The UpLevel Podcast

Send us a textThis week on The UpLevel Podcast, we sit down with Jocelyn Pepe, author of Claim Your Brain, and founder of TrU. We have a rich and powerful conversation about what it means to be in right relationship with our mental health.As a leader, coach, and advocate, Jocelyn is reshaping how we think about mental well-being in the workplace and beyond. She weaves science, soul, and lived experience into a transformative body of work that supports leaders, teams, and individuals in reclaiming their mental resilience.With a Master's in the Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health and a decade-long journey of personal healing, including recovery from a major brain injury. Jocelyn brings wisdom, humility, and fierce advocacy to this dialogue.Tune in now, and remember to pre-order Jocelyn's book, Claim Your Brain, a true guide for those ready to lead, live, and love with intention.In This Episode, We Explore:How right relationship applies to mental health, personally, professionally, and collectively.Jocelyn's path of healing from childhood trauma to leadership in the well-being space.The science-meets-soul approach of Claim Your Brain.Mental health as a foundation for sustainable leadership and impact.Navigating life transitions, family dynamics, and business with authenticity and grace.Why mental health is everyone's responsibility—and how we can each be better stewards of our own well-being.About Jocelyn:Jocelyn Pepe is the author of Claim Your Brain, an insightful exploration of where science and soul meet in the world of mental health. As the founder of TrU, she fuses research, lived experience, and deep coaching to strengthen the mental health and well-being of leaders and teams, elevating optimal impact and performance. Jocelyn holds a master's degree in the psychology and neuroscience of mental health and multiple coaching designations in both health and performance. She is reshaping the future of how we care for mental health, in and beyond the workplace.Website: https://truliving.ca/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truliving.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocelyn-pepe/https://www.linkedin.com/company/truliving/

Send us a textIn celebration of the 2025 International Coaching Week, we're proud to share a deeply grounding and expansive episode of The UpLevel Podcast featuring five extraordinary elders: Eileen Blumenthal, Hide Enomoto, Hope Langner, John Vercelli, and Lorry Schneider.For the fourth year in a row, we're honoring elderhood, an often overlooked role in modern society, and exploring how it deeply informs our understanding of right relationship in coaching, leadership, and life.Whether you're a coach, a business leader, or simply someone navigating life with intention, this conversation will root you in the power of presence, mutuality, and honoring those who came before.Listen in, feel nourished, and remember, the wisdom is in the circle!In this Episode:What elderhood really means and how it's embodied with humility, wisdom, and loveRight relationship is a practice of reciprocity, presence, and legacyWhy lifelong learning is a hallmark of those who walk the path of the elderThe fine line between offering insight and holding space and the dance of asking vs. telling in coachingHow elderhood can be a radical act of stewardship in a fast-moving worldReflections on Co-Active principles, conscious leadership, and collective wisdom from decades of coachingPanel:Eileen Blumenthal, CPCC, PCC, JDLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileen-blumenthalHide EnomotoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/yokuikiru.jpLinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/hide-enomoto-6a23017Hope Langner, MS, CPCC, MCCLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hopelanJohn VercelliLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-vercelli-4373282/Lorry SchneiderLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lorry-schneider-9390921

Send us a textThis week on The UpLevel Podcast, we welcome the extraordinary Julie Barker-Merz, Regional President of BMO Bank of Montreal for Greater Toronto. A visionary leader with a bold heart, Julie is known for breaking new ground in corporate leadership and uplifting women across business, sport, and community. Julie shares deeply personal insights on how to lead with heart while holding big responsibility. From her signature “four-legged stool” principle of balance to her unwavering belief that difference is power, Julie brings inspiration, wisdom, and courage to the conversation.In This Episode:What it means to be in right relationship with yourself, in your leadership, your health, your home, and your heartThe power of leading from authenticity, clarity, and shared values, and how that shifts culture from the inside outSmall “c” vs. Big “C” coaching, and why that distinction matters for creating real transformation in people and teamsHow choosing curiosity over control opens doors to growth, connection, and possibilityWhy difference is power, and how Julie leans into discomfort with openness, not resistanceThe role of failure, feedback, and fortitude in shaping resilient, conscious leadershipJulie's guiding principle of the “four-legged stool,” and how she uses it to stay grounded across every area of life.From marathon training to scrapbooking retreats, how she protects her energy and recharges with intention.Integration over isolation, why weaving together fitness, friendship, and family creates more sustainable successCuriosity in conflict, how asking instead of assuming can turn tension into trustThe power of finding your people, and why women thrive in communities built on support, not competitionBio:Julie Barker-Merz is the Regional President, BMO Bank of Montreal, for Greater Toronto, where she leads a team of personal banking professionals across 9 markets and 170 branches. She is a board member of Tree Canada, past-Chair of the Accelerator Centre in Waterloo, and the former Director and Treasurer of the Canadian Women's Hockey League. She is a long-standing and strong supporter of women in business, sport, and the community and a 2015 recipient of The International Alliance of Women's (TIAW) Top 100 World of Difference awards, as well as one of Canada's Top 50 to watch in Wealth Management in 2016 during her time as President of BMO InvestorLine. And in 2018, she was awarded Ontario's Leading Women, Building Communities Award of Excellence, and in 2023, the WXN DEI Award for her role on Corporate Boards.Throughout her 25+ year career with BMO Financial Group, Julie has earned the reputation of being a leader who executes with pace, courage, and excellence, inspiring multi-disciplinary teams to come together towards a common vision. Julie received her undergraduate degree at the University of Ottawa, her Fellow from the Institute of Canadian Bankers, and her MBA from Dalhousie University.  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-barker-merz-9206a418/

Have you forgotten how to play?This week on The UpLevel Podcast, join us for a deeply grounding and inspiring conversation as we sit down with Jennifer Leigh Smith, J.D., affectionately known as Tree Jenny. She is an environmental lawyer, regenerative leader, certified carbon auditor, and heart-centered activist. From growing up on a sustainable farm in Louisiana to planting over 620,000 biodiverse trees across Central America and Kenya, Tree Jenny shares how she's built a life rooted in service, reverence, and radical joy.We explore what it means to be in right relationship with Earth, with one another, and with our inner child. Whether she's leading carbon-offset reforestation initiatives or guiding eco-tourism adventures that reconnect people to awe and wonder, Jenny is here to remind us that healing the planet begins with remembering who we truly are.In this episode, you'll learn:Why fair pay for tree planters near the equator matters more than you thinkThe power of childlike wonder and play in environmental justiceHow Tree Jenny created a community-powered reforestation movementWhy being in right relationship includes self-care, purpose, and collective healingHow YOU can participate in regenerating Earth, one tree at a timeAbout Tree Jenny:Jennifer Leigh Smith, J.D. President and Founder grew up on a sustainable farm in Louisiana playing in the woods and bayous, marveling at the nature all around her. “Tree Jenny” was named by the kids participating in Association Community Carbon Trees (ACCT) education programs over 15 years ago. She is an environmental Lawyer, Agro-forester, and Certified Carbon Auditor.  She is a dedicated Yoguini, musician, dancer, and artist who believes in the miraculous power of creation culture.  Jenny is a revolutionary environmental activist who champions fair pay for tree planters around the world, especially near the Equator where trees generously give us compounded benefits. The ACCT community reforestation programs empower vulnerable families by including women in the center of the work in both Central America and Kenya, Africa. Jenny and her teams of Super Tree Friends have produced, planted, and maintained long-term more than 620,000 biodiverse trees so far, over 100 different native fruit, lumber, and animal fodder species. Website: https://www.communitycarbontrees.org/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, our two extraordinary guests, Abigail and Clive Prout, take us deep into the concept of Right Relationship—the art of maintaining true connection, reciprocity, and presence in our partnerships, leadership, and self-growth. With over 50 years of combined coaching experience, Abigail and Clive have dedicated their lives to fostering conscious connection—both in their own relationship and in the lives of their clients. From navigating intimate partnerships and parenting to exploring altered states of consciousness through meditation, breathwork, poetry, ecstatic dance, shamanic practices, and plant medicine—this conversation is a journey in itself.In This Episode:The Reciprocity Loop: Abigail & Clive share a vision of right relationship as an interconnected flow of mutual benefit, growth, and evolution.Marriage & Self-Work: A raw, real look at how prioritizing personal growth over fixing each other creates deeper intimacy.Coaching vs. Personal Challenges: Even as masterful coaches, Clive & Abigail navigate the delicate dance of awareness, vulnerability, and imperfection.Plant Medicine & Spiritual Awakening: From shamanic journeys to retreats in Costa Rica, they reveal how plant medicine has deepened their connection to life force energy.Culture, Consciousness & Community: How shared spiritual experiences can bridge divisions, deepen understanding, and transform society.About Abigail & Clive:Abigail and Clive Prout work with people who are shifting their focus away from the pursuit of yet more material success to a deepening of meaning, connection, and magic; a more spiritual sense of self. They are both Certified Professional Co-Active coaches and faculty for The Co-Active Training Institute, with a combined 50 years of professional coaching experience. They live on Lopez Island, in Washington state, USA where they have cultivated a nurturing community and are raising two teenagers.Upon this relational foundation, they have expanded their exploration (and work with clients) into altered states of consciousness, such as those accessible through meditation, breathwork, poetry, ecstatic dance, shamanic practices, and plant medicine. They support continued healing, exploration, and integration of what it means to be awake and in service.  Website:https://www.abigailprout.com/spiral-leadership.com/ Socials:linkedin.com/in/coach-writer-abigail-morgan-proutlinkedin.com/in/cliveprouthttps://www.instagram.com/abigail_morgan_prout/https://www.instagram.com/coach.clive/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we sit down with Kale Ka'alekahi, a spiritual activist, cultural innovator, and lineage carrier for indigenous traditions. He shares powerful wisdom on how ceremony, ritual, and men's work can help us restore right relationship with ourselves, our communities, and the land. Kale brings a unique perspective shaped by deep ancestral knowledge and lived experience, offering insights that feel like medicine for these times. Listen now!In this episode, we explore:The Power of Ceremony: Why rituals are more than tradition; they're medicine for a disconnected worldBringing the Sacred Into Everyday Life: Simple, practical ways to create meaning and connection, no matter how busy life getsMen's Work & Collective Healing: Why now, more than ever, men are being called to step into deeper self-awareness, responsibility, and purposeRebuilding Community: What it really means to live in “right relationship” and why it's essential for a thriving futureAbout Kale:Kale Ka'alekahi is a Spiritual Activist and Cultural Innovator. A lineage carrier of 4 Indigenous traditions, he embodies a unique blend of ancestral wisdom and modern vision. Kale is a practitioner of Indigenous lifeways, a ceremonialist, storyteller, writer, dancer, and musician. He is the Founder of First Wave Indigenous Ministry, President of Makoa Quest 501c3, and Director of New Old Way Academy (A Regenerative Cultural School).Website: kalekaalekahi.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kale.kaalekahi/YouTube: @kkwayoflifeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@advicefromkaleA 5-day immersive Experience for Men, Women, and Couples to Deepen Their Relationship to Self, Nature, and SpiritIf you're ready to step into deeper alignment, embrace sacred practices, and be part of a transformative community, join Kale for Maui Mana | May 14-18, 2025Reserve your slot here: https://www.sacredsons.com/product/maui-mana-2025/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we're celebrating the multifaceted roles of women who lead with heart, courage, and connection as we approach International Women's Day. Join us for a transformative conversation with Carey Baker, CEO of the Co-Active Training Institute, and a visionary leader redefining leadership through right and responsible relationships. We'll explore the art of balancing leadership, family, and self in a world that often pulls us in a million directions. This International Women's Day, let's celebrate the brilliance of women who inspire us to lead with responsibility, wholeness, and love. Listen now!In This Episode:Redefining Leadership: Why traditional paradigms no longer serve us and how women are reimagining leadership for a more connected world.Right Relationship: Discover the dynamic process of staying in alignment with yourself and your responsibilities as a leader, mother, and partner.Love in the Workplace: How care, connection, and responsibility can transform leadership and create meaningful change.The Co-Active Framework: A powerful tool for fostering balance and wholeness in your life, relationships, and leadership practices.Navigating the Roles: Insights into the unique challenges and opportunities women face in balancing family, career, and community.About Carey:As CEO of The Co-Active Training Institute and a lifelong systems innovator, Carey stands at the intersection of transformative experiences and business leadership. With over 15 years in executive roles spanning sales, marketing, and organizational development, she is dedicated to reimagining how we engage with ourselves, each other, and the living systems we're part of to quite literally change the world. From corporate leader to life and leadership coach to systems design, Carey brings diverse worlds and cultures together to create profound and measurable impact. She has accelerated change across organizations and communities through a unique blend of vision, strategy, and human connection, helping individuals and teams unlock their full potential. Carey is focused on leading growth at The Co-Active Training Institute by shaping a culture that integrates business excellence with human wholeness. She and her leadership team are committed to designing innovative coach training and leadership development programs centered on relationship and responsibility while also writing and speaking about the evolution of conscious leadership. In her role, she is also forging partnerships to accelerate systemic transformation and facilitating high-impact organizational change initiatives that inspire creativity and growth. Carey envisions a profound reimagining of human potential in a world increasingly fracturing under the weight of disconnection. She believes the leadership paradigms that brought us here cannot guide us toward the future and are overdue for change. She leads a global movement toward wholeness, responsibility, and love through Co-Active Training Institute, transforming how humans communicate, lead, and create change.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/careybbaker/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, join us in a powerful and deeply moving episode as we welcome two extraordinary humans: Sam House and Em House. Together, they share an honest, vulnerable, and insightful conversation about right relationship—what it means, why we struggle with it, and how we can restore it in our families, communities, and society. Listen now!In This Episode:Right Relationship as a Practice: A lifelong process of aligning with truth, growth, and authentic connectionDismantling Ego for Deeper Connection: How releasing ego-driven defenses fosters radical transparency, love, & meaningful relationshipsThe Evolution of Parent-Child Bonds: Why honoring each other's present identity is essential as relationships shift across life stagesLetting Go to Truly See Each Other: The necessity of shedding past perceptions to build a relationship rooted in the presentThe Coming Out Journey: A candid look at the challenges, growth, and emotional complexities of navigating queer and non-binary identities within a familyEmbracing Change as a Constant: How both parents and children continually adapt as identities unfold & deepen over timePersonal Stories as a Reflection of Society: How individual experiences echo broader cultural shifts toward embracing identity complexityTransforming Systems Through Nuance: Moving beyond polarization by cultivating curiosity, deep listening, & relational integrityThe Role of Community in Change: Why building supportive spaces is essential for personal and collective transformationThe Core of Right Relationship: Balancing giving and receiving, being fully present without expectation, & engaging with self-awareness and opennessAbout Sam & Em House:Sam House, MCC, CPCC, is a Master Certified Coach and founder of SOULutions Leadership & Coaching, with 25 years of experience in executive coaching, leadership development, and team transformation. As a senior faculty member at the Co-Active Training Institute (CTI), Sam specializes in developing leaders through Co-Active Coaching and Leadership programs, bringing a unique blend of rigor, heart, and transformative insight to his work. His expertise spans executive coaching, leadership assessments, and customized training for organizations across the private, nonprofit, social entrepreneurial, and governmental sectors—including IBM, Google, Yale, and Marriott. http://www.soulutionsleadership.com/Em House (they/them) is a white, queer, nonbinary parent of a 3-year-old, living in Philadelphia on unceded Lenni-Lenape territory. Em is a passionate advocate for people's growth and resilience. They are committed to change-making through transparency, radical self-acceptance, courageous vision, and intersectional collective action. Currently, Em works as a faculty member for the Co-Active Training Institute's Coach Training and Leadership programs, as well as a Co-Active coach, and a therapist for Philadelphia's LGBTQ+ communities. Across all professions, Em's approach is marked by their unique blend of down-to-earth honesty, compassion, and playfulness.https://www.workingwithem.com/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

