Podcasts about Black sheep

Before he became a coach and founder, Sande Golgart was addicted to acceleration. He said yes to every challenge, thrived in high-stakes boardrooms, and made a name for himself as a relentless performer. But behind the energy and accolades, something didn't sit right.In Part One, Sande retraces his early life as a dunk contest champion, his rise through the corporate ranks, and the moment he realized the game he was winning wasn't one he wanted to keep playing. What started as hustle became habit. What looked like progress felt like pressure. And what came next was a reckoning.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Playing to Win—Even in a Suit“I approached sales the same way I approached dunk contests: high energy, no fear, go all in.”How a competitive spirit helped Sande rise fast—but also masked the cost.Yes Man Syndrome“I never said no. I didn't even know what no sounded like.”Why overcommitment isn't ambition—it's avoidance in disguise.Movement as a Mask“As long as I kept moving, I didn't have to think. Stillness scared the hell out of me.”When action becomes a coping mechanism, not a strategy.The Wrong Summit“You keep pushing for the top, then get there and realize… it's not your mountain.”Sande explains the disorienting moment that sparked his pivot.Forgotten Self“I knew my job title. I knew my revenue targets. But I couldn't tell you what I liked.”How busyness blurred his sense of identity—and what came next._____________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Sande Golgart  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

After decades of chasing external wins, Sande Golgart decided to stop running. In Part Two, he shares the uncomfortable, intentional work of stepping back—what it took to unplug from achievement addiction and start redesigning a life that fits from the inside out.This isn't a story about reinvention through ambition. It's a blueprint for growth through subtraction: less noise, more clarity; fewer roles, deeper connection; no hustle, just truth. From mending his marriage to redefining success, Sande opens up about what he calls “Life Peels”—and why letting go is the new way up.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Listening Over Learning“I wasn't trying to fix anything. I just got quiet and listened.”**Sande explains how stepping back from self-optimization gave him the clarity he had missed for years.The Life Peels Method“David was always in the marble. Michelangelo just removed what wasn't him.”**He introduces his philosophy of growth by subtraction—peeling away the excess to uncover what truly fits.When Growth Isn't More“I've had enough of strategy decks and hero stories. I want to feel ease in my own skin.”**Why he redefined ambition not as stacking wins but as feeling aligned, grounded, and whole.Relearning Partnership“When the noise died down, we both realized we'd never had stillness before.”**How the transition to an empty nest revealed unspoken gaps in his marriage—and led to new connection.Letting Life Lead“I used to control everything. Now I just pay attention—and things unfold better than I planned.”**What happened when he stopped pushing for outcomes and started trusting the process._____________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Sande Golgart --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Jodi Silverman never expected reinvention to arrive between carpools and client meetings. But once her kids left and the hustle paused, she realized success had masked something deeper: restlessness. In this episode, Jodi shares how she walked away from a print business, wrestled with guilt, and built Moms Who Dare—a movement for women redefining purpose in the second half of life. This isn't about motherhood or milestones. It's about refusing to shrink when your old identity no longer fits.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The Accidental Entrepreneur“I had no business background. I didn't even know what the word ‘entrepreneur' meant.”What started as a favor to a friend turned into Jodi's first business—and taught her that grit beats a business plan.The Silent Shock of an Empty Nest“Suddenly, I had all this time. And I didn't know who I was without the doing.”With her kids grown, the quiet forced Jodi to confront the identity she had deferred for years.The Dare That Sparked a Movement“I dared myself to figure out what I wanted. And I didn't stop until I did.”The origin story of Moms Who Dare wasn't about strategy—it was about survival and self-permission.From Guilt to Growth“I felt guilty for wanting something more. But I also knew: guilt doesn't mean you're wrong.”Jodi confronts the emotional friction of wanting purpose beyond parenting—and what it took to say it out loud.Midlife Isn't a Crisis—It's a Crossroads“This stage of life? It's not the end of the story. It's the best chapter if you let it be.”Redefining the narrative around aging, purpose, and starting over—without the clichés._______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Jodi Silverman  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Jodi Silverman never expected reinvention to arrive between carpools and client meetings. But once her kids left and the hustle paused, she realized success had masked something deeper: restlessness. In Part 2, Jodi shares the emotional (and practical) shift from parenting full-time to rediscovering your own interests. She walks us through her signature DARE Method and dishes out real talk on marriage, identity, and why your kids aren't your best friends (even if you really, really like them).This isn't just an episode about empty nests. It's about refilling your own life—on your own terms.Key Highlights of Our Interview:“You're always their mom—but not always their problem-solver.”Letting go means shifting from fixer to coach, giving your adult kids space—and yourself permission to grow.Best Friend? Nope. Mom Forever.“They have friends. What they need is a parent who actually knows when to walk away.”Jodi explains why clinging to closeness can backfire—and how healthy detachment brings deeper connection.The Real Empty Nest Challenges“It's not just missing them. It's not knowing who you are without them.”It's not about quiet halls—it's about a loud identity crisis. Jodi breaks down the emotional vacuum no one warns you about.The DARE Method“Decide. Awaken. Reimagine. Experience.”Jodi's four-step formula to reclaim your identity—starting with a brain dump, not a five-year plan.Rediscovering You“What did you used to like—before you were someone's plus one?”She urges listeners to list lost joys, try without judgment, and welcome failure as a doorway to rediscovery.Day Swaps, Not Date Nights“Plan a day around what lights them up. You'll learn more than any heart-to-heart.”From partners to adult children, this method rebuilds connection through shared experiences and mutual curiosity._______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Jodi Silverman  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Before Richard Carson wrote The Book of Change, he was writing letters to newspaper editors and fixing chaos in city hall. In Part 2, we unpack how Richard's 39-step framework came to life—from a career shaped by failures to a model refined by fieldwork. Richard explains why he borrowed diagnostic tools from medicine, how COVID and AI are reshaping his thinking, and what consultants often forget: you're not there to impress, you're there to listen. It's a masterclass in what it really takes to move people—and systems—without losing your common sense.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The Model That Stuck“Every step in the 39 comes from something that broke.”Richard's framework isn't theoretical—it's field-tested.You're Not a Consultant. You're a Doctor.“I borrowed from the NIH diagnostic model.”Why organizational dysfunction is more like illness than inefficiency.Don't Skip the Kickoff“You don't send an email. You sit down, answer questions, get buy-in.”The part of change most leaders rush—and shouldn't.AI Isn't a Leader“You can't automate trust. You can't outsource belief.”His biggest concern about the rise of artificial intelligence.How Change Shows Up at Home“I told my boss I was going back to school. He said no. I quit.”Why he applies his own model to life, not just work.Listen Like It Matters“I don't need your advice—I need you to hear me.”The line from his wife that became a leadership principle._______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Richard H. Carson  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Jon and Kurt wonder at the pervasive use of animal idioms in everyday conversation. Why do we call someone a Black Sheep? Or accuse someone of crying Crocodile Tears? What is a Paper Tiger and who famously made it into an insult to his enemies? Get the Albatross From Around Your Neck or the Monkey Off Your Back and have a listen. This episode is The Cat's Pajamas.

Before Richard Carson wrote The Book of Change, he was writing letters to newspaper editors and fixing chaos in city hall. In Part One, he retraces the early detours—from archaeology hopeful to urban planner to accidental consultant. With every chapter, one theme stayed constant: real change happens when you stop assuming and start listening. Whether it's a time-tracking nightmare or a consultant who forgot to swap client names in the proposal, Richard's stories cut through the noise to reveal why change fails—and what to do instead.Key Highlights of Our Interview:From Trowels to Town Halls“I was studying archaeology. Then I realized I liked systems, not shovels.”Why solving institutional puzzles beat digging for ancient ones.Everyone's Lying—But They Don't Mean To“The problem they describe is never the actual problem.”Richard explains why surface issues are just the smoke, not the fire.The Timecard Horror Story“They tracked every 15 minutes. It was organizational madness.”A micromanagement case study that went down in flames—and what it taught him about autonomy.Consulting Found Him First“One day I was hiring consultants. The next, I became one.”A random audit leads to a career revelation.Communication Rule #1: Pass the Grocery Store Test“If you can't explain it in plain English in front of the broccoli stand, it's too complicated.”What city planning taught him about clarity—and why most leaders flunk this test.Crisis Is a Terrible Thing to Waste“People don't want to change unless there's blood on the floor.”How to turn urgency into alignment without fearmongering._______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Richard H. Carson  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Lora Chow didn't abandon ambition—she just rewrote its score. In this episode, we trace her unusual arc from elite finance to classical composition. She opens up about choosing Yale over Cambridge, chasing Wall Street dreams, and what it really took to reclaim her voice—literally. This isn't a story about dropping out or burning out. It's about tuning into the parts of yourself that never stopped playing.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Choosing Yale Over Cambridge Wasn't Just About Prestige“My heart wanted music. But my mom majored in math—and Hong Kong wanted finance.”Lora opens up about the early tension between cultural expectation and personal calling.Fitting Into the Ivy League Mold—Until It Didn't“Everyone was applying to Morgan Stanley. I followed the crowd—and got the job.”At Yale, ambition and conformity collided. She got the offer, but the itch for music never left.A Grand Piano, a Grand Salary—But Something Felt Off“I loved music. But I also wanted a home with a grand piano.”Trading dreams for stability was logical—but it came with a cost.Silence Sparked the Return to Sound“I lost my voice for a year. That's when I started composing.”An unexpected health detour brought her back to the keyboard.Bulgaria, Opera, and a Creative Awakening“A summer program opened a door I hadn't dared to knock on before.”A trip abroad flipped the script—and planted the seed for Reveries on Ivories._______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Lora Chow (YouTube Channel)  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

