Podcast appearances and mentions of chris schembra

Episode SummaryIn this riveting and deeply personal conversation, Chris Schembra sits down with Grace Smith — one of the world's most respected hypnotherapists and the founder of the #1 hypnotherapy brand in the world — to explore how hypnosis can unlock peak performance, emotional clarity, and authentic leadership in the modern workplace.Chris opens the episode by recounting how Grace helped him through a dark moment in 2021, using hypnotherapy to reconnect him to purpose, possibility, and a record-breaking year in business. From there, the conversation expands to cover Grace's origin story, her groundbreaking work with high-achieving CEOs, and why hypnosis is less about “fixing” and more about revealing the strength already inside us.Grace shares stunning stories from her early career — including how she helped a paralyzed man regain movement in a single session, a man who would later become her father-in-law. Together, they explore how the subconscious governs behavior, how leaders can reprogram outdated belief systems, and why gratitude often lives just beneath stress, waiting to be uncovered.This episode is a masterclass in neuroscience, personal growth, and emotional intelligence for anyone looking to lead with clarity and courage in a world of chaos. Key ThemesSubconscious blocks and business growthThe science of theta brainwave states and peak performanceHow trauma and stress quietly shape executive decision-makingWhy hypnosis helps leaders find clarity, confidence, and intuitionThe power of gratitude as a renewable energy sourceHow to lead with presence in a world of distractionNotable Quotes“When the subconscious is working against you, you'll never reach your true potential.” – Grace Smith“Gratitude is there—it's just buried beneath stress. Hypnosis helps you feel what's already been inside you.” – Grace Smith“You're not fixing broken people—you're polishing the gem that was always there.” – Chris Schembra“Hypnosis gave me the pause I needed to take action toward healing. One week later, I bought a ticket to Italy.” – Chris Schembra“The brain doesn't just change overnight because your circumstances improve. You have to rewire it—consciously.” – Grace Smith“I work with people whose decisions shift tectonic plates. When their subconscious is clear, the world moves with more grace.” – Grace Smith“Every subconscious breakthrough is followed by what I call a bonus miracle—change you didn't even expect.” – Grace Smith“When you're in theta, you bypass the ego. That's where the intuition lives. That's where the clarity begins.” – Grace Smith“We're not adding anything. We're removing what's in the way of who you already are.” – Grace Smith“Hypnosis isn't mind control. It's mindset liberation.” – Grace Smith“Grace didn't just help me recover—she helped me remember who I was before the noise.” – Chris Schembra“You can read every business book in the world. But if your subconscious is working against you, you're building on sand.” – Chris Schembra“She's not giving you a new mind—she's handing you the keys to the one you forgot you had.” – Chris Schembra“Sometimes the only way forward is to pause long enough to hear the voice underneath the fear.” – Chris SchembraFeatured StoriesGrace's first hypnotherapy session helped her quit smoking — and changed the course of her lifeHow a United Nations peacekeeper paralyzed from a stroke moved his hand again in a single sessionChris's vulnerable account of his 2021 mental health crisis and the role Grace played in his recoveryWhy CEOs with billion-dollar companies are turning to hypnotherapy for their next breakthroughThe neuroscience of flow, intuition, and decision-making under pressureResources and LinksGrace App: Hypnotherapy on-demand for stress, sleep, success, and moreLearn more about 1:1 executive coaching with Grace

What if your inner critic isn't the enemy—but a misdirected inner coach waiting for the right conversation?On today's soul-shifting episode, Chris Schembra sits down with licensed clinician and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Britt Frank to explore the untapped potential of your internal world. Britt's new book, Align Your Mind, blends Internal Family Systems (IFS), neuroscience, trauma therapy, and radical compassion into a user manual for becoming a better leader—by leading yourself first.In this raw, riveting, and often funny dialogue, Britt shares the ALIGN framework: a five-step method to transform the swirl of internal chaos into clarity, confidence, and calm leadership. You'll walk away with tools to stop spinning, drop shame, and start collaborating—with all the voices in your head.Chris and Britt explore:How circus training helped Britt tame her mind and discover flow Why shadow parts aren't saboteurs—they're secret allies The real difference between solitude and loneliness How to negotiate with your inner critic like it's your toughest client Why authentic leadership doesn't mean “bring all your parts to work” A powerful reframe: Your brain isn't broken—it's brilliant Whether you're a CEO, a team leader, or just trying to keep your head above water, this episode offers both practical tools and deep encouragement for navigating inner and outer leadership challenges. Key Moments[00:08] Chris' poetic New York City intro + welcoming new and loyal listeners [02:27] Britt's dynamic background: therapist, speaker, author… and circus performer [05:47] The Gratitude Question: Britt thanks her first circus coach for raising her standards [07:36] Defining flow as alignment—not perfection [10:38] Intro to Parts Work and why leaders must embrace their inner multiplicity [12:38] What “shadow work” really means: turning inner tension into innovation [15:15] The ALIGN Framework:Acknowledge Listen Investigate Give Gratitude (to your brain!) Negotiate [22:42] From loneliness to solitude: why inner gratitude is the first step to connection [25:32] Why some stress is good stress: shifting mental gears instead of stalling [28:57] Britt's take on DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and how it saved her life [31:35] Busting three myths of the workplace:Don't bring every part of yourself to work Workplaces aren't families—they're teams Positivity isn't the same as leadership [36:53] Britt's backstory: addiction, cults, hiding IFS books inside cult literature, and the breakthrough that changed her life [39:28] Final takeaway: your inner critic isn't a bully—it's your most loyal bodyguard [40:16] Chris' signoff + why Align Your Mind is essential reading for anyone leading a team in 2025 Memorable Quotes“Flow is not the absence of thought. It's movement in the presence of noise.” – Britt Frank“Every part of you has value. You don't need to silence them—you need to negotiate.” – Britt Frank“The solution to loneliness is solitude—but only if your inner world isn't at war with itself.” – Chris Schembra“Your brain isn't wired for success. It's wired for survival. Say thanks, and lead anyway.” – Britt Frank“Leadership is not about being positive all the time. It's about being real—with curiosity and compassion.” – Britt Frank About the BookAlign Your Mind is Britt Frank's empowering new guide to taming anxiety, healing trauma, and overcoming self-doubt using Parts Work. Combining practical exercises, storytelling, and cutting-edge neuroscience, Britt introduces readers to their internal cast of characters—from the anxious controller to the tired inner child—and shows how to bring them into harmony.With Britt's warm and witty voice, readers learn how to:Reframe the inner critic as a coach Move from chaos to clarity with the ALIGN method Use curiosity as an antidote to burnout and self-sabotage Stop waiting to feel motivated and start getting things done Whether you're a leader or simply a human navigating complexity, this book gives you the tools to realign and rise.Order now: Penguin Random House About Britt FrankBritt Frank, LSCSW, is a licensed clinician, author, and speaker specializing in trauma, Parts Work, and mental health. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, NPR, Forbes, Esquire, and New York Magazine. She is the author of The Science of Stuck, The Getting Unstuck Workbook, and now Align Your Mind.Based in Kansas Citybrittfrank.comInstagram: @BrittFrank About Your HostChris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and founder of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™, which has impacted hundreds of thousands through the power of meaningful connection. He's been featured in Rolling Stone, USA Today, Forbes, and beyond—and hosts this podcast as a space for leaders to explore the intersection of hardship, hope, and human potential.

In this deeply moving and insight-rich episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra welcomes Sara Hardwick, the Community Relationship Strategist at the Gift•ology Group and steward of the late John Ruhlin's enduring legacy. What begins as a conversation about gifting quickly unfolds into a masterclass in human connection, spiritual resilience, and the transformative power of long-game generosity.Sara shares her unexpected journey into this world of relational marketing—how a nudge from her college roommate and a single Google search led her to John's work, and how her bold outreach blossomed into a mentorship, a career, and a calling. Chris and Sara reflect on how the principles of Beyond Gift•ology are not just business strategies—they're spiritual frameworks for living well, loving deeply, and leading with purpose.The episode pays tribute to John Ruhlin, a father, husband, and business visionary who turned gifting into an art form and relationship-building into an enterprise. John passed away in 2024, but his wisdom—"Relationships can take you places marketing can't"—lives on in the systems, stories, and spirit that Sara now helps shepherd to the world.Together, Chris and Sara unpack practical strategies from Beyond Gift•ology: how to build a business based on Return on Relationship (ROR), how to gift without branding or ego, and how to become what Adam Grant calls a “strategic giver”—someone who gives generously and wisely without burning out.They explore the nuances between swag and soul, between a gift that gathers dust and a gift that transforms a relationship, and between a one-off act of kindness and a lifestyle of sustained generosity. Sara also speaks vulnerably about her faith journey, how her relationship with God guides her every decision, and how grief, gratitude, and giving are all connected.Chris draws parallels between his own work at the dinner table and John's commitment to elevating relationships through thoughtful gestures. They explore how tiny, consistent acts—handwritten notes, engraved knives, warm introductions—create ripple effects that build not just revenue, but legacy.Whether you're a founder, a sales leader, a service-based professional, or simply someone who wants to live more intentionally in your relationships, this episode offers a generous mix of soul and strategy. It's a reminder that business doesn't have to be cold, marketing doesn't have to be manipulative, and giving—when done well—can be your greatest competitive edge.What You'll Hear in This Episode➤ A Powerful Opening TributeChris opens with a personal story of how a 20-minute call with John Ruhlin in 2017 changed his life. That call turned into a two-and-a-half-hour conversation, a lasting mentorship, and the permission to go “all-in” on human connection.➤ Sara's Origin Story: From College Gifting Club to Gift•ology LeaderYou'll hear how Sara's best friend Chloe encouraged her to Google “gift giving company”—a search that led to John Ruhlin's work and, eventually, to Sara founding the internet's largest gifting community while still in college.➤ The Long Game of Generosity: ROR > ROISara and Chris dive deep into the difference between Return on Investment (ROI) and Return on Relationships (ROR). Sara explains why short-term thinking in business keeps us stuck—and how giving first, without expecting anything in return, can actually become your greatest long-term growth engine.➤ Gifting as Strategy, Not SwagSara outlines the key rules of strategic gifting:It's not about you—it's about the recipient. No logos, ever. Personalize for their life, not your brand. Love on the inner circle—spouses, kids, even the family dog. Focus on “practical luxuries” that create 5,475+ moments of thoughtfulness over time.➤ The Rise of the Rich Relationship SocietySara introduces the R.I.C.H. framework:Reciprocal Influential Connected HumbleShe shares how this system is designed to help entrepreneurs and service-based professionals build referral-based businesses rooted in trust, warmth, and mutual growth.➤ Jesus, Dinner Parties, and the Divine Power of a KnifeIn one of the most personal moments, Sara credits her faith—and specifically, her renewed relationship with Jesus—as the compass guiding her work. They connect the dots between Jesus' Last Supper, dinner tables as sacred community spaces, and how something as simple as a personalized kitchen knife can become a legacy of love.➤ Beyond the Business Tactic: Legacy as the Ultimate ROIThe episode closes with a powerful reminder: while gifting is a strategy, true generosity is a posture of the heart. Sara shares that she's not just playing for business success—she's playing for eternity. Key TakeawaysGenerosity isn't a transaction—it's a transformation. Strategic gifting isn't about getting something back immediately. It's about creating meaningful moments that compound over time.Your swag isn't a gift—it's a billboard. The most powerful gifts are useful, personal, and logo-free.Business is human-to-human. In a world overrun with AI, algorithms, and advertising, it's the relationships built at your dinner table—not your Instagram grid—that truly move the needle.Legacy is built in the little things. A handwritten note. A kitchen knife. A prayer. A hug. These are the moments people remember. Links & ResourcesBeyond Gift•ology by John Ruhlin – Buy the bookLearn more about the Rich Relationship Society – giftologygroup.comContact Sara Hardwick – sara@giftologygroup.comConnect with Sara on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/sarahardwickGiftology (Original Book) – Buy here

This episode was special. Chris Schembra is a really good friend. And he is a really good question asker. I wanted to share an update with you and Chris made this happen. We covered a lot of topics that I may not have talked about before. You will learn about prior life chapters and how that has helped shaped who I am today. I hope this episode is interesting to you. Please let me know what you think! Excited for you to build and grow your Portfolio Career!

Welcome back to another episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times! Today, your host Chris Schembra is joined by the insightful and inspiring Dr. Steve Elias, Dean of the Katz School of Business at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. Amidst the polar vortex sweeping through New York City, we dive into a heartwarming discussion about mentorship, leadership, and the power of gratitude in shaping our personal and professional journeys. Tune in as we explore how small acts of kindness, mutual respect, and a commitment to connection can create a lasting impact in our lives and communities.In This Episode, You'll Learn:How a simple shoulder tap can change the course of a careerThe importance of mentorship and building reciprocal relationshipsLessons from Governor Gary Carruthers on leadership and respect across differencesWhy celebrating the success of others (Mudita) is key to fulfillmentThe Platinum Rule: Treating others the way they want to be treatedHow small, cumulative actions can create meaningful changePractical ways to express gratitude, even to those who are no longer with usGuest Bio: Dr. Steve Elias is an experienced and approachable leader who knows how to bring people together and create positive change. As the Dean of the Katz School of Business at Fort Lewis College, he has worked hard to improve teamwork, build partnerships, and develop strategies that make a real difference for students, staff, faculty members, and the community. Steve is known for being down-to-earth and easy to talk to, with a leadership style based on open communication, fairness, and collaboration. With a background in applied social psychology and years of experience at Minority Serving Institutions, he understands people's needs and makes them feel included and supported. Steve has a gift for inspiring others, building strong relationships, and finding creative ways to help organizations grow and succeed.Episode Highlights:[00:03:15] Chris introduces Dr. Steve Elias and the story of how they met in Durango, Colorado.[00:07:45] Steve shares his gratitude for Governor Gary Carruthers and the pivotal moment he was "tapped on the shoulder."[00:14:30] The Platinum Rule in leadership: why treating people how they want to be treated matters.[00:21:10] Finding joy in the success of others - the power of Mudita.[00:28:50] Overcoming the challenge of appreciating personal accomplishments without feeling egotistical.[00:35:20] Chris and Steve reflect on the impact of small, everyday acts of gratitude.[00:42:10] Exploring the legacy of Bob Graetz and his contributions to the civil rights movement.[00:49:00] Practical advice for leaders on building a culture of recognition and gratitude in the workplace.Resources Mentioned:ResearchGate profile of Dr. Steve EliasDeviant and Criminal Behavior in the Workplace by Dr. Steve EliasMaria's Bookshop in Durango, ColoradoThe Platinum Rule conceptHarvard Study on Adult Development by Dr. Robert WaldingerA&E Biography of Bob GraetzKey Takeaways:Celebrate the success of others and recognize the role you've played in their journey.Small gestures, like lighting a candle or sending a kind message, have a profound impact.Gratitude should be practiced daily and can help overcome regret and guilt.Leaders should focus on relationship-building and understanding their team's unique needs.Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Gratitude Through Hard Times and share it with someone who could use a little inspiration today. Have thoughts or questions about this episode? We'd love to hear from you! 

