Circle Up & Get REAL Podcast

Today is the 20th anniversary of the launch of my coaching and consulting business, so I'm reminiscing about who I've become over this 2-decade career.  

Today I'd like to talk about rules. Not because I love them, but because I wonder what life would be like without them.   Is there a purpose to rules? If so, what is it?   Today I share information about the government and the rules it's working to keep in place, namely to make people more free.   I also share upcoming events I've got coming up: REAL Me: Intensive 6-week live virtual course (www.getrealcircle.com) and Think and Grow Rich in Ten Minutes a Day, 6-week study starting Wednesday, June 18 from 11-12 central. Reserve your spot here: https://getrealwithjodeebock.regfox.com/think-grow-rich-in-10-minutes-mastermind-study    

In today's episode I explore what might keep us (me included) from taking action on the outcomes we desire. Why are we so sure about complaining and so unsure about moving toward what we want instead? I share information about upcoming learning opportunities: Dare to Lead book study - Brewhalla in Fargo starting June 3 at 5 p.m. REAL Me: Intensive 6-week live virtual study starting June 11. Application open at www.getrealcircle.com Think and Grow Rich in 10 Minutes live virtual study - June 18 - July 23, 11 - 12 central (register here: https://getrealwithjodeebock.regfox.com/think-grow-rich-in-10-minutes-mastermind-study)

In today's episode I share some current wonders and ponders regarding what it really means to be unconventional. The opposite is conventional, which means based on, or in accordance with, what is generally done or believed. Normal. Regular. Ordinary. What if that's not what we really desire? Or what we really are, deep down? What if we're more wired to be deviants? That means departing from an established course or accepted standard. The book I mention in this episode is "The Economics of Higher Purpose" by Robert E. Quinn and Anjan V. Thakor. I also mention the Enlightened Leadership Lab (www.enlightenedleadershiplab.com) and Purple Dialogue (www.purpledialogue.com).

Today's guest is Glen Stevens, a former pastor turned entrepreneur in 2019. He continues to help people, but with a new calling: He helps people rewire their brains for a more positive and enjoyable approach to work and life--think, personal trainer for your brain. Known as the Mental Fitness Guy, Glen is a dynamic speaker, trainer, and executive coach. As a Certified Mental Fitness Coach™, he combines cutting-edge techniques and strategies from neuroscience and psychology that are simple to understand, get to the root of the problem, and are easy to apply. In this episode Glen and I talk about his journey, and also why Mental Fitness is so crucial for not only corporate success, but also for so many situations where mental health could use a boost. We talk about Positive Intelligence or PQ, created by Dr. Shirzad Chamine, which exposes mental saboteurs which keep us from achieving our true potential. Glen is focusing his work on rural electric cooperatives, where he helps them address five critical areas: Safety practices and culture Preventing burnout Equipping teams to thrive during change Teaching professionals to maintain peak performance under pressure and stress Building stronger, more cohesive teams If you'd like to connect with Glen, visit his website, www.mentalfitnessguy.com or find him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mentalfitnessguy/

"What does it mean to stay human in a world that can feel so inhumane?" This was a question my Facebook friend Patti Digh asked this morning at the beginning of a beautifully articulated essay she shared. And that first question got me wondering and pondering. I'm nowhere near as eloquent and poetic as Patti, but I wanted to share my ideas this morning. What are your thoughts? What do you truly desire? What are you willing to do to get that?

I was given advice from a colleague a few years ago as I left an organization as an employee to venture out on my own - yet again - as a coach, consultant, facilitator. He told me, "Whatever you do, don't talk about culture." I took his advice seriously at the time. But the more I've been back at my own business full time, the more crucial I feel this concept of company culture really is. Culture is the container that holds all of the organization's activities. It's not what you do, it's how you do it that reflects the culture for the people doing the work. Today I mention several books: "The Power of Company Culture" by Chris Dyer, "Holacracy" by Brian Robertson, "Human-Centered Communication" by Ethan Beute and Stephen Pacinelli, and "Humanocracy," by Gary Hamel and Michele Zanini.

