The Opposite of Small Talk

In the latest installment of Coaches Corner, guest coach JL Heather, who holds over two decades of experience as an organizational transformation coach sits down with Danielle for a discussion on the topic of innovation and creativity. Guest's Website: About Centered: Leadership & Transformation Experts Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.   

Today's guest is a Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) expert.  If you are stateside, NLP may not be a term you're very familiar with, but after today's episode you may just find an appreciation for this fascinating area of study and how language and mindset can transform personal and professional experiences. Rebecca Bonnington sits down for a really enlightening conversation in which she demonstrates, using Kristy as her subject, practical NLP techniques, including how to change emotional states by manipulating sensory representations and understanding the power of self-talk; discusses how the body and mind are interconnected; and offers tools that can empower anyone to tap into their internal resources to create a desired change in their life. Guest's Website: Rebecca Bonnington - Tricres Ltd   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Were you familiar with NLP prior to this episode? What one technique from this episode would you be interested to try in practice in your own life? What is one area of your life or desired goal do you think NLP might help you to reach?   Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.    Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

In popular culture, there was a time where views of workplace relationships, between employees and managers, were seen through the lens of the likes of Emily and her over the top demanding boss, Miranda Priestly, in the 2006 movie, the Devil Wears Prada.  Fast forward to 2025, workplace culture has evolved and terms like, managing up, the focus of today's conversation, have become normalized and encouraged.  Today's guest is Melody Wilding, therapist, professor, executive coach and author of, Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge, released in March.  In her conversation with Kristy, Melody shares insights from her book on navigating workplace relationships through strategic conversations, they discuss key workplace communication strategies, and practical techniques. Guest's Website: Managing Up | Leadership Keynote Speaker | Melody Wilding Guest's book via our affiliate link: Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge: Wilding, Melody: 9780593444658: Amazon.com: Books TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you had a managing up situation in your workplace?  How did you handle it and would you handle it differently following this episode? Did you identify as one of the four C's discussed in the conversation?  What is one of the techniques that most resonated with you? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

Have you ever dealt with a negative voice inside your head that is constantly discouraging you, second guessing you, or telling you that you aren't good enough? Even if you don't self-identify as a perfectionist, this episode explores those tendencies we all have to chase perfection in our everyday life. Our guest, Tara Cousineau, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist; meditation teacher; life learner on resilience, self-compassion and healing; author of “The Perfectionist's Dilemma: Learn the Art of Self-Compassion and Become a Happy Achiever,” and yes, a recovering perfectionist. During our discussion, Dr. Cousineau shares strategies and helpful techniques for managing inner critics and provides insights into recognizing and reframing perfectionistic tendencies to create more joy and balance in life.  Guest's Website: Tara Cousineau, PhD, Psychologist, Author: The Perfectionist's Dilemma Guest's book via our affiliate link: The Perfectionist's Dilemma: Learn the Art of Self-Compassion and Become a Happy Achiever: Cousineau, Tara: 9781639109463: Amazon.com: Books   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Did you identify with some of the perfectionist tendencies in this episode?   Do you find that you show much more compassion for others than you do for yourself?  If so, why? What was one technique shared by Dr. Cousineau, in this episode, which you'd be interested to try? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.

When you use too many fillers it makes your message unclear and causes people to think you don't have confidence in what you are saying. In this episode we are FINALLY talking filler words; why you use them, how to identify your unique fillers, and what to do about it.    Get the free worksheet that goes along with this episode: The Um Worksheet    

Many professionals have likely encountered mentorship at one time or another, but may be less familiar with a different type of networking known as sponsorship and its many unique benefits.  Today's guest shares her deep insight into the key differences between mentorship and sponsorship, how sponsorship can open doors to stronger inclusivity in the workplace, and how you can take on this important role of sponsorship in your own workplace.  Our guest, Rosalind Chow, Ph.D. is a professor of Organizational Behavior and Theory, researcher, and author of the new book , “The Doors You Can Open: A New Way to Network, Build Trust, and Use Your Influence to Create a More Inclusive Workplace,” available now. Guest's Website: Rosalind M. Chow Guest's New Book (affiliate link):  The Doors You Can Open: A New Way to Network, Build Trust, and Use Your Influence to Create a More Inclusive Workplace: Chow, Rosalind: 9781541702752: Amazon.com: Books   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you ever been mentored by or mentored someone else professionally?  How about sponsored? Do you find networking challenging?  Why or why not? Following the episode are you more likely to consider being a sponsor for someone else?   Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

As we officially welcome spring, many rites of passage including graduation season are almost upon us.  If you are a member of the Class of 2025 or know someone who is graduating or has recently graduated, this episode includes an insightful discussion on real life skills that aren't always taught in the classroom, but can prove extremely beneficial.  Our guest, Raffi Grinberg is an educator, business leader, and author of the new book (released March 25th!), “How to Be a Grown Up: The 14 Essential Skills You Didn't Know You Needed (Until Just Now).”  

