People People Podcast

Are politics poison? Are politicians?What if you locked yourself in a room with a political figure from party that you don't support. What if you tried to actually connect, like really connect with this politician?Could you do it?Could you even potentially learn something?Could you even... potentially... like this is a long shot, but what if... what if you left the room feeling like you could SUPPORT this politician?Sound like science fiction? Especially in today's world.Well, welcome to this special highly political episode of THE PEOPLE PEOPLE PODCAST!

Thanks for listening to this new episode of The People People Podcast featuring special guest Scott Spears! Scott is the creator and owner of Scrumptious, Super Zoom Bang Bang, Sock, Schoolhouse, and So RADish in Olde Town Arvada.What do you think of when you hear the word “community?” If the idea of a thriving small town with happy people milling about seems both delightful and like something from centuries past, you’re not alone. These small “main street” communities seem like an essential part of classic Americana, but didn’t they go the way of the dinosaur and rotary phone?Well, at least in Arvada, Colorado, community is thriving and it is due in large part to this episode’s guest, Scott Spears.Scott is an entrepreneur, but more than that, he is a community engineer. He has been a leader in the movement to take one small town that had literally turned into an antique, and transform it into a thriving community.This podcast includes a BUNCH of awesome tips on practical Social Excellence in action. Listen to how his vision was turned into a reality through real human to human interaction, involvement in community organizations, and creative details that bring people together through fun and joy.Scott is an example of real Social Excellence in action, and his businesses are some of the most fun, exciting, and happy places you’ll encounter anywhere. Enjoy the podcast, and if you’re ever in Arvada, Colorado, you HAVE TO visit these places!Scrumptious (http://www.scrumptiousco.com/)Super Zoom Bang Bang (https://www.facebook.com/superzoombangbang/)Sock (https://www.facebook.com/sockstandproud/)Schoolhouse (http://www.schoolhousearvada.com/)So RADish (http://www.soradish.com/)

A brand new episode of The People People Podcast… This one is about LOVE! Romance! Amorousness! Passion! Marriage! And everything related to that kind of mushy stuff. Welcome to the special “DOUBLE DATE” episode featuring special guests Tina VanSteenbergen, James Robilotta, Meggan Mattson, and your host Matt Mattson.This episode is really special. We put a microphone right in the middle of a double date. The show’s host, Matt Mattson along with his wife Meggan Mattson (an entrepreneur and indepent college counselor - click here to learn more) joined for an evening of conversation with James Robilotta and Tina Vansteenbergen. Learn more about James professionally here, and here’s a link for Tina.The Mattsons have been married for 15 years. Tina and James got married last year. There were discussions about healthy relationships, communication patterns, and the power of compliments.More than anything, there was genuine love expressed in a way that is too rare. We’re not sure if these two marriages are perfect, but they sure are beautiful and have lessons to share with any listener.Social Excellence has very real applications to romantic relationships, and this episode offers a fun glimpse at what that looks like in practice.

Do you have an idea that is sitting in your mind, just waiting to come to life? Does the world desperately need you to make that idea into something real?Akshay Pradhan, our guest in this episode of The People People Podcast, made an idea real that is literally meant to save lives in some of the most terrifying moments our society too often provides: public shootings.Akshay, working in collaboration (a theme we explore) with his partner Sid Bhat created Brella, and we explore the importance and process of doing so.This podcast has explored the issue of school shootings before (listen here). In this conversation, we hear about Akshay’s collaborative efforts to take action in a modern and practical way.Here’s the description of the app from the website: “Report live threats (e.g., gun shootings, mysterious activity, bomb threats, etc.) using the extremely simple Brella app. Share alerts, text messages, pictures, and more with other users instantly. The geo-tracker alerts others of the precise location of the threat. The app will automatically save a history of all incidents for your reference. The community has your back.”Akshay is such a fantastic example of an every day person who chose to turn a conversation with a friend into reality. Listen to his motivation for making the Brella app. Listen to the way he wants to be an example for his kids. And listen to the power of collaboration come to life.What’s your idea that is lingering in your mind? What does the world need you to make real? Who is the person with whom you need to collaborate because a better world is depending on it?Special thanks to Akshay for this great conversation!

