POPULARITY
“As I heard the words come out of her mouth it brought a flood of tears to my eyes.”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue HinesAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:acoustic guitar melody fingerstyle picking by Garuda1982, River, recording close to water flow, lapping, at... by felix.blume
“The episodes following this one are the conclusion to our story.”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Author/Creator:Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design:George Drake, Jr.Music Composition: Mustafa ShaheenFunding:This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. Actors:James Cavell played by Darren BrownAnne Levitt played by Brittany Sue HinesMale Voices played by Micah StockFemale Voices played by Christine BrunnerPromotional Assistance:Michael GreeneRecording Assistance:Sapo StudiosThank you:BB RiverboatsFreesound.org
Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Dearest Voices played by Christine Brunner and Micah StockJames Cavell played by Darren BrownAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:9. opening envelope.wav by 16GPanskaVechet_Lukas, typewriter by bm3342, Morse code sample.wav by ooohyeahhh, websdr_recording_2014-07-21T07_22_13Z_7011.4kHz.wav by klankbeeld, Printing Press Mechanics by exuberate
“If you have found this note, you have read the same tale as I, sweet and sad. ”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Uncle Willy played by Micah StockAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:AMBBird_The Sparrows Are chirping.Morning.Rural s... by newlocknew, Stasis (music for space) by SondreDrakensson
These days, with everyone multitasking and constantly plugged in, real connection can feel rare. But what if the key to resilience and healthy relationships wasn't about talking more, but listening better? In a world filled with noise, distraction, and division, could the simple act of truly listening be the key to deeper connection, better mental health, and greater understanding—even across opposing viewpoints? In this powerful and timely episode, Chester and Adrian are joined by journalist and workplace mediator Emily Kasriel, whose upcoming book, Deep Listening, explores how we can transform our relationships by listening not just to others—but also to ourselves.Emily shares her 8-step method rooted in science and real-world examples—from Nelson Mandela's reconciliation efforts to Indigenous listening rituals—showing how active listening can ease anxiety, bridge divides, and foster psychological safety at work and at home.What You'll Learn:Why deep listening is a radical act in today's distracted worldHow leaders can balance empathy and efficiency in the workplaceThe surprising benefits of listening to your "foes"How self-reflection and curiosity make you a better listenerWhy listening ≠ agreement—and how to hold boundaries while staying presentA real-world story from Latvia that illustrates deep listening's power in divided communitiesNotable Quotes:“We rarely listen to understand. We listen to respond.” – Emily Kasriel “Listening does not signal agreement. It signals respect.” – Emily Kasriel “Being curious is the gateway to empathy and connection.” – Adrian GostickSupport the showFor a weekly dose of gratitude from Chester Elton, text GRATITUDE to 908-460-2820.Until next week, we hope you find peace & calm in a world that often is a sea of anxiety.If you love this podcast, please share it and leave a 5-star rating! If you feel inspired, we invite you to come on over to The Culture Works where we share resources and tools for you to build a high-performing culture where you work.Your hosts, Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton have spent over two decades helping clients around the world engage their employees on strategy, vision and values. They provide real solutions for leaders looking to manage change, drive innovation and build high performance cultures and teams. They are authors of award-winning Wall Street Journal & New York Times bestsellers All In, The Carrot Principle, Leading with Gratitude, & Anxiety at Work. Their books have been translated into 30 languages and have sold more than 1.5 million copies. Visit The Culture Works for a free Chapter 1 download of Anxiety at Work.Learn more about their Executive Coaching at The Cultur...
“My love for you has not left me.”[This episode contains spoilers for the full series]Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue HinesJames Cavell played by Darren BrownAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:grandfather_clock_chimes.wav by 3bagbrew,and the following SFX from Freesound user james_longleyPIANO_SONG2_7.aif, ORCHESTRAL_TREM_BED2.aif, ambientmix1.aif, WHEATHARVEST_MACHINESOUND.aif, DEEP_DRUM_25_SEC.aif, RESON_DRONE.aif, FORWARD_BARSAXECHO8.aif, reverse_beat1.aif
What if resilience wasn't about pushing harder, but about learning to bend without breaking?In this profoundly insightful episode, Chester and Adrian sit down with renowned self-awareness expert Dr. Tasha Eurich to explore her groundbreaking new book, Shatterproof. Together, they challenge conventional wisdom around resilience, revealing that pushing through adversity isn't always the smartest or most sustainable approach. Instead, Eurich offers a science-backed roadmap to building proactive, personalized strength—and why it's essential in today's high-pressure world.