When I say "bugging" in the title, I mean what's on your mind? What's getting you uncomfortable? What's irritating you? What's not right in your world? Often those irritants are trying to tell us something, and we don't listen until they provoke anger and even rage. What if we learned to listen earlier? Not only to ourselves, but to others? What are they trying to tell us, even when the words they are using are clunky? Listening is an art and a skill we can get better at when we practice it. My mom used to say, referring to my piano lessons as a kid, "practice makes perfect." That's true when we are practicing perfectly. But really, practice makes permanent. The WAY we practice makes all the difference.  How are we listening? ARE we listening or are we just hearing? This is a huge distinction and one I'm still working on.

John Maxwell says that everything rises and falls on leadership. But before leadership can move at all, it needs to be enveloped in a deliberate and purposeful culture. In this podcast episode, I talk with my co-author and co-host of the Enlightened Leadership Lab, Chris Angell, about our upcoming book and process we are calling Culture First. Listen in as we allow the conversation to guide us as we talk about who leaders become when the culture encourages them. You will see how the MasterMind principle (the best of each of us that comes out when we are in a spirit of harmony) shuffles between Chris and me as we allow that principle to guide our conversation. Find Chris on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chris.angell and at his website, www.mygroundswell.com.

What is it called when you're not content where you used to be, but you're not yet sure what you want to be instead? Today I'm calling it the "in-between." And I'm going to talk about the restlessness and discontent that is part of the journey to progress. I've got a list of bullet points, but I'm not sure how we'll get from there to here. Isn't that the actual point though?

Today's guest is Dr. Pam Denton, is a visionary expert in evolving organizational culture through a systematic approach that combines human-centric insights, AI-driven precision, and long-lasting collective mobility achieved through neuroenergetic reprogramming. That might sound like a mouthful, but in this conversation, Pam and I break it down. Pam's work centers on evolutionary leadership, and we talk about how important it is for leaders to understand and accept neurological reprogramming to eliminate toxicity in corporate cultures.  Pam shares her journey into her current work, and how she applies her knowledge of energy, vibration, and the nervous system to help people, particularly leaders, deal with stress and trauma. You can find out more about Pam's work on her website, https://www.positiveevolutionconsulting.com/. You can also download her ebook, "Neuroenergize Your Leadership" at this link: https://simplebooklet.com/neuroenergizeyourleadership#page=1

Whenever the world gets me down, I remember that I've survived every single day of my life up to now, and I plan to do that for many days, weeks, months, and years to come. Working as I have for the past 22 years on personal self-awareness has given me so much awareness and confidence, and it has also tested and validated my faith and hope in humankind.  Once in a while it's good for me to take stock of where my life is so that I can make an informed choice to move in the direction I feel called, even if that move is a coddywomple (moving purposefully toward a vague destination). Is there order underneath the perceived chaos of the world today, March 12, 2025? In this episode I refer to: S piral Dynamics (https://spiraldynamicsintegral.nl/en/) Chloe Valdary's program "Theory of Enchantment" (https://www.theoryofenchantment.com/)  Deepak Chopra's quote: "Great changes are preceded by great chaos" Paraphrased quote by Ram Dass: "Whether this is the first day of the Apocalypse or the first day of the Golden Age, the work remains the same ... to love each other and ease as much suffering as possible." Hafiz quote: “Even After all this time The Sun never says to the Earth, "You owe me." Look What happens With a love like that, It lights the whole sky.”

Today's guest is Jess Almlie, a Learning and Development Specialist who is living her best life as the Founder of her own company, Almlie Consulting. Jess holds a B.A. in Organizational Communication and an M.S. in Educational Leadership, where her thesis explored, “Can leadership be learned in a classroom?” She's also certified in Improving Human Performance through ATD, with 30 years of experience in the L&D industry, having done it all—from orientation coordinator to VP of Learning Experience. She's led teams, developed strategies, and measured impact. As a dedicated volunteer, Jess has served as the President of her local ATD chapter and as an ATD National Advisor, mentoring and coaching chapter leaders across the country. In this conversation, Jess and I talk about a lot of things, including how to and why to measure the results of squishy subjects like leadership, communication, and learning. Jess is on a mission to help L&D leaders and teams level up—whether through one-on-ones or what she calls "coachsulting," dynamic workshops, or teaming up to build strategic learning blueprints that actually drive results. Jess' book, published by ATD Press, will be available this fall. It's called "L&D Order Taker No More: Become a Strategic Business Partner," which Jess says is the handbook she wishes she would have had. It's Jess' story, along with lots of qualitative research. Find out more about Jess at her website, www.JessAlmlie.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessalmlie/

