and how safe they feel with us.

In this episode, divorce coach Karen McMahon and I unpack why the same relationship patterns keep showing up, even when the people change. We look at the childhood dynamics that shape how we communicate, handle conflict, set boundaries, and respond under stress. Karen breaks down the difference between being victimized and seeing yourself as a victim, why people-pleasing and perfectionism form so early, and how recognizing your part in a dynamic gives you your power back, without shame or blame.

We often talk about connection, but rarely about affection - the love we give and receive through our words, actions, and touch. In this conversation, Dr. Kory Floyd, professor and author of The Loneliness Cure, helps make sense of how affection shapes our health and our relationships. We talk about how our families and culture teach us to show love, why the same gesture can land differently with different people, and what it actually means to feel affection deprived. Kory explains how affection lowers stress, supports our immune system, and meets our deep need to belong, and why giving affection is often even more powerful than receiving it. He closes with a simple but profound challenge: Be the one who gives affection first.

We’re not in a connection crisis because we don’t care.  We’re disconnected because our environment (our systems, our tech, and our pace) makes real connection harder than ever. In this opening episode of The Connection Series, I share the personal and professional journey that led me to the question:  What is real connection, and how do we rebuild it in a world designed for disconnection? In this episode, we explore… The real enemy of connection (hint: it’s not our screens) Why we so often mistake interaction for connection What it actually takes to rebuild presence in a distracted world This episode kicks off a 10-part series featuring authors, therapists, researchers, and community builders who are redefining the future of connection from every angle. If you're craving more presence, more meaningful relationships, and more honest conversations, this series is for you.

In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org and a leading voice in moral development, we explore what it really takes to build character and live with purpose. We discuss: - What Really Drives Action: Why character is about behavior, not just beliefs, and how to act on what matters most. - The Power of Purpose: How even simple goals (like a push-up contest) can provide meaning and motivation. - Rewiring Your Inner Voice: How to reshape negative self-talk through daily value-based habits. - The Role of Environment and Culture: How your surroundings shape your character…and how to build the culture you need to grow.   Challenge: Find an image that represents the kind of character you want to build, and keep it somewhere visible as a daily reminder. Resources: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt Soar with Your Strengths by Donald O. Clifton The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt Chatter by Ethan Kross Grit by Angela Duckworth The Path to Purpose by William Damon

Is empathy enough to create real change? In this episode, I talk with Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org and lifelong advocate for character development, about why empathy alone doesn’t create change, and what it really takes to live with integrity, purpose, and courage. We discuss: - Why Empathy Isn’t Enough: What most people get wrong about empathy, and how too much of it can block justice and enable harm. - Character vs. Compliance: The difference between doing the right thing because you have to vs. because it’s who you are. - Building A Virtue Habit: How Arthur built a gratitude practice from scratch and why small habits matter.   Challenge: Choose a character trait that doesn't come naturally to you, and create a small daily habit to practice it.   Resources: FREE VIA Character Survey Soar With Your Strengths by Donald Clifton (Book) StrengthFinder 2.0 (Book) Chatter by Ethan Kross (Book) Character.org

What if your mind was never meant to fit the system? In this episode, Perry Knoppert shares what happened after he gave everything up, and what he built. From living without a home to founding the Octopus Movement, Perry explores the power of nonlinear thinking and creating outside the lines. *This is Part 2 of our conversation. In Part 1, Perry shares how his  journey began.   We talk about: The moment he realized his brain didn’t belong in a linear world The difference between creativity and innovation What AI can’t do, and why human intelligence has never been more essential How fear shapes our world and what it takes to shift from conformity to connection Challenge (at 00:43:00): Perry shares a personal technique to quiet your mind and access stillness in a noisy world.   The Octopus Movement Website

What happens when someone steps outside the system? In this episode, Perry Knoppert, founder of The Octopus Movement, shares the story of the seven months he spent without a home. What began as a personal decision rooted in curiosity quickly became a deeper experience of disconnection, challenge, and insight. With honesty and reflection, Perry talks about: Why he gave everything up, and what happened next The emotional and mental toll of being unhoused The unexpected phone call that helped him begin again