2024 has been quite a year.I spent most of the year as a nomad, traveling throughout the Southeast United States moving from town to town, housesitting for a lot of awesome cats (and a few awesome dogs). It was an amazing adventure that led me to see lots of new places, meet people in real life I'd only known online, and discover a few things about myself along the journey.But as I moved around, I lived with uncertainty. Tonight I would be in this one house, but where would I be tomorrow night? Would I have a place to go the next night after my current gig ended? When would I find out? Not only that, but this past summer my dad passed away. I was fortunate to be able to spend the last week of his life with him in Florida, however it also served as a reminder of how things change, how things come and go, and how important it is to cherish and savor what we have now.As we wrap up the year, I find myself settled down in a new apartment in Charlotte, North Carolina, determined to begin a new and different kind of adventure. As I traveled around the country in 2024, one of the things I missed out on was a sense of community. In 2025, we're changing that.Now, as your 2024 comes to an end and you look forward to the new year, give yourself the gift of tuning into this episode and discovering the takeaways that may serve your journey as you move to the next chapter in your life. And as you do so, take a moment and ask yourself these questions:✅ What is your theme word for 2025? (Mine are "community" and "transformation".)✅ What are some things that you want to do and bring into 2025 in your life? ✅ Conversely, what are you leaving behind? What is no longer serving you that you do not need to drag into 2025 with you?✅ What are your intentions for this coming year? ✅ What are you building for yourself? ✅ What would you ideally like your life to look like?✅ What are you committing to doing or not doing to get there?✅ What do you feel good about right now having accomplished or done in the past year?✅And how are you going to celebrate?My hype songs as we enter 2025 are "I Am Not Okay" by Jelly Roll and "Fearless" by The Goo Goo Dolls.Resources:My Website: https://ZenRabbit.com/ LinkedIn: https://zenrabbit.com/linkedin/ Facebook: https://zenrabbit.com/facebook/ Instagram: https://zenrabbit.com/instagram/Visit the “FINE is a 4-Letter Word” store at https://zenrabbit.printful.me Also check out Episode #67, Gratitude Through Hard Times with Chris Schembra.Invitation from Lori: Let me ask you, if there was a simple way to reclaim your peace of mind and not feel so frazzled, would you want to know what it is? Enter the “10 Proven Habits Top Leaders Use to Stay Calm and Focused Every Day” checklist — your quick guide to creating calm, intentional days.These practices are so incredibly simple, you'll probably question their effectiveness. Like, how could just doing THAT alleviate my stress?! But take my word -

Welcome to a soul-stirring episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times with your host, Chris Schembra. Set against the festive backdrop of New York City during the holiday season, this conversation is an inspiring reminder of the power of gratitude, connection, and intentional living. Joining Chris is Felipe Gómez, a world-renowned thought leader, virtuoso pianist, and keynote speaker who has captivated audiences across 33 countries with his unique blend of music and leadership insights.Felipe's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From his early days learning piano under a patient and dedicated teacher to delivering over 1,000 electrifying performances on global stages, Felipe's life is a testament to the power of passion and purpose. As a speaker, he combines ancient philosophies, modern leadership principles, and his prodigious musical talent to create experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. In this episode, Felipe and Chris unpack timeless lessons on gratitude, love, learning, and leadership, offering listeners a playbook for transformational living.Chris kicks off the episode with his signature warmth, reminding us all of the magic of small moments and the power of shared experiences. Felipe's reflections on his first piano teacher, Clara Lucia Sanchez, lay the foundation for a conversation that seamlessly weaves personal stories with actionable insights. Together, Chris and Felipe explore themes like the tension and release of life, the science of gratitude, and the profound impact of small, intentional choices.Felipe's philosophy is rooted in Aristotle's golden mean—the balance between excess and deficiency—and he brings this ancient wisdom to life with practical examples and heartfelt anecdotes. He also highlights the transformative power of listening, encouraging leaders to embrace questions like “Tell me more” and “How can I help?” to build trust, empathy, and connection. Throughout the episode, Felipe and Chris demonstrate how gratitude, music, and human connection can serve as antidotes to a world often consumed by division and distraction.As they close out the conversation, Chris and Felipe share their vision for a live event series that combines their passions—food, music, and leadership—to inspire and unite communities. This episode is a masterclass in finding beauty in the everyday, cultivating resilience, and making the choice to live with gratitude and purpose. What You'll Learn in This Episode:Felipe reflects on the life-changing impact of his first piano teacher and how her dedication inspired his lifelong love of music.Chris and Felipe explore the golden mean, Aristotle's philosophy of balance, and how it applies to modern leadership and life.The importance of listening as a leadership skill is unpacked, with Felipe urging listeners to ask powerful questions like “Tell me more.”Chris shares the science of gratitude, detailing how it improves physical health, mental resilience, and overall happiness.Felipe draws a parallel between life and music, emphasizing the rhythm of tension and release as essential for growth and harmony.Together, they discuss how small, daily choices to learn, love, and explore can lead to a more meaningful and joyful life. Notable Quotes:"Gratitude is the bridge between where we are and where we want to be." – Chris Schembra"We are designed to learn, to explore, and to love—every day is a chance to do all three." – Felipe Gómez"The most profound moments of joy come when we serve others, not ourselves." – Felipe Gómez"Ingratitude is the seed of all wickedness—it's time we turn it into gratitude and growth." – Chris Schembra"Listening is an act of love, and it opens the door to empathy, understanding, and trust." – Felipe Gómez"Tension is part of life, but release is where growth happens. Don't dwell in the tension." – Chris Schembra"Love, in its truest form, is the ultimate virtue—it has no limits, only power to transform." – Felipe Gómez"If you want to live a life of gratitude, don't wait for the big moments. Start with the small ones." – Chris Schembra"In every conversation, the most important thing isn't what's said—it's what remains unsaid." – Felipe Gómez"Virtue is found in the balance—between excess and deficiency lies the path to greatness." – Felipe Gómez"The greatest civilizations crumbled when gratitude disappeared. Let's not repeat history." – Chris Schembra"To become virtuous, you have to act virtuously. Justice requires acts of justice, love requires acts of love." – Felipe Gómez"Gratitude is more than a feeling—it's a tool for healing, hope, and humanity." – Chris Schembra"Ask two questions every day: 'Tell me more' and 'How can I help?' These will change your life." – Felipe Gómez"You don't need permission or privilege to make the choice to learn, explore, and love. It's yours to claim every day." – Chris Schembra Actionable Takeaways:Gratitude fuels growth: It fosters healing, connection, and personal transformation.The power of small choices: Everyday acts of learning, exploring, and loving lead to a meaningful life.Listen to lead: Effective listening builds trust, empathy, and innovation in leadership and life.Tension and release: Life's challenges are part of a rhythm—embrace the tension and find moments of release to thrive. ABOUT OUR GUEST:Felipe Gómez is a globally renowned speaker, virtuoso pianist, and thought leader whose work bridges the worlds of music, leadership, and personal transformation. With over 1,000 captivating performances delivered in 33 countries and 111 cities, Felipe has earned standing ovations from audiences around the world. His unique ability to blend classical music with practical leadership insights makes him one of the most sought-after keynote speakers today.Felipe's success is built on his extensive experience as an entrepreneur, business leader, and artist. He has delivered his message at some of the world's most prestigious management and leadership forums, including the Global Peter Drucker Forum, the Oslo Business Forum, and the World Business Forum in New York, Madrid, Milan, and Sydney.In his keynote presentations, Felipe uses a grand piano on stage to create a deeply interactive and transformative experience. Through music, he teaches profound lessons on leadership, trust, innovation, and teamwork, inspiring individuals and organizations to achieve greatness. His philosophy is rooted in the teachings of Aristotle and the concept of the “golden mean,” which he applies to modern challenges in life and business.Felipe is also a celebrated author. His best-selling book, Attitude-E, offers practical frameworks for living with an entrepreneurial mindset, while his upcoming release, Virtuoso, explores the art of living and leading with excellence. Felipe hosts Pensando en Voz Alta, a weekly interview program where he engages with global leaders on topics of creativity, resilience, and transformation.Born in Colombia, Felipe holds an MBA from the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Switzerland, where he also completed a program on Leading Digital Business Transformation. He combines his global perspective with the sensibility of an artist, delivering a message that resonates across cultures and industries.Whether he's inspiring corporate executives, performing on stage, or engaging with audiences through his 42-Day Listening Challenge, Felipe's mission is clear: to help people orchestrate transformational change in their personal and professional lives. Connect with Felipe Gómez:Website: Learn more about Felipe's work and upcoming events.Felipe GomezLinkedIn: Connect with Felipe on LinkedIn. ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace. FOLLOW CHRIS:**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS** RESOURCES MENTIONED:Felipe's 42-Day Listening Program: Subscribe for a daily dose of classical music and reflection.Chris Schembra's Book: Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hour.Adam Grant's Book: Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success.Barbara Fredrickson's Research: Learn about the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions.

In this captivating episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra welcomes innovation expert, entrepreneur, and jazz musician Josh Linkner to explore the profound connection between creativity, gratitude, and success. Josh, a New York Times bestselling author and founder of five tech companies, shares how his diverse experiences—from navigating high-stakes business ventures to performing over 1,000 jazz concerts—have shaped his unique philosophy on unlocking human potential.Josh dives deep into the principles behind his latest book, Big Little Breakthroughs: How Small Everyday Innovations Drive Oversized Results. He explains how small, consistent acts of creativity—not risky moonshots—are the key to driving transformational outcomes in business and life. Together, Josh and Chris unpack the importance of mindset, the power of gratitude in unleashing creative potential, and why celebrating others' success (a concept known as Mudita) can bring unparalleled fulfillment.This episode is packed with actionable insights, including Josh's “Two-Minute Creativity Ritual” for daily innovation and his revolutionary approach to brainstorming—“Role Storming”—that encourages you to think outside the box by stepping into a new persona. Josh also shares vulnerable stories of overcoming self-doubt, from learning to sing in his 50s to embracing mistakes as vital stepping stones to greatness.Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking fresh ideas, a leader looking to inspire your team, or simply someone striving for a more creative and fulfilling life, this conversation offers a roadmap to transform fear into curiosity, inaction into experimentation, and stagnation into growth. Prepare to be inspired to awaken your inner artist and embrace the small, deliberate acts of creativity that can lead to life-changing results.Grab a notebook, settle in, and get ready to tap into the power of gratitude, belief, and everyday innovation to create a life filled with purpose and possibility. What You'll Learn in This Episode:The Power of Gratitude: How gratitude opens the door to creativity, minimizes fear, and enhances problem-solving.Big Little Breakthroughs: Why small, incremental innovations often outperform giant moonshots in driving success.The Two-Minute Creativity Ritual: A simple daily practice to cultivate creative thinking in just two minutes.Role Storming vs. Brainstorming: A fun and effective technique for generating bold ideas by stepping into a character or role.Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: How Josh shattered his own self-imposed limits by learning to sing at 50—and how you can tackle your own doubts.Mudita: The joy of celebrating others' success and its transformative impact on personal and professional growth. Notable Quotes:"Gratitude is the antidote to fear and suffering. It helps us plug into our creative potential and see the world through a lens of abundance." — Josh Linkner"Instead of ‘I'll believe it when I see it,' shift to ‘I'll see it when I believe it.' Belief is the starting point for innovation." — Josh Linkner"We're all artists. Whether you're a chef, a trial lawyer, or a parent, creativity is about challenging norms and creating something new." — Josh Linkner"The riskiest move is often inaction. Small creative experiments allow us to de-risk and learn as we go." — Josh Linkner"Gratitude doesn't just shift perspective; it opens the door to innovation and creates space for others to succeed alongside us." — Chris Schembra Actionable Takeaways:Try the Two-Minute Creativity Workout: Spend one minute immersing yourself in another's creativity (e.g., music, art, poetry) and one minute brainstorming solutions to an unrelated problem.Challenge a Limiting Belief: Identify something you've told yourself you “can't do,” and take one small step to prove yourself wrong.Practice Role Storming: At your next team meeting, role-play as someone like Lady Gaga, Yoda, or an alien to generate bold ideas without fear of judgment.Reflect on Gratitude: Answer the question, “Who's one person you've never thanked, but whose impact on your life deserves recognition?” Take action to express that gratitude. ABOUT OUR GUEST:Josh Linkner— a New York Times bestselling author — is a rare blend of business, art, and science. On the business front, he's been the founder and CEO of five tech companies, which created over 10,000 jobs and sold for a combined value of over $200 million. He's the co-founder and Managing Partner of Muditā (moo-DEE-tah) Venture Partners - an early-stage venture capital firm investing in groundbreaking technologies. Over the last 30 years, he's helped over 100 startups launch and scale, creating over $1 billion in investor returns. He's twice been named the EY Entrepreneur of The Year and is the recipient of the United States Presidential Champion of Change Award. While proud of his business success, his roots are in the dangerous world of jazz music. He's been playing guitar in smoky jazz clubs for 40 years, studied at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, and has performed over 1000 concerts around the world. His experiences in both business and music led him to become one of the world's foremost experts on innovation. Josh is the co-founder and Chairman of Platypus Labs, a global research, training, and consulting firm. Today, he's on a mission to help leaders Find A WayTM through creative problem-solving, inventive thinking, and ingenuity. FOLLOW JOSH:Website:joshlinkner.comLinkedIn:Josh LinknerInstagram:@joshlinknerTwitter:@JoshLinkner ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace. FOLLOW CHRIS:**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS** RESOURCES MENTIONED:Josh Linkner's Latest Book: Big Little Breakthroughs: How Small Everyday Innovations Drive Oversized ResultsMudita Venture Partners: WebsitePlatypus Labs: WebsiteFelipe Gomez's Art of Listening: Subscribe

In This Episode You Will Learn About:  Taking on a positive perspective  The principles of gratitude   Developing strong relationships Resources: Website: www.747club.org Read Gratitude and Pasta & Gratitude Through Hard Times Join The 7:47 Gratitude Experience Listen to 7:47 Conversations  Email: info@747club.org  LinkedIn: @Chris Schembra & @7:47 Instagram: @747club Go to ConstantContact.com and start your FREE trial today. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/monahan Oracle is offering to halve your cloud bill if you switch to OCI See if you qualify at oracle.com/MONAHAN. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning at NetSuite.com/MONAHAN. Call my digital clone at 201-897-2553!  Visit heathermonahan.com Reach out to me on Instagram & LinkedIn Sign up for my mailing list: heathermonahan.com/mailing-list/  Overcome Your Villains is Available NOW! Order here: https://overcomeyourvillains.com  If you haven't yet, get my first book Confidence Creator Show Notes:  Do you go through life with a positive or negative mindset? Only YOU have the choice to look at life with gratitude and appreciate everyone you interact with! Sharing your gratitude with others can CHANGE your life and theirs. Leading with thanks WILL deepen your relationships in business and in your personal life. What you give out will always find its way back to you. Chris Schembra the successful Author and “Gratitude Guru” will break down the life ALTERING pasta sauce, yes you heard that right, that led him to shift his perspective and start focusing on giving thanks to those around him. It's time to train your brain to see the good in life instead of focusing on the bad!    

We all have those passions that ignite our souls, those unique talents and abilities we yearn to unleash. But often, these passions get relegated to the sidelines, confined to our spare time while we pursue careers that seem perfect on paper but leave us feeling unfulfilled. What if your work could make a real difference in the world? In this episode, we're joined by Chris Schembra who dared to break free from the conventional path and build a business around his true calling. Discover how Chris transitioned from the dazzling world of Broadway production to hosting transformative dinner experiences, creating a business centered on connecting people through the power of food and gratitude. Tune in to learn how Chris cultivated more gratitude and purpose in his own life, and discover practical tips for turning your passions into a fulfilling and profitable career.  