Have you ever wished you could speed up time? Slow it down? "Make" something happen when YOU want it to? I had an insight today in my Wednesday mastermind meeting that I want to share. It has to do with vision and with timing. Today I talk about the following books: "Open Space Technology: A User's Guide" by Harrison Owen "Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't" by Simon Sinek "The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided By Politics and Religion" by Jonathan Haidt  "Synchronicity: The Inner Path of Leadership" by Joseph Jaworski

When you really get to know people, they are terribly fascinating. And the ways we connect with people can be so random ... even though, deep down, nothing is random. This episode of Circle Up & Get REAL is a great example of this principle. Today's guest is Geoff Talbot, Founder, Director, CEO at Sphere Builders - A Transformation Business/Life Journey, a former veterinary surgeon, and a screenwriter, actor, filmmaker, and producer. Geoff's now building a coaching community called 200 Strong to help people leverage skills and time with group coaching. Join Geoff and me as we talk about connecting, communicating, problem solving, freedom, career choices, and so many more subjects that are most important to each of us. We show what can happen when you feel safe having a REAL conversation with someone even if you've just met.  You can connect with Geoff via Messenger at https://m.me/geoff.talbot

Today's guest is Shannon Miller-Lutz, a certified coach who shares her story of turning 50 and feeling a deep yearning for something more meaningful in life than her award-winning real estate business was giving her. Shannon's company is called SML Coaching, where she combines her extensive training and life experiences to provide guidance and support needed for others to achieve personal growth and fulfillment. Shannon has certifications in Positive Intelligence (CPQC), NLP Master Practitioner, Hypnotherapy, Mental and Emotional Release (MER), CPCC, PCC, Integrative Psychology, and a membership with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). In our conversation we talk about what it really means to live your life with meaning and purpose, and to leave a legacy that we can be proud to leave. Contact Shannon on all the socials, or by visiting her website, www.smlcoaching.com.

My furnace had a glitch yesterday, so I got it fixed. The company I called is named Legacy. And that got me thinking. Then this morning I heard on the radio about a question being posed on a call-in show. I'm paraphrasing, but the question was something like: "Do you think actors and athletes should be discounted from awards they could win for their work on the stage, screen, or field based on their political or religious ideals?" And I started thinking about our legacies. The memories people will have of us.   I mention our upcoming event ChillOutFargo.com Also my book Just Give a Sh*t (https://amzn.to/4157bfZ) And The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership book.

Back in the early 2000s Jim Collins was gaining traction for his consulting work around his new (at the time) book called Good to Great. He realized that there were some distinct characteristics that allowed companies and organizations to produce results greater than their competition over a period of time. One of those concepts was "First Who Then What." Let's talk about the WHOs today.

Pick a topic, any topic ... and I'll be there is some part of it that calls for both division and connection. Take the Super Bowl. If you're a Chiefs fan, you're not an Eagles fan (actually insert team here). If you already love the Chiefs, you're probably pretty selective in your hearing or noticing in your town or online. You either love your team or hate the other one(s) (or both). Let's talk about workplaces. Or service providers. Or flavors of soda. I know. It doesn't seem like the end of the world if we disagree about the best brand of ketchup.  But don't we all have our favorites? Now take American politics. I can't think of a time in my lifetime when this topic has been so polarizing. And it feels like the gap is getting wider. When you notice what you notice about any of the above scenarios, do you notice the "sides" or do you notice the gap? In a world where it's implied that if you're not for a side you're against it, the middle hasn't gotten a lot of love. I feel like it's time to notice the middle ... the gap between one side and the other. But what do I do now? I mention my new book "Just Give a Sh*t" and also this podcast, Circle Up & Get REAL.

Today's guest is Mark French, a nomadic photographer, adventurer, and content creator who is on an epic road trip through the lower 48 states. Mark spends a week to 10 days in each state in order to meet the people, capture the essence of the trip in photographs, and experience the culture. Mark has not seen any of the division that seems to be pervasive in our American political scene, and was even in Pennsylvania - a swing state - during the election, and never once saw any kind of divisiveness, which led him to believe what the media is showing is not what is happening in most of the country. Mark believes that "Life will live you in the absence of you living life!" (c) For more information about Mark's trip, to follow him, or to purchase his photo calendar, find him on Facebook at MA French Photography or at www.mafrenchphoto.com.