You've admitted the career no longer fits. Now what?In Part Two, Helen Hanison, former global PR executive turned executive career coach, walks us through what real change takes—beyond pep talks and pivot memes. She unpacks her three-act framework (Alignment, Redesign, and Transformation), explains why people cling to jobs they secretly loathe, and warns against the “anchor bias” that keeps us chasing the same dream long after it's stopped making sense.From spotting your outdated success scripts to mapping out future obstacles, Helen makes the case that career reinvention isn't linear—it's a zigzag of bold choices, mindset shifts, and quiet resilience. If you're ready to do the inner work instead of just tweaking your LinkedIn title, this episode is your field guide.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Alignment Before Action“If you skip alignment, you're just kicking the wrong can down the road.”Why getting unstuck starts with strengths, values, and purpose—not a job board scroll.Beware the Anchoring Trap“The first idea you fall in love with? It's probably not the right one.”How to test-drive multiple versions of your future instead of clinging to the shiny one.Redesign as a Contact Sport“Agile career design means you keep moving, even when the path gets messy.”Helen shares how mini-experiments and pilot tests beat fantasy-level planning.The Psychology of Not Quitting“Hitting the wall isn't failure. It's a push-off point.”Hope Mapping, resilience habits, and the real mindset work behind meaningful transformation.Outgrowing the Old Career Narrative“Perseverance is not always noble—it can be your trap.”Letting go of the stories, scripts, and social prescriptions that no longer serve you.________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Helen HanisonHelen's website: https://www.helenhanison.com  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

In this week's episode of T.K.'s Chronicles of a Black Sheep, we will discuss various intriguing situations and share our candid opinions. From everyday dilemmas to extraordinary scenarios, we explore the nuances and complexities of each situation. Join us as we debate, discuss, and sometimes disagree, all while providing unique perspectives and thought-provoking insights. Whether it's navigating social dynamics, tackling ethical questions, or simply pondering life's quirks, this episode promises to be a captivating and engaging conversation. Tune in and join the discussion.

In this week's episode of T.K.'s Chronicles of a Black Sheep, we will discuss various intriguing situations and share our candid opinions. From everyday dilemmas to extraordinary scenarios, we explore the nuances and complexities of each situation. Join us as we debate, discuss, and sometimes disagree, all while providing unique perspectives and thought-provoking insights. Whether it's navigating social dynamics, tackling ethical questions, or simply pondering life's quirks, this episode promises to be a captivating and engaging conversation. Tune in and join the discussion.

Jean Zhou's journey defies every linear career chart. After starting in accounting and dabbling in venture capital, she found herself chasing something spreadsheets couldn't capture—emotion. That led to Wind Entertainment, a bold bet on storytelling rooted in sociology, psychology, and a lifelong obsession with television. In this episode, Jean reveals the early frustrations that sparked her producer dreams, why she believes storytelling is a survival skill, and how her sociology background became the secret sauce to building character-driven dramas that resonate worldwide. This is the story of how data met drama—and lost.Key Highlights of Our Interview:How Bedtime Curfews Sparked a Creative Fire“Growing up, I had to go to bed at 9 p.m. while TV programs ran until 10. It wasn't fair—and it burned into my brain. One day, I wanted to be the person who decided how stories end.”From Sociologist to Storyteller“Sociology gave me a backstage pass into human behavior. Understanding people—not just markets—is what powers great storytelling. It's my foundation, even in business.”Wind Entertainment: Building Stories That Travel“In 2019, I launched Wind Entertainment to nurture writers. By 2020, we were producing our first TV drama. That show, The Starry Love, aired on four stations and sold in over 30 countries.”Why AI Can't Write Your Script“AI summarizes the past. It can't write to surprise, or break molds. A drama needs rhythm, tension, and emotion tailored to the buyer—it's art, not automation.”Finding the Market in Emotion“In venture capital, I was taught to find value through data. In storytelling, I learned to find it through emotion. A great script isn't just written—it's felt.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Jean Zhou  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Helen Hanison was a high-flying PR executive with a passport full of stamps, million-dollar campaigns, and a board-level title. But after 20 years in the industry, she found herself questioning everything. Motherhood collided with her career, success lost its sparkle, and the feeling of being “stuck-but-still-good-at-it” became suffocating.In Part One of this two-part conversation, Helen shares the moment she realized her success was seducing her into staying in the wrong life. She opens up about the subtle signs of misalignment, the “lost years” between knowing something's wrong and doing something about it, and how her pivot into psychology laid the groundwork for a new career—one that finally fits. If you've ever felt competent but not alive in your work, this one's your mirror.Key Highlights of Our Interview:When High Achievement Turns into Quiet Misery“I was flying everywhere, leading campaigns—and I still felt hollow.”Helen unpacks the disconnect between outer success and inner dissatisfaction, especially when you're too good at a job that no longer excites you.The Motherhood Collision“I hadn't seen it coming, but it hit hard.”Becoming a mother didn't just change her home life—it cracked open the illusion that her career and identity were truly aligned.Good At It, But Dead Inside“I wasn't unhappy… just not lit up.”Helen describes the in-between phase where nothing is obviously wrong, but everything feels subtly off—a quiet crisis that many professionals ignore for too long.The Clues Were Always There“I was coaching before I knew what coaching was.”Helen reflects on how her leadership style—taking colleagues out for coffee, asking them what they wanted—was already pointing toward her next calling.Seduced by Success, Trapped by Titles“It's a long way down when the ladder's leaned against the wrong wall.”She reveals why people get stuck in senior roles they don't love, and how fear of the unknown keeps them climbing in the wrong direction.________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Helen HanisonHelen's website: https://www.helenhanison.com  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Nellie Wartoft is the founder and CEO of Tiger Hall, a change enablement platform built for teams tired of stale workshops and change theater. In Part One, she takes us from her tiny hometown in Sweden to the boardrooms of Asia, where flipping burgers at McDonald's, carrying an ice hockey trunk to Singapore, and watching companies struggle with real transformation all shaped her mission. This is change management with edge—equal parts adventure, insight, and rebellion.Key Highlights of Our InterviewSweden, Cows, and a One-Way Ticket“On my 18th birthday, I booked a one-way flight to Singapore, packed my life into an ice hockey trunk, and left my small Swedish village—where the cows outnumbered the people. That was the real beginning of everything.”From Fries to Founder: Discovering Her Professional DNA“I call McDonald's my most transformative experience. That's where I learned what I now call my three professional addictions: high pace, commercial thrill, and leadership. Everything I've done since started there.”The Real Meaning of Resilience“Workshops don't build resilience. Hard times do. Either you win, or you build character. That's the trade-off. And the only way through it is through it.”Don't Build Your Identity on a Job Title“If your sense of self is built on a title, what happens when that's gone? I don't define myself by being a CEO. I define myself as someone who works hard, learns fast, and has good intentions. That can't be taken away.”Why She Launched Tiger Hall (Spoiler: It Involves SharePoint Rage)“Too many companies still think change means mass emails, intranet black holes, and jargon-filled PDFs. I wanted to build a platform that makes transformation actually work—for real humans, not just consultants.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Nellie Wartoft  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Nellie Wartoft is the founder and CEO of Tiger Hall, a change enablement platform built for teams tired of stale workshops and change theater. In Part One, she takes us from her tiny hometown in Sweden to the boardrooms of Asia, where flipping burgers at McDonald's, carrying an ice hockey trunk to Singapore, and watching companies struggle with real transformation all shaped her mission. This is change management with edge—equal parts adventure, insight, and rebellion.Key Highlights of Our InterviewChange Theater vs. Real Impact“Most companies don't fail at change because of bad tools. They fail because they bring people in too late and communicate like robots. Change has to feel human to work.”Same Emotions, Different Timelines“Fear, chaos, resistance—these show up everywhere, regardless of geography. The real difference is how cultures structure leadership and how fast they move. The U.S. wants speed. Asia wants legacy. Both come with tradeoffs.”Ego: The Silent Killer of Transformation“The higher the ego of a leader, the lower the success rate of their transformation. Fear of feedback, obsession with control—it turns a team into a compliance machine instead of a change engine.”Tech Isn't the Problem—Leadership Is“People love apps—just not the ones that feel forced. If your tools aren't solving real problems or making life easier, the issue isn't the platform. It's the person who bought it.”Walking the Talk at Tiger Hall“We use our own platform to manage internal change. No Zoom fatigue, no death-by-Slack. One short recording can replace hours of town halls and still hit harder—because it's fast, direct, and straight from the source.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Nellie Wartoft  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

In this final part, we go beyond buzzwords. Colin breaks down how to make AI work for you—not replace you. He explains how human intelligence and machine intelligence can combine to create authentic, enhanced value. From warning students not to cheat with ChatGPT to showing executives how to tailor their own AI strategy, Colin's message is clear: You don't need every tool. You need the right ones—and a deeply human way to use them.Key Highlights of Our Interview:You Don't Need Every Tool—Just the Right Ones“People want a silver bullet—one AI tool that solves everything. But like any good toolbox, the magic lies in how tools are combined and applied, not how many you have.”Skill Stacking Isn't Hoarding—It's Connecting“Collecting skills is easy. What matters is how you use them together. Communication, judgment, and emotional intelligence are what give your technical know-how real power.”Human Intelligence = Authenticity“AI might write your speech, but it's your lived experience that makes it land. Audiences can smell a fake. Human intelligence—time-tested, real, and grounded—is irreplaceable.”The Penalty of Skipping the Work“If a student uses AI to cheat, they fail. If a banker uses it to write a pitch, it could be fraud. As stakes rise, so do the consequences of skipping the human part.”Authentic + Artificial = Amplified“When human intelligence and AI align, you don't just get automation—you get amplified value. That's the combo to aim for: authentic, enhanced, and scalable.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Colin Savage  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