*Trigger Warning: This episode mentions the LA fires, which may be sensitive for some listeners. Please listen with care—you're not alone.This week on The UpLevel Podcast, join us for a profound conversation with Jessa Calderon—singer, songwriter, emcee, poet, author, and the Director of Land, Water, and Climate Justice for Sacred Places Institute for Indigenous Peoples. Jessa, a proud member of the Chumash and Tongva nations, also honors her Yoimi and Mexican heritage. Her energy, wisdom, and storytelling will inspire you to reflect on your relationship with the land, nature, and humanity. Tune in to discover how honoring Indigenous perspectives can guide us toward a more balanced and regenerative future.In This Episode:Find harmony within: Align with your true self by reflecting on a powerful question—Would my ancestors be proud of my actions?Embrace interconnectedness: Learn from Indigenous wisdom that sees everything—humans, animals, plants, and the land—as relatives, connected by an unbroken flow of energy.Redefine culture: Shift away from overconsumption and embrace a life rooted in reciprocity, balance, and mindful living.Challenge the norm: Reflect on how corporate greed has fractured our sacred connection with the earth and its resources.Slow down to reconnect: Discover how slowing down can deepen your bond with nature, the community, and yourself.Teach the next generation: Instill the values of respect, love, and care for the natural world in children to foster a sustainable future.Heal and uplift: Explore how personal growth and self-love radiate outward to create ripples of positive change in the world.About Jessa:Singer, Song Writer, Emcee (rapper), Poet, and Published Author, as well as the Director of Land, Water, and Climate Justice for Sacred Places Institute for Indigenous Peoples, Jessa Calderon is of the Chumash and Tongva Nations of Southern California. Jessa also identifies with her Yoeme and Mexican roots. Jessa is a natural-born singer who truly found her voice in hip-hop. As an emcee, poet, and published author, Jessa is able to share parts of herself in a way that keeps the crowds intrigued. Since 2019 Jessa has joined the Dream Warriors collective. Together and separately they share music, culture, stories, poems, seminars, workshops, and webinars which equate to different means of wellness as individuals and community. Aside from writing and music, Jessa has also been a Massage Therapist & Energy worker for nearly 30 years. She is passionate about Massage, Energy work, Past Life Regressions, Hypnotherapy, Intuitive practices, and anything involved in healing and growing.Website: https://www.jessacalderon.com/Support her and Buy her Book: SisterHOOD

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, catch an inspiring episode as we sit down with Rasika Saikia, an HR leader with over 17 years of experience at a big tech company. Rasika shares her incredible journey from Asia Pacific to the US, scaling onboarding programs to reach over 100,000 employees, and navigating the complexities of cultural transitions and leadership.Together, we dive deep into the concept of "right relationships," relationships as evolving entities that thrive on trust, psychological safety, and empathy. Rasika's wisdom on fostering inclusive spaces, embracing vulnerability, and supporting immigrant women through career shifts makes this a must-listen episode for leaders, professionals, and anyone seeking to build deeper, more authentic connections in their lives!In This Episode:Rasika shares how trust, empathy, and intentionality build the foundation for deeper, more meaningful connections—much like ascending step by step on a ladder of trust.Hear how Rasika's father, an educator, championed relational learning—emphasizing the value of connection over just finding answers.Reframe relationships as dynamic opportunities for growth, essential in navigating our increasingly polarized world.Gain insight into Rasika's passion for supporting mid-career immigrant women through life's big shifts—whether relocating, changing careers, or balancing caregiving.Explore how coaching unlocks empathy, fosters collaboration, and amplifies diverse voices at the leadership table.Discover how to honor cultural differences while leaning into universal principles—love, respect, and authenticity—as cornerstones of inclusive leadership.About Rasika:Rasika Saikia is a Senior HR Leader with over 17 years of experience at Google. She supports leaders globally on organizational design, change management, and establishing a high-performance culture. She has helped design and facilitate programs geared towards building manager and leader capabilities and leverages her deep coaching expertise as a certified Co-Active professional coach and a SHRM-certified HR professional. Rasika has worked at international locations. She had a regional role in Asia Pacific that required her to travel across offices and collaborate with leaders around the globe while experiencing different cultures. In 2016, she made a big career move to transfer to the US to lead a Global Onboarding program and scale it to over 100k employees across thousands of locations and manage a strong team of Program managers. As part of her commitment to continued learning, Rasika further expanded her career by making a lateral move from Learning and Development space into Business HR space to support leaders navigate organizational challenges. Rasika is passionate about supporting her community, especially mid-career immigrant women to navigate career shifts in a new country while balancing caregiving responsibilities. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rasika-saikia/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we're kicking off the new year with a new season called “Being in Right Relationship: Today's UpLevel,” featuring returning guest, Sunday Phillips. Step boldly into 2025 with this energizing and deeply insightful episode as we explore the concept of the "Right Relationship" – aligning with ourselves, others, and the world to foster balance, integrity, and intentionality. Sunday shares how astrological insights for 2025 can guide us to live in rhythm with the cosmos, cultivate personal harmony, and contribute positively to our communities.In This Episode:Understanding the Right Relationship:Discover how syncing with yourself, your community, and nature leads to exponential growth.Learn the secret to balancing personal evolution with meaningful external connections.Astrology & New Year Insights:2025 marks the dawn of a potent energetic shift—are you ready to ride the wave?Aries season sparks a call for radical self-care, fueling the collective transformation we all crave.Self-Harmony & Collective Impact:Your personal frequency matters—elevate it, and you uplift everyone around you.Embrace the responsibility of nurturing your energy as a tool for global change.Spirit Matters—The Theme for 2025:Witness the shift from Aries-Libra to Virgo-Pisces, where spirit meets matter and dreams take physical form.Ground your spirituality in practical, day-to-day actions that drive real, tangible growth.About Sunday:Sunday Phillips is a holistic embodiment educator and personal transformation expert at the intersection of ancient wisdom and quantum healing. Her prowess emerges from over two decades of extensive studies and professional experience rooted in Pilates, Yoga, Holistic Healing, Music, and Astrology. Sunday's uplifting and visionary approach to integrative movement and embodied wellness serves foundational in the development of authentic life enhancement. She describes this method as Living in Rhythm.Through personalized practices that calibrate core strength, elevate sensory awareness, and sync with life's rhythmic nature, Sunday curates uniquely transformative experiences based on powerful techniques proven for practical application, actualization, and enduring vitality. Sunday is a trailblazing mystic committed to elevating the mind, body and spirit by way of the art and science of Living in Rhythm... It's a lifestyle.Website: https://www.livinginrhythm.comLinkedIn: Sunday PhillipsInstagram:@sundaycphillips@livinginrhythm_LIVING IN RHYTHM PODCAST Season 2 is coming soon!Subscribe to: Apple Podcast or Spotify

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, join us for another transformative conversation with Bill Ao, a Technical Solutions Consultant and award-winning internal coach at a big tech company. With over 500 hours of coaching conversations and a 2023 Coaching Excellence Award, Bill aims to empower others to find their peace and power amidst life's chaos.Drawing from his cultural roots, professional journey, and personal coaching philosophy, Bill shares his invaluable insights into navigating our overwhelming times, redefining leadership, and embracing visibility with authenticity. Bill's unique perspectives on thriving through crisis, chaos, and change will inspire and empower you. Prepare to be reminded of what it means to be visible at this moment in time. Listen now!In This Episode:The Impact of Technology: Discover how technology shapes our perception and alters the pace of life.Thriving Amid Crisis, Chaos, and Change: Why today's chaos feels so overwhelmingly dramatic—and the secrets to finding your inner anchor.Redefining Leadership: Discover how visionary leaders create the future with bold dreams and actions.The Transformative Power of Coaching: Unlock the tools that foster deeper empathy, genuine understanding, and meaningful connections in both personal and professional lives.Technology's Double-Edged Sword: How to harness its power while navigating information overload.About Bill:By job title, Bill is a Technical Solutions Consultant at Google, and in the past decade, he has helped deliver some of the most exciting product launches for the company.Outside of his core role, Bill also serves as an internal coach in the company. Since the start of his coaching journey, in short of 2 years' time, Bill has supported more than 150 of his colleagues, in over 500 hours of coaching conversations, and grew from a beginner to an ICF PCC accredited coach. He was awarded Google's 2023 Coaching Excellence Award for his significant contribution to the company's coaching culture.Bill is a strong believer in coaching. He is on a mission to build “the temple where people find their power and peace.”LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xbillao/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we are joined by Eva Dalak, founder of Peace Activation and a global leader in conflict transformation. Born Palestinian in Israel and now residing in Costa Rica, Eva has spent 30+ years facilitating peace in some of the world's most challenging conflict zones, including Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.Eva introduces us to soul-based peacebuilding, a revolutionary approach that begins with activating peace within ourselves. Her work focuses on fostering dialogue, encouraging silence and presence, and utilizing identity as a bridge to connection rather than division.Whether you're navigating personal challenges or leading through global crises, Eva's wisdom will empower you to lead with compassion, resilience, and purpose. In This Episode:The Heart of Peace Activation: How activating peace within individuals can transform external environments.Silence as a Tool: The role of stillness in self-reflection and healing.Identity Dynamics: How to use multiple identities as a tool for connection instead of conflict.Nonlinear Leadership: Leading with presence amidst crisis, chaos, and change.Practical Tools for Presence: Breathwork, silence, and movement as practices for staying grounded.About Eva:Eva Dalak is a Peace Activator, International Consultant, Facilitator, and Trainer. She is a Palestinian born in Israel and currently residing in Costa Rica and is the founder of Peace Activation. Eva has been working for 30 years in conflict zones in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Her expertise lies in conflict transformation and women's political and economic empowerment. Eva's dedication to fostering peace from within each individual profoundly impacts communities. This commitment led her to establish Peace Activation and advocate for “soul-based peacebuilding.”Website: https://www.evadalak.me/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evadalakInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/evadalak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-dalak-0702b02/Youtube: @evadalak58For insights into her initiatives, visit Peace Activation and One Whole Peace.