In this inspiring episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with David Landman, a former senior HR executive at Goldman Sachs, to explore his transformative journey from corporate success to living a life centered on joy, gratitude, and purpose.David, who is passionate about making work more sustainable, fulfilling, and inclusive for everyone, shares how his career transition was sparked by a desire to escape stagnation and create a more meaningful life. After 20 years at Goldman Sachs, David now dedicates his time to supporting visionary founders, investors, and innovators who are redefining what it means to thrive in the workplace.Through his work, David:Advises some of the world's most innovative HR tech startups and venture capitalists.Builds communities of CHROs and HR executives passionate about giving back.Shares his knowledge with the next generation of HR leaders.In the episode, David introduces “The Long Exhale,” a framework for rediscovering joy and purpose. He shares actionable steps for leaders to break free from burnout, foster gratitude, and create lasting impact—both in their personal and professional lives.This conversation is filled with practical insights, including how to:Take small actions to get unstuck.Shift from an inward to an outward mindset.Adopt an abundance mindset and embrace joy over achievement.David's guiding principle is clear: When we lift others up, we can all succeed. This episode is a call to action for leaders and changemakers to co-create a better future of work together, fueled by empathy, gratitude, and human connection. Key Discussion Points:David's Journey from Corporate Executive to Joyful LivingSigns of Feeling StuckThe Long Exhale FrameworkThe Role of Gratitude in Leadership and LifeRedefining SuccessNature as a Tool for Perspective and RenewalChallenges of Transitioning to a New Way of BeingPractical Actions for Leaders and IndividualsDavid's Vision for the Future of WorkThe Call to Rediscover JoyNotable Quotes:David Landman:“I'm working for joy now, and it's so freaking amazing.”Chris Schembra:“Misery is optional. Let's rediscover joy and wake up to the beauties of life.”David Landman:“The Long Exhale is about relaxing into the moment, finding gratitude, and following the things that bring you purpose and joy.”David Landman:“When we lift others up, we can all succeed. Let's co-create a better future of work together.”Chris Schembra:“Just because you find your purpose doesn't mean the journey will be all sunshine, rainbows, and unicorns. But it will be worth it.”David Landman:“I was stuck, not because I didn't know what to do next, but because I was afraid to take that first step. Small actions are the key to big transformations.”David Landman:“I spent 20 years climbing the corporate ladder, and now I've discovered the joy of walking the forest trail.”Chris Schembra:“Adopting an outward mindset opens the door to connection, gratitude, and rediscovering joy.”David Landman:“Life doesn't have to be about rigid plans or fixed destinations. It's about following the breadcrumbs of what brings you joy and meaning.”Chris Schembra:“Gratitude isn't just a feeling—it's a practice that can transform your relationships, your leadership, and your life. ABOUT OUR GUEST:David Landman is a seasoned Human Resources executive with a distinguished career, primarily spent at Goldman Sachs where he served for over 20 years. As the Global Head of Talent Development and a member of the Human Capital Management Executive Committee, he played a pivotal role in shaping the firm's talent strategy and implementing strategic initiatives that drove business performance and enhanced diversity. Renowned for his expertise in talent practices, Landman's work has been featured in notable publications such as Forbes. Following his tenure at Goldman Sachs, he has dedicated his time to supporting visionary companies and innovators, serving as an advisor to HR technology companies and leading the CHRO community at PeopleTech Enterprise. An active speaker at institutions like Columbia University and a participant in various conferences and podcasts, Landman emphasizes the importance of feedback in personal and professional growth. He recently joined Loupe's Advisory Board, where he promotes employee development and feedback as key business priorities, advocating for a humane, connected, and fulfilling work environment. Connect with David Landman:LinkedIn:David LandmanABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.FOLLOW CHRIS:**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS** Resources Mentioned:Book: 4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver BurkemanPractice: Japanese Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku)

Guest Bios:Shelley Paxton: Former CMO of Harley-Davidson, Shelley left her high-powered corporate career to pursue a more meaningful path, coining the term Soulbbatical. As an author, keynote speaker, and guide, Shelley helps others redefine success on their own terms, inspiring leaders to build bold, brave, and authentic lives. Shelley's signature message—“I Quit So You Don't Have To”—is the core of her keynote and forthcoming book.Chris Schembra: Founder of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience, Chris has made a career out of helping people connect more deeply through shared experiences. From hosting intimate dinners to delivering workshops and keynotes, Chris focuses on fostering vulnerability and gratitude, encouraging organizations to build a culture of empathy and inclusion. His latest book, Gratitude Through Hard Times, delves into the transformative power of appreciation.Core Topics:Liberating Yourself from “Success-Empty” to “Success-Full”: Shelley advocates for a fundamental redefinition of success that goes beyond external accolades. Through her concept of Soulbbatical, she explores how true fulfillment comes from listening to your own voice, not society's expectations. Shelley's goal is to help professionals escape the trap of “success-empty”—having material success but feeling unfulfilled—and embrace a richer, more meaningful version of success by aligning with their core values and passions.Fostering Human Connection as a Business Strategy: Chris emphasizes that human connection should be at the heart of every business strategy. By using gratitude as a tool for fostering genuine relationships, he challenges companies to build deeper bonds between employees and clients. His 7:47 Gratitude Experience—a shared meal centered around expressing thanks—demonstrates that something as simple as asking the right question can dismantle barriers, create a sense of belonging, and ultimately drive better business outcomes.The Courage to Say “No”: One of the hardest, yet most powerful strategies for growth is learning to say no. Whether it's declining opportunities that don't align with your values or setting boundaries that protect your energy, they argue that success comes not from chasing every option, but from focusing on what truly matters. For Shelley, this principle shows up in her ability to pass on engagements that don't resonate with her core message. For Chris, it's about maintaining focus on his passion for creating meaningful connections, rather than chasing every possible business avenue.The Impact of Living Your Values Daily: A key theme in both Shelley's and Chris's stories is the importance of living authentically. From Shelley's tattoo of “Authenticity” to Chris's “Focus Equals Growth” mantra, both speakers emphasize that true success comes from daily decisions that reinforce personal values. Whether it's through their keynote messages or personal interactions, they model how consistently honoring one's principles can lead to professional success and personal satisfaction. Resources:Learn more about Shelley Paxton:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTikTokLearn more about Chris Schembra:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramFacebookLearn more about Josh Linkner:WebsiteYouTubeLinkedInInstagramXFacebookABOUT MIC DROP:Hear from the world's top thought leaders and experts, sharing tipping point moments, strategies, and approaches that led to their speaking career success. Throughout each episode, host Josh Linkner, #1 Innovation keynote speaker in the world, deconstructs guests' Mic Drop moments and provides tactical tools and takeaways that can be applied to any speaking business, no matter its starting point. You'll enjoy hearing from some of the top keynote speakers in the industry including: Ryan Estis, Alison Levine, Peter Sheahan, Seth Mattison, Cassandra Worthy, and many more. Mic Drop is sponsored by ImpactEleven.Learn more at: MicDropPodcast.comABOUT THE HOST:Josh Linkner — a New York Times bestselling author — is a rare blend of business, art, and science.On the business front, he's been the founder and CEO of five tech companies, which created over 10,000 jobs and sold for a combined value of over $200 million. He's the co-founder and Managing Partner of Muditā (moo-DEE-tah) Venture Partners - an early-stage venture capital firm investing in groundbreaking technologies. Over the last 30 years, he's helped over 100 startups launch and scale, creating over $1 billion in investor returns. He's twice been named the EY Entrepreneur of The Year and is the recipient of the United States Presidential Champion of Change Award.While proud of his business success, his roots are in the dangerous world of jazz music. Josh has been playing guitar in smoky jazz clubs for 40 years, studied at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, and has performed over 1000 concerts around the world. His experiences in both business and music led him to become one of the world's foremost experts on innovation. Joshis the co-founder and Chairman of Platypus Labs, a global research, training, and consulting firm. Today, he's on a mission to help leaders Find A Way™ through creative problem-solving, inventive thinking, and ingenuity.Learn more about Josh: JoshLinkner.comSPONSORED BY AMPLIFY PUBLISHING GROUP:Partnering with CXOs, keynote speakers, change makers, and other visionary leaders, Amplify Publishing Group (APG) is a leader in the hybrid publishing space with more than twenty years of experience acquiring, producing, marketing, and distributing books. Passionate about ideas and voices that need to be heard, they're known for launching books that start engaging and timely conversations. At each turn, they have been at the forefront of innovation and have spearheaded a critical disruption of the publishing industry.Learn more at: amplifypublishinggroup.comABOUT IMPACTELEVEN:From refining your keynote speaking skills to writing marketing copy, from connecting you with bureaus to boosting your fees, to developing high-quality websites, producing head-turning demo reels, Impact Eleven (formerly 3 Ring Circus) offers a comprehensive and powerful set of services to help speakers land more gigs at higher fees. Learn more at: impacteleven.comPRODUCED BY DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS:In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson.As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of Motown's processes to launch today's most compelling podcasts. What Motown was to musical artists, Detroit Podcast Studios is to podcast artists today. With over 75 combined years of experience in content development, audio production, music scoring, storytelling, and digital marketing, Detroit Podcast Studios provides full-service development, training, and production capabilities to take podcasts from messy ideas to finely tuned hits. Here's to making (podcast) history together.Learn more at: DetroitPodcastStudios.com

In this insightful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra welcomes Mitch Warner, Managing Partner at The Arbinger Institute and co-author of Leadership and Self-Deception. Mitch guides us through the core principles of Arbinger's groundbreaking work, exploring the central idea of self-deception—a psychological barrier that prevents individuals from seeing others clearly and, ultimately, impedes personal and organizational growth.Mitch introduces the concept of self-deception as the tendency to see ourselves inaccurately, often with a biased or distorted lens, which leads us to misjudge others as obstacles or tools rather than as people with legitimate needs and perspectives. This inward mindset results from what Arbinger terms self-betrayal, a failure to act on our internal sense of how we should treat others. Mitch emphasizes that self-deception is not just a personal issue but a core problem in organizations, affecting everything from team collaboration to leadership effectiveness. He explains how leaders unwittingly create and sustain the very conflicts they seek to resolve by failing to see their own role in the challenges they face.The discussion shifts to Arbinger's proposed solution: shifting from an inward mindset to an outward mindset. Mitch explains that an inward mindset centers on self-justification, blame, and defensiveness, where others are seen merely as obstacles or means to achieve personal goals. By contrast, an outward mindset recognizes others as individuals with needs, goals, and aspirations as real as our own. Mitch discusses how adopting an outward mindset can transform workplaces, leading to stronger relationships, better communication, higher accountability, and improved results.One of the most powerful concepts discussed is the idea of collusion—a cycle of conflict where two or more people reinforce each other's negative behaviors. Mitch describes how this dynamic is fueled by self-deception, as individuals are more focused on defending their own views than understanding others' perspectives. Collusion often manifests as blame, resentment, and resistance, creating silos and perpetuating dysfunction in teams. Mitch explains that breaking the cycle of collusion requires leaders to first recognize their own part in the conflict, shifting their focus from changing others to changing themselves.Mitch also offers insights into the updated 4th edition of Leadership and Self-Deception, which features modernized examples, diverse characters, and new scenarios that address contemporary workplace challenges. The new edition incorporates practical tools and study guides to help readers apply Arbinger's principles in both personal and professional contexts. Mitch outlines some of these tools, such as identifying moments of self-betrayal, practicing active curiosity about others, and implementing feedback loops that promote transparency and accountability.The episode concludes with a discussion of why these concepts are particularly relevant today. Mitch emphasizes that in a world marked by uncertainty, division, and rapid change, the ability to see others clearly and adopt an outward mindset is more urgent than ever. He explains how leaders who embrace these principles can create workplaces that are more inclusive, resilient, and adaptable. By fostering cultures where people are genuinely seen and valued, organizations can enhance performance, improve retention, and unlock greater potential at every level.Why You Should Listen:If you're a leader, manager, or someone interested in personal development, this episode offers a practical framework for understanding how mindset shapes behavior, relationships, and organizational outcomes. Mitch Warner presents Arbinger's concepts with clarity, making complex psychological principles accessible and actionable. Whether you're facing communication breakdowns, conflict, or disengagement within your team, the concepts of self-deception, collusion, and outward mindset will provide you with new ways to diagnose and address root problems. By applying these principles, you can transform not only your leadership but also your everyday interactions, creating deeper connections and achieving sustainable results. Key Discussion Points:Self-Deception as a Barrier to Leadership.The Inward vs. Outward Mindset.Collusion: A Cycle of Blame and Justification.Self-Betrayal as the Root of Dysfunction.Practical Tools for Mindset Shift. Notable Quotes:“Self-deception isn't about the other person—it's about us and the stories we create to justify our behavior.” — Mitch Warner“To change others, leaders must first change themselves. It starts by seeing our own contributions to the problems we face.” — Mitch Warner“When leaders have the courage to recognize how they contribute to problems, they open the door to transformational change—not just for themselves, but for their entire organizations.” — Mitch Warner“Imagine a workplace where no one has an image to protect—where people are fully open to feedback and focused solely on the mission.” — Mitch Warner“We often create the very conflicts we seek to resolve by failing to see others clearly and acting from a place of self-deception.” — Mitch Warner“Gratitude is one of the tools that can shift us from an inward to an outward mindset, helping us to acknowledge the humanity and value of others.” — Chris Schembra Action Items:Subscribe: If this conversation resonated with you, don't forget to subscribe for more heart-centered discussions on leadership, empathy, and gratitude.Share: Send this episode to someone who could use inspiration and a reminder to practice gratitude.Reflect: Who in your life deserves a thank you? Take a moment today to reach out and express your gratitude. ABOUT OUR GUEST:Mitch Warner is a bestselling author and Arbinger managing partner with a background in healthcare and organizational turnaround. Mitch is the co-author of Arbinger's latest bestseller, The Outward Mindset. He writes frequently on the practical effects of mindset at the individual and organizational levels as well as the role of leadership in transforming organizational culture and results. He is an expert on mindset and culture change, leadership, strategy, performance management, organizational turnaround, and conflict resolution. Mitch is a sought-after speaker to organizations across a range of industries, bringing his practical experience to bear for leaders of corporations, governments, and organizations across the globe. Specific clients include NASA, Citrix, Aflac, the U.S. Army and Air Force, the Treasury Executive Institute, and Intermountain Healthcare. Mitch carries his first-hand perspective as a proven leader into his speeches and facilitation, dynamically bringing Arbinger's concepts and tools to life through his powerful stories and hands-on experience. His audiences leave inspired to improve and equipped with a practical roadmap to effect immediate change. In his role as managing partner, Mitch directs the development of Arbinger's intellectual property, training and consulting programs, and highly customized largescale organizational change initiatives. He has been instrumental in Arbinger's rapid growth, including its expanding international presence in nearly 30 countries. Mitch received his B.A. in philosophy and is a licensed nursing administrator. Trained in fine art at the Art Students League and the National Academy, he spends much of his free time painting. His work hangs in organizations nationwide. FOLLOW MITCH:Leadership and Self-Deception (4th Edition):Amazon LinkThe Arbinger Institute:WebsiteFollow Mitch Warner on LinkedIn:LinkedIn ProfileFollow the Arbinger Institute on Twitter:@ArbingerInst ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace. FOLLOW CHRIS:**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

In this deeply moving and insightful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra engages in a heartfelt conversation with Sandeep Angra, Chief Information and Technology Officer (CIO/CTO) of the 40,000 person strong company, Unifi, the largest airport ground-handling company in North America and Europe. With over three decades of IT leadership experience spanning various industries, Sandeep's professional achievements are significant, but today's conversation takes us beyond his impressive resume.This episode focuses on the themes of gratitude, humility, and spirituality, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the personal beliefs and life lessons that have shaped Sandeep's journey. He reflects on his upbringing in a small village in India, where his parents made enormous sacrifices to provide him with the opportunity to pursue education—a theme that resonates deeply throughout the episode. Sandeep's father, a schoolteacher who walked 15 kilometers to work to save money for his children's tuition, and his mother, a primary school teacher, instilled in him values of hard work, humility, and gratitude that continue to guide him today.Sandeep's personal philosophy centers on the belief that gratitude is the cornerstone of success, both in life and leadership. He speaks candidly about the importance of acknowledging the people who have supported us along the way—whether they are still with us or not—and how expressing gratitude strengthens both personal and professional relationships. Throughout the conversation, Sandeep delves into his spiritual beliefs, sharing his thoughts on karma, incarnation, and the interconnectedness of life, drawing on influences from both Eastern philosophy and scientific thought, such as Einstein's reflections on the nature of reality.Listeners are invited to consider three essential questions: Who am I? Why am I here? How can I help others? These questions form the foundation of Sandeep's life philosophy, one that calls us to live with purpose, to give selflessly, and to remain humble regardless of external achievements.The episode is not just a reflection on leadership in business, but also on the leadership of the heart—how empathy, kindness, and serving others can lead to both personal fulfillment and professional success. Sandeep shares stories from his career in global IT leadership, highlighting the ways in which gratitude and humility have not only helped him navigate challenges but have also allowed him to build high-performing teams, implement transformative technology projects, and align corporate objectives with human values.Chris and Sandeep also explore the power of giving without expectation—a recurring theme that underscores the entire conversation. In a world that often values material success and self-promotion, Sandeep reminds us that true fulfillment comes from giving generously, whether through acts of kindness, mentorship, or simply acknowledging the contributions of others.By the end of the episode, listeners will walk away with not just actionable leadership advice, but a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of how gratitude can enrich both their personal and professional lives. Sandeep's wisdom reminds us that the journey of giving, whether to our families, our communities, or even to strangers, is a difficult but immensely rewarding one—one that ultimately defines our legacy.Whether you're an executive, a leader, or simply someone seeking more meaning in life, this episode offers valuable insights into how we can all lead with humility, harness the power of gratitude, and create a more compassionate, connected world. Key Discussion Points:Sandeep's Humble Beginnings: Growing up in a small village in India, with parents who sacrificed everything to ensure their children received a quality education.Gratitude for Life's Guides: Sandeep reflects on the people who shaped his journey, including his parents, teachers, and his wife, who supported him through difficult decisions.Living with Gratitude and Humility: The importance of giving thanks and remaining humble, no matter where life takes you.Spiritual Reflections: How spirituality and karma play a significant role in Sandeep's approach to life, including his belief in reincarnation and universal connection.Leadership through Service: Sandeep shares the idea that true leadership is about serving others selflessly, and how that has been the foundation of his career.Applying Gratitude to Everyday Life: Simple yet profound questions everyone should ask themselves: "Who am I?" and "How can I help?"Notable Quotes:Sandeep Angra: "If you want to attract good, you must be good. What you give to the world is what you will get in return. That is the law of karma."Chris Schembra: "To do something without expecting anything in return is the most difficult journey a human being will take."Sandeep Angra: "You cannot give to the world what you don't have. If you have anger, that's what you'll give. If you have kindness, that's what you'll give."Action Items:Subscribe: If this conversation resonated with you, don't forget to subscribe for more heart-centered discussions on leadership, empathy, and gratitude.Share: Send this episode to someone who could use inspiration and a reminder to practice gratitude.Reflect: Who in your life deserves a thank you? Take a moment today to reach out and express your gratitude. ABOUT OUR GUEST:Sandeep Angra is the Chief Information and Technology Officer (CIO/CTO) for the largest airport ground handling company, which operates across more than 250 airports in Europe and North America. With over 30 years of experience in IT leadership, Sandeep has worked in industries including Big4 consulting, travel and logistics, pharmaceuticals, financial services, and consumer goods. He has led a range of digital transformation projects, such as ERP implementation, Cloud Adoption, AI/ML integration, and Automation, managing budgets up to $250 million. These projects have contributed to business growth, improved customer value, increased productivity, and cost reductions. Sandeep is experienced in building teams, developing IT strategies, and aligning technology initiatives with business objectives.ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.FOLLOW CHRIS:**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