In this episode, Colin deconstructs the romanticism of “lifelong learning” and makes a sharp case for skill stacking—not as a buzzword, but as a career imperative. From the strategy rooms of Japan to the boardrooms of Canada, he unpacks the realities of navigating change in cultures, families, and workplaces. Plus, why some organizations say they want transformation but are actually addicted to the comfort of legacy systems. If you're tired of collecting degrees that lead nowhere, this one's for you.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The Illusion of Change-Readiness“Some companies claim they want transformation, but really, they're just addicted to the status quo. I've seen firms hire me as their ‘change guy,' only to resist every proposal I made. You can't retrofit a new future if people are still clinging to an old playbook.”Measured, Not Maniac: Change the Japanese Way“In Japan, change isn't chaotic—it's deliberate, strategic, and often unspoken. Success meant listening, researching, and quietly building allies one by one. Change doesn't have to be noisy to be real.”No More MBA Decisions in a Vacuum“Career decisions ripple through families. Too often, we forget that behind every ‘yes' to an opportunity is a spouse, a child, or a life partner who wasn't asked. Real transformation involves everyone at the table.”Lifelong Learning Is a Vibe—But It's Not Enough“Learning for learning's sake isn't a strategy. Without direction, it becomes a distraction. The future belongs to those who don't just keep learning, but stack those learnings to build something sharper, deeper, and more useful.”Skill Stacking vs. Degree Collecting“My bookshelf has diplomas and dust-covered guitars. Not all knowledge needs to be monetized—but if you want to be valuable in a complex world, stack your skills like a staircase. That's how you move up and across.”Tools, But No Toolbox?“We live in a tool economy. Got a problem? There's an app for that. But most people aren't solving root issues—they're patching over symptoms. Without connecting your skills with insight, it's just noise.”Personal vs. Professional Learning“Skill stacking is for the professional you. Lifelong learning is for the human you. You don't need to turn your love of modern African history into a job. Sometimes learning is just for joy—and that's okay.”From Change Addict to Change Architect“I used to go full throttle. Now I slow down, talk more, and push less. Change is a collective journey. It doesn't matter how fast you're driving if no one's willing to ride with you.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Colin Savage  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

If reinvention were a passport, Colin Savage's pages would be full. From global projects across seven countries to helping old-school industries like Japanese insurers modernize with tact, Colin's career isn't just built on change—it thrives on it.In Part One, we go deep on the difference between chasing novelty and building purpose. Colin dismantles the dated idea of “lifelong learning” and replaces it with something sharper: skill stacking. You'll also hear how he developed change muscles by moving countries, industries, and ideas—without ever losing sight of what matters.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The Purpose Behind the Pivot“Change is exciting—but if there's no deeper reason behind it, it's just noise.” Why purpose should lead, not lag, behind transformation.Skill Stacking vs. Lifelong Learning“Lifelong learning sounds noble—but it's often aimless. Skill stacking is intentional.” Colin's case for mastering combinations over collecting badges.Japan: Where Change Means Patience“In the Japanese life insurance industry, I learned that fast isn't always smart.” Why transformation in traditional sectors demands humility and consensus.The Trap of Unfinished Adventures“You can jump into change for the thrill—but it's the follow-through that matters.” Why Colin says completion is underrated in careers.Addicted to Change? Own It.“I love novelty—but I've learned to pair it with discipline.” Colin's method for staying curious without burning out._________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Colin Savage  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Futures engineer Valentina Contini on the importance of harnessing your differencesValentina Contini is often the outsider in the room. As an Italian woman with purple hair and tattoos who worked in the male-dominated automotive industry she was often the black sheep - but that's what made her valuable. This week Valentina joins Tammy to discuss the importance of authenticity and leading by example. As a technofuturist, Valentina also shares the future technologies that she's most excited about…could a brain-machine interface or flying car be on the horizon? Please note that the views expressed may not necessarily be those of NTT DATA.Links: Valentina Contini Amy Webb Learn more about Launch by NTT DATASee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Could the third time be the charm for Chris Farley on The Contrarians podcast? Infamously, our episodes on Black Sheep and Almost Heroes featured some serious disagreements regarding the comedic talents of Farley and his co-starts. So what happens when we discuss a Farley/Spade vehicle that shaped Alex's early years? Can Julio resist an avalanche of TOMMY BOY quotes and references? Find out in this Real Talk segment!TIMELINE00:01:26 Are you sure?00:02:07 Real Talk00:55:23 The Future & Patreon Stuff- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended plugs, bonus episodes free from the Tomatometer shackles… It's everything a Contrarians devotee would want!- Our YouTube page is live! Get some visual Contrarians delight with our Contrarians Warm-Ups and other fun videos!- Contrarians Merch is finally here! Check out our RED BUBBLE MERCH PAGE and buy yourself something nice that's emblazoned with one of our four different designs!- THE FESTIVE YEARS have been letting us use their music for years now and they are amazing. You can check out their work on Spotify, on Facebook or on their very own website.- Our buddy Cory Ahre is being kind enough to lend a hand with the editing of some of our videos. If you like his style, wait until you see what he does over on his YouTube Channel.- THE LATE NIGHT GRIN isn't just a show about wrestling: it's a brand, a lifestyle. And they're very supportive of our Contrarian endeavors, so we'd like to return the favor. Check out their YouTube Channel! You might even spot Alex there from time to time.- Hans Rothgiesser, the man behind our logo, can be reached at @mildemonios on Twitter or you can email him at mildemonios@hotmail.com in case you ever need a logo (or comics) produced. And you can listen to him talk about economy on his new TV show, VALOR AGREGADO. Aaaaand you can also check out all the stuff he's written on his own website. He has a new book: a sort of Economics For Dummies called MARGINAL. Ask him about it!Up next, The Summer of the (MTV) Bangers continues with the movie that earned Marisa Tomei the 1993 MTV Movie Award for Breakthrough Performance, MY COUSIN VINNY! Until then, let us know what you thought of Tommy Boy: Would a third Farley/Spade collaboration taken them to the next level, or should they have stopped after this one and never even done Black Sheep? Is it unfair that Spade didn't receive a solo nomination, like Farley did? Did Peter Segal got the better career out of everyone involved in this movie? E-mail us at wearethecontrarians@gmail.com or share your thoughts with us on Threads or BlueSky!