“What a daze I was in when I read your last letter.”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.James Cavell played by Darren BrownCabin Boy played by Micah StockAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:Afternoon on the Dock.mp3 by chris5s, Page Turn by IENBA, Emotional Original Soundtrack - HOME by Magmi.Soundtracks, piano_longverb_ambient.aif by james_longley, Storm by crooner, Ambi - rain on tent sail thunder with reverb from... by jaap.sijben, Canadian Horse Carriage.wav by vero.marengere
Hosts: Chester Elton & Adrian Gostick Guest: Dr. Bob Rosen, Psychologist & Author of Detach: Ditch Your Baggage to Live a More Fulfilling Life Run Time: Approx. 45 minutes Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeWith a world full of uncertainty—from global unrest to economic instability—it's no surprise that anxiety is on the rise. In this uplifting and enlightening conversation, Chester and Adrian welcome renowned psychologist Dr. Bob Rosen, who brings both deep expertise and personal vulnerability to the mic. Bob shares insights from his latest and most personal book, Detach, where he outlines the 10 unhealthy attachments that hold us back—and how to break free.Drawing on decades of coaching CEOs and working with global leaders, Bob introduces a transformational framework that helps people let go of fear-based behaviors and embrace a life filled with clarity, contentment, and connection.“Detach doesn't mean disconnect—it means freeing yourself to live with intention.” — Dr. Bob RosenSupport the showFor a weekly dose of gratitude from Chester Elton, text GRATITUDE to 908-460-2820.Until next week, we hope you find peace & calm in a world that often is a sea of anxiety.If you love this podcast, please share it and leave a 5-star rating! If you feel inspired, we invite you to come on over to The Culture Works where we share resources and tools for you to build a high-performing culture where you work.Your hosts, Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton have spent over two decades helping clients around the world engage their employees on strategy, vision and values. They provide real solutions for leaders looking to manage change, drive innovation and build high performance cultures and teams. They are authors of award-winning Wall Street Journal & New York Times bestsellers All In, The Carrot Principle, Leading with Gratitude, & Anxiety at Work. Their books have been translated into 30 languages and have sold more than 1.5 million copies. Visit The Culture Works for a free Chapter 1 download of Anxiety at Work.Learn more about their Executive Coaching at The Cultur...
“White Star Line! Oceanic departing!”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:Stream Train Station Noises.wav by BobMorris1, Canadian Horse Carriage.wav by vero.marengere, citystreet2free.wav by moxobna, Fishing Pier 01.WAV by JustinBW, Mooring Rope.wav by Rmutt, Seagull on beach by squashy555
“All aboard! Next stop New York City!”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:Stable Noises- Birds and Horses Neighing.wav by GoodListener, Canadian Horse Carriage.wav by vero.marengere, small_birds_chile_central_winter.wav b y brimagor, Crowded park ambience.wav by Jandre160108, Afternoon on the Dock.mp3 by chris5s, Paddle boat on water.wav by SpliceSound, Stream Train Station Noises.wav by BobMorris1
“It has taken me this long to stop denying what I have come to realize is true.”“I blame myself that you should have been aware of this sooner. You must know the truth now.”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue HinesAunt Eva played by Christine BrunnerAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:acoustic guitar melody fingerstyle picking, & acoustic guitar melody fingerstyle #19 by Garuda1982, 9. opening envelope.wav by 16GPanskaVechet_Lukas, Nine Lies the Heart ed 4.wav by ERH, Criminal District, Criminal Shadows, & Scary Secrets by Universfield, Paddle boat on water.wav by SpliceSound, Explosion_3.ogg by Isaac2000000, THE CRASH.wav by sandyrb, Sad heaven piano #3 by PSOVOD, Distant Sad Piano by PatrickLieberkind
“There are no answers to my letters or my wires. Please!”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.James Cavell played by Darren BrownAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works.
“Please, my dearest Anne, you must relent.”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.James Cavell played by Darren BrownAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works.
In a world of complexity, purpose at work is still the clearest path to resilience and results.
In a world of complexity, purpose at work is still the clearest path to resilience and results.
“I wish I were able to be there to help in some way. ”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.James Cavell played by Darren BrownMother Cavell played by Christine BrunnerAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:Dark Ambient- Synth Drone by MichiJung
Despite the growing investment in workplace wellness programs, employee morale and satisfaction continue to decline. What's going wrong?
“Forgive me but this is necessary.”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue HinesAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:Crime Drama and Horror Background Atmosphere #6 by Universfield
Despite the growing investment in workplace wellness programs, employee morale and satisfaction continue to decline. What's going wrong?