Today's guest is Kim Zuroff, Director of Growth at The One Thing, and executive leadership coach at MAPS coaching, and one of Jodee's real estate agents when she was Team Leader at Keller Williams Realty in North Dakota. Kim started her career in real estate as a 20-year-old college student, and has worked her entire 14-year career in this industry, moving from a buyer's agent to a real estate investor and owner of six companies. Kim splits her time between her homes in Maryland and Texas, and today shares what she's learned over the years as a triathlete, a member of the Air National Guard, and a successful business person ... and also what she's missed because of her intense focus. Learn more about Kim by connecting with her at Kim@the1thing.com or at her Instagram page @kimzuroff.

Today's guest is Kara Moll, whose passions include Training, Strategizing, and Inspiring others to live the lives they were made to live. Kara is a founding partner at Keller Williams ONE in Chicago, an approved faculty trainer at Keller Williams University, and a head coach at MPAS Coaching. She brings more than two decades of experience in real estate and coaching, using Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Energy Leadership Coaching, she works to elevate the skills and business acumen of her clients. Her most recent certification is the Exactly What To Say program, where she helps leaders use their words more effectively so they can self-discover and solve the issues they face in their roles both inside and outside real estate. For more information about Kara, visit her website at www.karamoll.com or find her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/karamoll/ or Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thekaramoll/.

There are so many topics that have both positive and less-than-positive connotations, depending upon your point of view. I think expectations can be like that. What if nothing is "good" or "bad" on its own ... it's our thinking and our perspective that makes either appear a certain way? While I thought this episode was going to be more about expectations, it turned out to be more about two topics you're never supposed to bring up in public: Religion and Politics. My ponders this week are circling around a couple of really deep conversations I've had about the concepts of politics and religion. I'd love to work through some of them here. I hope you'll ponder these topics deeply instead of doing what I've done in the past: deny them or avoid them because they're difficult. These are the types of wonderings and ponderings that will help all of us develop our critical thinking skills. Avoiding them does nothing to help us build those muscles. In this episode I refer to Neale Donald Walsch's first book, Conversations With God, along with an essay written by one of the friends I met with this week.

Yesterday in our Enlightened Leadership Lab we continued our series on my new book Just Give a Sh*t and Chris Angell coined a new phrase: Give-A-Sh*t Factor. This is something for each of us to figure out by determining our non-negotiables and then recognizing how often someone tries to steal our values from us (or how often we allow that to happen), usually without meaning to, or being conscious of. What are the elements that affect your G-A-S factor? What conditions and elements matter most to you and which don't seem to affect you? This is a great Wonder/Ponder exercise. Here is a link to purchase your own book (reach out to me directly for the cards): https://amzn.to/49wDVRX

It's coming on Christmas, a holiday where we've gotten used to hearing kids tell Santa what they want the jolly guy to bring them. How often do we adults get clear about what we truly want? And then, are we just interested or are we committed to experiencing or acquiring or having that? In today's episode we address the distinction between wanting and committing. I also mention PurpleDialogue.com which is still in the works as of this recording.

I've had lots of opportunities to learn stuff over my lifetime, and also to take that learning to action. Or not. I always have the choice, and with that choice, comes consequences. I can be upset with the consequences. That's also a choice. And then, I have more choices. That's the beauty of learning. But the bottom line is, learning = change. If I haven't changed, have I really learned? One observation I make today is how often it seems people make decisions and choices based on the exceptions instead of the possibilities. If we have an attitude of "poor me," you won't see that you have choices. In today's episode I refer to QBQ: The Question Behind the Question by John Miller, and also The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership by Dethmer, Chapman & Klemp. My new book Just Give a Sh*t will be available on November 25 for purchase and download through Amazon and local bookstores in Fargo.

Today's guest is certified executive coach, TEDx speaker, award-winning author, and the co-founder of the RAYMA Team, Mandy Anderson.  Today Mandy and I talk about things you're not supposed to talk about in public, namely religion and politics, as well as the feminine perspective she brings to all her coaching clients, both male and female. Find out more about Mandy and her Unstoppable Retreat, scheduled for December 5, at RaymaTeam.com.