Robert MacPhee didn't start out teaching values—he started out parking cars. But somewhere between the valet stand and becoming Jack Canfield's right-hand man (yes, that Chicken Soup guy), Robert found his lane. Now the author of Living a Values-Based Life, he's guiding people to stop driving in circles and finally align their actions with what truly matters.In this second half of the series, Robert breaks down how to live out your values in everyday life—not just name them. We dig into why values change with life stages, what to do after you've identified your top five, and how to keep them visible and active as your world evolves. If you've ever felt stuck, misaligned, or unsure what to prioritize, this episode gives you the clarity compass you didn't know you needed.Key Highlights of Our Interviews:Why It's So Hard to Define Our Own Values“Most people's initial list of values often reflects what they think others want to hear.”We're conditioned to impress, not reflect—until we learn how to tune out the noise and tune into what really matters.How a Values-Based Life Can Improve Work“Clarity about values doesn't just make personal life better—it's transformative for work too.”Whether it's contribution, integrity, or service, values-aligned action makes work more purposeful and less draining.Do Values Change Over Time? The Short Answer: Yes.“What mattered in high school may be worlds apart from your sixties or seventies.”Life events—from caregiving to career pivots—reshape our internal compass. Values aren't static; they evolve with us.Keeping Values Visible“Have them on your phone, your mirror, your nightstand—whatever it takes.”Don't just declare your values. Revisit them, reflect on them, and let them guide your daily decisions.Borrowing Values When You Need Them“Discipline and strength may not be on your list—but sometimes, you'll need to call them in.”Complementary values can be summoned in certain seasons—without betraying your core.The 4 A's: A Framework for Application“Assess, pick an Area, choose Actions, and create Accountability.”Robert's system helps you go from intention to implementation—because without action, it's just a nice conversation.____________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Robert MacPhee  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Rebecca Sutherns didn't follow a straight path—and she's the first to say that's the point. As a strategy coach and solo entrepreneur for 27 years, she's helped leaders rethink what's next while doing the same for herself. In this two-part series, we talk about work-life trade-offs, momentum, and why imagining your future might be the most strategic thing you'll do. If you've ever hit pause or felt stuck in place, this one's worth a listen.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Midlife Isn't a Crisis—It's a Cue“I wasn't burning out, but I could tell I was flatlining.”How Rebecca used a sabbatical to catch up with herself—not because she broke, but because she was ready for something deeper.What Comes After ‘I've Got This'“I kept getting hired for things I could do in my sleep. That's when I knew it was time to stretch again.”The danger of being competent—and the invitation to do more than just deliver.Stop Filling Gaps You Don't Want to Own“I could solve the problem, but that didn't mean I should.”Why she stepped back from team leadership roles—even when others saw it as a step up.Sabbatical as Prototype“It was a test. Could I shift the pace and still be useful?”Why her sabbatical wasn't a break from work—it was a strategic experiment in working differently.A Career Built Like a Hammock“The structure holds me, but it flexes.”Her metaphor for a work life that stretches without snapping—anchored but adjustable._________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Rebecca Sutherns, PhD, CPF  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Rebecca Sutherns didn't follow a straight path—and she's the first to say that's the point. As a strategy coach and solo entrepreneur for 27 years, she's helped leaders rethink what's next while doing the same for herself. In this two-part series, we talk about work-life trade-offs, momentum, and why imagining your future might be the most strategic thing you'll do. If you've ever hit pause or felt stuck in place, this one's worth a listen.Key Highlights of Our Interview:27 Years Solo—By Design“I'm in year 27 of my own solopreneurial journey.”Why she stayed intentionally solo—and never looked back.The Business Started in the Gaps“If it sounded interesting… and if I could find some childcare, then it was like, okay, I'll say yes.”How her career grew between naptimes and network calls.The Flight That Changed Her Fees“This guy said, ‘You're charging what?' And I ended up in this business school program that totally transformed how I priced.”One plane ride, one wake-up call, five times the income.Why She Chose Not to Scale“I didn't want the responsibility of paying someone else's mortgage.”Her unapologetic answer to the growth-at-all-costs model.Reinvention, Repeated“I would just change how I looked at the work.”Why she never pivoted industries—but constantly evolved her lens._________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Rebecca Sutherns, PhD, CPF  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Before he was coaching CEOs or co-creating workshops with Jack Canfield, Robert MacPhee was parking cars. That detour became a defining feature—not a footnote.In Part One, Robert shares his unlikely path from backstage support to clarity coach. We explore why most people struggle to name their values, how he built the “Excellent Decisions” framework, and why aligning your choices with your core values is less about woo-woo ideals and more about long-term clarity.Forget vibes—this episode is about learning to steer your life with your own internal compass.Key Highlights of Our Interviews:From Jack Canfield to Clarity Coach“I had the great pleasure of working with Jack Canfield for close to 10 years… and then I developed Excellent Decisions, about making choices from vision and values.”How working with the Chicken Soup for the Soul co-founder led Robert to create his own framework for alignment and success.The Definition of Values (Without the Fluff)“Our values are what's most important to us… the areas we want to put time and attention on, and how we want to show up in the world.”Robert demystifies “values” into two key categories—priorities and ways of being—and why this distinction matters.Dust-Free and Proud: How Values Show Up at Work“One company literally listed ‘dust-free' as a core value—because they cared deeply about being a good neighbor.”A surprising story about a construction company that proves values don't need to be lofty—they just need to be lived.A Workshop, a Wake-Up Call, and 35 Pounds Lost“She just got clear that health mattered. Seven weeks later, she lost 35 pounds.”Why values clarity can be more powerful than any diet plan, productivity hack, or goal-setting framework.Why Most People Can't Name Their Values“Schools don't teach it. Parents rarely do. We're basically flying blind through life.”Robert explains why we inherit others' values by default—and how to break the cycle with conscious exploration.____________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Robert MacPhee  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Part Two.The queen of corporate improv is back—and this time, we're going deeper into the messy, magnificent art of failing forward. In this episode, Erin Diehl shares her Worst Terrifying Failure (aka WTF moment): how the pandemic brought her business to a standstill, her body to a breakdown, and her mindset to a crossroads. But instead of spiraling, she built a comeback rooted in self-healing, radical joy, and a step-by-step method called MOVE ON.From chronic pain to corporate reinvention, this episode is a masterclass in resilience—with punchlines. Spoiler: the joke's not on you. It's for you.Key Highlights of Our Interview:WTF = Worst Terrifying Failure “2020 was my crash course in failure.” Erin unpacks the three Ps—pivoting, people-pleasing, and pain—and how they nearly broke her until she rebuilt with purpose, priorities, and peace.Marinate: Sit With It, Not In It“Failure isn't a bruise—it's a process.” Erin's MOVE ON method starts with pausing and processing, not pushing through.Own It: Forgive and Face the Thought Worms“80% of our thoughts are negative—and we repeat 95% of them.” Learn how Erin rewired her mental patterns with self-compassion and honesty.Verify the Lessons & Evaluate the Plan“Every faceplant teaches you something—if you're paying attention.” Erin explains how reflection plus action equals transformation.Observe and Next Failure: Keep Going“The N stands for the Next Failure—because there will be one.” Erin's method is built for real life, where the next curveball is always around the corner.Joy as a Strategy, Not a Side Effect“My goal every day is to feel good—because if I don't, I can't help anyone else.” Erin closes with a message on generosity, energy, and the contagious power of a smile.________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Erin Diehl  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Before Erin Diehl was training Fortune 500 teams to think on their feet, she was juggling job fairs by day and Second City by night.In Part One, we go back to the origin story—how a recruiting job collided with a comedy stage and sparked a business idea no one saw coming. From cold pitching United Airlines with zero credentials to redefining ROI as “Return on Objective,” Erin shares how improv became her leadership laboratory. Along the way, we talk about joy, failure, and what really happens when you turn your side hustle into your full-time mission.Key Highlights of Our Interview:From Stage Lights to Slide Decks“I was working in recruiting by day and performing improv by night. Eventually, I realized improv wasn't just funny—it was functional.”How Erin's stagecraft became a corporate tool.United We Improv“My first client was United Airlines—and I didn't even have a logo yet.”How one bold pitch turned into a paid pilot and a new career.In the Business of Joy“I just knew I wanted to help people and bring joy.”Why Erin sees her work as more than training—it's emotional transformation.Forget ROI, Focus on ROO“We don't measure ROI—we measure ROO: Return on Objective.”How Improve It tailors every session to real business outcomes.From Talk Show Dreams to Leadership Teams“I wanted to be Oprah. I ended up helping people lead better lives through improv.”The full-circle moment that turned childhood dreams into professional purpose.________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Erin Diehl  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

In a world obsessed with AI, automation, and the next big tech trend, Todd Davis believes human intelligence is more valuable than ever.Sure, AI can crunch numbers—but can it build trust, resolve conflicts, or make people feel heard?In Part 2, we go straight into the human side of leadership—why most people don't actually listen, why trust is like a bank account, and how one employee nearly lost her career over a simple blind spot. Todd also shares a powerful story about a prison inmate who transformed his life using The 7 Habits—a reminder that leadership isn't about titles. It's about impact.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The Art of Actually Listening“Most people aren't listening. They're just waiting for their turn to talk.”The leadership skill no one teaches—but everyone needs.The Trust Bank Account“Withdraw too much without making deposits, and you'll be bankrupt.”How trust works just like money—and why leaders must invest in it.A Career Almost Ruined by One Blind Spot“She was the smartest person in the room. But no one wanted to work with her.”How self-awareness can make or break careers.The 7 Habits… In Prison“An inmate wrote to us saying the book changed his life.”How leadership principles apply anywhere—even behind bars.Why Human Intelligence is the Competitive Advantage“Companies are chasing AI skills. But what they actually need? People who can think, communicate, and lead.”Why interpersonal skills—not algorithms—will shape the future of work.______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Todd Davis  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Todd Davis didn't just teach The 7 Habits—he lived them for 30 years inside the leadership company that built its name on them.As the former Chief People Officer at FranklinCovey, Todd spent three decades coaching teams, executives, and entire organizations on what truly drives effectiveness—and what quietly kills it. In this episode, he unpacks why trust is more than a buzzword, how most leaders think they're being clear (but aren't), and what's gone missing in today's fast-changing workplace.Whether you're leading a team or just trying to survive your next meeting, this is your crash course in timeless leadership with zero fluff.Key Highlights of Our Interview:From Recruiting to the C-Suite“I was just hiring people. Then suddenly, I was leading them.”How Todd built a 30-year career at FranklinCovey without ever planning for it.The Secret to Long-Term Career Growth“I didn't hop around jobs. I stayed put and made an impact.”Why depth, consistency, and trust still beat flashy résumés.The 7 Habits Still Work—Here's Why“They're not business tactics. They're human principles.”Why The 7 Habits remain relevant—even in an age of AI and burnout.What's Wrong With Workplaces Today?“People don't hate work. They hate how work is designed.”The real reasons employees disengage—and what better leadership could fix.The #1 Leadership Skill People Get Wrong“Most leaders think they're clear. They're not.”How miscommunication erodes trust—and how to stop it from happening.______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Todd Davis  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

What if the biggest barrier to innovation isn't a lack of ideas—but a mountain of pointless work?In Part Two of this series, Lisa Bodell, CEO of FutureThink and one of the world's top speakers on simplification, walks us through her strategy to make work—and life—less overwhelming and more meaningful. She shares how organizations like Pfizer and Google cut clutter to free up creativity, and how we can do the same in our personal lives. Lisa also gets personal about parenting, mental health, and why she believes simplicity is a survival skill in the age of AI.From ditching unnecessary meetings to raising future-ready kids, this episode is a manual for letting go of the noise and doubling down on what matters.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Why Simplicity Is a Leadership Strategy“Simplification isn't organizing. It's deletion. If you removed just 10% of your clutter—mental or physical—your life would transform.”Kill a Stupid Rule (Redux)“Pfizer didn't need more innovation. They needed fewer barriers. Killing one pointless process saved them thousands of hours.”Busy ≠ Valuable“We've rewarded ‘more' instead of ‘meaningful.' Hustle culture thrives on this lie—and it's breaking people.”Personal Simplicity Starts with Self-Audit“Write down everything you do in a month. Circle what's meaningful. Now ask: what can you delete, delegate, or decline?”How to Say No Without Burning Bridges“Try saying: ‘Yes, if…' instead of ‘Yes, and…' Boundaries are the gateway to better work.”AI vs. Human Intelligence“AI gives you answers. But it can't ask the right questions. That's where human intelligence still leads.”What Schools Get Wrong About the Future“We're training kids to be future employees, not future humans. That's got to change.”Redefining Learning with Power Skills“Forget soft skills—they're power skills now. Curiosity, resilience, empathy: these will matter more than any degree.”Raising Future-Ready Humans“My daughter trained with the FBI. My son wants to be an entrepreneur. I bring them to my talks so they see work in action.”Why Simplicity Is a Mental Health Imperative“It's not about doing less—it's about doing more of what matters. Simplicity doesn't just help work. It heals people.”______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Lisa Bodell  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