Have you ever winced at the thought that someone else might label you as weird, selfish, or wreckless?  Today's guest Jenny Wood, a former Google Executive, career coach, and author of the new book (released today!), “Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It,” wants you to be courageous and run towards these labels rather than away from them.  We discuss details of her new book including the 9 traits, three mentioned above, which can act as a deterrent to going after what we want as well as some useful tips on how we can flip the script and make them a positive instead of a negative. Guest's Website: Jenny Wood | Home Purchase Jenny's new book via our affiliate link: Amazon.com: Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It: 9780593717646: Wood, Jenny: Books TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you ever felt weird?  Did it stop you from taking action? Which of the words discussed most resonates with making you feel uncomfortable?  Following the episode do you look at that particular connotation differently? What is something you really want, but haven't had the wild courage to go after yet?   Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.    Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

In the latest installment of Coaches Corner, guest coach Suzanne Campi, a life transition coach and community builder, sits down with Danielle for a discussion on the topic of Retirement. Guest's Website: Suzanne Campi Coaching Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.     

If you are a woman or have a woman you love or care for in your life, then this episode is for you.  Whether that person has or will someday experience the three stages of menopause while navigating personal and professional life, today's guest assures that they are not alone.  Dr. Susan Miele, who holds a PhD in Human and Organizational Systems and is a transformational leader and workplace well-being advocate dedicated to redefining the narrative around menopause, shares her personal story as well as incredibly insightful and thought provoking information on this important topic that often goes undiscussed at home and in the workplace. Guest's Website: Susan Miele Guest Mentions/Resources:   Estrogen Matters Menopause Manifesto – Dr. Jen Gunter Let's Talk Menopause | Symptoms | Education | Advocacy TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Were you aware there were 34 potential symptoms in perimenopause?   Following this episode what are some takeaways you now know about the topic of menopause that you didn't know before?  Are you more likely now to discuss menopause more openly personally or professionally? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

The next time you're shopping the aisles of your local pharmacy or supermarket you might just notice the price difference between products marketed towards women vs. men, if so, you are seeing the “pink tax” in action.  Today's guest, Janine Rogan, a keynote and TEDx speaker, author, entrepreneur, and founder of The Wealth Building Academy Inc. is on a mission to close the wage gap.  In our conversation with Janine, we discuss the “Pink Tax” as well as the overall wage gap in society today; some ways to start the important step of wealth building; and how employers and administrators can work towards closing this gap.  Guest's Website: The Wealth Building Academy, Inc. | Financial Equality Educator Guest Mentions:  Wealth Building Checklist  TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Had you heard of the “pink tax” and its concept prior to this episode? Did this episode upset you, motivate you, or a bit of both?        What are some ways you or a loved one have in the past experienced the “pink tax” effect?  Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

In 2025, the landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work is rapidly evolving and facing well documented challenges, but these challenges also offer new opportunities and growth. Today's guest, Elena Joy Thurston, an HR consultant, discusses the evolution and challenges facing DEI; shares her personal journey of deconstructing internalized biases and how that informs her approach; and she closes out this insightful conversation by highlighting the important work that needs to be done moving forward. Throughout the conversation, Elena emphasizes the need to move away from an "us vs. them" mentality and instead focus on universal themes that bring people together. Guest's Website: latitude Guest Mentions:  Joyful Office Hours - Zoom Burnout Prevention Starter Kit — latitude Dr. Russell A. Barkley - Dedicated to Education and Research on ADHD Taking Charge of Adult ADHD a book by Russell A Barkley PhD Abpp Abcn and Christine M Benton - Bookshop.org US Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) Part 1 with Dr. Russell Barkley — alie ward TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. What was your definition or understanding of DEI prior to this episode?  Has it changed? Have you felt burnout personally or professionally?      Prior to this episode were you aware of the nuances of the Gen Z professional? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.