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, get ready for an inspiring journey of introspection with our incredible guest, Natalie Kuhn, a public speaker, interfaith reverend in training, and mental health advocate who brings spirituality and leadership to life in ways that are both accessible and transformative. With a decade-long journey as a pioneer in The Class, Natalie helped shape the global digital wellness platform, ultimately serving as its co-CEO. Today, with her new venture, Make the Sun, she's lighting the way for individuals and organizations to navigate life's crises, chaos, and change with greater clarity, compassion, and connection. In This Episode:Navigating Crisis with Grace: Learn why Natalie believes in going inward before leading outward during times of crisis, chaos, and changeCelebrating the "Bad News": How facing life's challenges with curiosity and compassion can transform shame into wisdomThe Power of Pause: Why resting before action creates alignment and brings harmony to a world often filled with divisionAccessible Spirituality: Hear Natalie's beautiful insights on integrating spirituality into daily life and leadership, making profound concepts relatable and actionableBuilding Community in Tough Times: Natalie's journey as a teacher, leader, and founder demonstrates how embracing vulnerability creates meaningful changeAbout Natalie:Natalie Kuhn is a public speaker, teacher, and inter-faith reverend-in-training who blends her expertise in mental health with a uniquely accessible approach to spirituality. Over nearly eleven years, she played an integral role in shaping The Class, a transformative and cathartic workout, from its humble beginnings as its inaugural employee to a renowned global digital wellness platform, culminating in her tenure as Co-CEO. Recently, she launched her new venture, Make The Sun, which offers practices to invite individuals and organizations to see themselves and the world with greater clarity and compassion.Website: www.youmakethesun.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisisnatalie/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thisisnatalieSubstack: https://youmakethesun.substack.com/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, join us for a deep and insightful conversation with the extraordinary Robert Holden, a pioneer in psychology and spirituality known for his groundbreaking work featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, and PBS's special Shift Happens. He is a New York Times best-selling author whose work has reshaped how we view happiness, success, and purpose. Robert brings profound insights into living authentically and creating a purpose-centered life amidst crisis, chaos, and change.In This Episode:Discover who Robert Holden is and why his insights on purpose and success are so powerful.Uncover a fresh perspective on the “death of normal” and explore how to embrace life's big questions in a changing world.Learn about the pivotal moments in Robert's life, beginning with a powerful realization at age 16.Listen as Robert dives into his concept of Success Intelligence, redefining what it means to be truly successful.Discover how courage shapes a path toward authenticity and why it's essential for redefining success.Uncover vision's foundational role in success and explore the seven parts of Success Intelligence.Learn why growth is more valuable than simple change and how adding authenticity can elevate your life and work.Listen to Robert's insights on harnessing personal wisdom and following inner intuition.Discover how to balance life's demands with moments of stillness, creating space for reflection and wisdom.Learn how setbacks can serve as stepping stones and uncover why courage is vital for success.Listen as Robert introduces physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual intelligence for a holistic approach to life.Discover the beauty of adding heart and soul to everyday work.About Robert:Robert Holden's innovative work on psychology and spirituality has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, a PBS special Shift Happens!, and in two major BBC-TV documentaries on happiness - The Happiness Formula and How to Be Happy.  He has presented two popular TEDx talks on The Tea Meditation and Destination Addiction. Robert works as a consultant to leaders and organizations on the theme of purpose and leadership. He gives keynote talks on living a purpose-centered life worldwide. His clients include universities, schools, charities, businesses, publishing companies, theatre groups, and global brands such as Dove & the Real Beauty Campaign, Unilever, the Body Shop, IBM, Virgin, and Google.Robert teaches a series of public programs on living your purpose. He hosts Masterminds on the Hero Journey, The Golden Thread, Finding Purpose, and Success Intelligence. He teaches on the Living Your Purpose retreat in Assisi and a Make Me An Instrument online course. He teaches a Purpose & the Enneagram program. He has led spiritual retreats to Jerusalem, Galilee, Montserrat, Glastonbury, and Findhorn.   Website: https://www.successintelligence.com/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we sit down with Sharon Joseph, a dynamic leader in the tech industry and the CEO and founder of CrewAsis.ai. This marketing intelligence platform uses AI and data science to help consumer brands grow sales and market share. With over 25 years of experience at Fortune 500 companies like Google, GSK, PepsiCo, and Kraft Foods. Sharon's leadership journey is packed with wisdom on navigating change, innovation, and building strong teams. Join us for an empowering conversation that will challenge your ideas on leadership, AI, and navigating crisis, chaos, and change.In This Episode:Discover how Sharon became a change agent while staying grounded in her leadership and hear how she balances driving transformation with maintaining core values and creating stability for her team amidst rapid industry changes.Discover how Sharon pivoted from working in analytics for craft alcohol to founding Crewasis—a marketing intelligence platform that provides consumer insights using AI, launched during the height of the pandemic.Learn how Crewasis is revolutionizing the marketing world by combining data science with AI to uncover market trends and insights.Sharon shares how her involvement with Harvard Business School aided her company's digital transformation.Sharon opens up about the challenges she faced as a female leader in a male-dominated industry and how she proved her credibility through her achievements, including joining Techstars.Sharon explores how AI can be used to enhance leadership and help companies navigate through chaotic times, making better decisions while driving innovation.Sharon discusses fostering a culture of responsibility, reciprocity, and strong relationships to create a positive and supportive environment at Crewasis.About Sharon:Sharon Joseph is the CEO and Founder of CREWASIS.AI, a marketing intelligence platform that grows sales and market share for consumer brands using AI and data science. The platform uses publicly available data to uncover insights and trends.She works with companies like Haleon, Reckitt, Nike, and more. Sharon has 25 years of experience as a Fortune 500 executive in marketing and sales at companies like GSK, Kraft Foods, PepsiCo, Newell Rubbermaid, and Reckitt. She is a Harvard Business School (HBS) alumnus and currently conducts research in Martech and AI with HBS. Sharon lives in Brooklyn, NY.Website: https://crewasis.ai/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sharonemilyjoseph

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we're bringing back the series “Leading Through Crisis, Chaos, and Change” for part two. We felt compelled to continue this conversation because, let's face it, we're all still navigating challenging times. As leaders, whether in business, our communities, or our families, we need all the support and tools we can get not just to survive but thrive.Our inspiring guest, Daniel Tardy, embodies transformation and resilience. A former engineer and real estate developer turned detox and transformational coach, TEDx speaker, and founder of getLIGHT, Daniel's mission is to help others find clarity in mind, body, and spirit. Join us as we explore the powerful connection between what we consume—food, energy, habits, and emotions—and how it shapes our ability to lead through crisis, chaos, and change.In This Episode:Learn how detoxification isn't just about the physical body but also a holistic approach that touches the mind and spirit.Daniel shares how his transition from engineering to detox coach stemmed from his own healing from chronic toxicity.Hear about Christie's detox journey with Daniel. She shares the profound shifts she experienced, both personally and as a leader.Explore the healing power of plant medicine and the emotional connections between our organs (anger in the liver, sadness in the kidneys, grief in the heart and lungs).Learn how reconnecting with nature, regardless of where you are, can profoundly change how you lead through crisis, chaos, and change.Discover the power of sound technology and how it can help us navigate our internal and external worlds during chaotic times.We're excited to invite you to an UpLevel Virtual Community Call!After her transformative detox journey, Christie is eager to share her experience with the community. She has invited Daniel to co-host this intimate conversation, where he will share his wisdom on detoxing and how the things we consume can deeply impact the way we lead.

In this insightful season finale episode of The UpLevel Podcast, we reflect on a powerful six-month journey exploring the “R.O.I. of Coaching in the Workplace.” Throughout this season, we've been privileged to learn from 18 incredible leaders and coaches who are at the forefront of transforming workplaces through coaching. From understanding how coaching enhances employee well-being and engagement to navigating the uncertainty of today's complex workplace, our guests shared invaluable wisdom and bottomlined that coaching is a gateway to creating more human-centered, resilient organizations.We encourage you to listen to the whole season of “R.O.I. of Coaching in the Workplace,” tune into any episodes you may have missed, or revisit those that resonated most deeply. Together, let's gain empowering insights that will transform how we view coaching in our workplace. Let's uplevel now!Here's the lineup:”Exploring the Transformative Power of Coaching in the Workplace” with Eric Kohner"From Google to Growth: Harnessing Coaching for Career and Organizational Well-Being” with Susie Ade“How a Big Tech Company is Revolutionizing Organizational Development Through Coaching in the Workplace” with Vimal Shyamji“From Feedback to Empowerment Through Coaching in the Workplace” with Holli Ilderton“Recognizing the Intangible ROI of Coaching in the Workplace” Dr. Henryk Krajewski“How To Cultivate The Superpower Of Coaching In The Workplace” with Christy King"Cultural Integration And Transformative Leadership Coaching In The Workplace” with John Tse Tow“The R.O.I. Of Creative Leadership Through Transformational Coaching In The Workplace” with Marjoleine Byrne“How To Embrace A Big Life Through Coaching In The Workplace” with Kendra Reddy“Integrating The Femasculine Leadership Model In the Workplace” with Signy Wilson“The Heart of Intuitive Leadership Through Coaching In The Workplace” with Rahim Moosa“Accelerating Success & Impact Through Coaching for Organizations in the Workplace” with Ann Farrell“Leading Across Continents: The Ripple Effect of Coaching In The Workplace” with Joni Mar“Team Coaching Approach & Design Alliances for Organizations" with Mike & Erin Hutchins“How to Implement an Effective Internal Coaching Program in the Workplace” with Moira Klein-Swormink“Cultivating Connection: How Coaching Enriches Leadership and Belongingness in the Workplace” with Rich Jones“Living a Bigger Game & Changing Lives Through Coaching in the Workplace” with Dr. Rick TamlynIn This Episode:Coaching is a powerful tool to navigate today's complex workplace.Insights from business leaders on using coaching to build engagement, retention, and well-being.How coaching breaks barriers and fosters a culture of openness, vulnerability, and growth.The power of coaching across generations and industriesA look at what's next as we continue discussing leadership in times of crisis chaos, and change.

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we welcome Dr. Rick Tamlyn, an inspirational powerhouse who has been transforming lives and organizations across the globe. As the co-creator of The Bigger Game and author of Play Your Bigger Game: 9 Minutes to Learn, A Lifetime to Live, Dr. Rick has made it his mission to help people step out of their comfort zones and create the lives they truly desire. Dr. Rick shares his journey from the inception of The Bigger Game to his pivotal role in pioneering coaching in the workplace. With a mix of humility and wisdom, he reflects on the early days of bringing this transformative technology into businesses and the lasting impact it has had.In This Episode:Rick's Background & Work: From author to activational keynote speaker, co-active trainer, and thought leader, Rick's influence spans various domains.The Bigger Game: How this tool has inspired thousands to live more meaningful, fulfilling lives.Produce U: Rick's latest endeavor, designed to empower individuals to produce their best selves, with an event coming up in October 2024.The ROI of Coaching: The tangible and intangible benefits of integrating coaching into the workplace.Metaphysics & Future Self: A fascinating discussion on Rick's thoughts about energetics, quantum physics, and how he envisions his 98-year-old future self.About Rick:Rick Tamlyn inspires people to be their best. He teaches that every experience, emotion, reaction, and relationship is All Made Up. As an author, activational keynote speaker, co-active trainer, and thought leader in the inspiration business, Rick has delivered his message around the world to people and organizations from all walks of life. In 2001, Rick co-created The Bigger Game: a tool that inspires people from all walks of life to get out of their comfort zones and invent the lives they want. He is the author of Play Your Bigger Game: 9 Minutes to Learn, A Lifetime to Live (Hay House).Rick is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) and a Master Certified Coach (MCC) as designated by the International Coach Federation (ICF).Website: www.RickTamlyn.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-tamlyn-076477/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ricktamlynX: https://x.com/RickTamlynFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rick.tamlynYoutube: @ricktamlynbiggergameJoin the upcoming PRODUCE YOU The Event on Oct. 10-11, 2024! Use code “save20” upon ticket checkout so you can save $20!Register here: http://www.produceyouevent.com

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we welcome a Wellness & Career Coach, a Masters track and field athlete, and the founder of Find More Balance, Rich Jones. Rich shares his journey of expanding leadership through developing himself as a coach and using coaching tools to encourage a sense of belonging within organizations. He also touches on personal reflection, recognizing capacities, and embracing one's achievements.If you're a leader who hasn't yet embraced the principles and skills of coaching, this conversation might inspire you to take the leap! Tune in now!In This Episode:Rich's Journey: From coach training to applying those skills as an internal leader at his organizationExpanding Belonging: The importance and methods of encouraging a sense of belonging in today's diverse workplacePersonal Capacity & Reflection: Recognizing one's limits while appreciating accomplishmentsCoaching Frameworks: How listening deeply can uncover true issues beyond surface-level problemsDefining Coaching: It's about helping people discover their answers and empowering them along the wayImpactful Experiences with Coaches: A powerful story about Rich's former manager who guided him through career decisions using coaching principlesAbout Rich:Rich Jones is a Wellness & Career Coach and the founder of Find More Balance, a coaching and content company dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential. In his day job at Google, Rich serves as a Retention and Progression Consultant in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging space, where he passionately coaches and advocates for employees, driving meaningful change within the organization.Beyond his professional endeavors, Rich is a masters track and field athlete and a two-time national champion, showcasing his commitment to excellence both on and off the field. A personality development junkie, Rich continuously seeks growth, not only for himself but for those he coaches and mentors.Website: http://www.findmorebalance.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/richrunstrackThreads: https://www.threads.net/@richrunstrackTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@richrunstrack