In this insightful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with Michael J. O'Brien, founder of The BluePrint Toolset®, Inc., to explore how leaders can ignite the joy of work and foster positive cultural transformation within organizations. With over 35 years of experience coaching executives and consulting across diverse industries, Michael shares his journey from finance to becoming a leader in behavioral economics and corporate culture.Michael explains the significance of focusing on strengths through appreciative inquiry—shifting attention from solving problems to amplifying what works well. He introduces his coaching model based on five key questions that help leaders foster growth and resilience in their teams. They discuss how mindset plays a crucial role in shaping outcomes, drawing on Barbara Fredrickson's Broaden and Build Theory to highlight how positive emotions drive innovation and productivity.The conversation also touches on the parallels between leadership and parenting, emphasizing the importance of helping others grow independently. Michael reflects on the power of gratitude in overcoming adversity and building resilient teams. They discuss the negativity bias, which makes it easier to focus on problems, and how cultivating a mindset of gratitude can break this cycle, leading to greater fulfillment.The episode closes with an exploration of whether kindness is on the rise or decline, with both Chris and Michael asserting that while negativity captures our attention, acts of kindness are more prevalent than we think. This episode is packed with valuable insights for leaders and anyone looking to bring more joy, purpose, and positivity into their work and life. Key Discussion Points:From Problem Solving to Possibility Thinking:Michael's BluePrint Toolset helps leaders unlock their teams' potential through positive psychology and mindset shifts.Focus on what's working and build on that through appreciative inquiry.The Importance of Joy in Work:Instead of striving for happiness, aim for joy and flow in work. When people find joy in their work, productivity and fulfillment follow.Michael highlights that joy can be as rewarding in the workplace as it is in personal hobbies.Leadership & Parenting Parallels:Michael draws a parallel between leadership and parenting, stressing that great leaders inspire and develop others, much like a good parent fosters growth in their children.He encourages leaders to focus on the long-term development of their teams and help them see how their efforts make a difference.Gratitude & Growth in the Face of Adversity:Gratitude plays a crucial role in personal and professional growth. Adversity, if reframed positively, can lead to resilience and transformative change.Referencing research, both Michael and Chris discuss how mindset and gratitude can create an upward spiral of growth and fulfillment.Shifting from Negativity to Opportunity:The human brain has a natural bias towards negativity, but by shifting focus to positive experiences and possibilities, leaders can create a more optimistic, resilient, and productive culture. Notable Quotes:“To go from average to amazing requires appreciative inquiry. It's about focusing on what's working and finding ways to do more of it.” – Michael J. O'Brien“Joy in work leads to happiness, not the other way around.” – Michael J. O'Brien“Gratitude shifts our perspective, which shifts our beliefs, our actions, and ultimately our reality.” – Chris Schembra Action Items:Take the Blueprint Toolset® Assessment: Unlock your organization's potential and enhance your team's leadership abilities.Practice Appreciative Inquiry: Begin asking your team members about their recent successes and how you can help them grow. Implement Michael's five questions for regular one-on-one check-ins. ABOUT OUR GUEST:Michael J. O'Brien is the visionary founder of The BluePrint Toolset®, Inc., a platform that transforms intangible cultural insights into actionable strategies for organizations, leaders, and teams. With a diverse background in finance, economics, and human behavior, Michael has been guiding organizations to success for over 35 years. He has personally coached over 5,000 senior executives across six continents and co-authored ThinkBanking & Corporate Webbing — 50 Secrets to Success in the Digital Age. Michael currently resides in Houston, Texas, with his wife Angela and their dogs, Luna and Daisy.DOWNLOAD MICHAEL'S NEWEST BOOK ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.FOLLOW CHRIS:**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

In this powerful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Dr. Tony Nader, a leading neuroscientist, global head of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) movement, and author of the groundbreaking book Consciousness Is All There Is. Together, they explore the profound impact of understanding and expanding consciousness on personal well-being and collective transformation.Dr. Nader shares his journey from his early life in Lebanon to his academic pursuits at MIT and Harvard Medical School, and ultimately to his role as a global leader in the TM movement. He explains the core idea that consciousness is the foundation of reality, challenging the traditional belief that the material world is the primary source of existence. The discussion dives into the four states of consciousness—sleeping, dreaming, waking, and transcendental consciousness—and how TM uniquely allows access to a deeper, more restful state that enhances creativity, peace, and fulfillment.Listeners will also learn about the higher states of consciousness—cosmic, God, and unity consciousness—and how they can be achieved through the practice of TM. Dr. Nader emphasizes the practical benefits of regular meditation, including improved health, increased productivity, and a profound sense of inner peace.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the deeper aspects of consciousness and how it can transform their life. Whether you're new to meditation or an experienced practitioner, Dr. Nader's insights offer valuable guidance on living a more meaningful and connected life. Key Discussion Points:Core Philosophy of Consciousness:Dr. Nader introduces the central thesis of his book Consciousness Is All There Is, proposing that consciousness is the fundamental reality that shapes everything in existence.He challenges the traditional materialistic worldview that prioritizes physical reality as the basis of life, instead arguing that consciousness is primary and material reality emerges from it.This paradigm shift encourages listeners to reconsider their understanding of reality and their place within it, highlighting the transformative potential of expanded consciousness.The Four States of Consciousness:The episode dives into the four major states of consciousness: sleeping, dreaming, waking, and transcendental consciousness.Dr. Nader explains how TM uniquely facilitates access to transcendental consciousness, a state of restful alertness where the mind is deeply quiet yet fully awake.This fourth state of consciousness is described as a gateway to profound inner peace, heightened creativity, and a deeper sense of fulfillment, distinguishing it from the other three states.Higher States of Consciousness:The discussion expands to the higher states of consciousness: cosmic consciousness, God consciousness, and unity consciousness.Dr. Nader explains that these states represent increasingly refined levels of awareness, where one begins to perceive the interconnectedness of all things and experiences a profound sense of unity with the universe.These advanced states are attainable through consistent practice of TM and contribute to a deeper spiritual awakening, where the individual self merges with the universal self.Practical Benefits of Transcendental Meditation:TM is presented as a simple yet powerful practice that, when done for 20 minutes twice a day, can have significant impacts on both mental and physical health.Dr. Nader outlines the practical benefits, including reduced stress, improved focus, enhanced creativity, and greater emotional resilience.TM is also linked to better sleep, lower blood pressure, and a more balanced nervous system, making it a highly effective tool for overall well-being.Meditate America Initiative:Dr. Nader introduces the Meditate America program, set to launch on September 12th, with participation from celebrities like Hugh Jackman and public figures like the U.S. Surgeon General.The initiative aims to bring the benefits of TM to a broader audience, particularly in America, to address societal challenges such as stress, crime, and public health.The program highlights the potential for TM to not only transform individual lives but also to create positive shifts in collective consciousness, leading to a more peaceful and harmonious society.The Role of Gratitude and Inner Awareness:Chris Schembra and Dr. Nader explore how gratitude plays a crucial role in expanding consciousness by focusing on the sources of our blessings, not just the material outcomes.They discuss the importance of appreciating the creator behind every creation, encouraging listeners to shift their perspective from the external to the internal.The combination of gratitude and meditation is presented as a powerful practice for deepening one's connection to the self and the world, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Notable Quotes:Dr. Tony Nader:"Consciousness is not just another aspect of life; it is the very foundation of reality itself.""When we dive deep into our consciousness, we discover that we are not just individual waves in the ocean, but the entire ocean itself.""True happiness and fulfillment come not from acquiring more, but from realizing and being more—expanding our awareness to its fullest potential.""The beauty of Transcendental Meditation is that it allows you to connect with the deepest part of yourself, that infinite reservoir of creativity and peace.""In the stillness of transcendence, we find the clarity to see the world as it truly is—not as we think it should be."Chris Schembra:"Meditation is a way to retire within yourself, to find peace in a world that often feels overwhelming.""We often look outside for fulfillment, but the truth is, everything we need is already within us—if we take the time to access it.""By giving ourselves the gift of meditation, we're not just investing in our own well-being, but in the well-being of everyone we interact with.""Dr. Nader's work teaches us that the most profound changes in our lives come from within, from the simple act of being present with our true selves.""Gratitude isn't just about acknowledging what we have; it's about appreciating the source of all that we are and can be." ABOUT OUR GUEST:Dr. Nader is a medical doctor trained at Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Ph.D. in neuroscience). He was a Clinical and Research Fellow in Neurology at the Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and the Assistant Director of the MIT Clinical Research Center. He has conducted research in neurochemistry and neuroendocrinology; the relationship between diet, age, behavior, mood, seasonal influences, and hormonal activity; and the role of neurotransmitter precursors in medicine. As founder and editor-in-chief of the International Journal of Mathematics and Consciousness, Dr. Nader also offered a mathematical model for how the multiplicity of matter arises from a fundamental “singularity” of Transcendental Consciousness. For decades, Dr. Nader worked closely with TM Founder Maharishi Mahesh Yogi on the science of consciousness, which integrates modern research with the broad-based areas of knowledge stemming from the ancient Vedic tradition, including landmark studies in peer-reviewed journals establishing Transcendental Consciousness as a fourth major state of consciousness and expanding the scientific understanding of enlightenment. Today Dr. Nader directs the international organizations that teach the Transcendental Meditation program in over 100 countries and is the definitive authority on the TM technique. ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace. FOLLOW CHRIS:**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with Ash Shehata, Chief Information Officer of AHMC Healthcare System, to explore the intersection of leadership, adaptability, and human connection. Ash shares the story of a life-changing health crisis that transformed his perspective on healthcare and leadership, leading him to adopt a philosophy inspired by the adaptability and humility of water.Chris and Ash dive into the importance of human connection in leadership, emphasizing the value of truly listening to understand rather than just waiting for your turn to speak. Drawing on lessons from Ross Perot Sr., Ash discusses how vulnerability, empathy, and the courage to make mistakes are crucial for effective leadership. They also explore the challenges of the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, highlighting the need for proactive pauses—moments to step back, prioritize, and move forward with purpose.In addition to his professional insights, Ash reflects on how the principles he applies as a father—understanding, listening, and unconditional love—inform his approach to leading a large healthcare organization. Whether you're in healthcare, business, or simply looking to lead a more connected and purposeful life, this episode offers valuable lessons on the power of empathy, adaptability, and human connection. Key Discussion Points:The Philosophy of Water: Ash discusses how a TED Talk on the adaptability of water profoundly influenced his approach to leadership and life. He explains that water's qualities of being adaptable, humble, and harmonious have become central to his personal and professional philosophy (06:42:305).A Life-Altering Health Scare: Ash recounts a near-death experience in 2017 that reshaped his perspective on healthcare delivery and leadership. This moment of vulnerability emphasized the importance of empathy and the human connection in healthcare, leading Ash to re-evaluate the systems he once helped build (08:37:537).Leadership Lessons from Ross Perot Sr.: Ash shares valuable insights learned from working at Perot Systems under Ross Perot Sr. He emphasizes the importance of listening to understand rather than just waiting for a pause to speak, a lesson that has deeply impacted his leadership style (19:56:654).The Power of Human Connection: Reflecting on a dinner party where they first met, Chris and Ash discuss the significance of understanding and connecting with people at a human level. Ash notes that despite the differences in professional roles, we are more alike than different, and it's these shared experiences that bind us together (22:28:042).Navigating Healthcare Challenges: Ash talks about the complexities of the healthcare industry and the importance of taking proactive pauses to evaluate and prioritize initiatives. He shares how sometimes taking two steps back is necessary to move forward with greater clarity and purpose (30:57:397).Closing Thoughts on Fatherhood and Leadership: Although not deeply explored in this episode, Ash's principles of fatherhood—seeking to understand, listening without always solving, remembering childhood complexities, and loving unconditionally—are touched upon as part of his broader leadership and life philosophy (36:28:833). Notable Quotes:"Technology is irrelevant without the human connection, the ability to listen, to support, to understand, to connect." — Chris Schembra"Water is silently successful; it adapts to its environment and grows, nourishes, and feeds. That's how I strive to live my life." — Ash Shehata"Some of the most thought-provoking conversations I've had were during those 47 days in the hospital, where I learned the true power of empathy from the nurses who cared for me." — Ash Shehata"The biggest mistake in leadership today is listening for the pause instead of listening to truly understand the person in front of you." — Chris Schembra"You don't have to be everything to everyone. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is pause, listen, and then respond with intention." — Ash Shehata"Human connection is the foundation of great leadership. We are more alike than different, and it's those shared experiences that bind us together." — Ash Shehata"The unavoidable pause is where growth happens. It's where you step back, evaluate, and decide how to move forward with purpose." — Chris Schembra ABOUT OUR GUEST:Ash Shehata is the Chief Information Officer of AHMC Healthcare System, one of California's largest healthcare providers. With over two decades of experience in the healthcare industry, Ash is known for his innovative approach to technology and leadership. He has played a pivotal role in transforming healthcare delivery by integrating cutting-edge technology with compassionate patient care, overseeing a system that serves over 200,000 patients annually.Ash's leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in adaptability, humility, and empathy, principles that were significantly shaped by a life-altering health crisis in 2017. This experience gave him a unique perspective on the importance of human connection and the critical role of empathy in healthcare. Beyond his professional achievements, Ash is a dedicated father and husband, drawing on his personal life to inform his approach to leadership. He is passionate about fostering environments where teams can thrive by prioritizing human connection, understanding, and the courage to make mistakes.Ash's career has also been influenced by his time at Perot Systems, where he worked under Ross Perot Sr., learning valuable lessons about the importance of listening, understanding, and leading with integrity. Today, Ash continues to advocate for a patient-centered approach to healthcare, combining the latest technological advancements with the timeless values of empathy and human connection. ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace. FOLLOW CHRIS:**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