After an overwhelming response to our first conversation, I had to bring Chelsey back for round two! In this follow-up, the licensed psychotherapist and author answers listener questions, breaking down narcissistic behavior and how to heal from toxic relationships.   We explore: Grandiose vs. covert narcissists - how they manipulate differently. Why narcissists distort reality and avoid responsibility. How to rebuild confidence and regain control after narcissistic abuse. Challenge: At [00:52:00], Chelsey encourages listeners to take one small step toward healing - replace an unhealthy habit with a simple, positive action to strengthen your nervous system and self-trust.   Resources: Chelsey’s Book: If Only I’d Known Narcissism Quizzes Narcissism Resources

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Jody Olsen, former Peace Corps Director and global leader, about embracing courage, building trust, and making bold life decisions. From her unexpected leap into the Peace Corps in the 1960s to leading the evacuation of 7,000 volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Olsen shares her journey of stepping into the unknown, making high-stakes decisions, and fostering deep human connection across cultures. We discuss: The Decision That Changed Everything -  How one moment led Dr. Jody Olsen to the Peace Corps and reshaped her entire life. The Power of Vulnerability and Trust - Why embracing uncertainty and relying on others is key to building strong relationships. Making Tough Calls Under Pressure - The inside story of how Dr. Olsen led the evacuation of 7,000 Peace Corps volunteers at the height of the pandemic. The Loneliness Epidemic & How to Rebuild Meaningful Connections – Why so many people feel disconnected today and practical ways to strengthen relationships in a digital world. Challenge: At [00:51:47], Dr. Olsen shares her challenge: Tell a story, be a mentor, or find a hero. She urges us to connect more deeply by sharing wisdom across generations, offering guidance to others, and seeking role models in our everyday lives.   Resources: Dr. Jody Olsen’s book, A Million Miles Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam (on the power of community)

In this episode, I talk with Todd Cherches - CEO of Big Blue Gumball, NYU professor, TEDx speaker, and author of Visual Leadership - to explore how visual thinking transforms leadership, communication, and problem-solving. We explore why leadership isn’t just about titles, but about how you see, think, and connect with others.    We discuss: Why leadership is about influence - not job titles. How visual thinking strengthens memory, communication, and problem-solving. The power of metaphors, props, and mental models in making ideas stick and strengthening connections.   Challenge: Todd encourages us to become more aware of the metaphors we use and those used by others. This week, listen for metaphors in everyday conversations and try incorporating ones that resonate with your audience to build better connections.   Resources: Todd’s Website Book: Visual Leadership: Leveraging the Power of Visual Thinking in Leadership and in Life  TED Talk: The Power of Visual Thinking

In this episode, I explore the critical role of connection in mental health with Dr. Chinwé Williams - licensed counselor, trauma therapist, and co-author of Beyond the Spiral and Seen. We discuss how anxiety and despair impact the brain, why true healing requires relationships, and how we can foster deeper, more meaningful support systems in our lives.   We discuss: - Why feeling seen is essential for emotional well-being. - How connection rewires the brain and reduces anxiety. - How to help others feel truly heard - without trying to "fix" them.   Challenge: Dr. Chinwé introduces three powerful words, "tell me more," as a tool for deeper connection. This week, practice using this phrase in conversations and notice how it changes the way people open up to you.   Resources: - Dr. Chinwé’s Website - Beyond the Spiral: Why You Shouldn’t Believe Everything Anxiety Tells You - Seen: Healing Despair and Anxiety in Kids Through the Power of Connection

In this episode, Cheryl Ilov returns to dive deeper into the philosophy of martial arts, the neuroscience of movement, and how training rewires both body and mind. We explore the principles that make Ninpo Taijutsu more than just self-defense - it’s a lifelong practice of resilience, strategy, and adaptability. We discuss: Why martial arts builds mental toughness, problem-solving skills, and confidence. How movement reshapes the brain through neuroplasticity. The unexpected ways martial arts can be a path to healing, empowerment, and personal transformation. Challenge: At [42:50], Cheryl explains the importance of embracing fear and discomfort in small, intentional ways. This week, choose one thing that pushes you outside your comfort zone and reflect on the experience. Resources: Cheryl’s Website FemiNinja Podcast The Reluctant Ninja Book Forever Fit and Flexible Book

In this episode, I talk with Cheryl Ilov (movement expert, author, and podcast host) about how training in Ninpo Taijutsu helped her heal from trauma, rebuild her confidence, and redefine her sense of strength. After years of resistance, she discovered that martial arts offered a unique path to empowerment. At 57, she became her teacher’s first female black belt, proving that transformation is possible at any stage of life.   We discuss: How an unexpected introduction to martial arts became a turning point in Cheryl’s healing journey. The role movement plays in trauma recovery and why martial arts is particularly powerful. How facing fear, whether in training or life, can rewire the brain for resilience and confidence.   Resources: Cheryl’s Website FemiNinja Podcast The Reluctant Ninja Book Forever Fit and Flexible Book