Have you ever participated in a Jeffersonian Dinner? Let me tell you about this truly one-of-a-kind event I was a part of recently... In fact, let me take you on an audio adventure into the event, and then we’ll talk with the creator of this “Sunset Dinner Experience” produced by Smedley Events, Lara Smedley.This thoughtful gathering was for one purpose — human connection — strangers gathered in a breathtaking setting, enjoying inspired local cuisine and drinks, and engaging in guided conversation around a shared topic (“Legacy”).Apparently Thomas Jefferson was known for putting together events like this. They probably didn’t include Colorado sunsets and perfectly timed rainbows and such a fascinating group of folks from all age ranges and life experiences. I was honored to be asked to moderate. This is #socialexcellence in practice.Enjoy this episode that includes raw audio from event, a deep interview with the creator of the event, and some tips for creating a powerful gathering based on what was learned at this one.Thanks for listening!

There's a lot of shouting right now. Has been for a while. And I don't blame the shouters. They have a right to be angry, to shout, to fight, and to rage against the powers that be. I'm mad too. And it is a fine place to start.But what if you want to make this world a better place for the long-haul? What if you want to make impact beyond surface-level, and truly transform the world to be a better place for you, your neighbor, and everyone?We don't think anger and fighting can sustain.To actually change the world, and not just rearrange it, we have to come together and do work fueled by love.If you find yourself looking for proof everyone is against you. If you find yourself able to see the darkness in anyone. If you find yourself posting, shouting, tearing down, retweeting, commenting, dismantling, unseating, blaming, or shaming... you might not be wrong at all. And it might be temporarily helpful. But that fighting can not sustain. It can't sustain you, and it can't sustain the cause you're meaning to champion.We offer these 5 Considerations For Becoming Socially Transformative (Beyond Social Excellence).

What if I recorded a podcast episode about humans connecting through running... while on a run... with a world-class elite runner? I am so grateful to Brittany Charbonneau (@funnyrunner26.2) for agreeing to do this episode. Let me explain why.I have found a sense of belonging and authenticity as a runner. I’m not elite or even fast... heck, I walk sometimes. But I love it. Especially on the trails. And I love the sense of community at races, in convos with others who identify as runners, and on social media. I love the positivity and the way people uplift each other and cheer on each individual’s best efforts and heart. It’s like a spiritual community that worships best efforts and human potential. And people really connect through running. So getting to do a podcast episode with Brittany Charbonneau (one of the fastest female marathoners in the country, and an established comedian) was so cool. Learn all about Brittany at http://thefunnyrunner.com. We explored the way humans connect through running (and comedy). We talked about the rhythm of running and relationships. We talked about how weird runners are and why it’s important to #ownyourweird — it was awesome. Big thanks to Brittany and to all the runners out there who create an atmosphere of invitation, celebration, and community. Cheer on Brittany as she works to qualify for the 2020 Olympic team and crushes trails, roads, and comedy clubs with joy and weirdness and positivity along the way.

Josh Orendi is a co-creator of The Social Excellence Project and a co-author of Social Excellence: We Dare You. He’s also one of the most curious people you’ll ever meet in your life. He’s a master question asker. And he doesn’t disappoint in this episode. Listen to the end when he challenges the host with a question that sticks him right in the heart (in a good way).This episode also features the audio from Matt Mattson’s (the host of the podcast) recent TEDx Talk titled, “Curiously Uncertain.” Enjoy it, share it, and consider its implications on your life. How can you ask more and better questions every day.Curiosity is such an innocent little idea. Sure, just ask questions. But asking excellent questions that actually push conversations forward and take your relationships “off script” as is discussed in this episode requires intention, thought, and perhaps most importantly… practice.Enjoy this episode of The People People Podcast! Thanks for listenting!