A chance invitation to present at a Women in Leadership Conference on the topic of “Career' Pivots” led today's guest to found a network dedicated to empowering tomorrow's leaders to take control of their own professional growth and success. Gemma Toner, a media and telecommunications leader and the founder and CEO of Tone Network speaks to us on the topic of Rethinking Professional Development and how employees and employers can benefit from a focus on professional development. Guest's Website:  Tone Networks Guest Mentions:   Daring Greatly - Brené Brown TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Has your employer offered you professional development opportunities? Does the type of professional development described in this episode sound like something you would participate in?    What are some specific skills you'd be interested in strengthening in your own professional development? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

In the latest installment of Coaches Corner, guest coach Shabnam Golmohamaddi, a Silicon Valley career and leadership coach, workshop facilitator, and speaker, sits down with Danielle for a discussion on the topic of how women view the workplace. Guest's Website: Shabnam Golmohamaddi Website   Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.

As human beings most of us tend to be adverse to risk – as a matter of self preservation.  However, today's guest argues that having the audacity or trying something new, to take bold risks, when it comes to goals, can be more than worth the risk.  Anne Marie Anderson, three-time Emmy Award winning broadcaster, keynote speaker and author of the new book, Cultivating Audacity: Dismantle Doubt and Let Yourself Win, sits down with us for a conversation, which includes the four common barriers that keep people from taking a risk, how it's important to have people who encourage you to act boldly in your network, and the importance of having a support mindset. Guest's Website & Book:  Home - Anne Marie Anderson Book - Anne Marie Anderson   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Who's in your front row?  Whose front row are you in?   Have you faced any of the four barriers (fear, time, money, and your inner critic), to taking a risk, in your life? How would you have defined the word audacity prior to this episode?  Has your definition of the word changed, why or why not? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.    

The majority of speaking that you do at work is not in scripted presentations, it's in conversation-style speaking during meetings. Even when you are giving a presentation, it's not an uninterrupted monologue, it's a conversation.  This means you need to be good at extemporaneous speaking. That's where frameworks can help. A framework is an outline of process for what to say that you can apply in multiple situation. In this episode, Kristy covers her top 3 frameworks to make work conversations easier.      ************* Kristy helps mid-level corporate professionals to improve communication skills to make work easier, more effective and more fun. Work with Kristy   Follow Kristy on Instagram @ko.communication    

It's officially mid-January, resolution making is behind us and so is National Quitters Day (January 10th), the day most resolutions are abandoned.  Today's guest poses an important question, “what are you doing differently in 2025 to make it a better year?” In this episode, Jake Thompson, an entrepreneur, author, performance coach and motivational speaker, discusses with us the topic of Competing With Yourself and shares with us why it's important to make goals or resolutions – at any point in the year; offers advice on how to commit to them and get off autopilot; and how making small, intentional, and sustainable changes tracked over a longer period of time can have a big impact. Guest's Website:  Jake Thompson, Motivational Keynote Speaker on Leadership and Grit  Guest Recommendations:   The Slight Edge | Turning Simple Disciplines Into Massive Success Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results by James Clear HabitShare - A Social Habit Tracker to Keep You Accountable for iOS & Android   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Are you a believer in New Year's Resolutions?  Why or why not?   Following the episode are there areas in your personal or professional life that you want to make changes or set new goals?   Are there small changes that you can make right now to reach a larger goal?  What are some examples of those changes? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.    

In the latest installment of Coaches Corner, guest coach Molly Kittle, a Coach, consultant, and performing artist with a background in experimental theater, business strategy and behavioral psychology, sits down with Danielle for a discussion on the topic of Conscious Creative Leadership. Guest's Website and Linkedin:  https://www.connectwithstory.com/workwithmolly                                                   https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollykittle/ Guest Mentions:  Martha Beck                             Regina Thomashauer Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.   

In this very special 5-year anniversary show, Danielle and Kristy welocome past podcast guests to the stage to pair off for four mini opposite of small talk conversations: What makes a conversation the opposite of small talk? (Kristy & Danielle) Why is it so difficult to make friends as an adult? (Julie & Linda) What does it mean to be your "authentic self"? (Nicole & Kristy) How can you connect when you disagree with someone? (Alain & Danielle)   This episode was recorded live on October 19th, 2024 at The Comedy Studio in Cambridge, Mass.    Featured Speakers [including links to their original episode] Alain Hunkins | Episode 15: Leading with Empathy Julie Brown | Episode 42: Childfree by Choice Nicole Kalil | Episode 76: Confidence Linda Ugelow | Episode 60: Delight in the Limelight  