Wow ... we've had a week in America! Lots to unpack and then to decide what to put back in the suitcase and what to donate or get rid of altogether. Today I share a story from Dr. Seuss about the Star-Bellied Sneetches. I wonder what that has to do with anything? Listen and find out! Also I hint at my next book coming soon. It's called "Just Give a Sh*t." I also mention another project on the horizon. See more at www.purpledialogue.com.

Today's episode is a stream-of-consciousness conversation with myself about a few topics: 1) The political landscape of America one week before the election 2) Restlessness and discontent that has us look for alternatives 3) Standing on the SHOULDers of Giants and what that gets us Excuse the tickle in my throat that has me cough, or recognize it for what it is: a roadblock in the way to speaking my truth. That tickle represents my ability to choose to go forward in spite of circumstances that might want me to stay quiet. What do you typically do when roadblocks show up? Do you look for permission to proceed? Do you "go along to get along"? Or do you move forward in spite of the challenges? Want more opportunities to connect with others? Join us in the Enlightened Leadership Lab Mondays at 4 p.m. central (www.enlightenedleadershiplab.com). I mention three books today: The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership, The Courage to Be Disliked, and The Courage to Be Happy.

Today I unveil the ideas leading to my next book "Just Give A Sh*t" and explore what it means to BE what you desire before you actually BECOME that. I mention the Enlightened Leadership Lab (www.enlightenedleadershiplab.com) where we meet for an hour on Mondays to explore emergent conversations with the intention that each of us will leave with more ideas and action items because we were part of holding the space for our collective wisdom to emerge and guide us.

Today's episode started with the Albert Einstein quote about whether or not God plays dice with the universe. Is the world a friendly place, neutral, or unfriendly? That perspective will influence the way each of us lives our lives. I share information about Loretta Ross and her TED talk as well as her book, "Calling In the Calling Out Culture." If we only ever fight against the situations and the conditions we don't desire, we can't be surprised that that's what keeps showing up. Or, if we are, it will behoove us to begin to take responsibility for our part in that. (Please forgive the random dings. I got a new smart watch and haven't figured out how to silence that notification!)

Each of us humans is on a journey, whether we know it or acknowledge it or not. And today's guest, Jodie Harvala, shares steps along her journey, both physically and spiritually. In our conversation, Jodie very candidly shares her story of learning of her intuitive gifts, and how she has learned to own that gift, and turn it into a career, guiding others to trust their own intuition and living the life they were born to live. She shares how she and her family learned to embrace her gifts even when it didn't make sense financially to do so, and how they have overcome some of those money issues and she's stepped into her power. Jodie also shares her recent excursion in Spain where she walked the Camino and what that meant for her own spiritual journey. If you'd like more information about Jodie and/or her work, go to her website, JodieHarvala.com.

Today's guest is Teri Bach, a former psychotherapist and current coach who guides women through intentional travel to move from feeling lost to clear and confident. Unlike typical travel focused on sightseeing, intentional travel is designed to improve your well-being, relationships, and professional life. In this episode, Teri and I talk about the trips she's got planned for Italy in 2025, and how we could all benefit from getting intentional not only about travel, but about our whole lives. If you'd like to learn more, schedule a complimentary Transform with Travel Clarity Session with Teri by emailing her at Teri@UntappedPotentialCoaching.com. You can also go there to receive a complimentary guide called Rediscover Yourself through Intentional Travel.

Today I'm reading from the children's book "What Do You Do With An Idea?" by Kobi Yamada. What would happen to the world if everyone who had an idea kept it to themselves? From the book's back cover: "What do ideas become? Big things, brave things, smart things, silly things, good things. Things like stories, artwork, journeys, inventions, communities, products, and cures. Everything you see around you was once an idea. "So what will become of your idea? Now that's up to you." Take this to heart. And love on your ideas. "What Do You Do With An Idea?" by Kobi Yamada. Illustrated by Mae Besom.

In today's episode I'm pondering not only dreaming big, but actually taking those dreams from theory to action. I'm thinking of my friend Jeff, who died a few years ago, but who always saw the best in me even if I couldn't see it for myself. With him, I created a platform called W.H.Y. Dream Big, where the WHY stood for We Help You. It was a fun dream, but it never really got going. Why do some of us live our dreams and others just stay in the dream state? I share an excerpt from the book "BE 2.0" by Jim Collins and Bill Lazier which is inspiring me to move from only dreaming to actually living.