Earlier this year Matt Mattson (host of the podcast) got to lead a multi-day educational program with a cohort of brilliant college students at Northeastern University in Boston. The program turned into a podcast recording session, uncovering some of the fears and challenges these real life college students face when trying to create real human connection.College is tough. And creating meaningful relationships (not just surface-level) with roommates, classmates, and organizational members can be tougher. These college students not only talk about the difficulties, but they also offer practical and wise advice on creating that connection consistently.

Rev. Dr. Steve Poos-Benson, Head pastor at Columbine United Church, and author of Sent To Soar: Fulfilling Your Divine Potential For Yourself and For The World is our guest for the first episode of season two!Steve was a first-responder to the Columbine High School shooting. On April 20, 1999, two boys killed 12 students, 1 teacher, and then themselves. 21 other people were injured. Countless others were traumatized forever. Steve and other pastors from his church ran toward the chaos and tried to do what they could to help. Since then, Steve has found himself supporting far too many families through far too many school shootings — including another that recently hit his community.We explore what human connection, or the lack thereof, has to do with the massive societal problem that is school shootings, and the solutions to that problem.

So, no kidding, here’s the story of this episode. When I was still just imagining what this podcast could be, I ordered a bunch of equipment. Microphones, pop filters, etc. When my portable lapel mics came in the mail, I opened up the package, plugged them into my phone, and went looking for someone to test them on.And no kidding, my oldest daughter was in her room, sitting on the floor, reading Social Excellence: We Dare You.That’ll work!I sat down and started recording. I honestly didn’t think I’d ever use it. It was the first “interview” I had done. But after listening to it (and I might be a little biased), I thought it was podcast gold! Try to see the world through a kid’s eyes. Try to imagine their point of view. Remember the simplicity of friendship as a kid, and how it started to get complicated in late elementary school, middle school, and high school.I hope you find some simple and meaningful lessons in this episode. It also includes an audio excerpt from the TEDx talk I did a couple of years ago that features a story about my kid.Thanks for listening to this special bonus daddy-daughter episode of The People People Podcast!

In this episode, Mike and Matt vulnerably talk through those moments from our past that shape us… those moments that shake our very sense of human dignity… those moments like the one in the Piggly Wiggly parking lot… those moments like the one walking home from Pizza Hut… those moments like the one in Macy’s… (listen to the show, you’ll know what we’re talking about). We all just want to belong, and when moments happen in our life that threaten our feeling of belonging, they change us.

“Where are you from?” This question is boring, predictable, and painfully dull when employed in conversation. But somehow, it is still REALLY important. Why is that? Why is it that we seek to understand a person’s geographical roots as a shortcut to understanding who they are? What makes that a valuable human connection tactic?Alex Taylor (@alext_sigmanu on Insta and Twitter) is a southern boy, ya’ll. And this episode explores the southern culture’s unique human connection eccentricities along with the big idea of how PLACE shapes our sense of identity. Alex and the podcast’s host Matt Mattson work together, but this conversation isn’t about work… it’s about humans, and connection, and all the things you’ve become used to expecting from the deep dive conversations that take place on The People People Podcast.Enjoy the episode!

Here’s the story of this episode. Early on in the “dreaming phase” of this podcast, I saw on Instagram that my friend Mark was starting a beer blog (follow @thebeerdedlad). I like beer. And Mark and I knew each other a little through professional conferences, but we certainly weren’t close buddies or anything.So I DM’d him. I said, “I’ve got an idea. You and I go to some breweries that I know of together… we’ll drink beer, have conversations about beer (and conversations about how men drink beer together to seek connection), and we’ll record it. It’ll give you some content and me some content. We’ll see what happens.”Mark was in!So, we met at Living The Dream brewery in Highlands Ranch, Colorado (and later went over to Grist brewery). We ended up having a wonderful conversation (that you get to listen into) about life, the beer scene, the beers we were drinking, and human connection.It’s worth mentioning how awesome the people at Living The Dream were. I showed up before Mark and asked a bartender if there was any space that was quieter. While the recording doesn’t exactly reflect how much better the space that we found was, the LTD people let us into their private event room, gave us stickers out of kindness, and then comp’d our beer flights. Seriously, so kind. They were so Socially Excellent.Enjoy the episode!