The anticipation of turning the page of the calendar to a new year can also open our minds up to what our future, in this case 2025, can hold.  Today's guest, a professional futurist, encourages us to imagine our futures and not just for ourselves, but also for our communities. Ilana Lipsett, is a participatory futures design strategist, who has professionally worked with cities, real estate developers, international aid organizations, and creative communities around the globe in community engagement and development.  Our conversation with Ilana included how to make imaging the future feel less abstract and more tangible, strategies we can incorporate in future building, and how looking towards possible futures can help with the stress and anxiety felt in the present.  For additional resources for this episode, please visit: 1 - Imaginable (lots of great techniques for futures thinking at a personal as well as collective level) 2 - Community as the difference between life and death 3 - Basics of nervous system regulation and futures thinking Guest's Website:  Ilana Lipsett | Participatory & Regenerative Design | Futures Thinking TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Were you aware of a futurist and what that entails prior to this episode?  Have you struggled in the past to envision a 5-year or 10-year future plan for yourself?   Following this episode do you think you're more open to imaging potential futures?  If so, what are some of the possibilities you come up with? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

In the latest installment of Coaches Corner, guest coach Todd Karges, a Certified Executive and Leadership Development Coach and host of the LinkedIn Live Broadcast "Coaching Conversation,” sits down with Danielle for a discussion on the topic of soft skills – what they are, why they're important, and how best to utilize them.  Guest's Website:  Home | Todd Karges - Coach Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.   

At this time of year when we are celebrating the holidays with much socializing and networking, this week's guests would likely suggest that, amongst the merriment, we should also be prioritizing self promotion and peer promotion. Alison Fragale, PhD, scholar, author, research psychologist, and award winning professor sits down to discuss how you can demonstrate warmth and competence to become a likeable badass and get the success you deserve.   Alison shares her own journey from management consultant to professor in Organizational Psychology, focusing on helping women navigate career challenges; shares how through her professional experience and research for her book, “Likeable Badass,” she's found that status is an important component of personal and professional success; and how through strategic and authentic behavior success is within our reach. Guest's Website:  Alison Fragale | Professor | Keynote Speaker | Negotiation & Power Expert Book:  Amazon.com: Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve: 9780385549141: Fragale PhD, Alison: Books   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. What are your thoughts in regards to self promotion in a networking setting?  What about the promotion of others?  What strategies might you practice in order to succeed personally or professionally? Is there someone in your life who you think is a model of “status” and strategizing their own success?  How do they carry themselves in a social setting? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

This is the very true story of the most thankful boss I ever worked for and how it made all the difference to one member of our team.  Thank you for listening.   Work with Kristy: If you're ready to improve workplace communication skills for you or your team, Book a call with Kristy.

Do you ever feel like you're a spectator in your own life – watching things happen rather than getting in the driver's seat and making them happen?  If so, today's guest is encouraging you to become the latter.  Cathy Heller, renowned teacher, podcaster, and author discusses with us how her belief in how each of us has the power to manifest our best life, magical examples she's experienced first hand, and excerpts from her latest book,  “Abundant Ever After: Tools for Creating a Life of Prosperity and Ease,” available now for pre-order and released on December 3, 2024. Guest's Website:  Home - Cathy Heller Book:  Abundant Ever After by Cathy Heller - the book TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you practiced manifestation in the past?  Or do you find yourself skeptical, but curious? Are you someone who relates more to the magic involved in good happening or the practicality of how it works? Are there things or events in your life that you believe you manifested into existence in the past? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

In the second installment of, The Opposite of Small Talk's Coaches Corner, a new monthly mini segment, which explores topics through a coach's lens, centers around the topic of group coaching. This week's guest coach, Kerry Dobson, a respected group coaching expert sits down with Danielle for the discussion.  Guest's Website:  JJ Dak Inc. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.   