Today's guest is Jessie Torres, a Peak Performance Coach and Life Strategist, who has coached thousands of high performance people from all walks of life and various parts of the world. Jessie is fueled by a passionate love for humanity and burning desire to end suffering. In this episode we talk about how Jessie got to where she is today, and the fierce grace which helped to transform her own life, and now is the name of her company. She helps people transform their lives from pain or trauma into purpose and passion. Find out more about Jessie at her website, www.IamFierceGrace.com.

Today's guest is Scott Allan, author and entrepreneur dedicated to transforming human potential.  Scott is a former corporate business trainer in Japan for more than 20 years, and has invested more than 10,000 hours of practice and research in confidence development, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindset optimization. He is passionate about teaching, building life skills, and inspiring others to take charge of their lives.  In this episode, we talk about how what can seem like coincidence or luck, is actually preparation waiting for an opportunity to be applied. Scott shares his experiences with his ability to manifest those opportunities by creating the future he truly desired to live into. Scott is the author of more than 30 self improvement books across five book series, each contributing to the advancement of human potential. Find out more at www.scottallanpublishing.com.

Today my guest is Crystal Chambers, who I met at NLP Trainer Training in 2022. We talk about, among other things, our experience with NLP (Neuro Lingustic Programming) and how this modality helped her with her own neurodivergent challenges in visualizion techniques. Crystal's company, Sheepdog Therapeutics, revolutionizes emotional wellness and balance with transformative, scalable virtual reality techniques. Their proprietary software called DISCOVReality, is an immersive guided Virtual Reality experience to help propel emotional well-being on a large scale, cost-effectively, without the need for constant, human-supervised touch. The power of this immersive guided VR experience is in its ability to get to the root feeings, which often are not accessible to our conscious minds, allowing for significant changes with conditions like PTSD and unconscious limiting beliefs so we can learn to resolve conflicts internally. If you'd like more information about Crystal's work, go to SheepdogTherapeutics.com You can also follow Crystal on LinkedIn.

In this episode I talk about how focused most people seem to be on what they don't want instead of knowing clearly what they do want. I share ideas from the book "Working With the Law" by Raymond Holliwell, where he addresses 11 Truth Principles for Successful Living including the Law of Thinking, the Law of Supply, the Law of Attraction, the Law of Receiving, the Law of Increase, the Law of Compensation, the Law of Non-Resistance, the Law of Forgiveness, the Law of Sacrifice, the Law of Obedience, and the Law of Success. I also mention the books "Think and Grow Rich" as well as "Outwitting the Devil," both by Napoleon Hill. Check out my course called "REAL Me: Intensive" at https://getrealcircle.com, and find out more about our Monday Enlightened Leadership Lab at https://enlightenedleadershiplab.com.

Every now and then I come across someone I hear about or notice online or through other contacts and I think "I need to know this person." That's how I felt about this week's guest Adrienne Ross. We share so many interests: leadership, speaking, we're both authors, we're both podcasters, we're both former journalists, we're both English majors, and, probably most importantly, we're both huge fans of the WNBA ("the W") and the Indiana Fever, thanks to Caitlin Clark. Now a resident of Southeast Missouri, Adrienne is the author of an inspirational book entitled Push Your Way to Purpose: How to Get from Where You Are to Where You're Meant to Be. Filled with stories from her own life, it provides tools to help people fulfill their purpose. Adrienne is also the author of two illustrated books of humorous quotations and stories, #AuntAlma Unleashed: Old, Bold, and Out of Control and #AuntAlma: Raisin' a Little Hell Heaven on Earth. Both are filled with common sense, comedy—and a little bit of chaos—straight from her real-life aunt, Alma Ross. Through Adrienne Ross Communications, Adrienne speaks at schools, churches, and national and international service organization conferences. She facilitates empowerment workshops and conducts seminars based on Push Your Way to Purpose. She also teaches courses via her online school, ARC Academy. As a John Maxwell-certified speaker, trainer, and coach, Adrienne offers presentations, keynote addresses, and coaching, providing leadership training, inspiration, guidance, and accountability to groups and individuals. During this conversation, we share our perspectives and our opinions about everything from leadership to basketball to politics, as well as some of the mechanics of podcasting. The Adrienne Ross Show is her podcast on podcast platforms and YouTube. You can find more about her at AdrienneRossCom.com.