In this episode of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," host Chris Schembra welcomes Francesco Pastore, the Chief Marketing & Sales Officer and Corporate Communication Director of the global paper leader, Sofidel.Francesco discusses the concept of a "portfolio career," emphasizing the importance of diverse experiences, continuous learning, and adaptability. He shares his strategy for balancing short-term business results with long-term personal and professional growth, using a blend of strategic focus and the Pareto principle (80% execution, 20% learning).The conversation delves into the significance of soft skills in leadership, with Francesco stressing the importance of humility, vulnerability, and communication. He shares his approach to inspiring his team, especially those early in their careers, to invest in their long-term growth.A key takeaway from Francesco's leadership philosophy is the importance of creating space for failure and learning. He highlights how AI can facilitate rapid testing and learning, enabling leaders to fail fast and small, which ultimately drives innovation and growth.Chris and Francesco discuss the role of gratitude in leadership, with Francesco expressing his deep gratitude for his wife, Paola, and how her support has been crucial throughout his career. This moment underscores the personal side of leadership and the power of acknowledging those who support us.In closing, Francesco shares a powerful quote about treating people as they could be, not just as they are, emphasizing the impact of a future-focused leadership approach. Chris echoes this sentiment, reflecting on how envisioning and supporting people's growth can lead to remarkable business outcomes.Join Chris and Francesco in this insightful conversation on leadership, growth, and the power of gratitude.Quotes:"If you treat an individual as he is, he will remain how he is. But if you treat him as if he were what he ought to be and could be, he will become what he ought to be and could be." – Francesco Pastore"Live as if you were going to die tomorrow, learn as if you were going to live forever." – Francesco Pastore's LinkedIn header"When you have space, you can fail more." – Francesco Pastore"Strategy is the ability to say no." – Francesco Pastore"Leadership is not a framework. Leadership is adaptable and you have to programmatically deliver your style of leadership based on what the person needs in the moment." – Francesco Pastore"Soft skills are crucial in this new world of work." – Francesco Pastore"AI helps us fail in a much more healthy way." – Francesco Pastore"You need to test more things. Otherwise, you will just copycat the other and doing marginally better. You want to be much, much better than the other." – Francesco Pastore"You can't chase two rabbits at the same time; they'll both get away. Focus equals growth." – Chris Schembra quoting Dave Lindsey"It's important to fail fast and fail small on a continual basis to achieve the long-term growth in the future." – Chris Schembra"For me, a portfolio career has two directions: one is the core experiences you have had, and the other is the balance between soft skills and hard skills." – Francesco Pastore"Learning agility is the key to navigating different roles, companies, and cultures successfully." – Francesco Pastore"The ability to say no is linked to clear strategy and prioritization. Without this, everything becomes equally important, which means nothing is important." – Francesco Pastore"To me, failure is not the devil. Failure is learning." – Francesco Pastore"A good strategy means building the organization and building the business. You need to know how to build both for long-term success." – Francesco Pastore"Theory seems easy, but execution is what brings the theory to life." – Francesco Pastore"Connecting the dots backwards is easy, but doing it forward requires adaptability and a focus on continuous improvement." – Francesco Pastore"Communication and visioning are essential to help people understand that there's more beyond short-term results." – Francesco Pastore"In any job, always secure 20% of your time for learning or growing as a person and leader." – Francesco Pastore"Leadership is about being humble and honest, showing vulnerability, and leading by example." – Francesco Pastore5 Key Takeaways from the Episode:Importance of a Portfolio Career:Balancing Short-term and Long-term Goals:Significance of Soft Skills in Leadership:Embracing Failure for Growth:Gratitude in Leadership:ABOUT OUR GUEST:Francesco Pastore is a seasoned and dynamic leader, holding a degree in Economics from Pisa, earned in 1996. His portfolio career journey began at Procter & Gamble, where he honed his fundamental skills in sales and marketing. After departing from P&G in 2004 in Geneva, Francesco continued to cultivate his international career, initially at Bain & Company, and later at leading consumer goods companies such as Coca-Cola and Coty.In 2019, Francesco took on a pivotal role at Sofidel, where he oversees the European market as the Chief Marketing & Sales Officer. Since December, he has also assumed the role of Corporate Communication Director, showcasing his versatility and ability to manage diverse business areas.With a longstanding passion for digital, his expertise lies in general management, sales, and consulting. Thanks to Sofidel, he has gained significant experience in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) issues.ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.FOLLOW CHRIS:WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

In this episode of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," host Chris Schembra welcomes Steve Tcherchian, Chief Product Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at XY Pro, to discuss the profound impact of gratitude, resilience, and vulnerability in leadership. The conversation begins with Steve's journey through the competitive cybersecurity industry, where he transitioned from a high-pressure, success-driven mindset to a gratitude-centered approach that transformed his personal and professional life.Steve shares his experience of hitting rock bottom after being passed up for a promotion and losing his marriage. These events became catalysts for a profound transformation, leading him to embrace gratitude and vulnerability as core principles in his leadership. Steve introduces the concept of "return on rock bottom," highlighting how the lowest points in life can lead to significant personal growth and renewed purpose.Throughout the episode, Steve and Chris explore the importance of empathy, communication, and creating a safe space for connection within teams. They discuss how leaders can turn failures into learning opportunities and persist through adversity with purpose and vision. Steve emphasizes the value of serving his team and finding joy in the service of others, contrasting this with the fleeting happiness derived from material success.This episode is a testament to the enduring power of gratitude and the importance of empathy and human connection in achieving lasting success and fulfillment. It offers listeners practical insights and strategies to navigate life's challenges with resilience and a mindset geared toward continuous improvement. Key Takeaways1. Embracing failure as a valuable learning opportunity.2. The importance of vulnerability in leadership.3. Gratitude can ground us amidst chaos and stress.4. Persistence with purpose can turn adversity into growth.5. The concept of "return on rock bottom" as a measure of personal growth.6. Shifting from a competitive mindset to a service-oriented approach.7. The role of empathy and human connection in effective leadership.8. How resilience and optimism can transform challenging situations.9. The impact of gratitude on personal and professional fulfillment.10. Strategies for leading teams with purpose, vision, and resilience. Quotes1. "Gratitude grounds us all and gives us a different perspective."2. "Rock bottom was not the end; it was the beginning of my biggest growth."3. "You succeed because of adversity, not in spite of it."4. "Failure is not the end; it's just the beginning of something greater."5. "Return on rock bottom measures the growth from our toughest times."6. "Leaders eat last, serving their teams to drive collective success."7. "Empathy, communication, and closeness are key to impactful leadership."8. "Finding meaning and purpose in service brings lasting joy."9. "Adversity and failure are the greatest teachers."10. "Every day is a learning experience; there's always room for growth." ABOUT OUR GUEST:Steve Tcherchian is a visionary cybersecurity executive with over 20 years of experience in the industry. In this role as Chief Product Officer and CISO, Steve leads global sales, technology, product direction, and go-to-market strategy for XYPRO's cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions that fortify the digital backbone of economies worldwide.Based on his unique leadership, strategic vision, deep cybersecurity experience and penchant for relationship building with customers and partners, Steve has helped transform XYPRO into a top tier cybersecurity provider evidenced by record growth and accelerated adoption of XYPRO's threat detection and compliance solutions across diverse sectors.As a passionate advocate for cybersecurity, Steve is dedicated to demystifying the complexities of the industry, sharing invaluable insights and experiences across global stages as a sought-after speaker at events and conferences.His contributions extend beyond the podium; as a former member of the ISSA CISO Advisory Council, the X9 Security Standards Committee, the Forbes Tech Council, and a patent holder, he has influenced pivotal cybersecurity standards and innovations. ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours," he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times. FOLLOW CHRIS:WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

In this episode of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," Chris Schembra welcomes Elaine Knight, the Chief People Officer at Behavioral Health Link. Elaine shares her journey and insights on creating a positive and supportive work culture in the behavioral health sector. The conversation delves into the importance of gratitude, mindfulness, and empathy in leadership, and how these values can transform workplace dynamics. Elaine also discusses the challenges and rewards of crisis work, the significance of servant leadership, and the systems that support employee well-being and engagement. Join Chris and Elaine for a heartfelt discussion on leading with purpose and compassion. Takeaways:1. Gratitude in Leadership: Integrating gratitude into leadership can foster a positive and resilient work culture.2. Servant Leadership: Effective leadership involves removing obstacles to help team members perform their best.3. Importance of Onboarding: A smooth onboarding process is crucial for setting employees up for success.4. Performance Management: Regular feedback and clear communication are essential for maintaining employee engagement.5. Systems Theory: Addressing systemic issues can help prevent employee burnout and enhance productivity.6. Personalized Leadership: Tailoring leadership styles to individual needs can strengthen manager-employee relationships.7. Role of Optimism: Maintaining a positive outlook can significantly impact personal and organizational success. Quotes:1. "Gratitude is an expression of love. It's the heartbeat of a thriving work culture, fueling our connections and lifting our spirits."2. "People inherently want to do well; we just need to create systems that empower them to unleash their full potential."3. "Slow down to speed up. In the rush of daily life, taking a moment to breathe and reflect can propel us forward with greater clarity and purpose."4. "Servant leadership is about removing obstacles so your team can shine. It's about putting others first and fostering an environment where everyone can succeed."5. "Mindfulness and self-care are not just nice-to-haves; they're essential for well-being. They are the anchors that keep us grounded in the stormy seas of life."6. "Leadership is about inspiration and helping others find their best selves. It's about lighting the path so others can walk confidently and boldly."7. "Invest in your people proactively to prevent burnout and attrition. A thriving team is the backbone of any successful organization."8. "Start with why: It brings clarity and motivation. When we understand our purpose, we are unstoppable."9. "Optimism is a great predictor of success. Believing in positive outcomes can create a self-fulfilling prophecy of achievement."10. "In the face of adversity, ask yourself: What is this challenge teaching me? Every struggle is an opportunity for growth and learning." ABOUT OUR GUEST:Elaine Knight, MBA, SPHR, is a transformative and engaging HR executive with over fifteen years of expertise in human capital strategy and execution. As the Chief People Officer at Behavioral Health Link, Elaine has crafted unparalleled employee experiences through well-planned and data-driven business strategies, specializing in environments where high performers thrive and drive optimal business results.Elaine's distinguished career includes a proven track record in revitalizing performance management initiatives and ensuring legal compliance across multiple states. She excels in supporting rapidly growing organizations with a unique blend of corporate and consulting experience. Elaine's credentials include a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification and a Master's in Business Administration from Georgia State University.At Behavioral Health Link, Elaine has implemented organizational strategies, HR system infrastructures, and programs to drive operational excellence and employee engagement. Her leadership has been instrumental in streamlining contract workflows, launching a new talent acquisition strategy, and overhauling the performance management system. She has also played a key role in supporting the organization's growth across 26 states, improving retention, and reducing turnover.Elaine's dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), wellness, employee relations, and engagement is reflected in her past achievements, including the creation of employee resource groups and fostering a companywide culture of inclusion. Her service-oriented mindset and team-oriented approach have made her a strong communicator and collaborator, providing executive teams with invaluable HR insights.Elaine is deeply passionate about mindfulness, gratitude, empathy, and self-care She believes that nurturing these qualities within workplace cultures is essential for building resilience and fostering a supportive environment. Her personal interests include enjoying nature walks by the Chattahoochee River, practicing yoga, and exploring new cultures and cuisines through international travel. ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours," he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times. FOLLOW CHRIS:WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

In this conversation, Chris Schembra interviews Enrico Galasso, the CEO of Peroni, an iconic Italian beer brand. They discuss Enrico's new book, “Per I Prossimi 175 Anni”, the importance of empathy and meaningful connections in leadership, and the challenges and opportunities of managing a brand with a long history. Enrico emphasizes the need for leaders to be adaptable, to learn from both successes and failures, and to create a culture of connection and psychological safety. They also explore the value of investing in a premium experience and the role of emotions and experiences in building a brand.Enrico talks about Peroni's efforts to translate the Italian lifestyle into a global success, focusing on rugby and Ferrari as partnerships that embody the brand's values. He emphasizes the importance of empathy in leadership and shares his personal journey of becoming more empathic. Enrico's purpose is to leave a better place for future generations and to give his children the opportunity to be happy. The conversation highlights the power of authenticity, simplicity, and connection in leadership.Support Enrico's New Book HEREhttps://www.store.rubbettinoeditore.it/catalogo/per-i-prossimi-175-anni/ TakeawaysLeaders need to be adaptable and learn from both successes and failures.Creating a culture of connection and psychological safety is crucial for fostering innovation and engagement.Investing in a premium experience and building a brand that evokes emotions and experiences can differentiate a product from a brand.The world is moving towards premiumization, where people are willing to spend more for products and brands that offer value and a sense of accomplishment.Success in the long run requires investing in people's well-being and creating a culture that attracts and grows talent.Empathy is a crucial trait for leaders, and being intentional about connecting with people in an empathic way can have a significant impact.Enrico's purpose is to leave a better place for future generations and to give his children the opportunity to be happy.Authenticity, simplicity, and connection are key elements of effective leadership.Success and happiness come from being true to oneself and serving others.Taking small steps, such as asking people how they feel instead of how they are, can lead to more meaningful connections and better understanding in the workplace.Leaders should strive to be consistent in their awareness of who they are and be open to learning and growing.Changing one person's whole world is a powerful way to make a positive impact.The Italian culture embodies a commitment to tradition and innovation, honoring history while dreaming of the future. Sound Bites"Sometimes you also need to be looking at the positives even when something doesn't go well. Everybody can be somebody you can learn from.""Peroni is a historical icon, but every icon has to be relevant in the moment. To be relevant in the moment, it has to look at the future to ensure that when the moment comes, it is ready.""When you look back too much, it becomes a form of nostalgia. It's not something you actually look for to find your strengths.""We are here for a legacy. We always need to think what the new people of Peroni and the new Italians and consumers worldwide will think of us in 20 years, in 25 years.""Successes of the past can be a fuel for future success, or they can be a weight that should hold you back.""Excellence is something that changes every year. Whatever helped you have success yesterday, probably it's not going to be enough.""You need to learn from your failures, but also from your successes because there is always an inch that you can gain and be faster in what you do.""In an organization, the ability to deliver a plan, to build a strategy cannot be of one person. Whatever strategy you are building is going to be old tomorrow.""You need people that don't feel like they have a hierarchical barrier in front of them or they need to feel like they have the courage to actually talk and express what they think.""The more you realize that with the impact you can do good, then you can be much more intentional in doing good at being empathic with people."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Earthquake01:10 Welcoming Repeat and New Listeners03:36 Enrico's Book and Peroni's History04:15 Expressing Gratitude to Enrico's Father07:18 Remembering Challenging and Great Moments in Peroni's History10:15 Understanding the Present Moment and Building the Future12:25 Learning from Successes and Failures13:24 Managing Ambiguity and Elevating Excellence15:35 Creating a Culture of Connection and Horizontal Leadership19:10 Avoiding Excuses and Investing in People21:22 Investing in a Premium Experience and Building a Brand23:25 The Shift Towards Premiumization25:18 Investing in People's Well-being and Talent25:45 Translating the Italian Lifestyle into Global Success26:42 The Power of Rugby and Ferrari in Peroni's Brand31:36 The Importance of Empathy in Leadership41:24 Leaving a Better Place for Future Generations45:34 Authenticity, Simplicity, and Connection in Leadership