Contrary to the opening of the 1968 song by Harry Nilson, one is NOT the loneliest number, especially for those who are thriving in single life, like today's guest, Bella DePaulo, PhD, social scientist, psychologist, researcher, and author of “Single at Heart.” She suggests that for her and many others, single is arguably the most authentic and fulfilling way to live.  We speak to Dr. DePaulo about her own experiences, thoughts and take-aways from her book, as well as the affirming encouragement she offers to those who are happily single. Guest's Website:  Home - Bella DePaulo TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Are you or someone you know single at heart?   Have you ever done activities such as a concert or dinner solo?  What was your experience?  If not, would you be more apt to try it now? What are some misconceptions you or someone close to you has had about single life?  Have your perspective or views on being single changed following this episode?  Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

In this #askmeanything episode, Kristy answers YOUR questions received in Instagram DMs and from participants of her team training program Communication Accelerator. Today's episode covers: How to motivate others How to handle a co-worker who is too assertive when you are not assertive Improving accountability Speaking to deliver an idea fully, without overwhelming the other person with too much information   For more workplace communication tips, follow Kristy on Instagram @ko.communication    

Do you find that the work you do gives you a sense of purpose or that your contributions as an employee are important to a cause bigger than yourself?  This week's guest, Moe Carrick, author, podcast host, and CEO of the workplace culture consultancy, Momentum, Inc. views work as a human need.  Moe brings her wealth of knowledge, and decades of experience in the study of workplace culture to our spirited discussion on the topic of Why Work Matters. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Guest's Website:  JMoementum, Inc. | Making organizations fit for human life.   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. What are your conditions to thrive in a workplace?  Are they being met at your current job, why or why not? Have you had to have a courageous conversation at work about your needs or the needs of a colleague as an employee or employer?  If so, how did your employer react? Do you believe in the work that you do?  Or do you see work as a means to an end?  

In this episode of The Opposite of Small Talk, Danielle introduces Coaches Corner's, a new monthly segment, which explores topics through a coaches lense.  The inaugural guest is Julie Hess, author, executive coach, coaching supervisor and educator. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Guest's Website:  Catalyst Consulting – Catalyst Consulting & Coaching (catalystresults.com)

The Opposite of Small Talk Live (October 19th!):  Live Podcast Event — The Opposite of Small Talk Podcast We have reached peak election season in the United States and many of us are feeling the burnout from political discussions (arguments) and want to be able to genuinely connect with people, even those we disagree with. If you are feeling the election fatigue and struggling with what feels like a very divided world, this episode is for you. Today's guest, Justin Jones-Fosu, author, highly sought-after business speaker, social entrepreneur, and meaningful work researcher provides us with some truly thought provoking, uplifting, useful advice on the topic of How to Respectfully Disagree in a Divided World.    Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Guest's Book:  Justin Jones-Fosu: I Respectfully Disagree (howtorespectfullydisagree.com)   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you chosen to take the exit on someone in the past because of your differences?  How would you or will you do things differently now with that person? After this episode, is there someone you would like to delve into the gray with? Is there a person or persons in your life who you have been able to have a respectful disagreement with?      

LIVE EVENT Oct 19th in BOSTON - LEARN MORE AND REGISTER   According to Bill Gates, "We all need people who will give us feedback. That's how we improve." But what do you wo when you ask for critical feedback and only ever receive praise? In this episode, Kristy shares 3 tips for how to get better feedback.    Follow us on Instagram @theoppositeofsmalltalk  

As we enter the season of fall, it seems appropriate for us to discuss ghosts, but not the type of “ghosts” most people would think of at Halloween, today's guest helps other authors write their stories as a ghostwriter. Kate Manley, author, coach, ghostwriter, and podcast host, joins us for a discussion on the topic, Writing Your Way Through Life.  Kate encourages us to consider all forms of writing as a powerful way of expressing our thoughts throughout our life experiences. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. The Opposite of Small Talk Live (October 19th!):  Live Podcast Event — The Opposite of Small Talk Podcast Guest's Website:  Kate Hanley - Author, Podcast Host, Writer, Ghostwriter, and Coach TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you ever or have you ever considered writing your own story or your own thoughts down before?  If you have, how did it feel once you'd done it? Were you familiar with the term ghostwriter, prior to this episode? Did you consider other forms of writing, i.e. journaling, list making, note taking to be “real” writing?  Do you have a different perspective on writing following this episode?  

Most of us have experienced a significant amount of high stakes and low stakes negotiation in our personal lives, even when we don't realize it.  Whether it is negotiating the terms of a contract with a client, negotiating bedtime with a child, or negotiating a better deal at the car dealership it can feel daunting.  Today's guest, Fotini Iconomopoulos, best selling author of, “Say Less, Get More: Unconventional Negotiation Techniques to Get What You Want,” Fortune 50 advisor, coach, and speaker, brings her decades of impressive corporate experience and a ton of real world applicable advice to our conversation on the topic of Effective Negotiation.     Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com     The Opposite of Small Talk Live:  Live Podcast Event — The Opposite of Small Talk Podcast Kristy's Work Journal:  Work Journal — Kristy Olinger Guest's Website:  Home - Fotini (fotiniicon.com) Quiz:  What's Your Negotiation Style Quiz - Fotini (fotiniicon.com) TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. What has been the most difficult experience you've had with negotiation?  What has been the most rewarding?  Have you found yourself preparing for a negotiation beforehand?  Follow this conversation will you be more likely to psych yourself up and prepare ahead? What lessons or advice did you find most helpful from this episode's guest?  