“How it is possible I could have found you is a mystery I shall never unravel.”Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come.Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue HinesAdapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael LondonProduction, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr.Music Composition by Mustafa ShaheenThis series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:Dark Ambient- Synth Drone by MichiJung, Freesound Singer SK29.july08.2of6.wav by juskiddink, Emotional Mysterious Music Migfus20
“It is true, I never have asked about your dowry.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. James Cavell played by Darren Brown Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org: Undefined Old Engine / machinery 2 by luciolepri, work of a large steam engine.wav by blukotek, small_birds_chile_central_winter.wav by brimagor
Ever had a boss that drove you a little… bonkers?
Ever had a boss that drove you a little… bonkers?You're not alone. In this episode, Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton sit down with visionary tech executive and new author Eric Charran to explore the fascinating world of dysfunctional leadership—and how to rise above it.Eric's new book Have You Ever Had a Boss That… breaks down nine archetypes of difficult managers—from the “Firefighter” to the “Amnesiac”—and offers real-world strategies for thriving, not just surviving, under imperfect leadership. It's a masterclass in navigating workplace anxiety, fostering self-awareness, and transforming chaos into clarity.
“I am forever astounded at the sameness of our experiences.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. James Cavell played by Darren Brown Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org: Nine Lies the Heart ed 4.wav by ERH
✅ Like
“I very much want to support you in whatever decision you make but I cannot forget my responsibilities.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue Hines Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works.
How can you restore hope and restore your vitality?
“I'd like to know your thoughts on this proposition.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. James Cavell played by Darren Brown Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org: Morse code sample.wav by ooohyeahh
✅ Like
“We are connected. We have known this from our first meeting.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue Hines Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org: acoustic guitar melody fingerstyle picking Garuda1982, Freesound Singer SK29.july08.2of6.wav by justkiddink, group_laugh_short.aif by thevannispen, group_laugh_long.aif by thavannispen
How can you restore hope and restore your vitality?
“How absurd they should withhold information from me.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. James Cavell played by Darren Brown Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org: acoustic guitar melody fingerstyle #19 by Garuda1982
✅ Like
“Sometimes the power is in the knowing.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue Hines Aiden played by Micah Stock Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org: The last tile makers - Closing credits (movie sou... by FredL74, Dark Ambient- Synth Drone by MichiJung, Freesound Singer SK29.july08.2of6.wav by justkiddink
With AI, our teams spread around the world, and major shifts occurring in the workplace, our guest today says humanity-first leadership is the last real differentiator!
“I was a bit surprised, happily so I might add, but surprised nonetheless.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. James Cavell played by Darren Brown Mr. Hutyera's translator played by Micah Stock Mother Cavell played by Christine Brunner Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org: ambiance restaurant sound of breakfast calm /son... by cecgwen, ambiant sound of breakfast in a calm restaurant 2... by cecgwen, Small Crowd pre-concert talking party bar walla t... by JohnsonBrandEditing
✅ Like
“She stood frozen in the snow, holding his hand and mine for support.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue Hines Edward Tenlinger played by Micah Stock Aunt Eva played by Christine Brunner Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org: Bach - Air on the G String - BWV 1068 - Arranged ... by GregorQuendel, Morse code sample.wav by ooohyeahh, Fire.WAV by inchadney, group_laugh_long.aif by thanvannispen, Knock_the_door.wav by anagar, Knock on the door by deleted_user_4772965, Door, Front, Opening, A.wav by InspectorJ, Door opening and closing 8 by JakLocke, Schumann - The Bird as Prophet - Waldszenen, Op. ... by GregorQuendel, Stable Noises- Birds and Horses Neighing.wav by GoodListener, Canadian Horse Carriage.wav by vero.marengere, Herat 7.wav by ERH, slow atmosphere 4.wav by ERH
Under pressure, even the most well-intentioned manager can become the boss nobody wants to work for.
“While my mind says not to fear, my heart still does.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. James Cavell played by Darren Brown Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:The last tile makers - Credits (movie soundtrack) by FredL74
“You shall always have a home with us, always.” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. James Cavell played by Darren Brown Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org: wind.wav by ERH, Harp.WAV by RepDac3
“Mr. Edward Tenlinger, what a joy!” Subscribe here to be notified when the postman's come. Anne Levitt played by Brittany Sue Hines Mother Cavell played by Christine Brunner Adapted from the novel 'Dearest' by Michael London Production, Editing, & Sound Design by George Drake, Jr. Music Composition by Mustafa Shaheen This series was made possible by a generous grant from the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District with assistance from Culture Works. This episode of Dearest features the following sounds from Freesound.org:Beautiful Romantic Piano by Muyo5438
✅ Like
Ever feel like fear holds you back from stepping into your potential?