In this episode, host Anne Mühlethaler speaks with Chris Schembra, a renowned facilitator, community builder and gratitude expert dedicated to transforming professional environments through the power of recognition, belonging and authentic connection. As the author of two bestselling books, ”Gratitude Through Hard Times” and “Gratitude and Pasta,” Chris blends heartfelt storytelling with data-driven insights to deliver impactful keynote addresses and advisory services. His expertise has led him to collaborate with industry giants such as Google, Microsoft, IBM, Dell, and the U.S. Navy, among others. Recognized as a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council and dubbed the "Gratitude Guru" by USA Today, Chris's work has sparked over 500,000 relationships within the workplace.In their conversation, Chris shares with Anne his journey, starting with growing up by the water in South Carolina, his parents' epic parties and his devastating subsequent loss of memory due to ADHD medication.The two then talk about their love of Rome and how Chris was inspired by his own visit to host a Roman style dinner and gathering back home in New York City, for which he invented a pasta recipe. On July 15, 2015, Chris invited 15 friends into his 350-square-foot studio apartment.  Already an engaging event, magic happened when Chris asked one question of his guests that changed everything: “If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life that you don't give enough credit or thanks to, or you've never thought to thank, who would that be?” From there, Chris' passion for fostering gratitude and meaningful conversations around the dinner table evolved into the creation of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience — so named for the time during that infamous evening that he asked his thought-provoking question. The program is an evidence-based framework designed to strengthen client and team relationships. Since 2020, his company has organised 402 virtual gratitude experiences, migrating to online during the pandemic.Chris and Anne discuss the kind of gratitude practised at Chris' events: not the self-reflective kind, but gratitude directed towards people. He was influenced to do this by the researcher Barbara Fredrickson, who proved in the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotion that gratitude has the ability to actually broaden your thought action repertoire needed for positive effect, making our brains more open for joy, contentment, play and connection. Chris' approach at 7:47 events is rooted in empathy and scientifically backed principles, prioritising creating cultures of appreciation and belonging within leading corporations worldwide.The conversation takes many twists and turns because Chris is an epic storyteller. He and Anne talk about the importance of focus to succeed in business, with Chris quoting his friend Dave who advised him that ‘focus equals growth.' Anne also asks Chris in-depth questions about his two books. Plus Chris honestly discusses some of the hardest times he's experienced, including some serious incidents of non-suicidal self-harm.Anne ends the podcast asking Chris first his signature question, then hers —  “What brings you happiness?" — which brings the two to discuss both hedonic and eudaimonic happiness.To conclude, Chris advises listeners to go out and seek opportunities and that we can go and tell our stories, along with this important message: “Do not underestimate how powerful your story is.”An inspired conversation with a heart-opening storyteller and community builder that will leave you moved. Happy listening!*** Selected links from the episodeFind more about Chris on  https://www.chrisschembra.com/747club.orgLinkedIn - Chris Schembra-https://www.linkedin.com/in/schembra/Chris' podcast Gratitude Through Hard Times - https://www.chrisschembra.com/podcastThe producer Charles Wessler - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_B._WesslerFiorello LaGuardia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiorello_La_GuardiaFiorello! the play Chris was working on in RomeTranscendental meditation David Lynch Foundation Bob RothVishen LuckyaniAyla Nova Yoga NidraJohn Levy's Influencer Dinner Series the TikTok from Hilton Head Island Susan Drum, Leader's Playlist - https://theleadersplaylistbook.com/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Above_%26_Beyond_(band)Marty Seligman's School of Positive PsychologyTranscendentalismGratitude by Above and BeyondThe Spotify playlist from Out of the Clouds guests' answers to the question: what song best represents you? Runaway Hill Hotel in the BahamasHedonistic happiness & Eudaimonic happinessLisa Besterman on Chris's podcast This episode is brought to you by AVM Consulting Struggling to connect with your audience? Feeling disconnected from your brand's purpose? Is motivating your team becoming a daunting task?AVM Consulting offers a unique blend of coaching, consulting, and storytelling services designed to help your brand connect authentically, align with your values, and inspire your team to achieve greatness.With a track record of success in working with fashion and luxury partners worldwide, AVM Consulting, led by industry expert and certified coach Anne Mühlethaler, is your trusted partner in achieving your brand's vision. Ready to transform your brand and drive meaningful change? Don't wait any longer. We like to make magic happen.FIND OUT MORE ABOUT AVM CONSULTING HERE. ***If you enjoyed this episode, click subscribe for more, and consider writing a review of the show on Apple Podcasts, we really appreciate your support and feedback. And thank you so much for listening!  For all notes and transcripts, please visit Out Of The Clouds on Simplecast - https://out-of-the-clouds.simplecast.com/   Sign up for Anne's email newsletter for more from Out of the Clouds at https://annevmuhlethaler.com.  Follow Anne and Out of the Clouds: IG: @_outoftheclouds or  @annvi  Or on Threads @annviOn Youtube @OutoftheClouds For more, you can read and subscribe to Anne's Substack, the Mettā View, her weekly dose of insights on coaching, brand development, the future of work, and storytelling, with a hint of mindfulness.

What you achieve, create, or experience in your professional and personal journey is reflective of your mindset. When decoding the world around you - your thoughts follow a thinking pattern. This routine dictates the actions you take, or don't take. So if you want to achieve, create, or experience something more or different - strengthen your mindset. Gratitude is a simple and powerful place to start.    In the final part of my conversation with Chris Schembra, a gratitude expert and the author of Wall Street Journal bestseller Gratitude Through Hard Times, we explore the connection between gratitude and how we think and the actions we take. As well as the impact of negative biographical experiences, and how to shift them to positive.

Is gratitude simply an altruistic way of thinking? Does it have a tangible impact on the challenges we face, and the relationships we attract and build each day?    The answer - yes! It strengthens you and those around you.    In this episode of Breaking Sales, Dan sat down with Chris Schembra, a gratitude expert and the author of WSJ bestseller Gratitude Through Hard Times to discuss. Chris shares how and why you should begin your gratitude journey, and how a gratitude practice will strengthen your connection with prospects, clients, teammates, family, and friends.   

In episode 5.10, Scott and Vince are joined by a remarkable guest, Chris Schembra. As a Wall Street Journal best-selling author and a highly regarded speaker, Chris has a unique story to share. What initially began as a venture into creating pasta sauce took an unexpected turn, leading him on a profound journey of gratitude, empathy, and the incredible importance of human connections. Chris's experiences have made him a passionate advocate for building meaningful relationships, not just in our personal lives but also within the workplace. The Power of Human Connection: Chris Schembra, a Wall Street best-selling author, joins Vince and Scott to share his journey from creating pasta sauce to discovering the profound importance of gratitude and empathy in human connections. Community as a Source: Chris emphasizes the role of family and friends as the foundation of our sense of community and how these connections can be applied effectively in the workplace. Dealing with Workplace Anxiety: The episode delves into strategies for identifying and navigating workplace anxiety, creating a healthier and more supportive work environment. Building Stronger Team Connections: Chris provides insights into improving connections within a team, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that team members are closely connected to one another. Fostering a Fearless Organization: Learn how to build a fearless organization that prioritizes people, where humility, discipline, and active listening are key components of leadership. Creating a Sense of Belonging: Strategies for creating a strong sense of belonging within your organization and enhancing empathy, gratitude, and engagement. Putting People First: Explore the importance of prioritizing your team and putting people first in your business, ultimately leading to a more connected and thriving organization. Cultivating Gratitude: Chris shares his wisdom on the significance of giving gratitude and its positive impact on both personal and professional relationships. This episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for leaders looking to enhance human connections, empathy, and gratitude within their organizations. ABOUT OUR GUEST: With nearly a decade of experience in crafting engaging team building and client engagement experiences, Chris Schembra has dedicated himself to addressing these issues. His journey, defined by overcoming loneliness and finding transformation through gratitude, fuels his innovative approaches. As the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of 'Gratitude Through Hard Times,' Chris has established a unique methodology centered on empathy, genuine connections, and personal growth. Celebrated as the 'Gratitude Guru' by USA Today, his impactful work has been recognized by top executives and has made a significant difference in hundreds of major global corporations, including Google, Microsoft, IBM, Dell, Citi, and the US Navy. ABOUT OUR HOSTS: Scott De Long, Ph.D., is an entrepreneur, author, educator, and the Founder of Lead2Goals, a business leadership organization that provides coaching, facilitation, and training for growth-oriented organizations. Scott has recently released his first book, "I Thought I Was A Leader... A Journey to Building Trust, Leading Teams & Inspiring Change." Available at Amazon. Vince Moiso, MBA, is the Founder and President of VIS Aspire Inc., a business management consultant group. He is also a Principal and President of Oceanside Glass & Tile. Vince is the author of the book "How to Survive the Wilderness: The Playbook for the Entrepreneur and High Performer." Also available at Amazon. To learn more about Scott De Long, Ph.D., and Vince Moiso, MBA, please visit theceopodcast.net. If you have questions or comments, or to make topic suggestions for future episodes, please contact them at scottandvince@gmail.com. ABOUT LEAD2GOALS: Lead2Goals is based in Southern California and provides business leadership training and employee development through soft skills training, executive coaching, team-building, and strategic planning. To learn more, please contact Scott at scott@lead2goals.com or visit lead2goals.com. ABOUT VIS ASPIRE: VIS Aspire is a small business consulting firm dedicated to the flooring industry. Their mission is to transform your business and exceed expectations through mindful preparation and meaningful action. To learn more, please contact Vince at vincent@visaspireinc.com or visit visaspireinc.com.

Rejection, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, or simple uncertainty—any one of them can cause anxiety, hesitation, and frustration. All of them reside in your mindset, and it's often very difficult to consistently shake them.    Enter gratitude.    Whether preparing for a big sales call, leadership moment, or family dynamic, gratitude is a practice that can calm your nerves, instill conviction, and strengthen courage.    Meet my guest, Chris Schembra, a gratitude expert and the author of “Gratitude and Pasta,” along with his latest book, “Gratitude Through Hard Times.” In this episode of Breaking Sales, Chris enlightens us on how practicing gratitude can reshape one's mindset to foster resilience and help us become more resolute in our actions.  

Chris Schembra is the best-selling author of "Gratitude Imposta: The Secret Sauce for Human Connection." He is known as the Gratitude Guru and has used the principles of gratitude to spark over 500,000 relationships around the dinner table. Chris is dedicated to helping companies connect in meaningful ways and has worked with clients such as Microsoft, Google, Dell, and SAP.SHOW SUMMARYIn this episode of Selling From The Heart, Larry Levine and Darrell Amy are joined by Chris Schembra, the Gratitude Guru. They discuss the importance of authenticity and meaningful connections in sales. Chris explains how gratitude can transform relationships and drive sales results. He emphasizes the need to shift from a focus on oneself to a focus on others and shares practical tips for expressing authentic gratitude. Chris also discusses the power of spontaneous gratitude and how it can positively impact both the giver and the recipient.KEY TAKEAWAYSGratitude helps shift the focus from oneself to others, leading to more meaningful connections.Authenticity is crucial in building relationships and establishing trust with clients.Giving gratitude in the language that the recipient prefers can have a greater impact.Spontaneous gratitude can be a powerful tool for personal growth and relationship building.QUOTES"Gratitude is the acknowledgment that you've received something of value from others.""Gratitude doesn't have to be returned. Gratitude is the gift in itself.""Giving gratitude in the language the recipient likes to receive, it is the key.""Spontaneous gratitude, when done from the heart, can be a game changer."Learn more about Chris Schembra: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schembra/Learn more about Darrell and Larry: Darrell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrellamy/Larry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrylevine1992/Website: https://www.sellingfromtheheart.net/ Got a video about how you sell from the heart? Share it by texting VIDEO to 21000.Please visit BarnesandNobles to order your copy of the rerelease of the Selling from the Heart book. SUBSCRIBE to our YOUTUBE CHANNEL! https://www.youtube.com/c/sellingfromtheheartPlease visit WHY INSTITUTE:https://whyinstitute.com/Please go to WORK BETTER NOW:https://www.workbetternow.com/Click for your Daily Dose of Inspiration:https://www.sellingfromtheheart.net/dailyCheck out the 2023 Authentic Selling Challenge:https://authenticsellingchallenge.com/Get your Insiders Group FREE PASS here:https://www.sellingfromtheheart.net/free-pass

On today's episode of The Future of Teamwork, host Dane Groeneveld speaks with Chris Schembra, the best-selling author also known as The Gratitude Guru. Chris talks about 7:47, his organization focused on creating meaningful connections through dinner parties. He shares how that experience was impacted by COVID, and how it allowed 7:47 to pivot with still great success. Additionally, Dane and Chris discuss authentic networking, why gratitude will change you how interact with the world, and ways that businesses can show up to meet their imperfect human employees with empathy. Key Takeaways:Introduction to Chris SchembraHow Chris became the Gratitude GuruNetworking and remembering how people make you feelShared food and strength of mind, and the hurdles to togetherness"The world is ending" but you're going to be fineMarcus Aurelius, the stoics, and gratitudeThe beginning of the business, and creating connections98% of dinner parties were for client engagement purposesShifting to a remote strategy because of COVIDInventiveness and gratitudePreventing employee burnout, stress, loneliness, overwhelm, and anxietyEmployer-sponsored soul and emotional healthCombatting loneliness with curiosity and connectionMicro-shifts towards a more grateful attitudeGratitude interventions, and living in the presentAuthentic moments of gratitudeWitnessing theoryHiring humans, and showing up with empathyThe benefit appraisalThe good news if you're operating through a lens of ingratitudeAcknowledgment helps destigmatize ingratitudeListeners, answer this question!

We routinely hear that we should count our blessings and be grateful, but we rarely make gratitude a regular practice. On this episode, we speak with Adam Barfoot, M.Ed., LPC-MHSP about how to make gratitude a consistent part of our lives and its potential impact on our mental and social well-being.Adam recommends reading Gratitude Through Hard Times by Chris Schembra for those interested in going deeper.To learn more about how Propel can help your organization build a world class well-being program, go to https://propelwellness.com/

TRP - Season 4, Episode 7: We continue our fourth season of The Ramped Podcast with Chris Schembra, Author and Keynote Speaker. He has spent 8+ years creating team building and client engagement programs, and teaches how to make a shift towards authenticity and deeper human relationships in the modern workplace.IN THIS EPISODE, CHRIS AND DANNY COVER:01:30 - Who is Chris Schembra?03:42 - Increasing connection in organizations07:16 - Essential exercise for all leaders12:54 - How to use mirroring as an employer15:05 - Creating meaningful connections during onboarding20:51 - From entitlement to empathy in job seeking25:37 - About Chris's recent involvements28:45 - Advice for Chris's younger selfWe hope you enjoy the conversation. MORE ON CHRIS: Chris Schembra is a values-driven, heart-led author and keynote speaker on a mission to cure the epidemic of loneliness and the crisis of disconnection in the modern workplace. He has spent 8+ years creating team building and client engagement programs, and teaches how to make a shift towards authenticity and deeper human relationships to achieve outsized business results.Find in all of these places:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schembra/Website: https://www.chrisschembra.comMORE ON RAMPED:Learn more about us here: rampedcareers.comWant us to help in your job search: https://www.rampedcareers.com/services/auto-applier

Chris Schembra is a values driven, heart led author and keynote speaker on a mission to cure the epidemic of loneliness and the crisis of disconnection in the modern workplace. Drawing on hard-hitting statistics, he shines a light on the wide-ranging impact this problem has on employee wellbeing, engagement, and the overall success of organizations. Through his experience helping spark over 500,000 co-worker relationships in the workplace, Schembra has come to understand that the macro level widespread disconnection is a symptom of a lack of deep human connection. It's this very void that amplifies burnout, exacerbates mental health challenges, and cripples employee engagement in today's organizations. Through his 8 years of work building team building and client engagement programs, he's observed that leaders and their teams may interact on a superficial level but are not genuinely connected to themselves, their co-workers, their customers, or their larger communities. Schembra teaches how to make a shift towards authenticity and deeper human relationships as a means to combat this issue and achieve outsized business results. To tackle disconnection, Schembra presents a 3-step method for connection. This approach involves bringing employees into the present moment to acknowledge their humanity, diving into the past, while teaching them to express and receive authentic gratitude. He then guides them to approach the future with curiosity, questions, empathy, and inquisitiveness. This proven method, outlined in his Gratitude Experiences, transforms the method that employees interact and perceive their work. By solving the disconnection issue, Schembra shows that the benefits are profound. It's not just about personal growth; it also results in a heightened level of engagement and productivity in the workplace. He provides compelling research and statistics, such as the significant return on investment (ROI) in emotional well-being and the role of gratitude in boosting commitment and effort among employees. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: www.chrisschembra.com https://docs.google.com/document/d/1h-G0Jwd0zM77155Enm5lOwTptu4bHWjJQOtMLIXWlt4/edit?usp=sharing

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author of "Gratitude Through Hard Times" and "Gratitude and Pasta." USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.He is the Founder of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark over 500,000 relationships through their in-person and virtual experiences, serving Fortune 50 CEO's, Olympians, Academy Award Winners, Grammy Award Winning #1 Recording Artists, Super Bowl Champions, and more.As a Viral Marketer, his gratitude campaign giving gratitude to Veterans earned over 36 million views, 1.2 million shares, and 2 Emmy Awards.His direct work has been talked about in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Forbes, Inc, Entrepreneur, Bravo TV, Fox News Channel, Variety, and hundreds of other media outlets.IN THIS EPISODE:What is 7:47, and why was it built? 5:31The tipping point of Chris's life and why he created 7:47 10:50How social connection could solve a lot 18:15The power of generativity 22:54Suffering and the pursuit of happiness 30:07The impact of gratitude micro-interventions 36:05How to lead with gratitude 40:36The importance of gratitude for the hardest stories of our lives 46:58The importance of telling your story 53:18CONNECT WITH CHRIS: 747club.orgchrisschembra.comLinkedIn@schembraInstagram@747club STORYHOUSE is a production of Storyhouse Fifteen, a strategic coaching and branding studio that helps small business owners and do-good organizations find the clarity, the story, and the strategy to reach more people and grow their impact. Find Lindsay at storyhousefifteen.com or connect with her on LinkedIn.