Today's episode is a result of pondering some of the conversations that I've been observing both in person and online. It seems there are so many opportunities people are choosing to be upset, and consequently choosing to cancel things and people these days. What kind of community is built when people choose to stay in their own silos and echo chambers? Compare that to opportunities to build true community (using Peter Block's definition from his book Community: The Structure of Belonging) when we not only feel we belong, but also feel a sense of ownership in what we're building. I refer, yet again, to The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership and the simplicity of working to stay conscious: Open, Curious, and Committed to Learning as we observe what's happening around us. Wonder, Ponder, and Share your observations. Check out the Enlightened Leadership Lab if you're looking for a place to belong.

It's so easy to make a statement about how things are and then begin to believe that that's how things are. All the time. In every case.   And many times that initial statement isn't even one I made from my own thought process. It might be something I heard on TikTok or from my parent or teacher or someone who certainly knows better than I could.   What does it mean to keep it REAL? And how do any of us do that?   Here is the AI list I mention in this episode about how to keep it real:   "Keep it real" is a slang phrase that means to behave honestly and not pretend to be someone you're not. Here are some tips for keeping it real: Be vulnerable: Share your struggles and wins equally. Be open: Stay open without oversharing and listen and learn about others. Be humble: Start from a place of confident humility. Be a lifelong learner: Don't try to have all the answers and challenge yourself to learn something new each week. Focus on what energizes you: Do activities that energize you.

Call me crazy. Call me soft. Call me touchy-feely. Call me toxically positive. It's OK. I've been called all of those before. For me, leadership is (almost) all about character. The policies and the mission and the purpose for the organization is very separate (TO ME) from the character of the leadership. It's the distinction between what your organization DOES and who its leaders are BEING when they are doing the doing. To me, that's what it means to be CONSCIOUS (open, curious, committed to learning) as opposed to UNCONSCIOUS (closed, defensive, committed to being right). It's always been about character. To me. Let's talk about culture and the character of the leaders. Today I share a response I got from ChatGPT when I asked it to compare the culture of a corporation led by a conscious leader to the culture of a certain country led by a certain person. Fascinating. Here, in a nutshell, is the distinction: Empathy and Inclusivity: A conscious leader prioritizes empathy and inclusivity, fostering an environment where all employees feel valued and respected. Such leaders actively listen to their team members, understand their perspectives, and create policies that support diversity and inclusion. • Impact on Culture: The corporate culture under conscious leadership is characterized by high morale, strong teamwork, and a sense of belonging. Employees are more engaged, motivated, and productive because they feel their contributions matter. Ethical Decision-Making: Conscious leaders uphold strong ethical standards and make decisions based on integrity and transparency. They prioritize the long-term well-being of the organization, its employees, and the community over short-term gains. • Impact on Culture: Ethical behavior builds trust and loyalty within the organization. Employees are more likely to trust their leaders and follow their example, leading to a culture of honesty, accountability, and mutual respect. Purpose-Driven Mission: Conscious leaders often guide their organizations with a clear, purpose-driven mission that goes beyond profit. They seek to make a positive impact on society and the environment. • Impact on Culture: A purpose-driven mission inspires employees and aligns their personal values with the organization's goals. This alignment enhances job satisfaction, reduces turnover, and attracts talent that is passionate about the organization's vision. Collaborative Environment: Conscious leaders encourage collaboration and open communication. They value input from all levels of the organization and make decisions through a collaborative process. • Impact on Culture: Collaboration leads to innovation, as diverse ideas and perspectives are brought together. It also creates a sense of community and shared responsibility, strengthening the overall organizational culture. National Culture Under (Insert name here) Polarization and Division Controversial Decision-Making Nationalistic and Protectionist Policies Authoritarian Tendencies  For me, leadership has much more to do with the CHARACTER of the person than with the policies or procedures of the organization. If I trust someone, I'm much more likely to follow, especially if that leader encourages me to think critically about things rather than just follow blindly. It was a fascinating prompt and response, regardless of what you think about AI. Want more opportunities to talk about tough subjects in a safe space? Visit the Enlightened Leadership Lab on Mondays from 3-4:30 central. Contact Jodee for a code. Your first visit is free with no obligation. For more info go to https://enlightenedleadershiplab.com.  