Ask yourself these questions:  First, what's something in your life, right now, that you've been avoiding or delaying due to fear?  Second question, If you knew you couldn't fail, what would you do?   Today's guest, Collin Henderson, author, Fortune 500 speaker, and highly respected coach, asks his own clients these questions regularly. He joins us on our latest episode, to discuss the topic of Nurturing a Growth Mindset.  During our conversation, Collin offers some advice and tools he's learned through his work on himself; as a father of five children; and as a coach to clients including professional athletes.  He also shares helpful insight into how it's never too early to start supporting children in building their own self confidence and self image and how it's never too late for adults to do the work on themselves and rebuild or strengthen their own sense of self personally and professionally. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com   Kristy's Work Journal:  Work Journal — Kristy Olinger Guest's Website:  MASTER YOUR MINDSET (thecollinhenderson.com) TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Overall do you find your own self talk to be mostly positive, negative, or somewhere in between? Is there an experience growing up where you felt particularly supported by yourself or someone else in putting effort toward achieving a goal?  Do you think your current focus or mindset is helping or hindering you in achieving what you want?  

How many Mondays have you lived, how many Mondays do you have left?  It may be a provocative or even unsettling question for some, but today's guest looks at it more as motivation over morbidity.  We speak to Jodi Wellman, author of the book, “You Only Die Once, How to Make it to the End with No Regrets,” on the topic of Making Friends with the Grim Reaper.  She discusses how taking inventory of her mother's personal items, following her death, was a catalyst for writing her book as well as for her general outlook on life.  During the episode Jodi explains how facing the inevitability of death can really help us to live in the here and now and accomplish our goals. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com   Kristy's Work Journal:  Work Journal — Kristy Olinger Guest's Website and Book Information:  Home | Four Thousand Mondays TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Following this episode, will you “count your Mondays?”   Are you really present in your life currently or do you find yourself more stuck in the routine? If you sat quietly right now, like Jodi mentioned during the episode, what are some of the unfinished things you still want to accomplish?     

Most people are familiar with the saying, “actions speak louder than words.”  This week's guest explains how your actions, facial expressions, and even the tone of your voice can communicate a lot about you to your colleagues, clients, friends, and acquaintances.  Blake Eastman speaks to us on the topic of Nonverbal Communication and its important role in both professional and personal life.  He emphasizes the importance of context in this essential form of communication; clears up some misconceptions related to the topic; and explains how video and audio playback are vital to his work. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com   Kristy's Work Journal:  Work Journal — Kristy Olinger Guest's Website:  Nonverbal Group - Behavioral Research and Education   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you ever or would you consider recording yourself before a presentation, meeting or other work engagement in order to see how others see you? Was there something you heard in this episode that surprised you in terms of your communication style? Do you use or would you be open to using a journal or writing down your immediate thoughts following a professional engagement?  

As human beings we have many unique ways of communicating with one another including sharing some of our most personal thoughts, which when verbalized or written down can give others a deeper insight into who we are inside.  This week's guest has learned, first-hand, and now teaches others that storytelling can be a powerful tool that each of us possesses, whether we know it yet or not.  Katherine Kennedy, a teacher, storytelling coach and author of the book, Speaking to What Matters: My story of learning how to share what's inside, released in fall 2023, discusses with us the topic of The Act of Storytelling.  Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com Guest's Bio:  TED Talk, Speech Coach, Storytelling (katherinekennedysf.com) Guest's book:  Amazon.com: Katherine Kennedy: books, biography, latest update TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you ever sat down and shared your story with someone else or had someone share their personal story with you?  If so, what changed following that experience? Is there someone in your life that immediately comes to mind who you'd be comfortable storytelling with? Are you someone who would consider telling your story in public or would you prefer to write it down? Have you ever asked a parent, grandparent, or relative to share their story with you?  If not, following this episode, would you now consider it in order to potentially strengthen that bond?  

It could be argued that at no other time in history has there been more external distractions in the average person's daily life than there are today.  This week's guest Nir Eyal, bestselling author, teacher, consultant, and lecturer, discusses his book, “Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life” as well as the topic of Traction vs. Distraction.  During our discussion Nir stresses the importance of the four strategies or principles that can help us break away from distraction, how to identify what it is we want to gain traction on in our own lives, the distractions getting in the way of this, and the internal and external triggers that may be bringing on those distractions.  Finally, he shares how making pacts with ourselves can be a powerful tool in taking that final step toward choosing your life. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com Guest's Bio:  Nir Eyal Official Site: Articles, Videos, and Newsletter (nirandfar.com)  Guest's book:  Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life (nirandfar.com)  

To commemorate Juneteenth, we are rebroadcasting an episode that originally aired in December of 2021.   In this episode Danielle and Kristy talk with Janese Murray, a thought leader in the field of diversity and inclusion, about race in the United States. We touch on critical race theory; what it is, what it isn't, and what you can do about it. We talk about why laws are important but not enough, and how personal stories can make big impacts in the hearts and minds of individuals. The outlook is optimistic, some days… but culture change is a long game and it can be tough to know if it's going well. Ironically, resistance can be a signal that we're on the right track.   Connect with us on Instagram: @theoppositeofsmalltalk

The month of June is upon us and with it brings many rites of passage including graduation season.  This episode is especially timely for new grads; anyone who may be looking to make a change in their career path; or even for someone who loves their current job and isn't ashamed to admit it.  This week's guest, Erika Ayers Badan, the first CEO of Barstool Sports and current CEO of Food52, as well as author of the new book, “Nobody Cares About Your Career,” available on June 11th, speaks to us on the topic of Career Fulfillment and Success.  She discusses how she embraces being a self described, career “nerd” who loves to work; explains how things like taking risks or experiencing failures, on your career path, can lead to growth and success; and offers some advice on navigating some of the more difficult and tricky things that come with a career – like the do's and don'ts of socializing with coworkers or clients outside of work. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com Guest's Bio:  Introducing Food52's New CEO  Guest's book:  Nobody Cares About Your Career (macmillan.com)  (Available June 11, 2024)   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Are you or have you ever been a “career nerd” like Erika and Kristy? What kinds of failures or struggles have you faced in your career that you think have helped you to grow? Have you ever chosen a career because of someone else's influence or to gain the approval or praise of someone else?  

There are multiple good reasons to be funny at work; it's proven to release stress, it inspires and motivates teams (according to research), and it's well… fun. Listen to this episode to learn about different kinds of humor to start using at work and what to avoid.   WORK JOURNAL: Build a reflection habit that turns every interaction into an opportunity for growth. Find it   Do you have a workplace communication question? Send Kristy a DM on Instagram @KO.Communication

Have you ever heard the saying, be your own biggest fan?  That type of self confidence and assurance can be attainable according to our latest guest.  In this episode, we discuss the topic of Gravitas: Living a Life of Self Assurance with entrepreneur and author, Lisa Sun.  Lisa shared how we can learn a lot from the self-confidence displayed by 5 year olds; we discuss the eight types of confidence “superpowers” and Danielle and Kristy's results from the superpower quiz; and examples of ways in which we can do the work and reflection needed to shift our mindset and come to our place of personal gravitas.   Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com Guest's website: ABOUT GRAVITAS (gravitasnewyork.com) Guest's book:  Gravitas: The 8 Strengths That Redefine Confidence: Sun, Lisa: 9781401972530: Amazon.com: Books TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Is there a time in your life, so far, where you've felt the most self-confident? Do you feel more or less confident than you felt 10 years ago? Do you feel less confident in a room full of strangers or a room full of friends?  Why? Are your closest friends, ones that you share values or demographics with?  

In this episode of The Opposite of Small Talk, Danielle shares her experience of attending an Improv class. She provides ways that improv skills are put to use in real life. 

Domestic and interpersonal violence do not discriminate and can happen to people from all walks of life.  In this episode, we have a Discussion on Domestic and Interpersonal Violence with our guest, Jennifer Peterkin.  Jennifer helps us to understand the difficulties of recognizing and exiting a violent relationship as well as some of the harmful stereotypes and expectations society has pushed in regards to domestic and interpersonal violence.  We also discuss ways you can support a loved one or friend who you believe to be in this type of toxic relationship, while also protecting your own mental, emotional, and physical health. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic or interpersonal violence there are resources available.  Visit Domestic Violence (justice.gov) for more information and resources. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com Guest's podcast: The Human Experience (thehxpod.com)   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Did you know much about the topic of domestic and interpersonal violence prior to this episode? Do you recognize in your own life or someone close to you a relationship that may be toxic? In what ways do you try to actively listen and support your friends or loved ones?  Following this episode are their techniques you learned that may help you to be more supportive?  