In this episode, I talk with Avery Thatcher, burnout specialist and former ICU nurse, about rethinking stress management, recovering from burnout, and building sustainable energy resilience.   We discuss: Why managing energy works better than managing stress—and what most strategies get wrong. The four types of energy and how they each lead to burnout. How burnout is shaped by larger societal pressures, not just personal choices. Challenge: At [00:49:22], Avery shares her challenge to rethink your morning routine. Instead of a rigid to-do list, focus on how you want to feel and choose actions that align with creating that foundation.   Resources: Avery’s Website Kelly McGonigal’s TED Talk on stress perception.

In this solo episode, I share the backstory of Learning From Your World - why I started this podcast, how it's evolved, and the surprising themes that have emerged from my conversations.   I discuss: How the book I wrote at 16 led to the podcast. Why connection and courage are the two forces that shape our lives - and how they reinforce each other. The "two wheels" analogy - how connection creates momentum and drives growth.   Challenge: At [09:10], I challenge you (and myself!) to take one small action today: strengthen a connection, start a new one, or do something that scares you.   New episodes drop every Wednesday - subscribe to stay connected!

In this episode, I talk with Chelsey Brooke Cole, licensed psychotherapist, speaker, and author, about understanding narcissistic behavior, healing from narcissistic abuse, and fostering personal growth after trauma.   We discuss: - The difference between narcissistic traits and narcissistic personality disorder. - The cycle of narcissistic abuse and its impact on victims. - Recognizing red flags, gaslighting, and DARVO in relationships.   Challenge: At [00:52:28], Chelsey encourages listeners to start a documentation practice. Write down your interactions and feelings to help validate your experiences and spot manipulation patterns.   Resources: - Chelsey’s book, If Only I’d Known - Chelsey’s Website - Chelsey's LinkedIn

In this episode, I talk with Chuck Wisner, author of The Art of Conscious Conversations, to explore how conscious communication can transform our relationships and professional lives.    We discuss: - The power of internal narratives in shaping our external interactions. - How to use self-reflection to reveal and adjust our personal biases and judgments. - Practical strategies for fostering better storytelling, collaborative, creative, and commitment-focused conversations.   Challenge: At [0:50:40], Chuck encourages us to write four key elements on a sticky note: desires, concerns, authority issues, and standards. Use this tool in your next conversation to investigate your own thinking and as a template to ask great questions.   Resources: - "The Art of Conscious Conversations" Book - Chuck's Website - Chuck's LinkedIn

In this episode, I talk with Andy Weins, author, entrepreneur, and army veteran, about the impact of language on our reality, psychological resilience, and the role of authenticity in personal and professional life.   We discuss: How the language we use shapes our emotions and actions. The power of authenticity in building stronger connections and self-acceptance. How to cultivate a growth mindset and overcome self-limiting beliefs.   Challenge: At [1:20:00], Andy challenges us to start each day by expressing gratitude to someone, using the phrase “I feel [emotion] when you….” This practice fosters self-awareness and encourages meaningful communication.   Resources: - Andy's book - Andy's website - Experience Andy Weins Live

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Martha Libster, nurse herbalist, historian, and author of Gentle Medicine for Balance in Body and Peace of Mind, about integrating holistic health, traditional medicine, and the power of plants in promoting mental and physical wellbeing.   We discuss: The balance between modern healthcare and traditional healing methods. How patterns in nature and Traditional Chinese Medicine can help us manage stress, depression, and anxiety. The importance of learning from plants as partners for holistic self-care and mental health. Challenge: At [1:07:15], Dr. Libster challenges us to explore the healing potential of the plants outside our backdoor. She also shares the safe place meditation, a tool for cultivating inner peace and balance.   Resources: Gentle medicine Elements of Care Program Oct 4/5  Membership Self-care Institute Book a Gentle Medicine personal growth consult for self or family Gentle Medicine for Balance in Body and Peace of Mind Book- Dr. Martha Libster