RJ Taylor is one of those people who absolutely oozes Social Excellence. He is approachable, friendly, kind, and cheerful… but he’s also clearly deep, seeking meaning from every moment, and has stories to tell that can inspire anyone.This episode, recorded this summer, caught RJ as he was smack in the middle of a 10 month mission trip around the world (learn more at https://rjandkaylataylor.theworldrace.org/). He and his wife, Kayla, have since returned safely and are doing incredibly cool work for an outdoor outfitting company in Michigan.RJ is a faithful and inclusive, bold and welcoming, gentle and driven soul. In the episode we talk about connecting with people across cultures, and we explore the idea of connection in many ways.Enjoy the episode!

Vince Fabra is the guest on this episode of The People People Podcast. Vince is a professional speaker, stand-up comedian, and the host of a podcast called You Almost Had It (check that out!). He is a perpetual includer, a joy inducer, and he has the ability to draw out raw emotional connection with anyone. Seriously, he’s a unicorn of human connection. He oozes #SocialExcellence. This episode is full of real conversation about the stuff that brings people together (and the stuff that keeps us from truly connecting). This episode represents exactly what we want this podcast to become — pure, long-form, emotion-laden connection that is recorded and shared. You’ll hopefully find some inspiration and a little education along with some laughs built in. Vince has worked with us as a speaker teaching #SocialExcellence. He even wrote a key piece of curriculum (Fun Zone/Deep Zone) that made it into our book. He truly understands the message, and he exemplifies what it means to be a “people people.

by Matt MattsonThanks for listening to Episode 4 of The People People Podcast!Access the podcast on iTunes | Google Play | StitcherYou're one of us, aren't you? You're a people person. But you get that being a “people person” isn’t just about being chatty and smiley and super-duper nice, it’s about transforming the world through relationships. You're one of those people who understands that HUMAN CONNECTION is the key to everything. You're one of those people who understands that humans are social animals, and we're all deeply longing for real, meaningful, deep-spirited connection in all aspects of our life. You're one of those people who understands that the secret to creating the world you want is found in your ability to connect. You're one of us. We are people people. And you found our show. How do great students build real connections with their students? What about with parents and other colleagues? Teachers have this intense, challenging, and thankless job, and our guest dives fully into how she makes an impact, and how she builds connection.Krista Hashemi is a ten-year veteran of elementary school teaching. She is teaching a class full of brilliant fourth graders this year at Ute Meadows Elementary School in Colorado. This episode explores the challenges and wonders of conversations and relationships with kids (and their parents). Krista uses the phrase “emotional vocabulary” in a fun way that is likely to stick with you for a while. What an honor it was for me to get to sit down with a teacher I respect and just dig into a rich and fascinating conversation. So grateful to have had the chance to do this.Can you reach out to a teacher this week? Perhaps one from your past? Or maybe, for those parents and grandparents out there, you can build a deeper connection with someone who teaches the kids in your life (they spend 8 hours a day with them!).Thanks to Krista and to Ute Meadows Elementary.Enjoy the episode!

This episode's guest is Pastor Justin Spurlock, senior pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church. The discusson between the host, Matt Mattson, and Justin starts off by exploring why people are so afraid to talk about the things that feel "holy" in their lives. As we seek meaningful human connection, shouldn't we be able to meet each other in the topics of greatest importance?

Enjoy a conversation between your host, Matt Mattson, and Jessica Pettitt. Jess is the author of "Good Enough Now," she is a speaker, a comedienne, a facilitator, and a consultant who takes "diversity training" and flips it on its head. This conversation if somehow both fun and light while engaging in real dialogue about some of the most difficult topics for people to connect around. Diversity, inclusion, social justice, and really good nachos.

Episode 1 of The People People Podcast includes an interview with co-creator of The Social Excellence Project, Josh Orendi. We discuss the idea of Social Excellence, why living an "average" life is so baffling to us, being a "try hard," and a lot more. This episode is meant to welcome you into the world of The People People Podcast, and hopefully help you share with others why you choose to live a lifestyle of Social Excellence.