It's friend-of-the-show Chris's birthday, and there's nothing he'd rather do on his special day than share his girlfriend Vicki with his lightning-licking comrades. Vicki rules. She shares stories recalling her DJ past in the Detroit scene of yesteryear while adding female-powered cuts to this bonus episode's mixtape. Deon and Jay tackle old and new cuts spanning 7 decades of musical deliciousness, everything from 60's Brazilian bossa nova to 80's pop to 90's hip-hop to a fresh release from an alternative indie heavyweight.Sonic contributors to this very special 26th bonus episode of Lightnin' Licks Radio podcast include: Dave Matthews Band, Jurassic 5, DJ Nu-Mark, Zach Braff, Natalie Portman, Prince Paul, National Public Radio, Beastie Boys, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Eddie Murphy, Olivia Newton John, John Waters' film Pink Flamingos featuring Divine, David Lochery & Mink Stole, Richard Rodgers, Deborah Kerr & Marni Nixon, Blake Mills, The Rivingtons, Black Thought & El Michaels Affair, Faith No More, MC Breed, Bootleg of the Dayton Family, Pat Finnerty's stink horn, Michelle Zauner,  Ethan Klein, Stevie Wonder, Jimmy Webb, Glen Campbell, The Meters, Lani Hall, The Beatles, The Pretenders, YES, Paul Revere & the Raiders, Guitar Wizards of the Future, Daffy Duck, Squeeze, more Beatles, The Vapors, SRC, John Frusciante, System 7 & Derrick May, Brian Austin Green, Negative Approach, Laughing Hyenas, Mule, Insane Clown Posse, Stone Temple Pilots, Galaxy to Galaxy, Beck, Skinny Puppy, Millie Jackson, Bob Seger System, The Jesus and Mary Chain, James Brown, Betty Jean Newsome, Bob Vylan & Amy Taylor, Greet Death, Ol' Burger Beats, Muddy Waters, Against Me! Operation Ivy,  Neon Trees, No Doubt, Bush, Gwen Stefani, English Beat, The Specials, Bad Manners, Cat Stevens, Steve Winwood, Jimmy Miller, more Pretenders, Sublime, Prince, The Avalaches featuring Camp Lo, Holland-Dozier-Holland, De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, William McLean, The S.O.S. Band, Parliament Funkadelic, ZAP, Tamia, LCD Soundsystem, David Bowie, James Murphy, Tom Scharpling, The Turtles, Bob James, The Alkoholiks, Justin Avdek, The Roots, Tori Spelling, and Dipshit Don, accepter of bribes. Jay loves – Missing Persons, Sergio Mendes, Honey Cone, and Newcleus. Deon likes – Japanese Breakfast, Laura Marling, Black Sheep, and The Pool.Vicki digs – Cat Bite, Sincere Engineer, P.P. Arnold, and Robyn.The 26th Bonus Mixtape:LISTEN TO THE MIX ON SOUNDCLOUD OR ON SPOTIFY[SIDE ONE] (1) Cat Bite - Call Your Bluff (2) Black Sheep - Strobelite Honey (3) Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66 - Wichita Lineman (4) Robyn - Dancing on my Own (5) The Pool - Jamaica Resting (6) Honey Cone - Sunday Morning People[SIDE TWO] (1) Japanese Breakfast - Mega Circuit (2) Sincere Engineer - Fireplace (3) Newcleus - No More Runnin' (4) Laura Marling - Don't Let Me Bring You Down (5) P.P. Arnold - The First Cut is the Deepest (6) Missing Persons - Surrender Your HeartA.I. David Silver appears courtesy of the fact that it's 2025 and we can deep fake whoever the flip we want to.Drink Blue Chair Bay. Shop at Electric Kitsch. Be kind to neighbors and strangers alike.

Crowley recently got to talk to Dawson Daugherty of Almost Monday ahead of X1039 Presents Almost Monday at The Black Sheep 10/11/25! Hear about how fraud alerts might be an early warning sign of success, whether they're already working on a new album yet or not, and their favorite hometown band!Follow us for even more fun local radio content!https://www.facebook.com/x1039radio https://www.instagram.com/x1039radio

Part Two of a 3-part series on Josh Drean.Josh has worn many hats—Harvard MBA, psychology grad, co-founder of Work3 Institute and now, co-author of Employment is Dead (Harvard Business Review Press).In Part 1, we tore down the outdated rituals of traditional employment, including the performative disaster that is the annual engagement survey. Today in Part 2, we go behind the scenes: how did a random cold call spark a bestselling book that landed at HBR?Josh shares the publishing highs and headaches—crafting a 120-page proposal, keeping the book relevant in a fast-changing world, and building an audience in real time on social media while the manuscript sat in editing limbo. This one's for every creator, innovator, and future-of-work disruptor trying to stay ahead of the curve.Key Highlights of Our Interview:A Book Born from a Cold Call“I know this sounds completely random, but do you want to write a book together?” That's how co-author Deborah Perry Piscione kicked off Employment is Dead. One unexpected phone call, a big idea, and a sticky title later—they caught Harvard Business Review's attention.Publishing in a Real-Time World“Imagine writing a chapter a year ago, only to have it go live twelve months later—it's outdated by then.” With AI and Web3 changing everything weekly, Josh kept the conversation fresh through TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube while waiting for the book to hit shelves.The Proposal That Was ‘Way Too Long'“We ended up with 120 pages—which everyone said was way too much.” But that oversized pitch sparked a bidding war. Why? Because they weren't just selling a book. They were calling out a broken system—and offering a blueprint to fix it._________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Josh Drean  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Part Two of a 2-part series with Deborah Perry Piscione.She's been a White House staffer, a Silicon Valley founder, and now co-author of Employment is Dead. In this final chapter, Deborah unpacks the future of learning, hiring, and leadership. Her son skipped college, built a six-figure business, and learned survival in Antarctica—and she says that path may be more relevant than a classroom.From blockchain credentials to portfolio careers and life-stage flexibility, Deborah lays out what's next for both workers and employers. She also answers the big question: does “employment is dead” mean we stop working? Not even close. But we do stop settling.If you're a leader, parent, or Gen Zer trying to understand what the future holds—this one's for you.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Degrees Are Optional, Grit Isn't“My son crossed the Drake Passage and got left on a roadside in Argentina. He didn't go back to college—but he learned more than any syllabus could teach.”Employment Is Dead? Not Quite“I'm not saying sit in the basement and play video games. I'm saying don't tolerate a system that treats you like a cog.”The Rise of Life-Stage Flexibility“Whether you're 25 or 55, you deserve a career path that adjusts to your life—not the other way around.”Why Employers Must Wake Up Now“One person can now do the job of three. If leaders don't plan for that shift, they'll lose talent before they know what hit them.”The Most Important Executive Role? CHRO“Yes, you need a chief AI officer. But you need a human-centered CHRO even more—to help people evolve with the tech.”The IBM Example“IBM's CEO told employees: ‘If this next chapter isn't for you, we'll help you find a new path.' That's empathy in action.”Let's Talk T-Shaped Talent“It's not just about your vertical expertise—it's what else you bring across disciplines that makes you valuable now.”Redefining Work in the AI Age“New tech like smart contracts and DAOs will let us work on our terms, from anywhere, on things we actually care about.”Why Gen Z Might Be Right“We were told to follow one path. They're building ten—and most of them don't involve climbing a corporate ladder.”What ‘Employment Is Dead' Really Means“Traditional jobs may be fading, but work isn't going anywhere. What's dying is the idea that your life has to fit inside someone else's system.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Deborah Perry Piscione  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

What happens when a political insider, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur, and a bestselling author walk into a podcast? You get Deborah Perry Piscione.In Part One of this two-part series, Deborah shares her wild career ride—from shaping policy in Washington to pioneering bottoms-up innovation in tech. She breaks down why fear is a tool in politics, but collaboration fuels real change—and how a chance encounter in a coffee shop led to her first startup and a new lens on what work could be.From co-founding six ventures to co-authoring Employment is Dead, Deborah's story is a masterclass in trusting your instincts, failing fast, and knowing when to break the rules. Part Two will dive deeper into AI, upskilling, and why Gen Z might be the smartest workforce we've ever had.Key Highlights of Our Interview:From Capitol Hill to Palo Alto“In D.C., I learned how to divide people. In Silicon Valley, I learned how to bring them together.”The Starbucks That Changed Everything“A stranger asked, ‘How can I help you?' Three weeks later, I had venture capital.”Six Companies, Six Books, No Master Plan“I didn't have a big strategy—just instincts, observation, and the nerve to try.”Innovation Isn't Top-Down Anymore“The best ideas often come from the people with the smallest paychecks.”Risk Is the Real Skill“You can throw ten ideas at the wall. One might stick. The rest will teach you.”Founders Dilemma: Know When to Let Go“Sometimes it's not about the perfect number—it's about moving the mission forward.”Why She Launched Work3 Institute“People spend most of their waking hours at work. So why do so many feel terrible doing it?”Old Model, New World“I never understood why finishing work early meant I had to sit until 6 p.m. Taylorism still haunts us.”Empowering Workers, Not Just Employers“We're not just talking to companies—we're telling workers: you have choices now.”Gen Z Knows More Than the Bosses“For the first time, a generation entering the workforce understands the future of work better than the people in charge.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Deborah Perry Piscione  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Part Three of a 3-part series with Josh Drean.Josh isn't here to tweak the old system—he's here to build a new one. In this final chapter, the Work3 Institute co-founder and co-author of Employment is Dead goes deep on what it actually takes to evolve.Vince and Josh tackle the hard stuff: Are degrees still relevant in a skills-first world? How does blockchain flip the hiring process? What if your next “employee” is actually a DAO participant with token voting power? And what happens to companies who still think Zoom fatigue is the biggest problem facing the future of work?If your HR strategy still lives in a Word doc, this episode is your sign to evolve—or get left behind.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Degrees vs. Skills: Why the Shift Is Happening Now“Degrees used to guarantee employment. Not anymore. Employers are waking up—skills win.”The Truth About Ivy League Pedigree“At Harvard, the education's fine—but it's the connections that count. That's the real ROI of the degree.”AI Has Already Broken the Hiring Process“You've got AI writing job descriptions, AI writing résumés, and AI screening candidates. Humans barely touch the funnel anymore.”Blockchain and the Rise of the Verifiable Résumé“With blockchain, we don't have to trust you—we already know. Your digital wallet becomes your skills passport.”DAO 101: Flattening Hierarchies and Sharing Power“A DAO lets frontline workers vote on strategy, not just execute it. It's work by consensus, not command.”Why Micromanagers Should Be Nervous“We don't need six layers of oversight. Tech lets teams self-govern and move faster—with less drama.”The Gen Z Warning Shot“Gen Z isn't lazy—they're just not buying the 9-to-5. If you don't offer autonomy and impact, they'll leave.”Spotify's Win: Let Work Fit Life, Not the Other Way Around“Companies like Spotify get it—flexibility, rhythm, and respect lead to loyalty.”From Analog to AI: Vince's Gen X Reflection“We learned on Lotus, adapted to Excel, and now manage in the age of ChatGPT. Tech is the bridge, not the barrier.”Final Advice for Employers: Evolve or Be Replaced“Change isn't optional. Either reshape your workplace—or get ready to lose your best people to the ones who did.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Josh Drean  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