In this episode, I have a conversation with Lisa Bodell, CEO of FutureThink and author of 'Why Simple Wins' and 'Kill The Company,' about embracing change, challenging the status quo, and simplifying work for meaningful outcomes.   We discuss: The importance of saying no and focusing efforts on what truly matters, rather than merely being 'busy'. Implementing strategies like 'killing stupid rules' and time management tools to reduce workload and increase productivity. The significance of leadership in creating an environment free of fear, encouraging innovation and change.   Challenge: At [27:18], Lisa challenges us to review our past month, identify our biggest time sucks, and work on eliminating or streamlining them.   Resources "Kill The Company" Book "Why Simple Wins" Book Future Think Website Lisa's LinkedIn

In this episode, I talk with Cynthia Coufal, an experienced anxiety coach with a rich background in education and counseling.   We cover: Normalizing anxiety and recognizing how it manifests. The link between anxiety, connection, and courage. Strategies to foster emotional regulation and psychological safety.   Challenge: At [54:15], Cynthia challenges us to set aside a daily worry time to better manage anxiety.   Resources: The Teen Anxiety Maze Podcast Cynthia Coufal Coaching Youtube Channel Cynthia Coufal Website Cynthia Coufal LinkedIn  

In this episode, I talk with Therese Merkel-Hamadi to explore her inspiring journey from leaving the corporate world to establishing her business, Tricky Foods. She dives deep into what she felt, thought, and learned along the way.   We discuss: Therese's personal transformation and her transition from a demanding corporate job to creating a successful charcuterie and catering business. The importance of finding joy and passion in your work while building a supportive network. The benefits of participating in activities for pure enjoyment and being a "trier." Challenge: At [57:35], Therese challenges listeners to create a dream morning routine, and follow it!   Resources: Tricky Foods Instagram Hanging with the Hamadis Instagram Tricky Foods Website

In this episode, Sahara Rose De Vore shares her journey and insights as a travel coach, a role distinct from travel agents focused on helping individuals find deeper meaning and purpose in their travels. Sahara Rose founded the Travel Coach Network, which trains, guides, and certifies travel coaches through an ICF accredited certification program. At TCN, they believe that building a transformative experience goes farther than just the itinerary and booking trips.   We discuss: - The role of travel coaches in setting intentions for travel, bringing awareness to personal goals, and making informed travel decisions. - Sahara Rose's personal travel stories, highlighting her experiences and the transformative power of solo travel. - Overcoming common barriers to travel such as money and life situations, and how travel coaching can assist in addressing these challenges.   Challenge: At [46:00], Sahara Rose encourages listeners to reflect on what they truly want from life and travel, and provides a question to help you get started.

In this episode, I talk with the founders of Siren Shrub, Mindy McCord and Layne Cozzolino, about how they turned a shared passion into a thriving business.   We discuss: - The unique challenges and incredible benefits of partnering with your best friend in business. - Creating and maintaining your definition of success despite external pressures. - The inspiring process of transforming a passion project into a successful business.   Challenge: At [49:30], Mindy and Layne challenge us to redefine what success means to us.   Resources: Siren Shrub Website Wisconsin Foodie Episode  

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Karen Doll about impactful and applicable strategies to cultivate psychological fitness.   We discuss: - How societal and cultural factors affect our psychological fitness - and why the year 2012 had a profound impact on our collective mental health. - How to embrace appropriate vulnerability in a professional setting. - The single greatest "bang-for-your-buck" way to improve psychological fitness.   Challenge: At [30:45], Dr. Doll challenges us to embrace the role of a "reacher-outer" this year - and shares simple examples of how we can do this!   Resources: Building Psychological Fitness (Book) Dr. Karen Doll (Website) Dr. Karen Doll (LinkedIn)  

In this episode, I talk with Bart Berkey about what makes the difference between becoming the person who does vs. being the person who doesn't.   We discuss: - Why most people don't and the origin of the trademarked concept. - The thing that differentiates the people who do vs. the people who don't. - Bart's theory of "doing distractors" and specific tools to counteract them.     Challenge: At [54:41], Bart challenges you to identify a personal "should-do" - and do it!   Resources: Bart's Podcast Most People Don't Podcast Most People Don't Book

In this episode, I talk with Dan Miller about how we can live a longer, happier, and healthier life by living more like human animals.    We discuss: - Why Dan’s goal is to live to 130 and understanding longevity potential. - Practical ways we can live more like human animals despite the challenges of our current environment. - The power of community and its impact on our health.   Challenge: At [1:04:50], Dan shares an 8 word challenge for you to do the next time you feel stressed, unhappy, or anxious.   Resources: Dan’s Website  The Sleep Solution book  Purest Mushrooms CBD (50-120 mg daily) (Code “DANMILLER” gets you 10% off). This is as close to clinical grade as you can get! STEM Cell Enhancer 

In this episode, I talk with Jericha Szlo about how we can use neuroscience to reach our full potential.   We discuss: - Jericha's personal story and pivotal moment that led her to discover the power of the subconscious mind. - Understanding the subconscious mind and how we can use it to reach our full potential.  - How we can cultivate personal, physical, and online environments that contribute to our inner peace.   Challenge: At [44:44], Jericha shares a simple list you can create in your notes app to shift your external reality and create more peace in your life.   Resources: The Upper Limit Podcast Jericha's Website Jericha's TikTok Jericha's Instagram  

In this episode, I talk with Amelia Forczak about what it takes to write your next bestseller. As a bestselling ghostwriter herself, she shares practical insight and tips for aspiring authors to write a book that creates lasting impact.   We discuss: - The #1 thing that prevents people from writing their book…and how to overcome it. - How to assess the viability of a book idea. - How AI and Chat GPT can be (ethically) leveraged in writing and marketing your book.   Challenge: At [43:31], Amelia shares what you need to do right now to write and publish your book.   Resources: The Author's Club Pithy Wordsmithery Website Amelia's LinkedIn

In this episode, I talk with Kyle Willkom about the the ripple effect, the power of naivety in taking action, and the constant chase for productivity in a busy world.   We discuss: - How a random encounter with a stranger changed led Kyle to kickstart his career in writing and speaking. - How you can leverage naivety for success. - Finding balance between drive and contentment.   Challenge: At [34:40], Kyle shares a simple action you can take today to create a ripple effect and positively impact the people around you.   Resources: Kyle's Website The Traveler's Gift by Andy Andrews The 7 Decisions by Andy Andrews

In this episode, I talk with Mike Rucker about why crafting deliberate fun could be the key to experiencing more joy and happiness.   We discuss: - Why we are often less happy, despite having more information and tools for happiness than ever. - Defining fun and distinguishing the differences between high vs. low arousal fun. - Understanding the PLAY model: A tool to assess how different types of activities contribute to our fulfillment.   Challenge: At [41:25], Mike challenges you to look at your previous 168 hours and take an inventory of how you’ve been spending your time.   Resources: The PLAY model Time Audit Worksheet The Fun File and The Year of Fun The Fun Habit Book Mike's Instagram Mike's LinkedIn

In this episode, I talk with Cait Murphy about how to recognize nervous system dysregulation and apply somatic tools to our everyday life.   We discuss: - The practices that helped Cait heal and reverse burnout. - Polyvagal theory and the autonomic ladder. - Practical tools for regulating your nervous system.   Challenge: At [40:55], Cait shares a somatic practice you can start today to improve awareness and deepen your connection with your body.   Resources: Rewire The Podcast Cait's LinkedIn Cait's Instagram  

In this episode, I talk with Brandon Fong about how to create, build, and strengthen authentic relationships.   We discuss: - How to create new connections with the people who are where you want to be. - Brandon's 3-step strategy to build any relationship. - What the IKEA effect teaches us about building strong relationships.   Challenge: At [53:50], Brandon shares a simple yet powerful action you can do today to enhance your existing relationships.   Resources: The Beyond Curious Podcast  

In this episode, Mikki and I talk about the power of storytelling and the tools she created to live a fulfilling life and find her dream job.    We discuss: - The 4 objectives that led Mikki to find her dream job. - The experience list she created to live a more fulfilling and exciting life. - Mikki’s tips to become a great storyteller.   Challenge: At [34:42], Mikki shares something she created called the PIES challenge. Over the next 30 days, take at least one of each of the following: physical risk, intellectual risk, emotional risk, and spiritual risk.   Resources: Mikki's Website

In this episode, Jay and I talk about authenticity and what it means to be in our Greatness Zone.   We discuss: - What our "greatness zone" is and how stopping and noticing can help you find it. - How our greatness zone changes over time. - Why being in your greatness zone improves the lives of the people around you.   Challenge: At [38:28], Jay shares a habit that you can start tonight to interrupt the "busy" and create an inventory for what is working vs. what is not working.   Resources: The Forte Factor The Greatness Zone Book

In this episode, I talk with TV personality and founder of the MORE Life Collective, Barbara Majeski, about the vow she made to herself after experiencing a Stage III cancer diagnosis and divorce - back to back.   We discuss: - How Barbara’s childhood experiences have shaped her purpose and who she is today. - How we can use our experiences to have a positive impact on the people around us. - Barbara's moment of clarity that led her to finally doing what she always wanted to do.   Challenge: At [45:12], Barbara encourages listeners to commit to one of three non-negotiable daily activities to help you build positive habits.   Resources: https://www.themorelifecollective.com/ https://www.barbaramajeski.com/

In this episode, I talk with Sid McNairy, author, life empowerment coach, meditation teacher, and yoga instructor about peace.   We discuss: - How Sid went from being a football coach to a meditation teacher. - Defining peace: the birthplace of love. - Practical ways to invite peace into our lives.   Challenge: At [37:18], Sid shares a challenge that will help you get closer to living a peaceful life.   Resources: Art of Peaceful Living Website

In this episode, I talk with Aruna about:   - How taking action helped transform her confidence. - The hardest part about writing a book: vulnerability. - Practical recommendations to shift from responding to reacting.   Aruna's Challenge: 35:18

In this episode, I talk with Executive Mentor and lifelong adventurer, Charles Scott, about what it really means to be authentic.   We discuss: - What true authenticity really looks like. - How authenticity changes over time. - Mimetic Theory and its impact on our ability to remain authentic.   Challenge: At [42:53], Charles shares a challenge that will maximize your everyday vitality with alignment and authenticity.   Resources: Sparked Book The Principle of 18 Book The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life Book Sparketype Assessment (Free)

What does it actually mean to “take control of your life?”    In this episode, I talk with Jay Chase about how he went from being a product of his environment to making his environment a product of him. Taking control of your life is more than an inspirational quote. Jay talks about the real emotions and stories that came with the everyday struggle he faced during this process. He shares the primary person, books, and life events that were pivotal in helping him out of the pain.   Challenge: At [34:48], Jay shares a simple challenge you can start today that will help you see a different perspective, train discipline, and invite more blessings into your life. Resources: Four Agreements Book Jay's Website

What is mental wealth – and how can I get more of it? Michael Gilbert is the founder of Lumin-us, a nonprofit start-up with the goal of helping young adults find mental wealth through social therapy and asking questions like “What’s your bright spot?”. Michael and I discuss how we can use social therapy to improve mental wealth in ourselves and the people around us.   In this episode, I also talk to Michael about: - Guidance for parents looking to support their kids’ mental health. (7:00) - Direction for people who are silently struggling. (13:07) - What employers and employees can do to improve mental wealth in the workplace. (20:57)   Challenge: At [36:06], Michael shares a simple challenge you can do right now to improve your mental wealth.   Resources:  Lumin-us Instagram Lumin-us Website Project Healthy Minds The Trevor Project Lost Connections Book Look for Lumin-us on Project Pitch It season 7 this Spring!

In this episode, I talk with the CEO of CESA 6 and Mayor of Port Washington about the key to lifelong learning…CURIOSITY. Ted shares how to murder your books and other great tips to help retain the information you learn. He shares easy-to-implement strategies for leaders, parents, teachers, and individuals to leverage learning and create more meaning.   We discuss: - How to learn every day - without even touching a book! - A simple, yet powerful lesson we can learn from buffalo. - The quickest way to positively impact someone’s life. Challenge: At [31:50],  Ted shares a question you can ask yourself tonight and tomorrow morning that will help you reflect on what you can control in a positive way.   Resources: Ted's Smart Thinking Podcast  

In this episode, I talk with McKenna Reitz about how she has transformed her experience with Alopecia into an opportunity to pursue her purpose with confidence.    We discuss: - The internal and external factors that played a role in helping her improve her mindset. - The psychology and challenges behind reframing your life experiences into opportunities. - Advice for people before, during, and after experiencing a significant life event.   Challenge: At [43:07], McKenna shares a challenge for listeners to try the next time they experience a daily hassle.   Resources: McKenna's Website McKenna's TED Talk

In this episode, Jay and I talk about one small thing that has a huge impact on the way we see and experience the world: noticing.    We discuss: - How interrupting your busy life through stopping and noticing can improve your health and happiness. - A new kind of gratitude practice. - Practical tips to stop living on autopilot.   Challenge: At [30:55], Jay shares a habit that you can start tonight to interrupt the "busy" and incorporate noticing into your everyday life.   Resources: The Forte Factor The Greatness Zone Book