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, let's explore how coaching skills and competencies can be tailored to meet an organization's unique needs for achieving sustainable business results. Our guest is Moira Klein-Swormink, who brings her dynamic energy and extensive experience to our conversation on coaching within corporate environments. Moira shares her journey from working in Advertising alongside our host Christie at Cossette Communications in their early careers to becoming the principal of Canada Branch Development at Edward Jones. Pulling from 24 years of memories, Moira reflects on how coaching principles have been instrumental in her personal growth and a key driver for professional development and organizational success.Tune into this incredible episode and learn from one of the most confident and compassionate professionals in the coaching field. In This Episode:Hear Moira and Christie reminisce about their early careers and discover how Christie played as a coach for Moira during her formative years, helping her uncover authentic self-expression through personal exploration.Learn how coaching was introduced into Edward Jones and its impact on financial advisors.Hear about Coach U and their methodologies that differ from the Co-Active approach.Uncover the tactics employed by Moira to justify continued investment in coaching programs amidst various organizational challenges.Hear the strategies used by Edward Jones to apply coaching principles effectively within different contexts while maintaining alignment with company goals.Learn the importance of acknowledging emotions in the workplace and fine-tuning listening capabilities for better team dynamics.About Moira:Moira is a people-first, results-driven leader who is most satisfied when she is doing a million different things. She loves to learn and is constantly seeking ways to connect with others to gain exposure to new perspectives, activities, and opportunities – and to unlock hidden potential. Moira is passionate about people and possibilities – something that coaching has amplified for her throughout her career.Moira joined Edward Jones – a wealth management company – in January 2016, planning to stay for two years to build out the performance and coaching teams in Canada - that was 8 years ago! She became a partner at the firm in 2022 and currently leads Canada Branch Development. In this role, Moira is responsible for Practice Management Coaching & Consulting, Performance Management, Talent Acquisition & Learning for the Financial Advisors and Client Support Team Members across Canada. Prior to Jones, Moira worked at BMO Financial Group in various roles across the company. She left BMO and started a consulting, coaching & training practice to be around for her young children – and to gain exposure to new builder opportunities with start-ups in various fields.Moira's favorite work is raising three confident, compassionate, and capable children who she argues also help raise her!  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moiraks/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we explore coaching with powerhouse couple Mike and Erin Hutchins. They share their journey from consulting to coaching, how they define coaching, and how it has influenced their professional lives and their dynamic as life partners. With rich stories and insights on team coaching within organizations, Erin and Mike offer a wealth of knowledge on creating high-performing teams and maintaining work-life harmony.In This Episode:Hear Mike and Erin's definition of coaching as a partnership where coaches help coachees find solutions and create safety for lightbulb moments.Explore their unique dynamic as life partners and co-leaders in running an organization.Uncover how coaching skills are integrated into their family dynamics and business leadership.Discover Mike and Erin's origin story from working as consultants before transitioning into coaching.Understand the impact of shared purpose and designed alliances which amplifies alignment on business partnership and family life.Get insights on real-world contexts related to the team coaching approach that makes concepts applicable to clients and the importance of setting teams up for success before engagement begins.About Mike & Erin:Erin and Mike Hutchins are the dynamic co-founders of ACT, a leadership coach training and consulting firm dedicated to empowering leaders and organizations. With a wealth of combined experience, they offer unparalleled expertise and a shared passion for fostering transformative leadership.They are both Adjunct Lecturers at Brown University School of Professional Studies and have trained and coached hundreds of leaders and teams. Before creating ACT, they had a combined 25-year consulting career with the Big 4 leading large change programs. This deep organizational experience, coupled with the academic hardships of partnering with an Ivy League university, created the successful ICF-credentialed Leadership + Coaching Certification program.Website: https://actleader.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/act-leadership/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/actleadership/X: https://x.com/leadership_act

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we welcomed a Master Certified Coach who excels at generating powerful results with high-performance individuals, leaders, and teams. Our guest is Joni Mar; she specializes in leadership development, innovating and implementing strategic solutions, and relationship management across Asia, Europe, and North America in almost every industry sector. From her early days as a Co-Active trainer to her current role shaping C-Suite executives, general managers, and directors, Joni recounts transformative moments from her life and how they've influenced her approach to coaching others. Tune in for an enriching discussion about professional development, human growth, cultural heritage, leadership evolution, emotional intelligence, and creating legacies that span continents. In This Episode:Discover how Joni transitioned from journalism to coaching after seeking a new career path during a life-changing period.Be enlightened by Joni's definition of coaching as an authentic and unmasked conversation between two individuals focused on benefiting the coachee while enriching the coach's experience.Hear Joni and Christie as they recount their transformative moments through the process of coaching that continues to influence them today.Get insights about coaching across generational differences in workplaces today, from Baby Boomers' desire for legacy-building conversations to Gen Z's need for purpose-driven engagement.Listen to Joni's poignant reflection on completing an ancestral circle by bringing back knowledge to Asia, where part of Joni's lineage began.Understand the importance of self-love and generational wounds through helping others.Learn how Joni works with driven leaders who are learning to balance achieving results while nurturing relationships.Recognize the ripple effect that improves parenting skills through coach training and how that can impact future generations within workplaces.About Joni:Joni Mar, CPCC, CNTC, MCC, is a highly respected results-focused executive coach who enhances the performance, influence, and relationships of global business leaders and their teams. By elevating the conscious mindsets of leaders her clients report achieving unparalleled performance with greater success and satisfaction. She divides her time between North America and Asia coaching executives and their teams in global organizations to be more conscious and intentional in their leadership. While most of her leaders excel in achieving results, she coaches them to create a coaching culture, generate more impactful results, and leave a meaningful legacy. With Joni's keen understanding of human behavior, coaching is playful and profound. Her leaders become more influential and inspiring fueled by their passion and purpose. Prior to coaching Joni was an award-winning television journalist, and entrepreneur and is the co-author of “The Inspired Business Approach.”Website: https://www.jonimar.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonimar/

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we were honored to welcome our special guest, the remarkable Ann Farrell, a recognized authority in leadership development, a trailblazer in the corporate world, and a powerhouse in executive coaching. Ann remains the only woman in her Fortune 200 company's 170-year history to rise from entry-level to top leadership, overseeing organizations as large as 5,000 employees, managing budgets up to $8 billion, and leading a billion-dollar product development program. With her extensive background that spans 30 years, including a transformative personal journey into motherhood and coaching, Ann shares her insights on how effective coaching can significantly impact organizational success.In This Episode:Discover how becoming a mom led Ann to shift from high-level executive roles to pursue her passion for empowering others through coaching.Learn about organizations' pivotal role in investing in their leaders' growth through programs like master certification and corporate athlete pathways.Hear about Ann's powerful moment during a 360 feedback session that reshaped her approach to positivity and connection within professional settings.Understand why traditional one-on-one coaching may fall short without considering the broader organizational system at play.Gain insights into how engaging with all stakeholders involved can amplify return on investment (ROI) for both individuals and organizations alike.Hear valuable insights on what coaches need to consider when transitioning from personal to executive coaching and what organizations should look for when hiring coaches or building internal coaching strategies.Explore training opportunities designed by Ann that bridge gaps between personal coach training and the nuanced demands of organizational environments.Learn tips on landing business engagements with organizations by demonstrating process-oriented approaches rather than ad-hoc sessions and uncover strategies for weaving this systemic engagement throughout coaching processes to ensure long-term sustainability and effectiveness.About Ann:In her corporate career, Ann remains the only woman to rise from entry-level to the Top of the house in her Fortune 200 Company's 170-year history. Her experience enables her to know what it takes to succeed in Organizations and the keys to supporting executives and leaders to succeed in Organizations as well.For the past 18 years, she has leveraged her expertise and professional coach certifications to build her own very successful Executive and Leadership Development firm, Quantum Endeavors®, supporting over 1,000 Executives and leaders for over 10,000+ coaching hours. Her trademarked coaching engagement processes and group programs have earned her 100% Client-company Re-engagement and 100% Client Growth Rates for all 18 years. In 2018 she launched the Inpowered® Coaching Institute with results that prove struggle is optional and the “long” game doesn't have to take long as using the right strategies is what matters most, not time.Website: https://www.inpoweredcoachinginstitute.com/home

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, let's talk about how embracing the power of intuition is pivotal in creating a life we want to live that aligns with our values. Our guest is Rahim Moosa, an executive coach who uses his depth of intuition, compassion, empathy, and edge to surface the truth and create discovery pathways for his clients.With his experience and deep understanding of leadership dynamics, he shares his unique perspective on what it means to be an effective coach who can profoundly transform the workplace.In this Episode:Rahim shares his unique perspective on coaching as holding space for potential realization and forward-looking action.Rahim explains the concept of ‘holding space' as being present, grounded, and attuned without distraction, utilizing the whole body as a tool for listening and observing.Discover how intuition plays a vital role in Rahim's coaching journey. He reflects on learning to trust this inner guidance system.Hear an intimate conversation about Rahim's personal life events, such as the birth of his daughter, the death of a loved one, his health scare, and working under toxic leadership, which prompted the profound shift in Rahim's career path.Explore how organizations are increasingly valuing intuitive skills alongside data-driven approaches. Rahim discusses trends like neuroplasticity becoming integral parts of leadership development programs. Rahim emphasizes how coaching has become essential medicine for navigating VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) environments.Rahim delves into the R.O.I. of coaching, where clients have high levels of trust and safety along with valuable experiential learning when engaging with coaches.Rahim shares his experience as an alumnus and faculty member at Royal Roads and the ‘accelerator model' curriculum that played an instrumental role in shaping his approach toward executive coaching today.About Rahim:Rahim Moosa is an Executive Coach with a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) designation with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) based in Toronto, Canada. Rahim brings self-awareness to his client's innate capabilities and connects their talent to wider organizational objectives.  From this base of insight, he holds them capable of making behavioral changes that are demonstrable in how they show up, how they manage team interactions, and how they measure performance.Rahim holds a Bachelor of Commerce from York University along with certifications in Innovation from the Harvard Division of Continuing Education, Resiliency and Mindfulness from Queen's University, and Executive Coaching from Royal Roads University.  He is certified with Multi-Health Systems (MHS) to deliver and assess Emotional Intelligence (EQi 2.0 and EQi 360) for individuals and teams.  Rahim is also a Mentor Coach for learners in the Executive Coaching and Masters in Leadership Program at Royal Roads University located in British Columbia, Canada.LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahimmoosa

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, learn the ‘Femasculine' approach that teaches how to balance masculine and feminine energy within all genders. This integrated leadership model arms leaders with the insight needed to change the way they move forward and create the businesses (and lives) they want. Our guest is Signy Wilson, a pioneer in the coaching field and one of Canada's premiere leadership coaches. With her 20 years of experience as a Leadership and Executive Coach, she breaks down the behaviors and mindsets that define toxic, distorted, and integrated masculine and feminine—and their ​impact​ ​and​ ​influence​ in the workplace. She also shares the crucial distinction between executive and leadership coaching.This episode is for anyone seeking wisdom and insights into creating an inclusive company culture where no one feels left behind, and creativity grows across organizations in the workplace. Tune in now!In This Episode:Signyficant Living: Explore Signy's concept of leading a life filled with meaning, purpose, and passion beyond society's traditional success measures.Transformative Journey: Hear reflections on Signy's transformative journey, the impact of slowing down, and the importance of being heart-centered.Internalized Capitalism and Decolonization: Gain insights into moving away from external validation toward inner truth.Femasculine Model: Discover how to balance feminine energy like collaboration and community with masculine traits like action and focus for harmonious leadership.Four Coaching Skills: Learn the coaching skills that foster workplace engagement and align masculine and feminine qualities.Mindset Shifts: Understand how mindset shifts can enhance employee engagement and foster diversity, equity, and inclusion, allowing individuals to bring their whole selves to work.About Signy:As a pioneer in the coaching field, she has been on the Faculty of the Coaches Training Institute since 2005 and has been awarded the exclusive Master Certified Coach (MCC) designation by the International Coach Federation (ICF). In her 20 years as a Leadership and Executive Coach, helping managers to CEOs from small start-ups to Fortune 50 companies, she especially loves working with women in leadership who gave up part of themselves to be successful in the corporate space, and long to return to wholeness. Signy received a Master of Human Resources in Leadership Development, and a Bachelor of Commerce Degree, from Queen's University in Kingston, Canada, and is certified in more personality assessment tools than any one person should be. Creator of the Signyficant Living program and the Femasculine Model, Signy believes that through completely honoring our whole self we live our fullest, most Signyficant lives.Website: https://signywilson.comFemasculine Website: https://signywilson.com/femasculine/Harvard Business Review “What it Really Takes to Become an Executive Coach”https://hbr.org/2023/12/what-it-really-takes-to-become-an-executive-coachwww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we have an empowering conversation with our guest Kendra Reddy, a dynamic leader and a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach who shares her philosophy on living a 'big life'—embracing both the highs and lows that come our way. She reflects on how pivotal moments shaped her understanding of value beyond job titles, leading to an inspiring career in coaching. She opens up about her journey from executive recruiting to human capital consulting, where she discovered the transformative power of coaching in the workplace. Join us as we explore what it takes to live and to lead expansively while navigating through personal challenges and professional expectations.In This Episode:Learn how living a big life means accepting all aspects of experience, including challenges.Discover why coaching is an engaged process that supports someone's greatness rather than following a strict model or set of questions that affect professional development and personal growth.Hear Kendra's story about how she earned her 11 certifications and discuss how she overcame her imposter syndrome.Kendra emphasizes that a good coach helps clients embrace their potential beyond job titles or roles. It lies in being fully present, lending strength, and encouraging clients toward their greatness.Learn the importance of aligning coaching practices with organizational culture for lasting impact. Understand why organizations need to shift away from rigid metrics towards recognizing incremental progress in coaching outcomes. About Kendra:A Master Coach (CPCC, CNTC) and Storyteller, Kendra believes that leading with excellence begins with personal mastery. The more energy you invest in discovering, integrating, and liberating the most authentic, daring, and conscious version of you – the more your capacity to live a Big Life grows. Drawing from positive psychology, coaching, neuroscience, somatics, modern spirituality, nature, the multidisciplinary science of sustainable high performance, and her journey of recovering from cPTSD, Kendra engages people in thought-provoking conversations that empower and help them dramatically expand and improve their leadership capacity, clarity, and confidence.Since 2008, Kendra has successfully launched and grown her company, Blueprint Strategies Inc., authored the Executive Career column for the Financial Post online, appeared on popular television, coached thousands of executives, entrepreneurs, and artists. Kendra is a designated Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) and Certified Neuroscience Transformational Coach (CNTC) with over 2,500 applied hours. She's earned certifications in Solutions-Focused Brief Coaching, Somatics and Embodied Transformation, Social Psychology, Equine Assisted Leadership Facilitation, and Breathwork Facilitation. She's also studied Organizational Relationship Systems Coaching (ORSC), Tantric science, and has a disciplined spiritual leadership practice.Website: https://www.kendrareddy.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendrareddy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendrareddy/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, hear our special guest, Marjoleine Byrne, as she shares her journey from being a lawyer and mother to discovering her passion for coaching after moving to California from Europe. She recalls the life-changing moment when she was asked, "What do you want?"—a question that sparked deep introspection and led her down the path of coaching. Marjoleine is one of the first coaches to integrate Co-Active with adult-stage development and agile transformation. Her innovative approach has empowered senior leaders worldwide to embrace Creative Leadership, catalyzing deep organizational change.This episode serves as both inspiration and a practical guidebook on how effective coaching can significantly improve workplace dynamics, leader effectiveness, and employee engagement levels and ultimately contribute positively toward achieving organizational goals amidst ever-changing environments. Tune in now!In This Episode:Marjoleine's journey from law to coaching–driven by personal growth and seeking purpose beyond life's roles and responsibilities.Explore Marjoleine's pioneering work in integrating Co-Active Coaching with adult-stage development and agile transformation, revolutionizing how organizations approach personal and professional growth.Get insights into how investing in employee coaching skills can foster better relationships among team members and enhance overall organizational effectiveness.Discover strategies for tailoring content to meet specific client needs while staying true to the larger context of their journey.Impactful discussions on essential leadership competencies, from authenticity and creativity over-reactivity to relationship building through listening and inquiry, and self-awareness around limiting beliefs and assumptionsUncover the power of collaboration and creating value through generosity and partnership, exceeding competition for long-term client success.Learn Marjoleine's favorite coaching technique, which is perfect for establishing clear expectations and effective collaboration with clients.Hear the importance of aligning coach training with business outcomes and the incredible benefits it brings.About Marjoleine:Marjoleine Byrne, CPCC, M.A., PCC is passionate about supporting leaders, teams, and organizations to thrive in complexity and evolve their leadership mindset. Her work helps people grow personally and professionally by connecting more deeply, living more fully, and transforming the relationships that matter most in their lives. One of the first coaches to integrate Co-Active with adult-stage development and agile transformation, Marjoleine has trained many senior leaders to use Co-Active to accelerate the move to Creative Leadership. Her collaboration with The Leadership Circle has taken the unique combination of Co-Active and TLC to leaders and teams worldwide. In 2021, her partnership with two teams of a biotech company resulted in a unique ICF Prism Honorable Mention for the COVID-19 pandemic response. Marjoleine has lived and worked in the U.S. and Europe, bringing deep cultural awareness to all her work. She currently resides in the Netherlands with her husband and three teenage children.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/marjoleinebyrnewww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we welcome John Tse Tow, a well-versed coaching practitioner with over 20 years of experience. John shares his evolving definition of coaching, emphasizing its transformative power and ability to unearth hidden aspects within individuals. He recounts his career journey, from facilitating youth programs at age 18 to leading training sessions across China for HSBC and JPMorgan. He reflects on how he witnessed the shift from traditional training methods towards embracing coaching modalities for personal and professional development.Listen in to gain insights into blending cultural elements into modern corporate training techniques while appreciating the unique challenges faced by the Eastern region market when it comes to embracing new paradigms in organizational development through personal growth frameworks such as Co-Active coaching combined with analytical tools like Leadership Circle. Tune in now!In This Episode:Discover how John transitioned from facilitating youth programs to pioneering coaching initiatives at major financial institutions like HSBC and JPMorgan.Explore John's perspective on coaching as a method to uncover hidden aspects within individuals that they may not be aware of, thus helping them discover new facets of their potential.Gain insights into how organizations have shifted from traditional training models toward embracing coaching for leadership development, especially noting differences in adoption rates across Asia.Learn about the challenges and rewards of introducing Western-developed methodologies such as Co-Active Coaching to diverse Asian cultures.Understand how John leverages his multilingual abilities to create deeper connections during his sessions by integrating cultural nuances.Hear about innovative ways to engage leaders through playfulness, embodiment practices, and creativity exercises that tap into different cognitive processes.About John:John Tse Tow (pronounced see-toe), PCC, CPCC, ORSCC, is an accomplished and highly qualified coach and facilitator with 20+ years of experience in various industries. Being a faculty member of the Co-Active Training Institute as well as a brand ambassador and faculty of the Leadership Circle, John plays a crucial role in training and mentoring new coaches. Originally from Brunei, John has lived in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Brisbane. His multicultural upbringing and fluency in 8 languages have enabled John to deliver and coach in numerous countries and across cultures. He has also led successful leadership culture transformation programs for multinational companies. Currently, John works with leadership teams and team leaders across industries, helping them navigate the volatile and complex business landscape. His mission is to elevate leaders' consciousness and unlock their true potential through self-awareness and transformative leadership. With his expertise in corporate culture programs, John has been recognized for his exceptional work in designing and delivering training programs. His leadership style focuses on facilitating transformation and challenging teams to explore their intelligence and creativity.Website: https://www.johntt.coach/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johntt-coach/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, Christy King, shares her journey and insights on building a coaching culture within an organization. Aside from being the Head of National Leadership Development of BDO USA, Christy is a certified Co-Active coach. She highlights how she discovered coaching, which she considers a 'superpower', and advocates for its integration in the workplace. She believes coaching can truly enhance leadership and improve the personal well-being of employees, which drives team productivity and results in achieving company goals and success.For anyone looking to cultivate effective developmental strategies within their organization, tune into this insightful conversation that explores how embracing these practices can lead to significant individual and corporate growth.In This Episode:Christy defines coaching as a "superpower" that helps others help themselves through curiosity, genuine listening, and powerful questioning.The distinction between advising and coaching in professional roles.Her personal story about discovering positive leadership and meeting Steve Gladis led to embracing a coaching approach within BDO.How experiencing effective coaching firsthand influenced Christy's mission to establish a culture of coaching at work.The impact of receiving personal executive coaching on her own development as a leader and mother.Challenges faced while integrating coach training into corporate structure amidst priorities like workload pressures and measuring the ROI.Strategies for implementing a culture of coaching include starting with foundational skills like questioning and listening.Advice for other organizations looking to foster their own cultures around strengths-based leadership: start small but stay persistent in sharing your vision; integrate external coaches along with developing internal leaders' capabilities; be flexible in customizing programs according to company culture without losing core methodologies or values alignment.Christy also emphasizes how important it is for vendors partnering with companies like BDO to understand unique organizational cultures. About Christy:Christy King founded and leads the National Leadership Development function for BDO USA, one of the largest Accounting and Consulting firms in the country. She has 20+ years of experience in people development and is known for her passion for developing leaders and empowering them with the insights and self-awareness to help them “show up” as their authentic selves. Fixed on the goal to build a coaching culture at BDO and a firm believer that coaching is one of the most impactful development tools we can offer leaders, Christy has partnered over the years with her team and strategic leaders throughout the firm to build a robust and progressive leadership development approach and resources that weave coaching concepts and resources throughout. Christy herself is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC), working toward ICF professional coach certification. She believes that everyone is a leader, regardless of level, and that we all have opportunities to model excellence, leading ourselves and others, and helping people thrive every day. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/christylkingwww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

In celebration of the 2024 International Coaching Week, we bring together a panel of esteemed coaches to share their experiences and discuss what it means to be an elder in this profession in our third season of Wisdom From Our Elders. Our guests include Judith Cohen, Sookgi Han, Sam House, Sharna Fey, and Dori-Ben Chanoch, each offering unique perspectives on the evolution of coaching and its profound impact.This conversation is rich with anecdotes highlighting each coach's practices and practical tools that help them show up as their more effective selves. Please join us as we unwrap their timeless wisdom and learn how to apply it to our lives. Whether you're just beginning your coaching journey or are seeking inspiration after years in practice, tune into this episode filled with heartfelt stories and hard-won lessons sure to resonate deeply with everyone!In this Episode:Get acquainted with our panelists, who collectively have over a century's worth of coaching experience.Discover insights from Judith Cohen, the longest-serving certification examiner in coaching history.Learn about how Sookgi Han has championed Co-Active Coaching in South Korea and her pride in leading quality workshops.Explore Sam's journey through coactive coaching across various cultures, including China, Japan, Korea, the Middle East, Europe, Spain, and North America.Hear about Sharna's impact on bringing coactive coaching skills into corporations while being an active member of the queer community.Uncover Dori's role in spreading coactive training outside North America into Europe and the Middle East – challenging misconceptions about its application within organizations.Get insights on personal practices that enable each coach to deliver their best work, such as mindfulness, reading, writing memos, walking, and engaging hobbies.Discover the definition of an 'elder' within the context of professional coaching and the joy and responsibility that comes with being identified as one.Panel:Judith Cohen, MCC, CPCC, MSWWebsite: https://coachjudithcohen.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachjudithcohen/Sookgi Han, MCCLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sookgi-han-14910823/Sam House, MCC, CPCCLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-house-62154b3/Sharna Fey, PCC, CPCCWebsite: https://www.sharnafey.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharnafey/Dori Ben-Chanoch, PCC, CPCC, ICFLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dori-ben-chanoch-660468/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we've recorded a special episode to celebrate the upcoming International Coaching Week 2024 by discussing why at UpLevel we take the time to celebrate, and in this case - celebrate our profession and why honoring our Elders is so important to us.As a tradition, we continue to bring together a panel of seasoned coaches to be our guests and share their nuggets of wisdom, unique lived experiences, and valuable insights, highlighting the profound impact of coaching on their lives and the countless individuals they helped who have been transformed and empowered by coaching.Whether you're a coach, a coach in training, or an individual inside an organization looking for inspiration, we encourage you to tune into previous years' discussions while eagerly awaiting the new episode of “Wisdom From Our Elders: Part III” to be released on May 15th, 2024; offering timeless wisdom applicable across various stages of life's journey.In this Episode:A brief overview of International Coaching Week and its significance to coaches worldwide.The importance of acknowledging and honoring mentors who paved the way for current coaching practices.The evolution of the coaching profession and how far it has come since its inception.Personal transformation on how coaching has transformed lives, enhanced relationships, and provided tools for healing and growth.The importance of why celebrating milestones is as crucial as achieving them and understanding the need to savor accomplishments rather than rushing onto the next goalInsights on why elders' wisdom is considered guidance and vital in navigating today's challenges within both professional spheres and personal lives.www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, hear our special guest, Dr. Henryk Krajewski, as we delve into the tangible and intangible benefits of coaching in the workplace. He is a seasoned management consultant who has worked with public and private organizations across North America and beyond, serving both high-growth founders and large-scale enterprise CEOs. With his extensive experience in enhancing managerial performance and collaboration within organizations, Dr. Henryk shares valuable insights on how small changes can lead to significant impacts. He emphasizes the importance of genuine curiosity, humor, empathy, direct communication, and mutual accountability in successful coaching relationships.So, if you're looking to uplevel your leadership practices or insights on leadership development through coaching, this episode is for you! Tune in now!In this Episode:Hear the challenge of measuring ROI for coaching due to its intangible nature.Discover how simple "say and do's" can have a profound impact on organizational climate and performance.Listen to Dr. Henryk as he describes the distinction between coaching as facilitating thought partnership versus advisory roles that may involve advice or shared experiences.Dr. Henryk traces his path back to discovering industrial/organizational psychology during his university days.Get insights about the evolution of workplace coaching from remedial measures to a proactive strategy for unlocking potential ahead of major changes or acquisitions.Dr. Henryk advocates injecting humor and authenticity into conversations while maintaining accountability. He also emphasizes the use of trinkets or notes as reminders for leaders to engage more effectively during interactions. And encourage the use of emotional words to humanize their approach and build stronger connections with teams.Learn effective feedback mechanisms for leaders and teams, including peer groups for shared experiences and structured accountability processes.About Henryk:Dr. Henryk Krajewski has a 19-year track record of helping CEOs and executive teams generate unique solutions to their toughest challenges. Henryk specializes in working with teams to improve trust and the speed and quality of their outputs. Certified by INSEAD's Blue Ocean Strategy Institute, Henryk also helps teams build competitive strategies that unlock new value. Representative CEOs and executive team clients include BMO, Eli Lilly, PCL, Aecon, Cornerstone, Deloitte, Crosslinx, and PSPC / Centre Block. Henryk works extensively in Private Equity due diligence and post-acquisition team-based work to enhance management performance.Prior to joining Kilberry, Henryk was the owner of two independent CEO advisory firms and previously held the role of Practice Lead for Talent Solutions at Right Management.Dr. Krajewski publishes extensively in Forbes and has previously written for Profit Magazine, the Financial Post, the Globe and Mail, National Post, HR Reporter, and HR.com. Henryk holds a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Western University.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/henryk.krajewski_phd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henryk-krajewski-ph-d-65b6312/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we're joined by Holli Ilderton, a seasoned leader at global retailer Lululemon. With over ten years of experience in leadership, Holli shares her journey from management to embodying coaching principles and how tapping into individual values and resilience has transformed her personal experiences and significantly impacted organizational dynamics.For anyone looking to enhance their approach to leadership through integrating coaching or those already practicing and seeking affirmation, this insightful conversation underscores why such endeavors are worthwhile pursuits. Tune in now!In this Episode:Holli's introduction as a seasoned manager and trainer who has spent over a decade at Lululemon.Get insights on how Lululemon integrates coaching into everyday management practices as a core value.Holli describes how receiving internal coaching helped her navigate personal challenges while maintaining professional responsibilities.Insights into how developing leaders through coaching can lead to profound changes within an organization.Get a glimpse of Holli's day-to-day management of a large retail operation and how she incorporates coaching techniques with both staff and customers.The transformative power of deep listening, metaphors, bottom-lining techniques, and third-level listening skills in effective management.Listen to an anecdote about using curiosity and deep listening skills to help an employee uncover root issues affecting her performance, leading to significant personal growth and career advancement for the individual involved.Hear Holli compare her managerial approaches before coaching and after coaching, highlighting the increased directness, empowerment, accountability, strategic development planning, and ultimately improved outcomes for team members' growth paths.Uncover the distinctions between providing feedback vs engaging in a coaching conversation.About Holli:Holli is a Co-Active trained coach who has worked for global retailer Lululemon as a manager and internal leadership development coach for over a decade. Her work centers around the idea that when we as individuals can tap into our own values, our own uniqueness, and our resilience, we not only elevate how we experience our own lives, but we also impact how organizations and ultimately how global systems operate.Website: https://www.holliilderton.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holliildertoncoaching/Holli's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holliilderton/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holli-ilderton/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we explore the transformative power of coaching in professional settings with our special guest, Vimal Shyamji,  a seasoned leadership coach and senior manager at a large tech company. With over 200 individuals under his guidance and an impressive background that spans tech, finance, and manufacturing recruitment, Vimal brings a wealth of experience to our discussion on the ROI when incorporating coaching into workplace dynamics. Vimal also emphasized how coaching changed his life and shaped his career and approach to organizational management.Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with actionable takeaways for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of effective leadership through the lens of professional coaching. Tune in now!In this Episode:Listen to how Vimal's unexpected journey from aspiring high school math teacher to business administration graduate set him up for success in the corporate world.Hear Vimal's initial dismissiveness of coaching and learn how he got into the world of coaching and how it revolutionized his perspective and practices as a leader.Discover how Vimal's theological principles align with core coaching beliefs about human potential and creativity while overcoming insecurities linked to mathematical prowess.Be enlightened by Vimal's personal growth and how he embraced uncertainty and emotional richness rather than suppressing them. A shift from problem-solving focus to empowering others' capabilities.Hear Vimal's insights into leading during uncertain times such as the pandemic by establishing foundational values that resonate within teams.Vimal shares a tool such as breathwork for navigating stressful situations in the workplace and personal upheaval.Hear Vimal's perspective on how challenging leaders move beyond temporary fixes towards long-term fulfillment by tapping into their true selves instead of meeting external standards.Vimal encourages curiosity about different perspectives to foster inclusion and belonging within diverse work environments.About Vimal:Vimal Shyamji is a leadership coach and a Senior Manager of Global Recruiting for a large tech company. He currently leads a matrix org of 200-plus individuals supporting the hyper-growth of this organization's cloud business. Prior to that, he led global recruiting for a different department within the organization, including the integration of a 2000-person acquisition in Taiwan. Before moving to the Bay Area seven years ago, he worked for recruitment firms moving from Tennessee to Boston to Los Angeles, building teams in tech, finance, and manufacturing.  He initially attended Lee University with a plan to teach high school math before pivoting to obtain a degree in business administration with a minor in theology. Vimal completed his coach training with the Co-Active Training Institute. Equipped with a diverse skill set encompassing relationship-building, trust-building, consistency, iOS development, JavaScript, and of course coaching, Vimal offers invaluable expertise to the industry.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vimalshyamji/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vimalshy/X: https://twitter.com/vimalshywww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we delve into the profound impact of coaching within organizations. Our special guest, Susie Ade, shares her extensive experience and insights from working over a decade at Google, where she utilized coaching skills in various roles, and reveals how embracing a coaching mindset can transform individual careers and enhance overall workplace well-being. As a certified professional Co-Active coach and an advocate for mental health, Susie discusses her journey from discovering coaching to implementing it as a tool for personal and organizational growth.In this Episode:Hear about Susie's background in mindfulness and meditation and her decade-long career at Google, leading various programs.Discover how she transitioned from corporate roles to pursuing a full-time coaching practice.Listen to powerful insights into overcoming limiting beliefs through professional coaching support.Explore the strategies used by Google managers, such as a two-day training course called “Search Inside Yourself,” to foster psychological safety and emotional intelligence.Discover learning techniques such as deep listening (Levels 1–3) that lead to better understanding and problem-solving within teams.Hear Susie share stories addressing imposter syndrome among employees and empowering them to navigate remote work complexities amid the pandemic.Learn Susie's advice on how to integrate coaching tools into management practices while building rapport and trust with direct reports.About Susie:With a mission to guide individuals toward their inner calling and life's purpose, Susie Ade combines her background in mindfulness, meditation, and coaching to help people discover what they want out of life and how to get it. She's a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) and Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation. Susie spent the last 10 years at Google leading programs across Marketing, Trust and Safety, and People Development. Most notably, she spent several years creating sustained well-being and psychological safety within organizations as the Global Program Manager for Mental Health and Well-Being. During her time at the company, she coached hundreds of employees on reaching the next level or pivoting into a new career. In September of 2023, she left Google to pursue her career coaching practice full-time. Susie lives in Atlanta, GA with her husband and daughter. She enjoys running, reading about the mystics and spirituality, and traveling the world with her loved ones. Website: https://www.susieade.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susie-ade-514a2626/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