What if employment as we know it has already died—and we're just pretending not to notice?In Part One of this three-part series, Josh Drean—Harvard MBA, startup founder, and co-author of Employment is Dead(Harvard Business Review Press)—joins Vince to dissect the slow death of traditional work. From the failure of annual engagement surveys to the false promise of “people-first” slogans, Josh makes it clear: the current system was built for the factory floor, not the future.We trace Josh's journey from studying psychology to working in corporate consulting during the pandemic, and now building the Work3 Institute to help leaders redesign employment itself. Why is HR still feared? Why are employees called “assets” but treated like expenses? And how can new technologies like Web3 create better human systems?Part Two digs into how a cold outreach led to an HBR publishing deal—and the 10 principles Josh says every modern worker wants now.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Why Engagement Surveys Are a Broken Ritual“Surveys are the dumbest way to build a relationship. They're not designed for honesty—and most leaders don't really want the truth.”The False Math of ‘People Are Our Greatest Asset'“If people were really assets, they'd show up on the balance sheet. But they don't. They're an expense—and treated like one.”The Pandemic Wake-Up Call“I started consulting right as COVID hit. It forced companies to rethink safety, remote work, and what their employees actually needed.”The HR Dilemma: Protector of People or Risk Manager?“Most employees still associate HR with layoffs. That's a brand problem—and a system design failure.”From Assembly Lines to AI: Why Taylorism Is Still Haunting Us“Modern work still clings to an industrial-era model—check the box, don't ask questions. That doesn't fit the information age.”How Psychology Led Josh Into Web3 and DAO Culture“My reason for doing this never changed—it's about building better experiences. But tech gave me the tools to scale that.”Meet the Digital Native Workforce (a.k.a. Your Kids)“My 8-year-old builds real friendships through Fortnite. If you think digital community isn't real—you're already behind.”The 10 Operating Principles of Work3“From flexibility and autonomy to interoperability and ownership—these are the non-negotiables for the next generation of work.”Why Forcing People Back to the Office Will Backfire“Employees don't want the typewriter factory version of work. RTO is a backwards step—and they know it.”From Psychology Grad to HBR Author: Josh's Journey Begins“I didn't have a tenured chair or a best-selling track record. Just a cold outreach, a clear message—and a broken system to fix.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Josh Drean  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

In this episode, Marisa interviews writer, comedian, and screen and voice actor, Ryan McCabe. Ryan's commitment to character and comedy was established at a young age when he called himself The Riddler after watching Jim Carrey in Batman Forever. Now in LA, Ryan works in the dubbing industry and trains with The Groundlings, performing improv and stand-up comedy. He has also written seven poetry books and is currently producing a new comic called Henry Fowl in Black Sheep. Full of laughs and experience, Ryan creates work that is authentic to him, reminding artists to enjoy the creative process and to not be afraid to fail.Follow Ryan @hurricabePurchase his poetry books at Sabor y Cultural in LA or on Amazon

Today's episode is a must-listen for Property Managers! We're joined by Benjamin Serven from Blacksheep Global, a company that specializes in helping PMs understand, implement, and scale the many software solutions available in our industry.   From LeadSimple to Aptly, Appfolio, RentVine, and more — we're answering the most frequently asked questions to help you make smart tech decisions and streamline your systems.   It's packed with insights, pro tips, and clarity on tools you're already using (or thinking about using). Don't miss it!   Want more from Benjamin? Book a free consultation at blacksheepglobal.net and get 1:1 insight on streamlining your property management processes.    

This week we will be talking to a notorious former pastor about their experience growing up inside high control religion, becoming a poster child for purity culture, being set up to take over for a large church and ultimately giving it all up, deconstructing his faith and leaving the church. If you grew up in evangelicalism, and likely even if you didn't, you're sure to be familiar with Joshua Harris, author of the wildly popular Christian dating, ahem, courting, book, I Kissed Dating Goodbye. He's here to share with us about his time inside of high control religion, what opened his eyes to the unhealthy dynamics inside the church and his process of healing after leaving. It's an episode that all of our younger selves never saw coming and definitely one you won't want to miss! This podcast is brought to you by the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery: an online trauma coaching company whose practitioners are trauma informed and trauma trained to work with individuals, couples and families who have experienced high control religion, cults, and religious trauma. For more information on the support that CTRR provides, for resources–including courses, workshops, and more–head to traumaresolutionandrecovery.com or follow us on Instagram: @traumaresolutionandrecovery The views and opinions expressed by Sunday School Dropouts are those of the hosts and not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery. Any of the content provided by our guests, sponsors, authors, or bloggers are their own ideas and opinions.The Sunday School Dropouts podcast is not anti-religion but it is anti -harm, -power and control, -oppression and, -abuse and will speak to the harmful practices and messaging of fundamentalist groups. Follow Andrew on Instagram and TikTok @deconstruct_everything Follow Laura on Instagram and TikTok @drlauraeanderson or on her website: www.drlauraeanderson.com Hosts: Laura Anderson and Andrew KerbsMusic by Benjamin Faye Music @heytherebenji Editing and Production by Kevin Crowe and can be found at  www.kevincrowe.co

The SKATCAST Network presents:The SKATCAST Show #175 with the Script KeeperToday's Skit-SKATs:[ Book of Shmoggie | 0:31 ] - "Earth Invasion: The Adama Wars" - Halifax Prime is looking for a the final Voltron, Darth Halifax is looking for Riverdance and Dr. Shmoggie is jamming out to his favorite Earth Music (Limberlost from the city of Seattle in the state of Washington in the country of the USA on the planet Earth which is in the Adama Star System).[ Ambling Through Human History | 17:19 ] - "The History of the Projectile Weapon" - As we stumble through the historical records, we follow the evolution of the projectile weapon, from it's humble stone-throwing beginnings to the cluster-bomb and all the poop-flinging in between. It's gross, but tradition.[ Black Sheep | 24:55 ] - "Talk Sheep" - Black Sheep returns but speaks up against the "official trusted sources of the Farm Party". That probably turns out good for him.[ Talking Pets | 28:08 ] - "Hiss of Death" - Kitty is still acting crazy and Droknol has to figure out a new way to get food in his belly.Thank you for listening! Have an EPIC Tuesday!Visit us for more episodes of SKATCAST and other shows like SKATCAST presents The Dave & Angus Show plus BONUS material at https://www.skatcast.com Watch select shows and shorts on YouTube: bit.ly/34kxCneJoin the conversation on Discord! https://discord.gg/XKxhHYwu9zFor all show related questions: info@skatcast.comPlease rate and subscribe on iTunes and elsewhere and follow SKATCAST on social media!! Instagram: @theescriptkeeper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scriptkeepersATWanna become a Patron? Click here: https://www.patreon.com/SkatcastSign up through Patreon and you'll get Exclusive Content, Behind The Scenes video, special downloads and more! Prefer to make a donation instead? You can do that through our PayPal: https://paypal.me/skatcastpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not all career changes are dramatic. Some are deeply deliberate—and a little serendipitous.In Part One, Alison Stewart, COO of Overalls, walks us through her transition from 10+ years in the financial sector to co-founding a startup she discovered on LinkedIn. With two kids at home and a stable job in a Fortune 100 company, Alison didn't jump recklessly. Instead, she asked the hard questions: Am I fulfilled? What do I want next? And how much risk am I really willing to take?This episode unpacks what happens when you combine career intuition with operational precision—and how a well-timed DM can change everything.Key Highlights of Our Interview:From Corporate Climb to Personal Wake-Up Call“Time started blending together during the pandemic. I had to ask: Am I actually happy? Or just coasting in a cycle of constant resets?”The Treadmill of Big Company Life“With every leadership change, we took ten steps back before we moved one forward. I was learning—but I wasn't growing.”Childhood Moves, Adult Adaptability“Moving five times by age 14 taught me to see change as an opportunity. That mindset still guides me today.”The Pregnancy + Merger Combo“Just weeks before giving birth to my second child, my business unit was sold. The uncertainty could've been paralyzing—but I chose to treat it as a new beginning.”Risk—But Not Reckless: Mapping a Smarter Pivot“I didn't quit cold. I asked: What am I good at? What fulfills me? What can my family support? I gave myself permission to explore—and permission to say no.”The Non-Obvious Job Search Strategy“Instead of applying for jobs I knew I could do, I reverse-engineered what I wanted: values, pace, purpose. I wasn't chasing a title—I was chasing a fit.”The Moment Overalls Popped Off the Screen“When I read about Overalls, something clicked. I didn't even know if they were hiring. I just knew I had to reach out.”Why LinkedIn Isn't Just Noise“It wasn't a random scroll. I used LinkedIn intentionally—to research, reflect, and eventually connect. That DM changed everything.”Communicating Across Industries“Moving out of insurance meant translating my skill set. I had to show how what I did mapped onto what I wanted to do.”Community + Clarity = Career Confidence“A networking group of MBA alumni helped me spot my own excitement. They said, ‘This one lights you up. Go for it.' That feedback made all the difference.”____________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Alison Stewart  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Overwhelmed by life? Alison Stewart gets it—and she's building a startup to help fix it.In Part Two, the Overalls COO shares how her team is rethinking employee benefits by offering something surprisingly human: life support, literally. Whether it's booking a plumber, navigating eldercare, or finding summer camps before the January rush, Overalls acts as a concierge for the chaos of modern life.Alison also opens up about what it really takes to scale an idea from zero—while trusting yourself to write the policies, run the ops, and still answer the phones. Spoiler: she's done it all. If you've ever dreamed of building something meaningful from scratch, this is your operations masterclass.Key Highlights of Our Interview:What Overalls Actually Does (Hint: It's Not Laundry)“We're your life concierge—handling everything from vetting plumbers to eldercare planning. Our job is to give your time and sanity back.”The Startup Test: From Strategy to Scheduling Cleaners“Two weeks in, I was calling Colorado well inspectors, pitching insurance partners, and writing job descriptions. All in one day. That's startup life.”Why a Stay-at-Home Mom Might Be Your Next Concierge“We tapped into an overlooked talent pool—retirees, caregivers, underemployed parents—and gave them flexible, meaningful work. It's a win-win.”HR Is Finally Getting Thank-You Notes“Employers tell us: this is the first time employees are actively thanking HR for a benefit. That's unheard of.”The Burnout Solution That Isn't Therapy“Burnout isn't always solved by meditation apps. Sometimes, it's about having someone book that MRI or call the insurance company for you.”Confidence as a Startup Operator: Earning It Day by Day“Do I know how to write an HR policy? Not at first. But I figured it out. In a startup, everything's your job.”Why Big Company Life Doesn't Prepare You for This“In corporate, you focus on one slice. In startup life, you are the pie. You handle everything, whether or not you've done it before.”From Lean to Leveraged: Hiring with Intention“Writing job descriptions meant I could finally hire someone to take something off my plate. But no one else was going to write them.”Mindset > Metrics (At Least in the Beginning)“Don't just optimize for titles or compensation. Start with: What am I actually excited to build? What problem do I care enough to solve?”Advice for Fellow Change Progressives“Talk to people. Write it down. Be honest about what lights you up—and patient with the timeline. Growth is a slow burn. Trust it.”____________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Alison Stewart  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Most people retire after one successful business. Ral West kept building.In this episode, Ral shares how she co-ran a charter airline between Alaska and Hawaii for 25 years—eventually selling it to Alaska Airlines—and then launched into her next chapters: owning cruise ships, investing in real estate syndications, and helping other entrepreneurs find sustainability without burnout.From navigating gender bias in a family business to designing automated booking systems and letting go of control through delegation, Ral's story is a masterclass in evolving through every season of life. Whether you're in the startup grind, planning an exit, or rethinking what “retirement” means—her story will get you dreaming smarter and bolder.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The 25-Year Flight Plan: From Tourism to Aviation“I started in Alaska tourism. My husband was in real estate. Together, we launched a charter service to Hawaii—and turned it into a full airline.”Selling to Alaska Airlines: A Strategic Exit“We knew they were entering the Hawaii market. Instead of competing, we showed them why buying us was smarter.”When Cruise Ships Became the Next Chapter“We bought five small cruise ships out of bankruptcy, redesigned the Alaskan travel experience—and then pivoted again after COVID shut everything down.”Why Real Estate Was the Right Post-COVID Play“We own part of over 6,000 apartment units in five states. Why? Because homeownership is becoming harder, and rental demand is rising.”From Exhaustion to Empowerment: Lessons from the Middle Years“Between 35 and 55, I was stretched thin—business, babies, burnout. I had to build systems and teams to stay afloat.”The Real ROI of Delegation“Delegation isn't about giving things away—it's about building trust and giving others space to shine.”Turning Intuition into Systems“I realized I made ad-spend decisions based on 3-day sales trends. Once I named it, I turned it into a repeatable formula my team could follow.”Reservation System Reinvention“We invested two years into building an online booking system that ran 24/7—freeing us from the phones and doubling our revenue.”Not Your Typical Retirement Plan“I could've retired 16 years ago. I didn't. I love working. My retirement plan is doing what I want, when I want, with the systems to support it.”Advice for Entrepreneurs at Any Age“Be bold. Stay curious. Watch the world. And don't let age—or fear—be the thing that keeps you small.”______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Ral West  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Comebacks rarely happen all at once. They're built in small moments, with slow wins.In Part Two, Athena Brownson opens up about what it really takes to rebuild when chronic illness becomes your new normal. She walks us through her mindset rituals, the power of written affirmation, and how she finally learned the one thing no athlete ever wants to admit: she couldn't do it alone.From retraining her brain to let go of pain patterns, to redefining leadership through delegation, Athena shares a playbook for resilience that's part spiritual, part practical, and 100% earned. Whether you're healing from illness, burnout, or just life's curveballs—this is your reminder that growth is still possible, even in survival mode.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Training Her Brain to Stop Listening to Pain“Our brains get stuck in pain patterns. I use breathwork, affirmations, and routines to teach mine a new message: You're safe. You're healing.”Why Routines Became Her Lifeline“Every day starts with journaling, breathwork, affirmations. I write: I am healthy. I am healing. My body is getting stronger. I speak it until I believe it.”Delegation as a Leadership Superpower“Being sick taught me what being a leader really means—letting go. Delegation isn't giving up control; it's giving others a chance to thrive.”How Chronic Illness Redefined Her Business Model“I couldn't keep doing it all. So I built a team that could run without me on bad days—and succeed with me on the good ones.”Your Tribe Is Everything“After ten years, I finally found people who want me well. Who care more about my health than a commission. They're my family now.”The Mental Game of Chronic Recovery“You don't need to fix it all today. Start with one percent better. That's how I got out of survival mode.”Accountability on Paper“I print out my must-do list and check it off every day. If I don't write it down, it doesn't happen. It's how I stay in motion.”Pen, Paper, and Confidence“Writing makes the healing real. Every word reinforces a new belief system—one I can see and hold.”Jodie Foster, Masterclass, and the Simplicity of Creation“All you need is pen, paper, and confidence. That line hit me. You don't need a perfect plan. You just need to start.”Her Message to Anyone Struggling“It's okay to acknowledge pain. Just don't stay stuck in it. Tiny steps add up. Your healing doesn't need to be loud—it just needs to begin.”______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Athena Brownson  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

At 25, Athena Brownson was a rising star in real estate with a pro skiing past and unstoppable energy. Then came Lyme disease—a diagnosis that would upend her health, identity, and entire way of life.In Part One, Athena shares the unfiltered truth of what it means to live with a chronic, invisible illness for nearly a decade. From neck surgery to plasma transfusions, she walks us through the daily battles, emotional toll, and quiet strength it takes to show up—even when she doesn't want to. This episode is a reminder that resilience isn't loud or pretty—it's built moment by moment, one breath at a time.Key Highlights of Our Interview:From Pro Skier to Top Agent: The Unexpected Pivot“I never thought I'd end up in real estate. But once I did, it clicked—relationships, homes, design. It all came together.”At the Peak—and Then Everything Changed“Three years in, I was at the top of my game. Then came the diagnosis: Lyme disease. My body started falling apart.”What Lyme Disease Actually Does (And Why It's Hard to Diagnose)“Lyme attacks your body where you're genetically weakest. For me, that meant chronic nerve pain and multiple autoimmune issues.”From Athlete to Patient: Learning to Survive in a New Body“I don't remember what it's like to feel okay. Every day, I wake up in pain. That's been my life for almost eight years.”Plasma Transfusions and Mental Fog: A Day in the Life“I get plasma removed and replaced four days a month. My life revolves around staying alive and staying upright.”Invisible Illness, Visible Impact“People don't see it—but that doesn't mean it's not real. Lyme is the fastest-growing epidemic in the U.S.”Toolkit Mentality: How Music, Coffee, and Podcasts Keep Her Going“I don't always want to get up. But music, good coffee, a favorite podcast—those little rituals make it possible.”Why You Must Be Your Own Advocate“With Lyme, you have to fight for your care. You have to find the right doctors, the right support, the right rhythm.”Grit Over Glamour: Lessons from the Ski Slopes“Skiing taught me everything—discipline, failure, grit. That training saved me when life got really hard.”The Power of Mental Focus When the Body Fails“It's not just physical. The mental part—the decision to keep going—is what gets me through every single day.”______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Athena Brownson  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

What do janitors, jazz musicians, and neuroscientists have in common? According to Dr. Nicole F. Roberts, everything.In Part Two, the Doctor of Public Health and co-author of Generosity WINS unpacks how she and Monty Wood turned a business book into a narrative experiment—part fiction, part real-world leadership case study. She shares how they chose a fictional hotel manager named Emily to guide readers through generosity's ripple effects, and how each chapter's QR code links to a real leader with real lessons.We also explore her annual Brain Health Summit, hosted during Super Bowl weekend with NFL stars, neuroscientists, and 5,000 guests. It's science, story, and social impact—all rolled into one unforgettable conversation.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Why No One Buys Healthcare Books—But Everyone Needs This One“People won't read about systems. They'll read about people. So we built a fictional character, Emily, to carry real wisdom forward.”Inside the Writing Process: Spreadsheets, Stickies, and Storytelling“We tracked every theme. We mapped each arc. It was my dissertation mind meets Monty's business brain—and it worked.”Real Leaders, Fictional World: How Emily's Journey Became Everyone's“Each person Emily interviews is real. Every QR code leads to their profile. We didn't make this stuff up—we brought it to life.”Redefining Generosity: It's Not About Giving Money“Generosity is any act of kindness or support, given without expectation of return. If you expect something back, it's just a transaction.”The Ripple Effect Is Real—And Unmeasurable“You can't plug karma into a spreadsheet. But trust, reputation, and relationships? They'll open doors years later.”A Thank-You Changed Everything“One reader started thanking hospital staff daily. It brought him—and others—to tears. That's the ROI no one talks about.”Why They Made Emily a Woman—and Placed Her in Hospitality“Hospitality is about anticipating needs. It's the perfect metaphor for generosity. Emily's age and role made her ready to learn, not perfect.”Can Generosity Be Taught? Yes—With Grief and Grace“We found our answers in boys' schools and in people who'd lost everything. Generosity grows when modeled—and when it's all you have left.”Brain Summit at the Super Bowl? Yes, Really.“5,000 guests, jazz museums, NFL players, and neuroscientists. Every year, we throw a party with a purpose.”Next Year: San Francisco, Brain Health, and the Environment“Mark your calendar: Super Bowl weekend in SF. Brain Summit's next theme? The intersection of neuroscience and nature.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Dr. Nicole F. Roberts  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

What happens when your five-year plan falls apart—and you start to like it that way?In Part One, Nicole F. Roberts—Doctor of Public Health, human rights founder, and co-author of Generosity WINS—shares the real story behind her very unpolished path. From flunking chemistry and walking away from med school dreams to launching a human rights firm mid-dissertation, Nicole proves that success isn't always strategic—it's responsive, human, and messy in the best way.We explore how her neuroscience roots shaped her curiosity, why she walked away from Washington policy to chase impact, and what changed when she started listening more to real people than political agendas. This episode is for anyone who's ever hit pause—and realized the reroute was actually the destination.Key Highlights of Our Interview:When the Neurosurgeon Dream Crashed—and Something Better Emerged“I realized I was terrible at chemistry… and didn't want to spend life writing prescriptions.”How Policy Lost Her—and Public Health Found Her“Policy's great—until politics gets involved. I needed to see real change, not just write about it.”A Six-Month Pause That Turned Into Six Years (and a Human Rights Firm)“My dissertation chair died. I got divorced. So I started a human rights firm. As one does.”The Problem with Think Tanks (and the Need to Do, Not Just Think)“I could write papers forever—but what if no one ever acts on them?”When Real Life Rewrote the Dissertation“Those six years gave me a new lens. I rewrote everything—from the topic to the way I thought.”Her Final Research Topic: Why Neuroscience Can't Scale Without Generosity“It turns out collaboration doesn't come easy in science. Ownership often trumps impact.”Why Her Dissertation Still Sits on a Shelf“It was supposed to be my first book. I haven't opened it in years. I just burned out.”Co-Authoring Generosity WINS: When a Business Book Becomes a Neuroscience Playbook“Monty had this premise: success follows giving. I knew the science could back it up—we just had to find the story.”A Business Fable, a Fictional Heroine, and Real-Life Interviews“Every chapter has a QR code that takes you to a real leader's profile. Fictional story, real lessons.”Why Kindness Is Strategic, Not Soft“You can't show the ROI of karma—but the people who give are the ones who last.”_________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Dr. Nicole F. Roberts  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

What does generosity look like in a divided, distracted world?In Part Two, Monte Wood—former CEO of Opus Agency and author of Generosity Wins—dives deeper into how generosity gets lost in the noise of modern life and what it takes to reclaim it. From quiet reflections on Steve Jobs' legacy to a chance encounter with Elon Musk in a hotel hot tub, Monte shares how generosity can take many forms—and why practicing it daily is the ultimate leadership move.He also unpacks the forces working against generosity: media polarization, digital disconnection, and our culture of performative success. But with optimism, awareness, and a bit of handwritten gratitude, Monte believes we can rewire how we relate to ourselves—and each other.Key Highlights of Our Interview:What Generosity Isn't: Learning from the Hard Edges“Steve Jobs wasn't always kind—but his mission was generous. He wanted everyone to access technology. That matters.”The Hidden Generosity of Power Players“Elon Musk sat in a hot tub and talked German cinema with strangers. That moment of presence? Pure generosity.”Why Greed and Media Noise Make Generosity Harder“Our media doesn't report anymore—it polarizes. It's designed to divide us, not connect us. That's why generosity is revolutionary.”Connectivity ≠ Connection“Texting someone in the same room isn't connection. Real generosity requires presence—not just Wi-Fi.”A 600-Day Habit That Changed His Life“For nearly two years, Monte has written down one act of generosity and one moment of appreciation. Every. Single. Day.”How to Start Your Own Generosity Practice“It doesn't have to be dramatic. A smile. A name remembered. A moment of full attention. That's the starting line.”The ROI of Generosity Isn't in Metrics—It's in Meaning“You won't find it in a spreadsheet. But the return? Real connection. Better leadership. More joy.”Be Generous With Yourself, Too“Monte exercises daily. Not for performance—for self-gift. Being generous starts with how you treat your own body and mind.”Hope Isn't Naive—It's a Form of Generosity“Monte calls himself ‘appropriately optimistic.' His optimism is calibrated—not blind. It's a gift he gives carefully to others.”Why He Still Believes in a More Generous World“We can't control the noise—but we can choose how we show up. And small, consistent acts of generosity still move the world.”_____________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Monte Wood  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Is generosity a nice-to-have—or a career superpower?In Part One, Monte Wood, former CEO of Opus Agency and author of Generosity Wins, makes the case for generosity as a leadership strategy with real-world ROI. Drawing from personal stories, his time working with legends like Steve Jobs, Andy Grove, and Mark Benioff, and life lessons from his own mentors, Monte shares how small acts of generosity can ripple out into long-term success—and why true generosity isn't transactional, it's transformational.This episode explores what it means to give without expecting anything in return—and how doing so just might give you everything you've been looking for.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The 16-Year-Old With a Generosity Formula“My mentor told me: believe you can succeed, live a good life, and be generous. That's it. That's what I followed.”From Milton-Freewater to CEO“Even in a town of 3,500, I believed I'd lead a $100 million company. Generosity helped me get there.”The Real Test of Generous Leadership“Great leaders don't just care about your output—they care about your growth, your family, your life beyond work.”The Taco Bell CEO Who Taught His Team to Change Tires“Leadership isn't just coaching performance. It's preparing people for life—even if that means teaching them how to balance a checkbook.”Why Remembering Someone's Name Is a Leadership Move“Mark Benioff would walk into a room of 2,000 people and greet them by name. That's not ego—that's care.”The Toyota Truck and the Corner Cubicle“Andy Grove reinvented Intel—and drove a beat-up Toyota. That's not performative humility. That's values in action.”Is It Generosity If It Helps You Win?“If generosity leads to success, is it selfish? No—it's just wise. When done with pure intent, generosity multiplies.”Defining Generosity (Without the Guilt Trip)“It's not about money. It's any act of giving or kindness done without expecting a return. Even a smile counts.”Smiles, Bathrooms, and the Chemistry of Connection“A smile can save a life. Cleaning a public restroom can create joy for someone you'll never meet. This is the power we all hold.”The Ripple Effect Is Real—And It Changes Lives“When you're generous to one person, they're more likely to be generous to someone else. The ROI? It might not be financial—but it's exponential.”_____________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Monte Wood  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Paul Austin isn't here to evangelize psychedelics. He's here to demystify them.As the founder and CEO of Third Wave, Paul has spent a decade educating the public on responsible psychedelic use—from microdosing protocols to full-dose journeys. In this episode, he shares how psychedelics are being used not just to treat mental health conditions, but to enhance leadership, decision-making, and personal clarity.We explore the science of neuroplasticity, the legal gray zones, and the risks of skipping the prep work. For high-performers feeling stuck or burnt out, Paul outlines a roadmap grounded in safety, structure, and serious self-inquiry. Whether you're curious, skeptical, or somewhere in between, this conversation is a guide—not a push—for what transformation can look like when approached with respect.Key Highlights of Our Interview:Why He Started Third Wave—and Why His Dad Tried It Too“My dad once told me he hadn't been that disappointed since his brother died. Years later, I guided him through his first psilocybin journey.”From Microdosing to Life Design“Microdosing isn't about escape—it's about reprogramming. You still have to show up and do the hard stuff.”Psychedelics as a Skill, Not a Fix“Just like cooking or martial arts, this is a practice. You get better with time, feedback, and intention.”When Leaders Feel Stuck, This Is the Pattern Breaker“For many execs I work with, it's not about trauma—it's about lost clarity, emotional fog, or a 360 review that hit too close to home.”Start Low, Go Slow: Why That Advice Matters More Than Ever“You can always take more—you can't take less. Begin with microdosing. Build awareness before diving deep.”The Snow Globe and the Ski Slope: Two Metaphors That Explain It All“Think of psychedelics as shaking up the snow globe. Or fresh powder on a slope—you're no longer stuck in someone else's ruts.”Legal Doesn't Mean Safe. Illegal Doesn't Mean Dangerous.“Psychedelics became illegal for political—not medical—reasons. But that doesn't mean you can skip the legal risks.”Where It's Legal—And What to Do If It's Not“Colorado. Oregon. The Netherlands. Costa Rica. Go where it's legal. Work with a guide. Respect the law.”The Five Elements of a Safe Psychedelic Journey“Assessment. Preparation. Facilitation. Integration. Microdosing. Miss one, and the whole thing can derail.”Why No One Should Be Talked Into It“Don't do it for your friend, your spouse, or your coach. You have to want this for you.”_____________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Paul Austin  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1.5% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.