About This EpisodeGratitude is at the heart of everything Chris Schembra does. As an author, speaker, and founder, he believes that being grateful is a key ingredient to living a fulfilling life and overcoming the loneliness and disconnection we may face. In this episode, he shares his personal and professional bold journey from accepting a 15-year memory loss to founding the 7:47 Gratitude Experience, a framework at the heart of his company and his community-building dinners. Chris talks about the continuum of boldness, how it ranges from being a pioneer and starting something completely new to giving yourself permission to even think about doing something different or figure out what you really want. Being bold does not mean that you have to do more or be more. In fact, it often means doing less and focusing more on those select things. Chris also provides practical and actionable steps you can take to support your bold own life immediately. Tune in for an insightful episode on how the bold path is typically not the straight path, but it can be better and more impactful than we originally imagined. About Chris SchembraChris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru," he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine. He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark over 500,000 relationships, serving Fortune 50 CEO's, Olympians, Academy Award Winners, Grammy Award Winning #1 Recording Artists, Super Bowl Champions, and more. His direct work has been talked about in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Forbes, Inc, Entrepreneur, Bravo TV, Fox News Channel, Variety, and hundreds of other media outlets. Additional ResourcesWebsite: https://www.chrisschembra.com/LinkedIn: @ChrisSchembraInstagram: @Chris.Schembra

We're shining a light on the difference between luck and blessings when Patty Arvielo, co-founder & CEO of New American Funding, joins host Chris Schembra on this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times. Running the largest Latina-owned mortgage company in the U.S. while nurturing a network of younger women coming up behind her, Patty is all about leaning into humanness. She shares the many ways in which gratitude and empathy have served as beacons professionally, as a parent and throughout a 27-year marriage that embodies commitment and respect. You'll learn about how Patty and her husband, Rick, founded New American Funding in 2003 and grew it into a juggernaut that has underwritten 250,000 mortgages worth $69 billion and employs 4,000 people – a majority of whom are women and 41% of whom are minorities. All this success is rooted in Patty's intentionality around core values, like creating positive impact and improving the lives of others. Want to manifest abundance and overcome fear? Patty is here with words of wisdom and perspective you won't want to miss!You can learn much more about what Patty is up to and the mentorship opportunities she hosts by clicking this link to follow her on Instagram and following #WeAllGrow and the many initiatives she supports.Cultivating moments of meaningful connection is hard – and perhaps not a value central to our workplace cultures. But if we show up in vulnerability and truth, we erase poverty of the soul while building great businesses!If you'd like to learn more about Chris and his 7:47 Virtual Gratitude Experience or subscribe to our newsletter, please visit this link.Click hereto hear more fascinating conversations with Fortune 500 CEOs, professional athletes and entertainers who have shared their human stories on Gratitude Through Hard Times. KEY TOPICS:If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life that you don't give enough credit or enough thanks to – that you've never thought to thank – who would that be? Her husband, Rick, who has committed his life to the project of building a life, business and family together.It All Takes Work: How her commitment to marriage mirrors the commitment Patty believes is required to establish and grow anything meaningful in life.Expressing Gratitude: Why it's so important that we teach our children to appreciate and cultivate a sense of appreciation in the day to day.Consider This: Are you using fear or a lack of gratitude as a protection mechanism against pain or disappointment?Managing Fear:Look at life holistically as a full range of experiences, including adversity.Build self-awareness and spiritual strength into your framework.Prepare for hard times.Learn from setbacks (and how to stop repeating them!).Climbing Out of the Hole: How life's hard times provide us a necessary invitation to growth and human connection.Being Blessed: How Patty's commitment to doing the right thing combined with hard work and gratitude add up to “getting what I give.” It's not luck!Dreams v. Manifestations: About being fully awake to the visions we want to work towards and building a solid infrastructure for what we want.Being in the People Business: Why the heart of Patty's daily work is understanding, developing, mentoring and celebrating the people with whom she's in business.Seeking Change and Practicing Radical Acceptance: How Patty pursues her goals and dreams while also tempering them through self-awareness and understanding the “why.”Questioning: The key to growth, purpose and recognizing what's most important!Daily Impact: How Patty is using her experience and skill set to empower and support younger Latinx women embarking on their entrepreneurial paths.Closing Thoughts:The person Patty respects most on the planet is her husband, Rick, with whom she has built a committed and intentional life.Because of its positive nature, Patty felt good about visiting the GTHT pod.Promoting empathetic leaders in all their humanness is a core value and priority for Patty, who leads with her heart.The levels of despair among members of the American workforce – including among executive ranks – are troubling. You can push back by focusing on abundance, gratitude and human connection. QUOTABLE“(My husband and I) see commitment as a daily event in our lives. Not just walking down the aisle and a piece of paper.” (Patty) “When I feel fear or am scared of making decisions, it's in action that I'm able to move forward. I'm not complacent. I don't hide. And I don't complain.” (Patty) “If you look at a negative autobiographical experience that put you in a hole or a moment of adversity, the positive benefits far outweigh the negative. You can actually be grateful that that thing occurred.” (Chris) “Anything you intend to do to impact your life and make it better is creating blessings for yourself and putting in the work to create the life you want. That isn't luck. That's work!” (Patty) “I find myself getting a lot of satisfaction in helping others and creating happiness for others when they're aligned with things that I'm doing.” (Patty) “If you're competing with companies that are like yours, they have the same journey and struggles as you. When you're around like-minded people in the same business as you, it's really an ‘aha' moment!” (Patty) “When you seek out and find your purpose, things will become clearer to you … I know my purpose is to impact others. It's what I enjoy. I love the little wins.” (Patty) “Yes, cultivating meaningful moments is hard. It requires unyielding vulnerability and courage and deep trust and truth … but it erases the poverty of the soul. It's the way to build a business that you're proud of.” (Chris) LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:Check out Gary Chapman's book, "The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts."Find out more about the Hogan Personality Assessment.Click here to find out about Kurt Vonnegut's “Man in the Hole” theory.About "Grateful Processing," a concept developed by Prof. Phillip Watkins of Eastern Washington University.Explore Mike Foster's "Seven Primal Questions."Follow this link to learn about “Ubuntu” and how the South African philosophy triggered one of the biggest turnarounds in NBA history. ABOUT OUR GUEST:Patty is an award-winning entrepreneur and Co-Founder and CEO of New American Funding. A first-generation Hispanic, her path to mortgage industry began at age 16 with a hard-work ethic and an entry-level position at TransUnion Credit. From there, she landed a job at a prominent mortgage company, where she would rise through the ranks and learn the business from the ground up, eventually becoming branch manager and assistant vice president. In 2003, Patty and her husband, Rick Arvielo, launched their own mortgage company, New American Funding. In the years since, Patty has helped transform the company into one of the largest independent mortgage lenders in the United States today with a servicing portfolio of over 250,000 loans for $69 billion. She also oversaw the creation and expansion of the company's retail lending operation, which grew a small local operation to a national powerhouse with more than 170 locations and thousands of employees across the country. Today, Patty oversees nearly 4,000 employees, 54% of whom are women and 41% who are minorities. FOLLOW PATTY:WEBSITE | LINKEDIN| INSTAGRAM | #WeAllGrow ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours,"he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times. FOLLOW CHRIS:WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

Robert Glazer is the Founder and Chairman of the Board of Acceleration Partners, a global partner marketing agency. He is the recipient of numerous industry and company culture awards, including Glassdoor's Employees' Choice Awards two years in a row. He is the author of the inspirational newsletter Friday Forward, the #1 Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and the internationally bestselling author of five books: Elevate, Friday Forward, How to Thrive in The Virtual Workplace, Moving To Outcomes and Performance Partnerships. He is a sought-after speaker by companies and organizations worldwide and hosts The Elevate Podcast. Episode in a Tweet: People want their companies to provide a consistent vision and clear values and goals that align with their personal values and goals. Not every company is suitable for every employee, and that's okay. The goal is to find the people who value your culture and do everything you can to keep them. Background: I first became familiar with Bob Glazer when I read an article he wrote on Mindful Transitions, a method to help unhappy or underperforming employees exit the company in a less disruptive way. So, when he was introduced to me by my good friend Chris Schembra, I was thrilled! Bob is a thought leader on building culture and a prolific writer, and I knew he'd be an inspiring guest. During the episode, Bob and I talk about all kinds of things, including mindful transitions, building a winning culture, and handling the WFH vs. in-office work. He shares his thoughts on creating ownership thinking within teams and why leaders must be thoughtful in building compensation plans. He shares why he wrote his latest book, Elevate: Push Beyond Your Limits and Unlock Success in Yourself and Others. How to find Robert: Website: https://robertglazer.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobertSGlazer Instagram: Robert Glazer (@robertglazer_) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glazer Twitter: https://twitter.com/robert_glazer Preorder my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn. Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO! And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

Are you tired of constantly comparing yourself to others? Do you feel like you're not measuring up to society's standards of success? In this episode of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," host Chris Schembra interviews Shauna Schwartz, author of "How to Stop Caring What Others Think for Real," about the concept of internal success. Shauna explains how internal success differs from external success factors such as grades, money, and career achievement, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing internal growth and development. She also discusses the negative impact of the hoax of self-esteem on children and encourages people to embrace failure as a path to personal success and growth.Shauna's book focuses on bringing acceptance to the reality in front of us and shifting our focus from external factors of success to our internal essence. She emphasizes that leaders cannot see themselves as puppeteers who control everything and everyone around them. Instead, they need to recognize that the people they lead are not puppets and cannot be controlled. The desire for control can create unhealthy anxiety and lead to unhealthy behavior from leaders. Chris and Shauna discuss the importance of emotional regulation in leadership and how it relates to dialectical behavioral therapy.If you're ready to shift your focus from external success factors to your internal essence, this episode is for you. Join Chris and Shauna as they discuss the importance of recognizing internal growth and development, embracing failure, and letting go of the need for control.

Chris Schembra is the Founder of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ is an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways.  He's used the principles of gratitude to spark over 500,000 relationships around the dinner table, serving Fortune 50 CEOs, Olympians, Academy Award Winners, Grammy Award Winning Recording Artists, Super Bowl Champions, and more. As a Viral Marketer, his gratitude campaign giving tribute and thanks to Veterans earned over 36 million views, 1.2 million shares, and 2 Emmy Awards. He is the best-selling author of “Gratitude Through Hard Times” and “Gratitude and Pasta.” USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru.” He's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine. His direct work has been talked about in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Forbes, Inc, Entrepreneur, Bravo TV, Fox News Channel, Variety, and hundreds of other media outlets. Listen in for some great takeaways about Chris's entrepreneurial journey and how gratitude should be used like a vitamin. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... Learn more about Chris Schembra [3:30] Why Chris founded the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ [5:15]  The mission of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ [9:51] Why Chris says “The dinner table saved my life” [14:34] How Chris got the nickname “The Gratitude Guru” [17:18] Why Chris is passionate about gratitude impacting lives [18:55] What does gratitude have to do with leadership? [20:55] Why you should express gratitude when the moment strikes [24:33]  What “Focus Equals Growth” means to Chris [29:08]  Why “Leadership as a two-way street" is critical for success [33:24]  What Chris did that put him in the mindset for success [38:53]  Resources & People Mentioned Ted Talk: Everything you think you know about addiction is wrong Gratitude and The Witnessing effect Cope Notes® with Johnny Crowder Connect with Chris Schembra The website On Instagram On Twitter On Linkedin On YouTube Connect With Mitlin Financial podcast*at*mitlinfinancial(dot)com - email us with your suggestions for topics or guests If you would like to learn more schedule a call: https://mitlin.us/FitCall https://mitlinfinancial.com  Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram Subscribe on Youtube Follow on Linkedin Follow on Facebook Guests on the Mitlin Money Mindset Show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC, and opinions expressed herein may not be representative of CWM, LLC. CWM, LLC is not responsible for the guest's content linked on this site. Subscribe to Mitlin Money Mindset™ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts

Hello, and welcome to a very special episode of Conversations with Nick Thompson.   Over the first season's 32 episodes, I had the opportunity to sit down with many great guests and hear their stories. I wanted to highlight a few of my favorite moments from the series, and so we've created this unique “Best of” bonus episode to share their stories.    We have clips from Stephanie Sarazin, Saagar Enjeti, Leslie Guevara, Dr. Elizabeth Fedrick, TJ Powers, Naza Shelley, and Chris Schembra, where we have some of the hard conversations and insightful moments that made their episodes so engaging. I hope highlighting them here will pique your curiosity and make you think, and hopefully make you want to look more into their stories.   We're preparing for the next season of the podcast to come back in May, so stay tuned. We have some changes we are making to the show that we are very excited to show off, so stick around.  

Join us for an interview with Chris Schembra, who is the Founder of 7:47 Gratitude Experience™. In this episode, Chris who is the "gratitude guru" and WSJ best-selling author of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," shares his very personal story about how gratitude has gotten him through his toughest life challenges. The conversation ranges from Stoic philosophy to leveraging gratitude to reduce resistance to change. He has used his gratitude to spark over 500,000 individuals around the world. It's a high-energy, action-packed conversation that you won't want to miss! Make sure to check out these books: The Obstacle is the Way and The Anatomy of Peace. Original music by Lynz Floren.