Welcome back, UpLevelers! This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we are kicking off a brand-new season and diving into the “ROI of Coaching in the Workplace.” Our special guest is a true pioneer in the field, Eric Kohner. Eric is not just an executive coach; he's a seasoned trainer and a trailblazer in the coaching profession. ​​He is currently a senior trainer for the Co-Active Training Institute, an organization widely recognized as the gold standard in coach training and leadership development. Join us as Eric shares captivating stories from the early days of coaching, shedding light on its origin story and the key players who laid the groundwork for what we now recognize as coaching. His journey spans over two decades within a single organization where he championed the integration of coach training, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of coaching within corporate landscapes. In this Episode:Discover how Eric transitioned from acting to consulting and eventually embraced coaching long before it became mainstream.Learn about the shift from consulting actors to realizing these powerful tools could benefit professionals across all industries, leading to broader applications within various organizations.Understand why Eric believes developing coaching skills is essential for modern leaders facing Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous (VUCA) environments.Celebrate two decades of partnership between Eric and global consultancy firm Capgemini.Get insights into what makes a 21st-century leader through the BADASS acronym—Bold, Authentic, Disruptive, Agile, Spacious & Supportive—and learn about integrating different aspects like heart and intuition beyond rational thinking.Reflect on how embracing vulnerability has shifted Eric's approach over time—from fierce confrontation toward softer engagement while maintaining bold authenticity as part of his brand identity.Hear about Eric's efforts outside corporate walls as he engages with marginalized communities and brings leadership development programs to correctional facilities—work inspired by a personal reckoning upon turning 65 years old.Gain perspective on how personal experiences shape our responses during times of crisis or conflict.About Eric:Eric is an executive coach, senior trainer, and pioneer in the coaching profession. He is known for his passion, where he coaches from the heart with compassion, intuition, and fearlessness. From this space, Eric co-creates with clients--from corporate executives to social justice champions--to disrupt the status quo and discover their fullest potential as leaders. Eric is the principal of his own Coaching and Leadership Development company, ekcoSYSTEM. His signature program is the BADASS Leadership Program. This program has been delivered inside organizations such as Capgemini, ING, and Sony Music Entertainment. Eric is also committed to bringing Leadership Coaching to underrepresented communities. He spearheaded CTI's collaboration with SNUG (guns spelled backward), an anti-gun violence organization in New York State.Website: https://www.ekcosystem.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kohner/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eric.kohner/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

In this season finale episode of the UpLevel Podcast, our hosts Christie Mann and Rachel Baldi reflect on their journey through a season dedicated to “Leading Through Crisis, Chaos, and Change.” Join us as they discuss key takeaways and a comprehensive overview of the insights into up-leveling by integrating practical tools and inspiration shared by our esteemed guests over the past three months.We encourage you to listen to the whole season of Leading Through Crisis, Chaos, and Change,” to get practices that will reconnect you with yourself amidst adversity.As we close this season filled with growth-oriented dialogues remember: each one of us has a role in leading humanity forward through these turbulent times, with compassion resilience, creativity, and don't forget playfulness too!Tune into any episodes you may have missed or revisit those that resonated most deeply—and carry forward these lessons into your everyday life. Let's uplevel now!Here's the line-up:“Living in Rhythm Amidst Crisis, Chaos, and Change” with Sunday Phillips“Harnessing the Power of Profound Intimate Leadership” with Neil Edwards“Embracing Womb Wisdom in Life and Leadership” with Anabel Vizcarra“Navigating Grief in the Workplace During Times of Crisis, Chaos, and Change” with Margo Fowkes & Che Marville“Leading with Kindness Amidst Crisis, Chaos, and Change” with Jeff Jacobson“Embracing Kundalini Yoga for Leadership and Life” with Shabadpreet Khalsa“Championing Humanity in the Workplace Amidst Crisis, Chaos, and Change” with Lisa Goren"Courage Amidst Conflict: Navigating Perspectives and Paradoxes During Times of Crisis, Chaos, and Change” with Yara Ben Chaim“Awakening Original Wisdom in Times of Crisis, Chaos, and Change” with Donna Bond“The Human Competitive Advantage for Leading Through Crisis, Chaos, and Change” with Bryan Kramer“Embracing Matriarchal Wisdom in Times of Crisis, Chaos, and Change” with Karen Kimsey HouseIn this Episode:This season focused on bridging spiritual practices with practical business applications and discussions that encompassed well-being, relationships, and navigating life through crisis, chaos, and change.Listen to our guests from various backgrounds as they share wisdom and perspectives tailored for anyone facing change or challenges.Hear techniques ranging from breathwork to somatic practices aimed at finding one's center and discover practices that establish routines that support mental health and stability during tough times. Discover leadership redefined beyond title as an intrinsic human quality rather than a corporate position.A heartfelt thank you and gratitude to our remarkable guests for their invaluable contributions.Embrace the power of silence in facilitating deeper understanding alongside building profound intimacy within personal and professional spheres.Dive into the five buckets of kindness as leadership is highlighted as an essential trait for leaders today.Learn how to navigate conflicts by stressing the importance of listening before speaking—a lesson in humility and respect across differing experiences.Hear insights about how embracing feminine energy within all genders was pivotal.www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Karen Kimsey-House, a beacon of hope and guidance, and a pioneer in leadership coaching and co-founder of the Co-Active Training Institute (CTI). As our world grapples with unprecedented challenges, Karen shares her profound insights on navigating crisis, chaos, and change through what she describes as matriarchal wisdom energy. This episode offers guidance not only for leaders within organizations but also for individuals facing extreme adversities worldwide who seek ways to maintain their humanity while striving toward creating a world that works inclusively for everyone.Join us in this enlightening conversation filled with wisdom from a seasoned leader who has navigated both personal transformations and contributed significantly towards shaping modern and cutting-edge coaching and leadership methodologies. Tune in now!In this Episode:Karen discusses her perspective on global tensions and how they might signal an opportunity for something new to emerge.Reflecting on pivotal moments that shaped her journey—from leaving the theater to birthing CTI.She provides insight into the 'co-active' technology—a blend of being (co-) and doing (-active)—emphasizing love over fear as a powerful tool for personal growth and societal change.Addressing those in extreme situations like war zones or survival modes, Karen speaks about maintaining humanity while managing immediate needs.Explore how nature, meditations, and yoga are among the practices that keep Karen grounded amidst adversity.Discover stories about coaching within prison systems and leadership programs in Israel.Understanding the cancel culture's intent while advocating conversation beyond its limitations; exploring repair through dialogue rather than division.Karen emphasizes the significance of evolving feminine leadership exemplified by figures like New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.About Karen:One of the earliest recognized luminaries in the coaching profession, Karen Kimsey-House founded CTI in 1992 with Laura Whitworth and Henry Kimsey-House. They created the Co-Active philosophy of relationship that informs CTI's world-renowned coaching and leadership programs. She also is a blogger for The Huffington Post and the co-author of Co-Active Coaching, the best-selling industry bible, now in its third edition. A successful entrepreneur, Kimsey-House founded and directed the Learning Annex San Francisco adult education program in 1986 and grew it into one of the most admired programs under the national Learning Annex brand. She received her MFA in Communications and Theater from Temple University in Philadelphia. Committed to pioneering Co-Activity in challenged environments and troubled populations, Kimsey-House continues to lead CTI workshops and is a dynamic keynote speaker around the world. On a mission of global, transformative change, she lives with her husband, Henry Kimsey-House, in Ashland Oregon.Website: https://coactive.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-kimsey-house-48a5458/X: https://twitter.com/kkimseyhousewww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we're joined by the insightful and inspiring Bryan Kramer, a renowned business strategist, global keynote speaker, executive trainer, and coach, investor, two-time bestselling author, and Forbes contributor. Bryan is a shining example of authentic leadership, embodying a profound balance between ambition and empathy. As a thought leader on human connection in digital spaces, he emphasizes engagement as the key metric for success both personally and within organizations. Bryan shares his insights on the importance of personal connection and how being human is a competitive advantage in leading through crisis, chaos, and change. Bryan believes embracing our humanity is the ultimate power, and he's here to shed light on what that truly means. In this Episode:Bryan describes our era as one filled with chaos, turmoil, hate, vitriol, an overwhelming quest for balance, and the hidden opportunities beneath.Insights about the evolution from early social media excitement to today's challenge of maintaining genuine connections amidst AI advancements.Hear why "being human" is your competitive advantage – fostering authenticity rather than relying on automated interactions.Bryan emphasizes the importance of authentic engagement over templated communication and strategies for enhancing personal engagement.Bryan highlights that leaders need to invest in their employees' well-being beyond work productivity, leading to loyalty and improved performance.Hear how simplifying life by disconnecting from overwhelming news sources can lead us back to trusting ourselves more deeply.Bryan shares his experience transforming agencies from traditional models to digital powerhouses. He stresses adaptability and continuous learning as key drivers for growth amidst change.Bryan talks about his sobriety journey and how he got through it by having a support system—not only did it help him achieve sobriety but also allowed him to contribute more meaningfully across different facets of life including family bonds and professional endeavors.Discover the three pillars essential for trust, including simplicity, empathy, and imperfection.About Bryan:Bryan Kramer is a renowned business strategist, global keynote speaker, executive trainer and coach, investor, two-time bestselling author, and Forbes contributor. As President and co-owner of PureMatter, a Silicon Valley global marketing agency since 2001, and CEO of H2H Companies, he sparked the Human-to-Human “H2H” global movement that sets out to humanize business through simpler communication, empathy, and celebrating our imperfections. His TED Talk featured a TED “first” – allowing mobile devices during the event to illustrate his belief that even a small inspirational share holds the power to change the world for the better. Bryan has spoken all over the world, over 200 times at global companies including Mastercard, L‘oreal Paris, NASA, GoDaddy, Harvard University, Charles Schwab, SXSW, International Culinary Institute, Verizon, Dell, NFL, and Hawaii Lodging & Tourism, to name a few.Website: https://bryankramer.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanjkramer/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bryankramer1/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we welcome a spiritual life and business coach, thought leader, catalyst for personal transformation, ignitor of light, and author of Original Wisdom: Harness the Power of the Authentic You, the one and only, Donna Bond. Her unwavering dedication lies in empowering individuals to master our consciousness and the significance of our original wisdom during times of crisis, chaos, and change. She is a beacon of light and a champion of love in its purest form. Through her guidance, we learn how to initiate our journey as inner leaders, a crucial precursor to leading others in various spheres of life, be it projects, missions, families, or communities. Donna Bond's narrative serves as a compelling testament to the transformative power of her work. In this Episode:The bond between Christie and Donna as they both attended a master's program in spiritual psychologyDonna shares her transition from a 28-year corporate career to pursuing a more meaningful path after experiencing an awakening at age 45.Discover original wisdom as the inherent intelligence rooted in the unconditional love that each individual possesses.Transformation through awareness, which emphasizes changing one's relationship with thoughts and emotions to inspire transformative actions guided by original wisdom.The four intelligences—intellectual (IQ), emotional (EQ), physical (PQ), and spiritual (SQ)—that contribute to holistic self-awarenessDonna's practices for tuning in, such as meditation and workshop participation. She unveils her upcoming workshop called "Transformation: Changing Your Relationship to Life"Donna discusses her battle with breast cancer, which was revealed through meditation practice, emphasizing its importance in raising awareness.About Donna:At the age of 44, at the top of her game, Donna woke up with the realization that “all this” wasn't “all that!” She was mentally stuck, emotionally unfulfilled, physically exhausted, and spiritually bankrupt. After a 28-year long run as a corporate marketing executive who “had it all” Donna enrolled herself in a master's program in Spiritual Psychology which changed her life in every possible way. Donna offers inspiring classes, workshops, and transformative in-depth life-coaching programs designed to help you break free of the self-imposed limitations and old stories of “not-enough-ness”. A graduate of the University of Santa Monica Donna holds a Master of Arts in Spiritual Psychology with an emphasis on Consciousness, Health, and Healing as well as her Soul-Centered Professional Coaching and Soul-Centered Facilitation certifications.  She and her husband, award-winning oil painter Paul Bond, live part-time in Southern California and Costa Rica.Website: https://donnabond.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnabond/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnabondcoach/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@donnabondwww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we dove deep into the heart of Israel with our incredible guest, Yara Ben Chaim, the owner of Foresta-Global and the guiding force behind Foresta Leadership Institute. Yara shares her raw experience of daily uncertainty and the emotional toll it takes on individuals living in a war-torn country. She discusses the challenge of maintaining faith in a higher power and humanity during times of conflict.Join us in this intimate conversation filled with inspiration and insights around courageously facing adversity with authenticity; leveraging spirituality for guidance; embracing silence for inner peace; connecting with nature; and appreciating different perspectives based on lived experiences—all forming part of coping mechanisms during relentless crisis, chaos, and change. Tune in now!In this Episode:Hear Yara open up about the emotional toll and intimate nature of living in a small country at war and how constant exposure to violence challenges her faith in humanity but strengthens her spiritual beliefs.Hear about the struggles with safety amid terror attacks and balancing survival mode with everyday life routines.Yara reflects on holding multiple perspectives while navigating a crisis.Explore how authenticity becomes essential when superficial concerns fade against the backdrop of life-and-death situations.Discover how integrating spirituality into organizational leadership without overt religious language fosters deep listening and soulful connections within teams.Yara shares her challenges faced while facilitating leadership training under duress—how moments like rocket attacks interrupt sessions requiring resilience and adaptability.Yara shares powerful anecdotes about losing her voice—an experience that led to introspection, humility, understanding introversion better, recognizing the power of words (and their absence), and connecting more deeply with grace, spirit, and love.About Yara:As the owner of Foresta-Global and the guiding force behind Foresta Leadership Institute, she is dedicated to supporting and collaborating with clients on a global scale. Her reach extends across diverse regions, including Europe, the United States, South America, Africa, and the Middle East. Yara's deep understanding of the challenges posed by multiculturalism is grounded in her own cultural background, which encompasses American, French, and Israeli heritage.What truly sets Yara apart is her keen ability to discern the precise needs of her clients and tailor effective solutions to meet them. This talent has led to significant advancements in both organizational and personal development, characterized by purposeful outcomes and a heightened sense of personal significance in their endeavors.At Foresta Leadership Institute, Yara and her team work tirelessly to empower individuals and organizations to thrive in an interconnected world, with a commitment to excellence and a global perspective.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaramizrahicpcc/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yara.mizrahi/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yarabenchaim/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we sit down with a former roommate and fellow CTI Leadership program coach, Lisa Goren. As a former talent agent turned Chief People & Culture Officer for a $2.5 billion integrated health system in the Pacific Northwest, leading a team of 100+ HR professionals who support 14,000 employees in US healthcare, she shares her profound journey from personal crisis to professional triumph navigating the complexities of today's healthcare system. Her insights on strategies for supporting teams during prolonged crises like the pandemic will show how leaders can inspire by connecting deeply to their purpose.We encourage you to listen to this heartfelt conversation for a human-centric leadership approach filled with vulnerability, wisdom, and humor, all wrapped up with actionable advice for anyone looking to lead effectively amidst crisis, chaos, and change. Tune in now!In this Episode:Christie and Lisa share their bond forged during their CTI Leadership program.Discover why the current state of chaos is likened to "Sharknado," especially within US healthcare.Hear Lisa's insights on how the pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the US healthcare system and its impact on workers.Explore strategies and ways for organizations to provide safety nets beyond individual mindfulness practices or interventions.Lisa shares powerful personal stories including her mother's medical ordeal which instilled resilience and purpose driving her dedication to improving healthcare cultures.The essential role purpose in guiding leaders through adversity and how we're hungry for humor and joy in the workplace.Hear Lisa's devising ways for people to strive towards creating an environment to experience more good days than bad - both practical and aspirational.The importance of leaders being vulnerable about their mental health journeys to humanize workplace culture.Personal anecdotes from Lisa with her family, two sons, and insights on the parenting journey.This episode is in loving memory of Lisa's beloved mom, Sherry Goren.About Lisa:Lisa Goren is an experienced human resources professional who is driven by one core principle—devising ways for people to have more good days (or at least more good ones than bad). She has spent the majority of her human resources career working in and with hospitals and health systems across the U.S. Currently, she is the Chief People & Culture Officer for a $2.5 billion integrated health system in the Pacific Northwest, leading a team of 100+ HR professionals who support 14,000 employees. Years of consulting in organizational development and change management – and formal training in an eclectic mix of human-centered practices – help her engage, educate, and motivate people to improve business performance and culture. Engaging others is central to all that she does and Lisa feels this particularly essential, given the unique pressures and stressors facing today's healthcare workforce.Website: https://lisagoren.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisagoren/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ljgoren/X: https://twitter.com/lghealthspeakerwww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we welcome our special guest, Shabadpreet Khalsa, the CEO of the RA MA Institute. In this enlightening conversation, Shabadpreet unveils the transformative power of Kundalini yoga and meditation for awakening a person's inner strength and clarity. As a seasoned practitioner and business leader, Shabadpreet shares her insights on how these ancient practices can be leveraged to navigate through crisis, chaos, and change.This engaging conversation will encourage you to find alignment with your mission by engaging in practices that connect you to something greater than yourselves, an increasingly non-negotiable aspect in today's world. Tune in now!In this Episode:Experience a brief guided practice led by Shabadpreet called 'Ego Eradicator,' a technique beneficial for clearing the mind and reducing anxiety, ideal between meetings or during stressful moments.Explore the pillars of Kundalini yoga, Breathwork, physical postures, mantra, and meditation that come together in this holistic practice that offers profound benefits for mental clarity and emotional balance.Discover Shabadpreet's pivotal first class in New York City that eventually led her to Rama Institute under Guru Jagat's mentorship.Discover the meaning of the term “Rama” which signifies the balance between solar ('Ra') energy and lunar ('Ma') forces.Reflections after Guru Jagat's passing in 2021, and Shabadpreet stepping up as CEO of Rama Yoga Institute.Tips on connecting deeply with personal missions include setting clear intentions about ideal work environments; trusting intuitive guidance systems; embracing spiritual practices; finding nourishment through routine self-care; utilizing manifestation techniques; and believing in one's capabilities as a creator.About Shabadpreet:Shabadpreet Khalsa is the CEO of RA MA Institute for Applied Yogic Science and Technology with locations in Venice, California; Mallorca, Spain; New York City, and virtually on RA MA TV. At the side of her teacher and RA MA's Founding CEO, Guru Jagat for 8 years from shortly after the opening of the Venice flagship to Guru Jagat's sudden and unexpected death in 2021, Shabadpreet served as Guru Jagat's Chief of Staff, implementing Guru Jagat's trail-blazing vision and supporting the fruition of RA MA's physical and digital expansion from a wellness start-up to an internationally recognized global phenomena.With the passing of Guru Jagat, Shabadpreet continues RA MA's mission as a crossroads of consciousness, well-being, and creation culture.  Known for her healing approach, Shabadpreet can also be found teaching in RA MA's Kundalini Trainings and their Global Women's Programs. Website: https://www.shabadpreet.com/Shabadpreet's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shabadpreet11/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shabadpreet/RA MA's Website: https://ramayogainstitute.com/RA MA Institute's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramainstitute/Youtube: @RAMATVYOGAwww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, join us for a great conversation about the transformative power of leading with kindness through crisis, chaos, and change. Our guest is Jeff Jacobson, a professional coach and facilitator with over three decades of experience. Known for his fierce yet loving approach to coaching, Jeff shares his insights into what true kindness entails and provides actionable components that listeners can integrate into their leadership styles and personal growth.This episode is about walking the walk toward being an embodiment of kindness — something we desperately need in today's world. Tune in now.In this Episode:Christie reflects on how Jeff helped her have a significant impact on her life by challenging her to take responsibility during a pivotal moment.Jeff explores the true meaning of kindness beyond common misconceptions such as being a doormat or engaging in toxic positivity. Jeff introduces the five buckets of kindness: Clarity, Honesty, Sweetness (compassion), Play/Creativity, and Vulnerability.Christie and Jeff emphasize the importance of holding multiple perspectives and managing emotions constructively amidst disagreement or conflict.The conversation highlights seeking professional guidance or community support when dealing with strong reactions or changes is crucial for effective leadership.Personal stories from both Christie and Jeff, such as embracing awkward moments for humor's sake or acknowledging shared humanity within professional settings.About Jeff:Jeffrey A. Jacobson, CPCC, PCC, is a professional coach and facilitator with 30+ years of experience in the coaching world. He works with clients to manage change, enhance performance, discover cutting-edge solutions, and create sustainable working environments. Prior to coaching and training, Jeff studied Asian culture and language for years throughout East and Southeast Asia and went on to teach Mandarin Chinese to business leaders from Ford, Motorola, and Texas Instruments. Jeff is on faculty at both the Co-Active Training Institute (CTI), and the Trium Group, where he develops and delivers curriculum to coaches, managers, and leaders. He is a board member for Coaching for Everyone, an organization that brings coaching to BIPOC leaders in North America and beyond.He lives with his partner and their cat in Portland, OR, and is the author of the novel “The Boy Who Couldn't Fly Straight,” the first in his Young Adult queer paranormal adventure series (he likes adjectives!).Website: https://jeffjacobsoncoaching.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-jacobson-cpcc-pcc-6b39a7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffjacobsoncoaching/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeff.jacobson.528www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, we delve into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of leading through times of crisis, chaos, and change: navigating grief in the workplace. We had the honor to have an enlightening duo conversation with our remarkable guests, Margo Fowkes, the founder and president of OnTarget Consulting Inc., and Che Marville, a transformational Wellness Expert, Certified International Yoga and Meditation Teacher, and Corporate Wellness Pioneer, who bring their extensive knowledge and personal experiences to an enriching discussion on leading through crisis, chaos, and change.Don't miss this heartfelt exploration of a topic that touches many but is discussed by few within professional settings. Listen now to learn how you can lead compassionately through times of sorrow.In this Episode:Margo and Che share poignant stories about their encounters with grief. Margo talks about her journey following her son's diagnosis of brain cancer, while Che reflects on losing her mother during the pandemic.With the current workplace housing five generations under one corporate roof, Margo and Che discuss why a one-size-fits-all approach falls short when dealing with grief. Explore how tailored support fosters trust and connection within diverse teams.Grief isn't limited to losing loved ones; it encompasses layoffs, missed promotions, or restructuring. Learn why acknowledging these losses is pivotal for organizational health.Delve into why ignoring grief is detrimental to employee engagement. Find out what happens when organizations choose silence over empathy.Uncover strategies for navigating difficult work dynamics post-layoffs or major changes without fear – by fostering open dialogue between employees and management.Transform your leadership skills by developing emotional intelligence that resonates with today's workforce realities. Discover empathic leadership practices that align actions with words for genuine impact.Leaders need support, too! We discuss balancing managerial responsibilities while attending to personal emotional needs amidst tough decision-making processes.Witness firsthand accounts linking empathy directly with business growth—happy employees mean thriving companies!About Che:Che Marville is a transformational Wellness Expert, Certified International Yoga and Meditation Teacher, Corporate Wellness Pioneer, and Podcaster. Che is a Keynote Speaker known for bringing science and well-being together, and she believes strongly in the unlimited potential of all human beings.  Che has over two decades of training and coaching experience, she was CEO of the Marville Wellness Group, and she has trained over fifteen thousand health professionals and thousands of executives in the public and private sectors in mindfulness, human service, and wellbeing modalities. About Margo:Margo Fowkes is the founder and president of OnTarget Consulting Inc., a firm specializing in helping organizations and individuals act strategically, improve their performance, and achieve their business goals.  Author of the award-winning Leading Through Loss: How to Navigate Grief at Work, Margo also coaches leaders on how to create a more compassionate culture by acknowledging and speaking openly about grief and loss in the workplace.www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we're experiencing a refreshing and empowering perspective from our special guest, Anabel Vizcarra, a Feminine Embodiment and Womb Wisdom Mentor. She is a visionary thinker who believes that crisis, chaos, and change are not just challenges to overcome but are extraordinary opportunities for rebirth and evolution—personally and collectively.Anabel highlights her powerful metaphor of menstruation to describe our global state, just as the body cleanses itself during this natural cycle, shedding what is no longer needed for growth. She also shares how emotions are our allies and how we can confront and overcome our shadows so darkness will no longer hold us. Anabel's wisdom is truly overflowing.In this Episode:Listen to how Anabel compares the global state to a period of menstruation where humanity is shedding what no longer serves its evolution.Explore how chaotic times can be seen as an opportunity for deep healing.A discussion about reevaluating business cycles that are currently operating from outdated models, emphasizing creativity over traditional brick-and-mortar approaches.A fascinating look at how aligning team roles based on individual menstrual cycles can enhance efficiency in business operations.Anabel shares an embodied practice focused on grounding oneself through belly breathing to cultivate presence over presentation—a crucial skill for leaders facing high-stress environments.Insights into cultivating inner wealth that includes relationships, community, and environment—transcending the poverty mindset, which isn't necessarily tied to financial status.A discussion on balancing spiritual integrity while embracing material success. From real estate entrepreneur at 18 dealing with personal struggles like workaholism and eating disorders to finding her calling in womb shamanism while maintaining worldly achievements.Tips on regulating emotions effectively within leadership roles without being overwhelmed by responsibilities or external pressures.Striving towards sovereignty rather than letting possessions define one's identity, utilizing them as tools for self-expression instead.About Anabel:Anabel Vizcarra is a Feminine Embodiment Mentor & Womb Wisdom Curandera. She teaches how to awaken and return to your own wise and prosperous wholeness through self-awareness, ancestral wisdom & emotional mastery. She believes that when we work with our own intelligent body rhythms, we naturally, remember the feminine energy we've disconnected from and are able to transform relationally and heal our lives. When we know where we come from, we embrace why we are here. Anabel guides women into trusting their own healing process & reconnecting to their inner source of potent feminine wisdom. Anabel's body of work is a Womb Revival Movement informed by Womb Shamanism, Somatic Psychotherapy, Gene Keys Transmission, Ayurvedic medicine, Quantum Physics & Epigenetics.Website: www.anabelvizcarra.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/anabel.vizcarra/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the UpLevel Podcast, we had the opportunity to have an insightful conversation with our special guest, Neil Edwards, an Executive Leadership Coach, and a Reflective Practitioner. He has almost three decades of expertise in coaching and leveraging various established trade tools. His approach to coaching and reflective practice stands as a guiding force toward profound growth. Join us as he emphasizes the vital role of profound intimacy in leadership and business during times of crisis. He also discusses that superficial interactions are insufficient for creating meaningful futures and solving complex problems. Neil's insights offer a fresh perspective on building trust and creating meaningful connections! So, tune into this enlightening conversation if you are looking forward to leading authentically through crisis, chaos, and change by harnessing the power of introspection!In this Episode:Neil emphasizes that going beyond surface-level interactions is crucial for innovation and solving complex problems.Neil opens up about his experiences during the social crises of 2020; he highlights how staying engaged in difficult discussions led to forming some of his deepest relationships based on trust and truth-telling.Discover why intimacy is essential for understanding oneself better and increases the capacity to handle challenging situations and turbulent times.The equation includes credibility, reliability, and transparency (intimacy and empathy), and how often businesses overlook 'intimacy.' How addressing it head-on can foster stronger professional relationships.Reflecting on his upbringing surrounded by nurturing feminine energy from his mother's side helped him embrace both masculine and feminine energies within himself.Discover the 5 Cornerstones of working with Neil for a transformative journey.Integrating mind, heart, and body through physical practices, balancing giving/receiving dynamics in relationships, and connecting with nature.How drawing parallels between sailing dynamics illustrates how similar attentiveness required at sea applies equally across life's myriad of challenges, demanding adaptive strategies amidst constant flux without losing sight of overarching goals/horizons ahead.About Neil:Neil Edwards believes that the world is at an inflection point. That the status quo needs to be broken, that it is time for unreasonable action, and that the solution is profound intimacy.Neil has over 30 years of experience in technology consulting, healthcare, energy, law, public sector, non-profits, NGOs, consumer goods, and higher education. A Professional Certified Coach and Reflective Practitioner, he is substantially credentialed in coaching, change management, emotional intelligence, communication, inclusive leadership, intentional culture, and people development. His work is grounded in his multicultural experiences and thousands of hours of client engagement. Originally from The Commonwealth of the Bahamas, Neil has resided in the US since 1997. He currently lives and works from the unceded tribal lands of the Nissenan indigenous people, near the Sierra Foothills in California with his wife and two daughters.Website: https://www.neiledwardscoaching.com/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on the new season of The UpLevel Podcast, our special guest to kick off the 2024 season: “Leading Through Crisis, Chaos, and Change,” is Sunday Phillips, a virtuoso in living in alignment, embodiment practices, and high-level astrology. She is an educator and life stylist in art and science and the founder of ‘Living in Rhythm.' Join us for a transformative conversation on an astral journey that promises to elevate your spirit, sharpen your leadership skills, and align your cycles with those of the cosmos. Sunday's story is truly inspiring and invaluable as we headstart this year with her wisdom.So, tune in now and get ready to embrace cosmic insights to navigate through personal growth and ways to manage crises, chaos, and change gracefully.In this Episode:Learn about 'Living in Rhythm,' an approach developed by Sunday that enables individuals to thrive rather than just survive.Discover high-level astrology projections for 2024 and how celestial shifts influence our collective experiences.Understand the importance of embodiment practices such as Kundalini yoga in developing oneself as both a leader and practitioner.Gain practical advice from Sunday's origin story, which integrates movement, music, sound healing, and astrology into daily life.About Sunday:Sunday Phillips is an educator and life stylist in the art and science of Living in Rhythm. Strongly influenced by her diverse heritage, Sunday sources inspiration from a multitude of artistic styles and modalities. Her love and ongoing relationship with music, dance, pilates, yoga, holistic nutrition, and astrology have provided a dynamic foundation of powerful techniques for practical application and enduring wisdom. The culmination of her extensive studies and personal practice has become a way of life Sunday describes as Living in Rhythm. Born in Colorado to a culturally rich family with deep roots in service, Sunday brings creative arts and healing to life. Through personalized practices that calibrate the core, enhance self-awareness, and harmonize with life's cyclical nature, Sunday's uplifting and visionary approach to integrative movement and embodied wellness has successfully motivated her loyal clients to new levels of health, vitality, and personal fulfillment. It's a lifestyle.Website: https://www.livinginrhythm.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sista.sunday/Youtube: @livinginrhythmwww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week on The UpLevel Podcast, join Rachel and Christie as they reflect on the insightful interviews they conducted with 16 incredible authors in the recent Publishing Summit series. They dove into the heart of writing purpose-driven books, celebrate the wisdom shared by each guest, and discuss why getting socially conscious content out into the world is more important than ever.Listen to the whole Publishing Summit series and get inspired by each author as they bring their unique story of transformation, healing through storytelling, strategies against writer's block, and marketing maneuvers that actually work. At UpLevel, we hope we empower more individuals to bring their voices into the world because we believe everyone has a story worth telling; let us help you share yours. Here's the lineup:"How to Birth Your Socially Conscious Children's Book" with Christie Mann"Evolving Masculinity: How Embracing Vulnerability Can Lead to Personal and Professional Growth" with Christopher Veal"Unleashing Your Inner Rockstar: Building an Empire Through Your Book" with Megan Jo WilsonBranding and PR for Authors with Chrissy Bernal"Turning Pain into a Powerful Message" with Sabriah Reese"Unleashing Poetry in a Pandemic" with Abigail Prout"Crafting Your Story and Sharing It With Ease" with Gail Barker"Making Book Magic" with Kelley Knight"Harnessing the Power of Mindfulness and Intention" with Adam Taubenfligel"From Layoffs to Leadership: Cultivating Confidence and Collaborative Success" with Michelle Mehta"Speak Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step Up:" with Stephen Shedletzky"Unveiling Strength: A Journey from Caregiver to Author" with Lynn Abaté-Johnson"The Power of Purpose: Inspiring Socially Conscious Content for Business Success" with Afdhel Aziz"The Journey of Co-Creating and Birthing A Children's Book: Lessons in Representation, Grief, and Being the Bridge" with Rachel BaldiIn this Episode:Gratitude and acknowledgment of the time and wisdom shared by guestsThe importance of showcasing a wide range of human experiences through literatureInsight into different publishing paths, from self-publishing to traditional routes, highlighting both struggles and triumphs.Authors share how writing served as a transformative healing process for them personally.Discussion on how books can enhance business credibility and become an integral part of one's professional ecosystemThe role that empathetic and understanding narratives play in shaping society during tumultuous timesIf you want to get a jumpstart on learning more about publishing your own socially-conscious books, download our free Publishing Checklist. https://www.uplevelproductions.com/blank-1/publishing-checklistwww.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany

This week, on the final episode of the UpLevel Podcast's Publishing Series, our special guest is our very own Rachel Baldi, co-founder of UpLevel Productions. We discussed her inspiring journey from converting to Islam to becoming a children's book co-writer. Rachel shared how she found solace in Islam's teachings of kindness, equality, peace, and compassion. She also gave us a sneak peek into, “Lil' Amina and the Adventure of Grief,” the newest book in the emotional wellness children's book series The Adventures of Lil' Sass.Listen in to this important conversation filled with insights from an inspiring co-writer who has used her personal experiences to create impactful content for both children and adults alike.If you, too, believe in the power of storytelling as a means for social change or have insights on representing diverse cultures in literature, tune in now!In this Episode:Learn about her journey from a London upbringing to becoming an influential figure in coaching and leadership development.Discover how kindness, equality, peace, and compassion led Rachel toward embracing Islam.Understand the motivations behind creating this emotional wellness book series for children and adults.Explore how representation, grief education/support, and bridging differing perspectives influenced Rachel's decision to write.Gain insights into how understanding your purpose can serve as motivation during challenging times.Experience the delight of transforming imagined characters into tangible realities through illustrations.Get a glimpse into hurdles like making late-stage edits or accurately representing faith without offending.Learn from Rachel's experience handling sensitive topics such as religion in children's literature.Fostering understanding between cultures and religions through literatureAbout Rachel:Rachel is on a mission to empower and inspire those around her to lead their lives with conscious presence, authenticity, and responsibility. As the co-founder of UpLevel Productions and an Interfaith Advocate, Rachel brings her knowledge and expertise in coaching, leadership development, project management, workshop design, and facilitation to act as a conscious bridge between people of different cultures and religions to build healthy relationships.  As a member of CTI's Faculty and Graydin's coaching team, Rachel has expanded her experience over the past decade through consultative sales, client relationship management, and program delivery with Leaders and Educators inside world-leading organizations. Rachel is a Certified End-of-Life and Grief Coach who is passionate about educating and providing essential safe space for people to acknowledge, express, and process their grief. A mother of 6 beautiful children and a Muslim woman of Islam Faith, Rachel is authentic, passionate, supportive, empowering, and, is here to UpLevel all and everyone she comes into contact with.Website: https://www.rachelbaldi.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachel.baldi.754Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelbaldi1/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-baldi/www.uplevelproductions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/uplevelproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/company/uplevelproductionscompanyhttps://www.facebook.com/uplevelproductionscompany