What do you do with those few minutes after you've joined a meeting when some people have arrived, but not everyone is there yet so the meeting can't get started? Do you turn to your email inbox? Do you sit in awkward silence? Or do you initiate conversation with the group? In this episode Kristy shares the secret that will make it easier to connect with your colleagues and build rapport quickly during that weird pre-meeting phase.     Visit: kristyolinger.com to learn how Kristy can help you and your team with workplace communication skill building.  

Have you ever felt like you are your own “worst enemy” or that you just can't seem to get out of your own way personally or professionally?  This may be what this week's guest would refer to as an “upper limit” problem.  In this episode, we speak to Gay Hendricks on the topic of Overcoming Upper Limits and Self-Sabotage.  Gay shares his own personal struggles, how he came to recognize patterns of self-sabotage, and some of the techniques he uses to help others break through sabotaging behaviors to achieve liberation in their daily lives.   Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.    Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com   Guest's website:  Home - Hendricks Institute Guest's books:  Amazon.com: Gay Hendricks: books, biography, latest update TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. After listening to this week's guest, do you think you've experienced upper limits or self-sabotage?  Is there a clear pattern on how or when you've done this in the past? What do you most love to do? What do you think some of your biggest contributions to the world might be?  

In this special TOOST episode we had the opportunity to sit down for a conversation with Dr. Yanique Redwood, author, speaker, and facilitator, and Kate Schatz, now a three-time TOOST podcast guest, following an experimental event they held in Fall 2023 in Oakland, CA, with the goal of centering black female voices and experiences as well as a book talk on Dr. Redwood's book, White Women Cry and Call Me Angry, moderated by Kate.  We delve deeper into that experience, what takeaways came out of this event, and the further work that needs to be done to create safe spaces particularly for black women and women of color sharing their experiences. Dr. Yanique Redwood's website   Kate Schatz's website Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Would you attend an experimental event like the one described by Dr. Redwood and Kate? Do you find yourself listening more to people who share experiences different than your own?  Or do you find it hard to listen without interjecting your own experience? What are some ways you try to create a safe space for others?  After this episode, are you more committed to safe spaces?  

In this episode Kristy is interviewed with Lisa Gillette of Big Sky Coaching on her podcast Grace, Grit, and Getting it Done! Kristy shares her experience of struggling with workplace communication as a mid-career professional how she learned to be more prepared to speak up at work.   https://gracegritgettingitdone.com/  

For most of us, at some point in our lives, we will come to a crossroads with a job or career, be it from burnout, finding it no longer brings us joy, or it doesn't align with our values or goals. If or when we reach that crossroads, it may mean quitting or leaving that job or career behind. In this episode, we discuss with Amani Zaveri the topic of The Art of Quitting.  Amani shares with us some of the benefits of quitting, reasons or circumstances that may hold us back, and finally, she offers advice on how to gracefully quit without burning bridges. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com. TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you ever quit a job?  What were the circumstances that led you to that decision?    Did this episode resonate with you or make you think deeper about your current circumstances? What advice have you or would you offer a loved one or friend who is contemplating quitting a job? Were you or would you be supportive? Would you quit something without having a plan/next opportunity lined up?    

In this episode Danielle explores the real meaning of listening, the three types of listening and how to practice to be a better listener. 

It's true, we're not a one size fits all society, but individuals deemed as overweight, obese, or fat can face a rush to judgment and unfair treatment based solely on their larger body size.  Today's guest Kate Manne discusses with us the topic of How to Face Fatphobia.  Kate shares with us some fascinating historical origins of the Body Mass Index (BMI); ways fat phobia shows up in areas of society including in medical treatment; and other relevant topics tackled in her book, released in January 2024, titled, Unshrinking: How to Face Fatphobia.    Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com Guest's book: Unshrinking by Kate Manne: 9780593593837 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books Guest's website:  Kate Manne - ABOUT   TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you or someone close to you ever experienced fatphobia?  In what ways?  How did you or they respond to it?     Have you ever avoided medical care because of fear of judgment or bias? Did you ever find yourself trying a fad diet, exercise regime, or drug in order to lose weight?  How did you feel afterwards?