Wayne Dyer had a great quote I'll never forget: When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.  Today I'm pondering that thought while also applying some of what I'm learning from two clients who are investing in their people by having me facilitate dialogues without a guaranteed result. What?? Really?? I share information about my REAL Me: Intensive course which we're halfway through in this current cohort. If you're looking for ways to connect on a deeper level with yourself first, and others who are also interested in that, you can find more information at www.jodeebock.com or at www.enlightenedleadershiplab.com/invite.  

Today's episode was a blast! I had a conversation with LA Attorney, and former co-owner of the LA Sparks of the WNBA Carla Christofferson. Carla was born and raised in North Dakota, graduating from high school with 13 classmates in Tolna. She went on to UND Williston where she played basketball, and went on to UND. In the meantime, she was also crowned Miss North Dakota, and went on to Yale Law School, eventually joining the law firm O'Melveny & Myers in Los Angeles. In this conversation we talk about all the things: growing up in North Dakota, family values, the prestige of meeting celebrities in LA (including Eddie Van Halen, who she dated) and how she came to be co-owner of a WNBA team.

Recently I've had some "random" thoughts that have led to some pretty incredible "chance" meetings and encounters. Are these just lucky meetings? Coincidences? Or is there something else going on? In today's episode I wonder about what happens when we actually pay attention. What are we just not noticing because we're stuck in the way we think things "should" be? I mention the books "Working With the Law" by Raymond Holliwell and "Spiral Dynamics in Action" by Beck, et.al. If you'd like more information about the Enlightened Leadership Lab which I co-host with Chris Angell, go to www.enlightenedleadershiplab.com/invite.

In today's stream-of-consciousness episode I refer to several books: The Soft Edge by Rich Karlgaard Excellence Now: Extreme Humanism by Tom Peters The Mystic Jesus by Marianne Williamson The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership by Dethmer, Chapman & Klemp Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill In Peters' book he says that "Hard (numbers/plans/org charts) is soft: Plans are often fantasties; organizational charts have little to do with the way the organizatoin actually works; and numbers are readily manipulated....Soft (people/relationships/culture) is hard: The best 'people practices' (caring, training, acknowledging) create teh most wholesome, community-minded organizations - and win in the marketplace as well") pp. 25-26. Here is the fifth point of the Self-Confidence formula from Think and Grow Rich to which I refer: "I fully realize that no wealth or position can long endure unless built upon truth and justice; therefore, I will engage in no transaction that does not benefit all whom it affects. I will succeed by attracting to myself the forces I wish to use and the cooperation of other people. I will induce others to serve me because of my willingness to serve others. I will eliminate hatred, envy, jealousy, selfishness, and cynicism by developing love for all humanity - because I know that a negative attitude toward others can never bring me success. I will cause others to believe in me because I will believe in them, and in myself."

Chloe Valdary, founder of the Theory of Enchantment, has accomplished a lot in her relatively short life. She created her platform as a response to her research into international conflicts, when she noticed there was no framework using love to address those types of situations. She wanted to learn how to teach people to love the human behind the persona, and studied pop culture to learn a way to do that. Through stories about overcoming challenges, those brands show two important things about the human condition: we are flawed, and we are sacred. Her work centers around bringing inclusion, trust and well-being into organizations where conventional DEI work might not be producing the desired results. For more information about Chloe, visit her website https://www.theoryofenchantment.com/ You can also visit https://www.enchanteddojo.com or https://www.enchantedtune.com. If you know you'd like to work with her, send her an email at info@theoryofenchantment.com and put "I want to work with you" in the subject line.

Every Wednesday morning for the past five years I've gotten together - virtually - with this group of humans. We've shared laughs and tears; we've been through deaths and family challenges and lots of victories together. This group proves that trouble shared is trouble halved, and joy shared is joy multiplied. Listen in as Dody Kettler from Minneapolis, Theresa Halvorson from Fargo, Ed LeQuire from Rochester, MN and David Boswell from Austin, TX join me for this peek behind the curtain into how our tribe has supported each of us over the past five years.