We're delving into the fascinating topic of gratitude and how ingratitude – a lack of gratitude is too often the very thing that kills off, most leaders want – to inspire others. We're joined by the incomparable Chris Schembra, a Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, and mastermind behind the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™. Chris is a true gratitude, having sparked over 500,000 relationships through his evidence-based framework. Chris and I explore the toxic effects of ingratitude and entitlement in our careers and how a practice of gratitude can help limit or even eliminate it. Chris shares his inspiring journey too because he started out like many of us – full of NO gratitude until he stumbled upon it, leading him to his life's work to strengthen client and team relationships. Today, he's worked with some of the biggest names in business, entertainment, and sports. His work has earned him critical acclaim and numerous awards, including 2 Emmy Awards for his viral campaign giving tribute and thanks to Veterans. Don't miss out on this juicy discussion! Topics for today's show: How Chris' gratitude movement started from a bowl of pasta sauce Chris's path from depression and addiction to a new life, powered by gratitude principles with transformative potential The impact of entitlement on leadership and collaboration in the workplace The power of gratitude and its impact on mindset and leadership style Developing empathy and gratitude to overcome entitlement in personal and professional life For hidden job market insider tips and stories subscribe to Loren's newsletter here: "Out of Hiding" Newsletter Connect with Chris: Website: https://www.747club.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.schembra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schembra/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/cschembra Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Chris-Schembra/author/B083WMTMJF Connect with Loren: Website: https://www.portfoliorocket.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorengreiff/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portfoliorocket/ Email: Loren@portfoliorocket.com

Who's The Guest? Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question-asker, facilitator, and “Gratitude Guru.” He spent the last six years traveling around the world, helping people connect in meaningful ways. He is also the founder and the Chief Question Asker of 747, an advisory firm that helps companies create meaningful connections through its 747 Gratitude Experience, an evidence-based framework that helps leaders build a community and strengthen relationships. Summary Galen talks to Chris Schembra about the 747 org, building meaningful relationships through dinners, and showing gratitude even during the hard times. Highlights As a 7x New York Times bestselling author and entrepreneur who has started and sold businesses for over $25 million, why Chris created 747 and how it helps entrepreneurs The power of thanking someone you don't give enough credit to. Having everything a person can wish for, what made Chris decide to give everything away? What do meaningful relationships mean and how does it benefit you in the long run? COVID-19 caused businesses and people to shut down, but for Chris' case, it helped his business grow. How did COVID help him and his business? What led Chris to write his most recent book, Gratitude Through Hard Times What is the difference between ingratitude and gratitude? How to level up for Chris Schembra, and what that means for you. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com www.levelupclaim.com Connect with Chris Schembra https://www.747club.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/schembra https://www.instagram.com/chris.schembra/ https://twitter.com/cschembra Gratitude and Pasta Gratitude Through Hard Times

Welcome to the What's Next! podcast with Tiffani Bova. This week I am grateful to revisit my conversation with Chris Schembra on the show. Chris is the bestselling author of "Gratitude and Pasta: The Secret Sauce for Human Connection", chronicling his adventures as one of the most sought-after dinner hosts in the World. Forbes has just ranked his book as the #2 book of 2020 to create Human Connection and USA Today calls him the "Gratitude Guru.” He is the Founder + Chief Question Asker of 7:47, an advisory firm that helps companies give the GIFT of community and belonging to their VIP clients and partners. Having used their signature pasta sauce to spark over 400,000 relationships around the dinner table, their core hypothesis is that giving gratitude to others is the key to fulfillment, and ultimately good for business. At the time of recording, 7:47 is leading a year-long study on how gratitude and empathy affect entrepreneurship and the values their companies stand for. Their research revolves around a singular question, “If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life, that you don't give enough credit or thanks to, who would that be?” I am beyond delighted to air this RELOAD episode of Chris Schembra on the What's Next! Podcast for a timeless and moving conversation you'll keep coming back to again and again.   THIS EPISODE IS PERFECT FOR… people who need and/or want connection, people who want to do better and succeed more, and people who love pasta.   TODAY'S MAIN MESSAGE… Chris shares his journey through success and plenty, as well as loneliness and rebuilding, and through it all, what gratitude, connection, and pasta have meant to him and to the people around him. He shares the value of connection from catharsis and physical health, to the strengthening of both personal and business connections that directly affect how successful, fulfilled, and prosperous you ultimately are. He also discusses the importance of connection in our current, COVID-19-locked-down reality, how to do it better and drive innovation and creativity, and how his dinners are going virtual!   WHAT  I  LOVE  MOST… When in doubt, show gratitude!     Running time: 34:06 Subscribe on iTunes     Find Tiffani on social: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Instagram   Find Chris online: Chris' Website (747) LinkedIn Facebook Instagram YouTube Gratitude and Pasta

Even though he ran the sprint as a member of the track team at Cornell, Chris Schembra's guest on this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times looks at life as a marathon. Steven Izen, the hugely successful entrepreneur behind Lokai bracelets with meaning and plant-powered Elements Drinks, shares insights into how he has taken a personal obstacle (dyslexia) and leveraged it as a superpower and why giving his team time off on Fridays is good for both individual and corporate health. This far-ranging conversation takes a look at humility, balance and the importance of connection (especially in our often disconnected and remote post-pandemic world). You'll enjoy learning about the alone-but-not-lonely practices that nourish Steven professional and personally as well as the power he has found in releasing attachment and emotional reaction to outcomes. He and Chris wrap up with a call to action: Energy is paramount! So remember always ton promote positivity and self-care for yourself and those around you. “If you are finding balance in the things that fill your bucket outside of work, in life,” says Steven, “you will be the best version of yourself.” If you'd like to learn more about Chris and his 7:47 Virtual Gratitude Experience, please visit this link. And clickhereto listen to previous episodes of Gratitude Through Hard Times. KEY TOPICS:If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life that you don't give enough credit or thanks to who would that be? Easy! That would be Mom, whom Steven thanks privately all the time, but never in professional contexts.Modeling Humility: Steven's mother has always walked the walk by making other people's needs a priority.A spirit of adventure and nod to the highs and lows inherent in life has infused Steven's entrepreneurism since its inception as a tribute to a treasured grandfather's diagnosis with Alzheimer's – “the lowest low” he'd ever experienced.About building out www.lokai.comover the past decade, what fuels Steven's bracelets with meaning and the ventures he has added to his portfolio.No Time for Doubters: Steven has been fortunate to have – and cultivate – a circle of supporters who appreciate his tenacity and work ethic.Steven and Chris share workarounds that have helped them manage (with great results) their respective dyslexia and ADHD.Obstacles as Advantages: How so-called weaknesses strengthen alternative muscles.From Mt. Everest to the Dead Sea: About blending the hopeful and humble; competitiveness and long-term averages.About recalibrating our understanding of balance. It's a marathon, not a sprint, and best fortified against burnout by incorporating all facets of personal health and well-being.Steven provides perspective on quick-hit entrepreneurism and the truth of what it takes to succeed in the long run – pursuing the journey, not the destination.Balance Fridays: Steven's innovative (and humane) effort to provide team members time once a week to care for themselves physically, emotionally and practically.As a board member for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Steven has had an opportunity to observe seasoned executives who are exemplars of work-life balance as well as purpose-driven values, priorities and decision-making.How to Get Out of Your Own Way: Neutralize emotion and attachment to outcomes!Human Connection is a central priority for Lokai, which is remote and thus requires an intentional commitment to team-building interactions.About the loneliness epidemic – chronic disconnection in a post-pandemic culture.Steven combats loneliness by embracing quality time communing with himself and focusing on a small, intimate group of close friends and family.Message for the Carols: Thanks to two moms from their sons! QUOTABLE“A lot of the gratitude and purpose in giving back that I incorporate into everything I do comes from (my mother).” (Steven)“Everybody experiences highs and lows in life. It doesn't matter your age, demographic, your income level.” (Steven)“I never let the dyslexia hinder my ability to succeed … and have always taken that mindset into everything I do, including business.” (Steven)“If I believe in something I'll have to be stopped by a brick wall because I'll do whatever it takes to make it happen.” (Steven)“If you are finding balance in the things that fill your bucket outside of work, in life, you will be the best version of yourself and be able to continue for as long as you want.” (Steven)“A connection to self is the thing that sometimes stands in the way of meaningful connection with others.” (Chris)“Energy is everything. What Steven helps you do through his bracelets is get energy … helps you find balance between the Mt. Everest of humility and the deep Dead Sea mud of hope.” (Chris)“Time is important. Money is important. Relationships are important. Energy is most important … You can get things done by being strategic, smart and doing things right.” (Chris) LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:More about the Make-a-Wish FoundationAbout "The Loneliness Pandemic,"chronicled by Harvard Business Review."Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals,"by Oliver Burkeman. (Chris reads an excerpt on page 155).More about Elements Drinks and Lokai. ABOUT OUR GUEST:Steven's Lokai brand of beaded bracelets are on sale at more than 5,000 locations in 170 countries. The $18 collectible multicolored rubber bangles have been spotted on the wrists of athletes and celebs alike. Committed to giving 10% of net profits to charity, Steven has raised more than $9.4 million to date. He is also founder of Elements Drinks and serves on the board of the Make-a-Wish foundation. FOLLOW STEVEN:WEBSITE | LINKEDIN | INSTAGRAM ABOUT OUR HOST:Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours,"he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times. FOLLOW CHRIS:WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

When Chris Schembra hosted a dinner party to show off his new pasta sauce recipe, he had no idea the conversation would lead him down a new career path. To foster connections, he asked his guests to name a person they had never thanked. If they could give more credit to someone, who would that be?“What this question does so well is that you're not asking a person a direct question about themselves," Chris, now the founder of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience, says. “You're giving them the opportunity to tell a story about someone else – a third-grade teacher, a childhood friend's mom – so there's not a lot of pressure."In today's episode, Chris talks to Jamie about ways to practice gratitude at the Thanksgiving table beyond just naming things you're thankful for, such as food and health. He also offers some suggestions for short meditation exercises that can help you refocus on positive thinking. Finally, he shares his thoughts on how freedom and practicing gratitude are connected.Click here to find "Find Your Freedom" by Jamie Hopkins.You can find show notes and other information at CarsonGroup.com/Framework

Today's guest is Chris Schembra, the best-selling author of “Gratitude and Pasta: The Secret Sauce to Human Connection” and “Gratitude Through Hard Times.”   When I first was introduced to Chris, I was astounded by his vulnerability. Chris is totally transparent about his mental health struggles, and shares some of his darkest moments in an open and honest way.    His vulnerability has gained him recognition as a top stigma-breaker for men's mental health, a topic that is near and dear to me and many others. Chris breaks open the idea that men can't talk about mental health, that we can't cry and must always be strong.  What's really remarkable about Chris though is how he uses gratitude as a vehicle to get through hard times. With all of the challenges that Chris has faced, I was particularly interested in learning how he found gratitude and the ways it has changed his life. Chris looks to his darkest moments as a source of gratitude.   In this conversation, we dive into Chris's own mental health challenges to get to the root of how he became the beacon of gratitude he is today.   Find Chris Schembra here:   Website: https://www.747club.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.schembra/    Read “Gratitude Through Hard Times:” https://www.amazon.com/Gratitude-Through-Hard-Times-positive/dp/B0B2HML7QS/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3KEW0VW567UUO&keywords=gratitude+and+pasta&qid=1661980967&sprefix=gratitude+and+pasta%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-2    Read “Gratitude and Pasta:” https://www.amazon.com/Gratitude-Pasta-Secret-Sauce-Connection/dp/0578604949/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3KEW0VW567UUO&keywords=gratitude+and+pasta&qid=1661980967&sprefix=gratitude+and+pasta%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-1  Find Nick Thompson here:   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXipWcR8Pit6vYHd1ZcKgKg

Chris Schembra does it again! This 3x vet of the Culture Changers podcast is letting us in on his psychedelic-assisted ketamine experience. While ketamine has a controversial and complicated history, the data on a medically supervised approach is showing to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other treatment-resistant conditions. Chris, known by USA Today as the Gratitude Guru is a best-selling author, founding member of the Culture Council for Rolling Stone Magazine, and the founder and CEO of 7:47 Club serving execs and employees of many Fortune 500 companies. Please note that we are not medical professionals. Please consult with your doctor before making any decisions for your own treatment. Topics we covered: Brief overview of ketamine Chris' decision to try this approach after trying EVERYTHING else Non-suicidal self-injury and why it changed everything Why our society leaves us feeling so dissatisfied? Being #1 in the WSJ book charts and how it spurred a very low moment The experience and the journey Did it work? WAS IT WORTH IT? Chris' previous appearances on Culture Changers Podcast: A New Twist on Gratitude - EP79 BDSM and the Boardroom - EP101 Chris Schembra's Links: Chris Schembra's LinkedIn Instagram 7:47 Club Gratitude Through Hard Times book Gratitude and Pasta book ALLISON HARE'S LINKS: Patreon for Culture Changers - Support Culture Changers Podcast by becoming a valued patron and getting all episodes ad-free plus bonus content and community! AllisonHare.com - Culture Changers Podcast, personal journal and blog, dance Instagram - Steps to heal yourself, move society forward, and slinging memes and dancing (seriously, Allison is also a dance fitness instructor) Blog - quick, way more personal, deeper topics - make sure to subscribe Reb3l Dance Fitness - Try it at home! Free month with code: ahare under Instructor Referral Feedback and Contact:: allison@allisonhare.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy World Gratitude Day 2022. Special bonus episode all about gratitude.Chris Schembra is someone I wish I met earlier in my life. He has such a passion for gratitude and life anybody who listens to this will feel inspired to live happier.Chris is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of "Gratitude Through Hard Times" and "Gratitude and Pasta." He is the Founder of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark over 500,000 relationships around the dinner table, serving Fortune 50 CEO's, Olympians, Academy Award Winners, Grammy Award Winning #1 Recording Artists, Super Bowl Champions, and more. As a Viral Marketer, his gratitude campaign giving tribute and thanks to Veterans earned over 36 million views, 1.2 million shares, and 2 Emmy Awards.His direct work has been talked about in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Forbes, Inc, Entrepreneur, Bravo TV, Fox News Channel, Variety, and hundreds of other media outlets.His journey has some crazy ups and downs with some serious stories of wisdom and learning throughout.A few key topics in this chatGrowing up with ADHDLiving with a rebellious attitude after high schoolGoing to rehab for a yearA cry for helpMeeting an unlikely best friend and starting a play in Italy.Gratitude and pasta sauce dinner partiesTeaching me new ways to look at gratitude.I loved this chat and so will you!Chris's LinksINSTAGRAMLINKED IN7:47 BooksGratitude and Pasta: The Secret Sauce for Human ConnectionGratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest HoursCooper's SocialsINSTAGRAMTIK TOKGood Humans PodcastINSTAGRAMWEBSITEUse code PODCAST for 25% off THE GOOD HUMAN FACTORY MERCHENQUIRE ABOUT A "FEEL GOOD" WORKSHOPCooper@thegoodhumanfactory.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

​​Chris Schembra is the bestselling author of "Gratitude and Pasta: The Secret Sauce for Human Connection" and “Gratitude Through Hard Times.” Forbes ranks his book as the #2 book of 2020 to create Human Connection, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", and he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone's Culture Council.   Alongside being a bestselling author, Chris is the Founder of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark over 500,000 relationships around the dinner table. He's been featured and honored in numerous publications, and won Emmy awards for his viral veteran gratitude tribute. Recently, he was honored alongside Michael Phelps, Chris Evans, Kid Cudi and several others as “6 Successful Men Smashing the Mental Health Stigma” by Good Men Project.   Chris's gratitude and storied career stem from his past experiences and trauma. As a child, Chris was put on amphetamines in an attempt to calm his hyperactive imagination and state of being. When the dosage was reduced in college, he filled the void with other substances and was eventually kicked off campus and sent to rehab. Clean and eager for a fresh start, Chris pulled himself together and unleashed the power of his creativity and energy. Now, he talks openly and honestly about his past substance abuse, sexuality, sexual trauma, and all the other topics that have shaped his life with gratitude.   Read the show notes here: https://arcbound.com/podcasts/    Links: Homepage: Arcbound.com Services/Work with Us: https://arcbound.com/work-with-us/ About: https://arcbound.com/about/ Founders Corner: https://arcbound.com/category/founders-corner/ Connect: https://arcbound.com/connect/

In This Episode You Will Learn About:  Taking on a positive perspective  The principles of gratitude   Developing strong relationships Resources: Website: www.747club.org Read Gratitude and Pasta & Gratitude Through Hard Times Join The 7:47 Gratitude Experience Listen to 7:47 Conversations  Email: info@747club.org  LinkedIn: @Chris Schembra & @7:47 Instagram: @747club Overcome Your Villains is Available NOW! Order here: https://overcomeyourvillains.com  If you haven't yet, get my first book Confidence Creator Show Notes:  Do you go through life with a positive or negative mindset? Only YOU have the choice to look at life with gratitude and appreciate everyone you interact with! Sharing your gratitude with others can CHANGE your life and theirs. Leading with thanks WILL deepen your relationships in business and in your personal life. What you give out will always find its way back to you. Chris Schembra the successful Author and “Gratitude Guru” will break down the life ALTERING pasta sauce, yes you heard that right, that led him to shift his perspective and start focusing on giving thanks to those around him. It's time to train your brain to see the good in life instead of focusing on the bad!     About The Guest: Chris Shembra is the best selling Author of Gratitude and Pasta, The Secret Sauce for Human Connection and as USA Today knows him, the “Gratitude Guru”! He serves as a founding member of Rolling Stone Magazine Culture Council and sits on the board at Fast Company Magazine. At his latest venture as the founder of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience he helps people utilize the evidence based framework he's developed to strengthen client and team relationships in PROFOUND ways.  If You Liked This Episode You Might Also Like These Episodes: How To STOP Anxiety In Its Tracks with Heather!  Gretchen Rubin on Being Happier: The Self Awareness to Live Better & Understand More​​ How To Read People Like a Secret Agent with Intelligence Behavior Expert Chase Hughes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices