Podcasts about Emotional intelligence

What if the emotional patterns you struggle with aren’t actually who you are? What if they’re just patterns—and patterns can be interrupted? I’m joined by Dr. Elisha Goldstein, returning to the show eight years after his first appearance, to talk about his new book, Tiny Shifts: How Emotional Health Transforms Stress, Relationships, and Longevity. I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about healthy eating, exercise, fitness, sleep, and all the things we do to live a long and healthy life, but what about the emotional stuff? Because Elisha makes the case that emotional longevity is just as important as physical longevity—and that living in a high-stress, agitated pattern can potentially take years off your life. We get into his simple 4-R method: recognize, release, refocus, reinforce, which can help you catch yourself in an overwhelmed loop before you spiral into those undesirable, repeatable patterns. We talk about why the skills we learn can easily fail us when we need them the most—when we’re under pressure, agitated, or triggered—and how to create more space between stimulus and response. Elisha explains why emotions are biology, how getting in touch with what’s happening in your body can change the way you respond, and why asking your brain better questions can lead to better answers. We also talk about the everyday moments that can send us into these patterns, from traffic to social media outrage to difficult relationships, and Elisha shares a personal story about getting scammed online that puts all of this to the test in real time. This is a fascinating conversation about emotional health, longevity, and learning to recognize the patterns that drive our behavior so we can interrupt them and give ourselves more choice in the moments when we need it most. LINKS: Brad Kearns.com BradNutrition.com B.rad Whey Protein Superfuel - The Best Protein on The Planet! Brad’s Shopping Page BornToWalkBook.com B.rad Podcast – All Episodes Peluva Five-Toe Minimalist Shoes B.rad Podcast – All Episodes Peluva Five-Toe Minimalist Shoes Book - Tiny Shifts: How Emotional Health Transforms Stress, Relationships, and Longevity We appreciate all feedback, and questions for Q&A shows, emailed to podcast@bradventures.com. If you have a moment, please share an episode you like with a quick text message, or leave a review on your podcast app. Thank you! Check out each of these companies because they are absolutely awesome or they wouldn’t occupy this revered space. Seriously, I won’t promote anything that I don't absolutely love and use in daily life: B.rad Nutrition: Premium quality, all-natural supplements for peak performance, recovery, and longevity; including the world's highest quality whey protein! Get 20% OFF your first order! Peluva: Comfortable, functional, stylish five-toe minimalist shoe to reawaken optimal foot function. Use code BRADPODCAST for 15% off! Jaspr Air Scrubber: Ultra high-performance air purifier - blows other air filters away! Save $200 on your unit with code BRAD. Get Stride: Advanced DNA, methylation profile, microbiome & blood at-home testing. Hit your stride the right way, with cutting-edge technology and customized programming. Save 10% with the code BRAD. Online educational courses: Numerous great offerings for an immersive home-study educational experience Primal Fitness Expert Certification: The most comprehensive online course on all aspects of traditional fitness programming and a total immersion fitness lifestyle. Save 25% on tuition with code BRAD! #bradpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Catalyst, Tammy is joined by Kevin Thimjon, President of the Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team, who oversees the business side of one of the sport's most storied organizations, from finance and commercial strategy to administration. Kevin traces his path from public accounting through a series of private equity-backed CFO roles and into the CEO seat, describing each stop as a new tool added to his belt for better leadership. He and Tammy dig into what it takes to lead a team through a high-profile driver lineup change while staying focused on finishing the current season strong, the constant tension between running a profitable operation and chasing wins on the track, and the philosophy behind Arrow McLaren's partnership approach, where the goal isn't landing new sponsors but making every partner feel like the standard everyone else should be measured against. By the end of the conversation you'll be searching for McLaren's papaya orange merch!Please note that the views expressed may not necessarily be those of NTT DATALinks:Kevin Thimjon Learn more about Launch by NTT DATASee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Catalyst, Tammy is joined by Beth Howen, President of State, Local Government and Education (SLED) at NTT DATA, who helps government agencies and school systems modernize the technology touching everyday life. Beth traces her path from becoming a state CIO in Indiana at 28 through leadership roles at Capgemini, TELUS International, Atos, and the City of Indianapolis. So how did she do so much at such a young age? Beth credits it to a willingness to work outside rigid processes when they don't serve the outcome. She and Tammy dig into how AI risks compounding government's legacy-system problems if agencies automate broken workflows instead of modernizing first, and the promise of AI-powered care reaching rural and underserved communities.Please note that the views expressed may not necessarily be those of NTT DATALinks: Beth Howen Learn more about Launch by NTT DATASee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the biggest thing affecting your relationships, leadership, and communication isn't what you're saying...but how you're breathing?In this episode, Anne sits down with speaker, facilitator, and communication expert Hilary Blair (hilaryblairspeaks.com), creator of the Fruitful Friction® framework, to explore the surprising connection between breath, voice, trust, and human connection. Drawing from decades in theater and corporate leadership development, Hilary reveals why your voice is a giant "poker tell" and how small shifts in breath and awareness can dramatically change the way people experience you. If you've ever struggled with difficult conversations, workplace conflict, executive presence, or feeling truly heard, this episode is packed with practical wisdom.In This Episode, We Talk About: Why your voice communicates trust before you even speak the words  How breath affects confidence, connection, and emotional regulation  The difference between being vulnerable and being available  Why "take a deep breath" may be terrible advice...and what to do instead  How tone, vowels, consonants, and vocal habits influence relationships Want more from Hilary?HilaryBlairSpeaks.comArticulateRC.comHilary Blair is a dynamic speaker, facilitator and CEO of ARTiculate: Real&Clear. She's the creator of Fruitful Friction®, a framework redefining tension as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and trust. Blending her background as a professional actor with deep expertise in communication and executive presence, Hilary helps leaders stay in conversation when it matters most. Her work equips teams to engage authentically, communicate clearly, and use friction to gain traction for growth.Anne Bonney is a keynote speaker and emcee who helps organizations lead through change by building resilience, emotional intelligence, and courageous communication.

In this episode, Jim Stevens shares his journey from truck support to leading a multi-million dollar moving company, emphasizing leadership, culture, and operational excellence. Discover actionable insights on building a high-performance team and creating a self-sustaining company culture.   Connect with Jim Stevens: COO of M3 Commercial Moving & Logistics https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-stevens-29915718/      Shop Wade's book - Hometown Titan: Build A Local Business That Dominates Your Market: https://a.co/d/8zLXZMC   Become a MOVING TITAN at the next Moving Titan Retreat https://www.movingtitanretreats.com/   Tighten up your moving company operations with TITAN UP TRAINING https://www.titanuptraining.com/     This episode is sponsored by: Moversville - an online marketing company and resource for movers, consumers, and those involved in the moving process. https://www.moversville.com/wade   USA Home Listings – a marketing and lead resource for moving companies. https://www.usahomelistings.com/     About the Show Wade Swikle is the CEO of 2 College Brothers Moving, Storage and Franchising, currently with locations in Tampa, Gainesville, and Orlando, Florida.   https://2collegebrothers.com/     Learn more and connect with Wade Swikle: Wade's website: https://2collegebrothers.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadeswikle/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@2CollegeBrothersMovingStorage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wadeswikle/

Are you going to keep being controlled by your emotions for the rest of your life?  The answer is no.  Because today, Dr. Marc Brackett, PhD, the world's leading expert on emotional intelligence is here to tell you,  “Success in virtually every aspect of life – career, friendship, love, and family – is determined mainly by one thing: how we deal with emotions.” Because your emotions are running your life – and you don't even realize it. Dr. Brackett is the Founder & Director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence whose research proves that your life is being shaped by the one skill that 90% of people were never taught: emotional intelligence. Today, Dr. Brackett will give you his research-backed framework to master your emotions, redirect your energy for more positive thinking, and become more emotionally intelligent in 5 simple steps.  In this episode you'll learn: -How your emotions are hijacking your decisions, relationships, and goals -How to recognize what you're feeling before it takes over -Why you suppress your emotions and what you should be doing instead  -How to stop taking everything so personally -How emotional intelligence improves your relationships and your health -How to stop negative thoughts from taking over your life  -How to get less angry and bothered by the people around you Dr. Brackett's research is clear: You can learn emotional intelligence at any age. It's never too late.  After today you will know how to deal with what you feel and you will finally change your behavior, your relationships, and your entire life. For more resources related to today's episode, click here for the podcast episode page.   If you liked the episode, check out this one next with professor Dr. Katy Milkman, PhD: Change Your Life This Year: How to Get From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be Connect with Mel:     Order Mel's new product, Pure Genius Protein Get Mel's newsletter, packed with tools, coaching, and inspiration. Get Mel's #1 bestselling book, The Let Them Theory Watch the episodes on YouTube Follow Mel on Instagram  The Mel Robbins Podcast Instagram Mel's TikTok  Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-free Disclaimer Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Your mind does not just record reality, it edits it, polarizes it, and then makes decisions based on the edit. That is why we can feel certain we are “right” while repeating the same relationship patterns, motivation struggles, and self-sabotaging habits. We welcome world-renowned human behavior expert Dr. John DiMartini to unpack a practical way out: the DiMartini Method, a structured series of cognitive questions designed to balance perception, surface what we have been unconscious of, and turn apparent chaos into usable feedback. We talk about how quickly we can idealize or demonize people by staying conscious of upsides and unconscious of downsides, and how that split perception fuels infatuation, resentment, and regret. Dr. DiMartini shares how asking higher-quality questions can equilibrate the mind, reduce emotional reactivity, and help us become more present so life feels “on the way, not in the way.” If you care about mindfulness, emotional resilience, and personal transformation, this is a concrete framework you can apply immediately. From there, we go deep into values based living and why your hierarchy of values quietly runs your goals, your habits, and your sense of self-worth. Dr. DiMartini explains the difference between intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation, why misaligned goals require constant pushing, and how adopting someone else's “shoulds” can erode authenticity. He also points to his free values determination process at drdmartin.com as a way to clarify what truly matters, set congruent goals, and fill your days with high-priority actions instead of low-priority distractions. If this conversation helps you see your patterns more clearly, subscribe for more practical mindfulness tools, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review so more listeners can find it.BECOME A CERTIFIED MINDFULNESS MEDITATION TEACHER Teach mindfulness with confidence and skill — without self-doubt, fear of judgment, or imposter syndrome. Our internationally accredited certification is for therapists, coaches, yoga teachers, educators, and helping professionals. Accredited by the IMMA and CPD; endorsed by Gabor Maté and Rick Hanson. → https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certification/NEW HERE? START FREE Explore 3,000+ free guided meditations, scripts, and worksheets — for your own practice or to share with the people you teach. → https://mindfulnessexercises.com/free-mindfulness-exercises/ENJOYING THE PODCAST? Follow the show in your favorite app and leave a quick rating or review. It takes a moment, and it genuinely helps more teachers and practitioners find these conversations.———————————————————————————ABOUT THE SHOWMindfulness Exercises with Sean Fargo is a practical, grounded mindfulness podcast for people who want meditation to actually help in real life.Hosted by Sean Fargo — a former Buddhist monk, mindfulness teacher, and founder of MindfulnessExercises.com — the show explores how mindfulness can support mental health, emotional regulation, trauma sensitivity, chronic pain, leadership, creativity, and meaningful work.Each episode offers a mix o...

Emotional Intelligence for Dads Are you running yourself ragged trying to provide for your family, only to realize you're too exhausted to actually enjoy them? Dads, let's be honest. Somewhere between rushing to sports practices, managing screen time, and surviving the daily grind, the joy of parenting can get swallowed up. We want to build an incredible legacy, but chronic stress can make us reactive, frustrated, and disconnected. In this episode of The Impactful Parent, host Kristina Campos sits down with author, dad, and CPA Brian Gray to discuss his game-changing book, "Suck Less, Laugh More: A 4-Part Formula for Being a Great Dad." Brian opens up about his raw, personal journey of rebuilding his family from scratch when it was on the brink—not by following impossible parenting theories, but through the hard, rewarding work of emotional intelligence. Kristina and Brian break down the four core archetypes that live inside every father:

Send us Fan MailA kid isn't “being difficult” in a vacuum. Most of the time, they're broadcasting a need they don't have words for, and the adults around them are deciding what that behavior means. I sit down with Bobbi Chegwyn, an Australian-born life coach turned children's author, to talk about the hidden power of everyday language, and why the way we speak to kids becomes the way they eventually speak to themselves.Bobbi shares what changed for her when she moved to the United States and chose an unexpected job to learn her new community: driving a school bus. She created the “kind bus,” tied rules to kindness, and noticed something important about the kids labeled “challenging.” When we separate the child from the behavior and look for the belief underneath, we can turn conflict into connection. Her “railroad monitor” story is a simple, memorable example of strengths-based parenting and classroom management that actually protects dignity while improving safety.We also dig into what blocks healthy communication: assumptions, urgency, shame, fear of being wrong, and the “filters” built from culture and upbringing. We talk about how tone, timing, and body language carry meaning, why texts get misread (yes, even a period can sound angry), and how parents and teachers can use open-ended questions to help children name emotions instead of acting them out.Finally, Bobbi walks us through her Radical Ray children's book series and how bibliotherapy can help kids explore empathy, inclusion, trust, identity, and grief through story, without forcing vulnerability too fast. If you care about emotional intelligence for kids, kinder communication at home and school, and practical tools that work in real life, this conversation is for you. Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you're just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit maydaymedianetwork.comYou can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our merch store, picking up a copy of my book, or joining us on Buy Me a Coffee. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.Intro music: ‘Human First' by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com Support the show

  Leadership isn't a title. It's an identity.   What separates extraordinary leaders from average ones isn't their position, salary, or authority, it's how they think, communicate, and inspire.   In this episode of The Shiny Minds Show, I take you inside one of my favorite leadership frameworks: The 7 C's of Leadership, a model I developed and taught while creating and leading the Leadership Communication Strategies & Emotional Intelligence course at UCLA Extension.   Whether you're a coach, entrepreneur, executive, manager, educator, or someone who simply wants to become a stronger human being, this conversation will help you elevate the way you lead yourself before leading others.   In this episode, you'll discover:   ✨ The 7 C's that define exceptional leadership ✨ Why communication is your greatest leadership superpower ✨ The neuroscience behind influence and emotional intelligence ✨ How coaching transforms leaders into visionaries ✨ Why confidence without compassion is incomplete ✨ The mindset shifts every high-performing leader must develop ✨ How Neuro-Shine Technology™ helps you become a conscious leader in the age of AI   Leadership begins long before someone follows you.   It begins with how you lead your own mind.   If you're ready to become the kind of leader people trust, remember, and choose to follow, this episode is for you.  

What if one of the number one skills for feeling calmer, more confident, and more in control of your life was something you were never taught? If you're a genX, boomer, or early millennial, chances are…you weren't! Which is why, for this episode of the Love Your Life Show, I'm doing a masterclass on emotional maturity. Many of us grew up believing we were responsible for other people's feelings. We learned to keep the peace, make others happy, and avoid upsetting anyone around us. While those habits may have earned us praise by parents and friends, they eat away at your self concept and confidence. They exhaust us. Further, they lead to us feeling deeply lonely and often misunderstood. Think about it - if we believe as we're taught that "we're good if we do what they want", we disconnect from ourselves and our inner knowing while overly focusing on managing everyone else's emotions. And guess what, when we feel responsible for other people's feelings and moods, we are highly influenced by others' moods. We might feel like we're walking on eggshells or always waiting to see what he or she will be thinking and feeling. It's a very anxiety-ridden and out-of-control feeling. I know, because I lived 4 decades like this. Which is why I'm thrilled to bring you this masterclass teaching on emotional maturity. I have found that it's the secret to feeling more confident and in control of your life. I really hope you'll listen in.  Because goodness knows - those teenagers are going to be moody. Those husbands are going to be grumpy. Those moms are going to be needy…   In this episode, you'll learn: What emotional maturity actually is (and why it has very little to do with age) The three foundational skills that make up emotional maturity Why other people's moods can feel so overwhelming How to stay connected to yourself when someone else is upset, disappointed, or frustrated The emotional maturity gap many Gen X women were never taught to close If you've ever found yourself worrying about everyone else, taking responsibility for other people's feelings, or feeling completely thrown off by someone else's reaction, this episode is for you.

Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn this insightful episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome Sandy Gerber, a certified communication coach and emotional intelligence trainer whose mission is to help people foster connected conversations. Sandy, a bestselling author of *Emotional Magnetism*, shares her journey from feeling like a fraud in her personal life to becoming a top communication professional in Canada, recognized for her impactful work in emotional intelligence.Listeners will be captivated by Sandy's candid reflections on her past struggles, including a pivotal moment as a mother that drove her to reevaluate her priorities and ultimately led her to establish her own consultancy. She discusses the importance of emotional intelligence in communication and introduces practical tools, such as the 'First and Last' technique and the 'EQ Switch,' that empower individuals to regulate their emotions and enhance their conversations.Sandy also delves into the concept of emotional magnets, explaining how understanding our emotional motivations can transform our relationships and interactions. With her expertise, she offers listeners actionable advice on navigating difficult conversations and fostering deeper connections in both personal and professional settings.Join us for an enriching discussion that encourages self-awareness and equips you with the skills to communicate more effectively.What You'll Learn in This Episode:- The journey from personal struggles to professional success- Practical tools for enhancing communication and emotional intelligence- The significance of emotional magnets in relationships- Strategies for regulating emotions during challenging conversations- Insights into Sandy's book and upcoming projects, including her podcast, *Magnetic Communication*For more information on Sandy Gerber and her work, visit her website at sandygerber.com and check out her book, *Emotional Magnetism*, available in multiple languages.Support the show

402-521-3080In this episode, Olivia Bergeron, a psychotherapist and parent coach, shares practical strategies for effective parenting, including how to build connection, set boundaries, and handle challenging moments with empathy and confidence.Find Olivia here: https://mommygroove.com/Key  TopicsThe loyalty bind and how it affects parenting decisionsThe importance of connection in effective parentingUsing the SSS method: Stop, Soften, See for better parent-child interactionsThe role of modeling and apology in teaching responsibilityBalancing love and boundaries in parentingTakeawaysParents can always change their parenting approach, regardless of past patterns.Building a warm, connected relationship makes children more receptive to boundaries.The SSS method helps parents pause and respond thoughtfully in challenging moments.Modeling responsibility and apologizing teaches children accountability.Boundaries set with empathy foster safety and trust.Sound  Bites"Reverting to what we know often happens when we're tired""Stop, soften, see — the key to in-the-moment parenting""Model responsibility by owning your mistakes"Support the showEveryone has resilience, but what does that mean, and how do we use it in life and leadership? Join Stephanie Olson, an expert in resiliency and trauma, every week as she talks to other experts living lives of resilience. Stephanie also shares her own stories of addictions, disordered eating, domestic and sexual violence, abandonment, and trauma, and shares the everyday struggles and joys of everyday life. As a wife, mom, and CEO she gives commentaries and, sometimes, a few rants to shed light on what makes a person resilient. So, if you have experienced adversity in life in any way and want to learn how to better lead your family, your workplace, and, well, your life, this podcast is for you!https://setmefreeproject.nethttps://www.stephanieolson.com/

What if the hardest part of parenting… isn't raising children—but learning how to relate to them as adults?In this powerful and eye-opening episode, I sit down with Catherine Hickem—licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, executive coach, and founder of Parenting Adult Children Today—to explore one of the most overlooked and emotionally complex stages of family life: parenting adult children.With over 40 years of experience helping families navigate conflict, change, and growth, Catherine brings both professional expertise and personal insight to a topic that affects nearly every family—yet is rarely talked about openly.We dive into why so many parent-child relationships become strained over time, and what it really takes to rebuild trust, connection, and mutual respect.One statistic is especially striking: 1 in 4 adults is estranged from at least one parent. This isn't random—it's often the result of unspoken expectations, unresolved conflict, and missed opportunities for repair.Catherine challenges parents to take a courageous and honest look inward—shifting from reaction to reflection, from control to curiosity, and from authority to partnership.We also talk about the grief many parents carry—the loss of the child they imagined—and how processing that grief is essential to truly loving and accepting the adult child in front of them.This conversation is filled with compassion, clarity, and practical wisdom for anyone who wants a healthier, more meaningful relationship with their adult children.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why so many adult children become estranged from their parentsHow unspoken expectations quietly damage relationshipsThe critical shift from authority figure to trusted allyWhy parents must do their own inner work to rebuild connectionHow grief plays a hidden role in family relationshipsPractical ways to create safety, trust, and open communicationHow to move from control to curiosity in your parentingAbout Catherine Hickem:Catherine Hickem is a licensed clinical social worker, seasoned psychotherapist, executive coach, and founder of Parenting Adult Children Today. With over four decades of experience, she has helped thousands of families and leaders navigate emotional complexity with clarity and purpose.She is also the former leader of The Dash Group, a consultancy focused on building strong leaders, healthy cultures, and sustainable success.Her upcoming book, It's Never Too Late to Be a Great Parent (2026), offers a compassionate roadmap for healing, reconnection, and legacy-building within families.Key Takeaway:Your relationship with your child doesn't end when they become an adult—it evolves. And the quality of that relationship often depends on your willingness to grow, reflect, and meet them where they are.When parents create a safe, non-judgmental space, adult children don't pull away—they lean in.Listen and Share:If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a parent or someone navigating family challenges. These conversations have the power to heal relationships and strengthen families.Free Resource:For more support on emotional healing and personal growth, visit Hope for Healing for free resources and a guided Healing Breathwork Detox session.Listen, Share, and SupportIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who may need hope today.Be sure to subscribe, leave a rating and review, and help us spread more healing and inspiration to the world.Free Resource for HealingIf you're ready to release stress, calm your mind, and begin healing from within, visit:

This week on Catalyst, Tammy is joined by Emma Boyd, a recent Chapman University graduate stepping into her first job as a practice analyst at a San Francisco law firm just as her generation navigates entering the workforce in the age of AI. Emma and Tammy discuss how she's learning to use AI as a tool for condensing and outlining her work, without letting it take over the writing and critical thinking she loves. They also dig into her capstone project at Fabletics, where she researched the legal and ethical questions around AI-generated models in fashion marketing, uncovering a constant cycle of new technology outpacing legal standards almost as soon as they catch up. Emma also has some advice for senior leaders: don't underestimate Gen Z, who are more gritty and driven than older generations often assume.Please note that the views expressed may not necessarily be those of NTT DATALinks: Emma Boyd - LinkedInLearn more about Launch by NTT DATASee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if your culture isn't defined by your values, but by the behavior you're willing to tolerate? Steve Harris has spent decades helping organizations create environments where employees feel safe speaking up, leaders model the right behaviors, and ethics become part of everyday decision-making. As Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer at Lincoln Financial, Steve shares practical examples of how organizations can build trust, strengthen accountability, and help managers create psychological safety within their teams.  You'll hear how Lincoln reframed speaking up from a compliance obligation to a business imperative, why frontline managers have such a powerful influence on culture, and how one difficult experience early in Steve's career shaped his view of the difference between what is legal and what is ethical. His stories offer valuable lessons for any leader who wants values to guide behavior when decisions become difficult.  In his role as Senior Vice President and Chief Ethics & Compliance Officer at Lincoln Financial, Steve leads the company's enterprise compliance and sustainability programs and helps shape a culture of ethical decision-making across more than 11,000 employees. Under Steve's leadership, Lincoln Financial has been recognized five times as one of Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies. Before joining Lincoln, Steve spent more than a decade at The Hartford, another long-time Ethisphere honoree, and he's built a reputation for helping organizations integrate ethics into business strategy, leadership, and culture. He's also a frequent speaker on ethics and compliance and serves on several industry and academic advisory boards.  You'll discover:Why speaking up drives business success How managers create psychological safety What trust looks like in practice Why listening builds stronger cultures The difference between law and ethicsConnect with Steve Harris on Social MediaLinkedIn Website Lincoln Financial Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn

What You'll Learn in This Episode:In this episode, Andy Olrich and Catherine McDonald sit down with Andrew Kettner to discuss why one of the most overlooked leadership skills, eye contact, can have a profound impact on trust, communication, and continuous improvement.Andrew explains how effective leaders must look beyond reports, dashboards, and data by practicing Lean's "go and see" mindset. Through genuine face-to-face interactions, leaders gain valuable insights into emotions, engagement, and the real challenges their teams face. The conversation also explores the connection between eye contact, empathy, emotional intelligence, and building stronger workplace relationships. Andrew shares personal stories from his military leadership experience and cancer journey that demonstrate how meaningful human connections can influence both leadership and life.Whether you're leading a Lean transformation or simply looking to become a more effective leader, this episode offers practical ways to strengthen your leadership presence by learning to truly see the people you lead.Key Takeaways:Great leaders practice "go and see" by engaging directly with people—not just data.Eye contact builds trust, empathy, and stronger workplace relationships.Emotional intelligence helps leaders better understand both people and processes.Small, intentional interactions create stronger Lean cultures and better leadership.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewkettnerhttps://www.findleansolutions.com/https://www.findleansolutions.com/lean-summit/

In Episode 523 of Fishing Without Bait, we continue our conversation with Missy Sorg in Part 2 of a thoughtful and challenging discussion about politics, responsibility, family support, and respectful disagreement. Missy and Jim Ellermeyer begin by examining the complicated realities surrounding abortion and the question of what happens after a child is born. Their conversation moves beyond political slogans to consider infertility, adoption, foster care, support systems, special-needs care, financial responsibility, and the difficult decisions families may face. Missy shares personal experiences that have shaped her perspective, including going through infertility treatments and seeing family members navigate teenage pregnancy and lifelong care needs. The discussion asks whether society is doing enough to educate young people about consequences, critical thinking, emotional decision-making, and personal responsibility. The conversation then expands into voter education and representative government. Drawing from her work as a Republican committee woman and her experiences at polling locations, Missy discusses the importance of understanding what elected offices actually control rather than voting entirely through party labels or a single issue. Jim and Missy also consider how political representatives can become disconnected from their constituents, how social media encourages echo chambers, and why people often listen only long enough to prepare their response. Despite the disagreements and difficult subjects, the episode returns to a simple principle: people should be treated with courtesy and respect. Meaningful progress begins when we stop reducing one another to political labels and begin listening to learn. This is Part 2 of our conversation with Missy Sorg. The discussion continues in the next episode. Subscribe to Fishing Without Bait through your favorite podcast player so you do not miss the continuation. Support the podcast and receive ad-free episodes through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait Pick up Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book: https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Do a kindness for yourself. Do a kindness for another. Forgive yourself and forgive another.

In Episode 523 of Fishing Without Bait, we continue our conversation with Missy Sorg in Part 2 of a thoughtful and challenging discussion about politics, responsibility, family support, and respectful disagreement. Missy and Jim Ellermeyer begin by examining the complicated realities surrounding abortion and the question of what happens after a child is born. Their conversation moves beyond political slogans to consider infertility, adoption, foster care, support systems, special-needs care, financial responsibility, and the difficult decisions families may face. Missy shares personal experiences that have shaped her perspective, including going through infertility treatments and seeing family members navigate teenage pregnancy and lifelong care needs. The discussion asks whether society is doing enough to educate young people about consequences, critical thinking, emotional decision-making, and personal responsibility. The conversation then expands into voter education and representative government. Drawing from her work as a Republican committee woman and her experiences at polling locations, Missy discusses the importance of understanding what elected offices actually control rather than voting entirely through party labels or a single issue. Jim and Missy also consider how political representatives can become disconnected from their constituents, how social media encourages echo chambers, and why people often listen only long enough to prepare their response. Despite the disagreements and difficult subjects, the episode returns to a simple principle: people should be treated with courtesy and respect. Meaningful progress begins when we stop reducing one another to political labels and begin listening to learn. This is Part 2 of our conversation with Missy Sorg. The discussion continues in the next episode. Subscribe to Fishing Without Bait through your favorite podcast player so you do not miss the continuation. Support the podcast and receive ad-free episodes through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait Pick up Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book: https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Do a kindness for yourself. Do a kindness for another. Forgive yourself and forgive another.

"People aren't inside of our heads, so you have to give them that emotional information as well as the factual information."Humor is more than entertainment—it's a powerful way to create connection. As a comedian, writer, and former teacher, Chris Duffy has learned that laughter, curiosity, and emotion can transform even ordinary conversations into memorable experiences. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Duffy joins Matt Abrahams to explore how humor can strengthen communication, build deeper connections, and make ideas more memorable. Together, they discuss how to engage an audience, bring authenticity to repeated messages, and create conversations that invite others to participate rather than simply listen.Key Takeaways:Connection comes before comedy. Humor is most effective when it invites others into the conversation, rather than putting the spotlight on yourself.Emotion makes ideas memorable. Combining facts with curiosity, emotion, and storytelling helps audiences understand, remember, and engage with your message.Activity:Create a conversational doorknob. In your next conversation, replace one routine response with an observation, opinion, or question that invites discussion. Notice how offering a "doorknob" changes the depth and energy of the conversation.Episode Reference Links:Chris DuffyChris's Book: Humor MeEp.13 Make 'Em Laugh: How to Use Humor as a Secret Weapon in Your … Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:03) - Lessons from the Classroom (01:52) - Curiosity Captures Attention (04:48) - Facts Need Emotion (05:49) - Sounding Authentic (09:29) - Calming Performance Nerves (11:01) - Jamming vs. Joking (14:36) - Becoming Funnier (19:01) - Better Conversations (22:53) - The Final Three Questions (26:48) - Conclusion

How does getting in tune with your own emotions play into the effectiveness of your leadership? And how does it impact your relationships? Our guest today is Randy Lyman, and he talks through what he calls the third element. TODAY'S WIN-WIN:Getting in Harmonic Resonance with the 3 categories of experiencing the world improves your relationships with other people.LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:This episode is sponsored by Zoho, https://www.zoho.com/franchise/Schedule your free franchise consultation with Big Sky Franchise Team: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/You can visit our guest's website: https://randylyman.com/Connect with our guests on social: IG: @imrandylymanLinkedIn: Randy LymanFacebook: Randy LymanABOUT OUR GUEST:Randy Lyman is a physicist, entrepreneur, and expert in emotional intelligence, known for merging science, spirituality, and human transformation. Over a 40-year career, he built multiple 8-figure companies, including an Inc. 500 business, and holds several patents. After achieving conventional success, Randy realized that emotional awareness is crucial for fulfillment. This insight led him to integrate emotional healing and spiritual principles, resulting in a 30x growth of his businesses and a personal transformation.Currently, Randy shares his insights through "The Third Element," a bestselling book in Personal Growth. His work emphasizes releasing unhealed emotional patterns to achieve clarity, abundance, and effective leadership. He is recognized for teaching leaders and teams to foster trust, connection, and high performance through enhanced self-understanding.This episode is powered by Big Sky Franchise Team. Big Sky Franchise Team is consistently recognized as one of the best franchise consulting firms in the world, helping entrepreneurs franchise their businesses through a proven 3-Step franchise process rooted in ethical principles, hands-on guidance, and customized deliverables.  If you are ready to talk about franchising your business you can schedule your free, no-obligation, franchise consultation online at: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/. The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any business decisions. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Big Sky Franchise Team, or our affiliates. Additionally, this podcast may feature sponsors or advertisers, but any mention of products or services does not constitute an endorsement. Please do your own research before making any purchasing or business decisions.

What do Digimon, mind reading, voice acting, magic, and AI-proof careers all have in common? Joshua Seth.In this fascinating episode, Anne sits down with award-winning mentalist, keynote speaker, corporate emcee, and legendary voice actor Joshua Seth (https://www.joshuaseth.com/) for a conversation that explores the surprising connection between voice, influence, focus, and the uniquely human skills that technology can't replace. Best known as the voice of Tai in Digimon and the villain Tetsuo in Akira, Joshua shares how a childhood spent listening to old radio shows launched a career that eventually took him from Hollywood voice actor to Magic Olympics champion and creator of the theatrical show Mind Magic Live that is currently selling out everywhere it goes.  (and I've seen it, and it's that good!) But beneath the magic lies a powerful message about connection, communication, and adaptability.In This Episode, We Talk About: Why your voice and presence create emotional connection  How Joshua accidentally discovered his dream career while escaping a broken air conditioner  Breathwork techniques to improve confidence, resonance, and vocal presence  Why human skills like empathy, listening, and influence are becoming more valuable in the age of AI Want more from Joshua?https://www.joshuaseth.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuaseth/Joshua Seth is an award-winning mentalist, keynote speaker, and corporate event emcee. He's the winner of the Magic Olympics and the star of the theatrical touring show Mind Magic LIVE. But he's best known as a celebrity voice actor who can be heard in over 100 TV shows and movies, including his starring roles as Tai in Digimon and Tetsuo in Akira. But his greatest role is as the father of his two teenage children.Anne Bonney is a keynote speaker and emcee who helps organizations lead through change by building resilience, emotional intelligence, and courageous communication.

Burnout doesn't usually arrive as a dramatic collapse. It shows up as subtle numbness, constant urgency, and a workplace culture that celebrates “push through” while quietly ignoring the nervous system that makes performance possible. Sean Fargo sits down with Rosina Geiger to explore a concept that belongs at the center of every sustainability strategy: human sustainability. If your ESG goals focus on the planet and the numbers but forget the people doing the work, the system won't hold. Rosina brings a rare inside view from SAP, where she works on sustainability customer adoption and also serves as a Global Mindfulness Ambassador. We talk about the “S” in ESG, the social pillar, and what it looks like when organizations treat mindfulness at work and emotional intelligence as real capabilities, not soft extras. You'll hear how simple rituals like a one-minute arrival can change meetings, reduce reactivity, and build psychological safety across teams. We also go deeper into nervous system awareness through Rosina's experience with long COVID and mind-body coaching, connecting recovery to regulation, rest, and a kinder relationship with intensity. Along the way, we unpack practical tools you can try immediately: micro check-ins that create human connection, three-breath resets, and structured journaling prompts that help people listen to what the body and mind are actually saying. We end with a grounded reminder: you can't force people to change, but the way you show up influences more than you think. If you care about corporate sustainability, burnout prevention, mindfulness training, and building healthier cultures, subscribe, share this with a colleague, and leave a review so more people can find the conversation. What's one small practice you want your team to try this week?BECOME A CERTIFIED MINDFULNESS MEDITATION TEACHER Teach mindfulness with confidence and skill — without self-doubt, fear of judgment, or imposter syndrome. Our internationally accredited certification is for therapists, coaches, yoga teachers, educators, and helping professionals. Accredited by the IMMA and CPD; endorsed by Gabor Maté and Rick Hanson. → https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certification/NEW HERE? START FREE Explore 3,000+ free guided meditations, scripts, and worksheets — for your own practice or to share with the people you teach. → https://mindfulnessexercises.com/free-mindfulness-exercises/ENJOYING THE PODCAST? Follow the show in your favorite app and leave a quick rating or review. It takes a moment, and it genuinely helps more teachers and practitioners find these conversations.———————————————————————————ABOUT THE SHOWMindfulness Exercises with Sean Fargo is a practical, grounded mindfulness podcast for people who want meditation to actually help in real life.Hosted by Sean Fargo — a former Buddhist monk, mindfulness teacher, and founder of MindfulnessExercises.com — the show explores how mindfulness can support mental health, emotional regulation, trauma sensitivity, chronic pain, leadership, creativity, and meaningful work.Each episode offers a mix o...

Send us Fan Mail FTV On this week's episode I am joined by Laura ReardonLaura Reardon is a certified Child Behaviour Specialist, she is trained as an Emotion Coach, Childhood Anxiety Coach, and Parent Coach, and she's the founder of Laura Reardon Coaching. Laura helps parents who feel frustrated, worried, and unsure how to respond when their kid reacts to their big emotions like anger and anxiety and their big behaviors like lashing out and shutting down. We talk about a wide-range of things.What is Emotional Intelligence?Can it be taught?Why do children respond differently to big events happening in their life than adults do?Why is it completely normal for kids to "over-react"?How can you help your kids process the big emotions better?Why it makes sense to treat every child differently and take a personalised approach to raising kids.You can find Laura in all the usual places.Her lovely website where you can find a tonne more information.FacebookInstagram As always; HPNB is, and always will be, FREE for 3 months.If you decide you want to do the rest of the program, after only 5 months of paying $10/£8 a month you now get FREE LIFE TIME ACCESS! That's $50 max spend, in case you were wondering. Though I'm not terribly active on  Instagram and Facebook you can follow us there. I am however active on Threads so find me there! And, of course, you can always find us on our YouTube channel if you like your podcast in video form :) Visit healthypostnatalbody.com and get 3 months completely FREE access. No sales, no commitment, no BS. Email peter@healthypostnatalbody.com if you have any questions, comments or want to suggest a guest/topic        Playing us out; "garden song" by Shimmer 

We're thrilled to feature leadership expert and author James Oyola on the show today. James opens up about his unique path to becoming an author and introduces his powerful, transformative approach to soul-centered leadership. Whether you're looking to strengthen your team or find your own path, you'll discover practical strategies for building trust, managing difficult conversations, and leading with integrity—essential tools for any leader looking to make a lasting impact.Keywords:Leadership, Soul-Centered Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, Management, Personal Development, Workplace Culture, Conflict Resolution, Leadership Books, Leadership Lessons Podcast, Leadership Podcast Interviews, Leadership PodcastsKey topics:Journey to writing a bookPrinciples of soul-centered leadershipManaging trauma and relationshipsBuilding trust and relational capitalHandling difficult conversations and terminationsChapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Writing Journey02:52 The Concept of the Helpful Leader05:34 Understanding Trauma in Leadership08:23 Building Trust and Relationships in Leadership11:14 Balancing Accountability and Empathy15:47 Effective Communication and Support in Leadership16:54 Graceful Exits: Navigating Difficult Conversations19:46 The Importance of Dignity in Termination22:53 Curiosity and Compassion in Leadership26:28 Understanding Employee Significance29:20 Lessons from Leadership Mistakes34:16 Balancing Authority and ApproachabilityResources:James Oyola on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-oyola-29471114/The Helpful Leader Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thehelpful_leader/Confessions of a Terrible Leader is hosted by Layci Nelson and edited and produced by Fixation Point Productions. Music is by Leif Olsen and Mary Skop from the band The Number of Months. 

For Edge God in Podcast Edge God In Podcast 329: The Book of 1 Samuel: Beyond the Surface – Seeing Through God’s Eyes Instead of Man’s EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Estella Chavous Championing Human Potential in Christ Download Bible Study Template Learning Objectives By the end of this study, participants will be able to: Examine the leadership of Samuel, Saul, and David to identify the qualities of a God-honoring leader. Analyze how 1 Samuel contrasts outward appearance with inward character. Evaluate the dangers of comparison, pride, and seeking human approval. Differentiate between Saul’s superficial obedience and David’s repentant heart. Apply the principles of 1 Samuel 16:7 to cultivate humility, integrity, and obedience. Reflect on your own heart using the EIC (Encounter–Identified Behavior–Course Correct) Framework. Scriptures: 1 Samuel 16:7 | Proverbs 4:23 | 1 Samuel 15:22 | Jeremiah 29:11 | Samuel Chap. 1-7/ 8-15/16-31 The book helped them understand five key areas: God Values Character More Than Appearance Obedience Always Matters More Than Performance God’s Calling Is Based on His Purpose, Not Human Expectations Prayer:  Heavenly Father, As we begin our study of 1 Samuel, open our hearts, minds, and spirits to receive what You desire to teach us. Help us move beyond outward appearances and develop hearts that seek Your wisdom above human understanding. Teach us to value humility over pride, obedience over performance, and faithfulness over popularity. As Israel transitioned from divided tribes into one nation, unite our hearts in love, purpose, and devotion to You. Lord, help us see ourselves and others as You see us—not through outward appearance, but through the condition of our hearts. May Your Holy Spirit guide our discussion, deepen our understanding, and transform our lives through the truth of Your Word. Thank You for Your grace, Your mercy, and the countless blessings You provide—both seen and unseen. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Support Resources: Books & Resources: Understanding and Acting on Behaviors that lead to Christ-Filled Relationships: Designed to uncover the key behaviors that influence how you relate to Christ-Awareness, Discernment, Emotion, and Renewal. Situational Meditation Theory and Practice: Finding this space and learning to engage in meditation, contemplation and reflection. Situational Meditation Journal: A companion to the book, cultivating a lifestyle of presence and full engagement in the moment. Emotional Intelligence in Christ Project: Book, 6-Week Study Guide & Course

Leadership development is not about checking boxes. It is about building the awareness, communication, trust, and consistency required to help people grow, perform, and feel safe enough to do meaningful work. LaTonya Wilkins brings a powerful conversation on what it really means to lead below the surface. From psychological safety and culture to coaching, delegation, community, and connection across differences, this master class challenges leaders to stop treating leadership like a static skillset and start looking at how leadership is actually experienced by the people they serve. Learn how to honestly rate your leadership by asking better questions: • How clear is your communication? • How do people experience you in meetings, emails, and difficult conversations? • Are you giving people the guardrails they need without making them too tight? • Are you creating hope, trust, compassion, and stability? • Are you developing people, or just expecting them to perform? • Are burnout, churn, poor delegation, and low trust signs of a deeper leadership problem? This conversation also explores why many leadership development programs fail because they rely on outdated models, performative culture work, and initiatives that were never truly embedded into the organization. Real culture cannot be reduced to perks, titles, slogans, or temporary programs. It has to show up in how leaders communicate, make decisions, build teams, manage change, and create belonging. LaTonya also brings a needed perspective on coaching and community in a noisy market where too many people sell quick fixes without doing the real work. Strong leadership, real coaching, and healthy culture are all relationship businesses. They require trust, self-awareness, accountability, and the right people around you at every stage. For executives, founders, HR leaders, coaches, consultants, people managers, and anyone responsible for leading others, this conversation is a reminder that real leadership still wins when it is rooted in trust, development, culture, coaching, and community. Beyond The Episode Gems: Learn More About Leading Below The Surface Book Buy LaTonya's Book, Leading Below The Surface Learn more about LaTonya's offerings for executive coaching ChangeCoaches.io Connect with LaTonya on LinkedIn Explore Change Coaches Relational Coach Training Buy Troy's Book, Strategize Up: The Blueprint To Scale Your Business StrategizeUpBook.com Discover All Podcasts On The HubSpot Podcast Network Get Free HubSpot Marketing Tools To Help You Grow Your Business Grow Your Business Faster Using HubSpot's CRM Platform Support The Podcast & Connect With Troy:  Rate & Review iDigress: iDigress.fm/Reviews Follow Troy's Socials @FindTroy: LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, TikTok Subscribe to Troy's YouTube Channel For Strategy Videos & See Masterclass Episodes Need Growth Strategy, A Keynote Speaker, Or Want To Sponsor The Podcast? Go To FindTroy.com

Send us Fan MailArtificial intelligence can write emails, build presentations, create images, and even help write code—but it still can't shake a hand, earn trust, or make someone genuinely feel understood. This week on the Mike & Blaine Podcast, we explore why the most valuable skills in business are shifting back to the things technology can't easily replicate: communication, leadership, empathy, humor, and emotional intelligence. As AI gets smarter, being authentically human is becoming more valuable, not less. We talk about the surprising comeback of soft skills, why relationships are becoming a competitive advantage again, and what separates people who simply use AI from people who actually lead. Because the future may be powered by AI—but it's still built on trust.To truly win in today's market, your business strategy needs to evolve beyond just buying the latest software. Tactically, it's no longer about optimizing just your tech stack; it's about maximizing your "human stack." In this episode, we break down how savvy entrepreneurs are leveraging platforms like OpenAI and Google Gemini to automate the mundane backend tasks, freeing up critical time to double down on high-touch client relationships, team leadership, and creative problem-solving. If your current business tactics rely 100% on automation, you are leaving your customer loyalty exposed to competitors who still know how to pick up the phone. Learn how to weave authentic emotional intelligence into your corporate strategy so you can future-proof your brand and out-human the competition.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ua8cOzKiSj0We want to hear from you! beer@mikeandblaine.comListen to all our episodes at mikeandblaine.comLove the show and want to keep the insights (and the brews) flowing? Head over to mikeandblaine.com to buy us a beer! We appreciate the support!Learn about:Cash Flow Mike who trains CPAs to provide effective advisory to their clients at cashflowmike.comDryrun Cash Flow Forecasting for the office of the CFO where they get finance teams out of spreadsheets at dryrun.comThanks to our Beer Sponsors:Karen Hairston from 3S Smart ConsultingCPA Larry Weinstein, the Cash Flow Cowboy from Houston TexasNeighbor PatDevinTrey MiltonWatch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ua8cOzKiSj0#ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfWork #Leadership #SoftSkills #OpenAI #ChatGPT #GoogleAI #Microsoft #BusinessStrategy #BusinessTactics #EmotionalIntelligence #Entrepreneurship #Podcast #TechTrends #Management #B2BStrategySupport the showCatch more episodes, see our sponsors and get in touch at https://mikeandblaine.com/

Summary In this episode, Andy sits down with Attia Qureshi, a coach and negotiation expert who is co-author, with John Richardson, of Never Settle. There's no shortage of great negotiation advice out there, yet in real conversations with real stakes and real emotions, that advice often fails to turn into action. This book tackles that gap between insight and habit. Attia shares why emotions are not a distraction from negotiation but central to it, why getting clear about what you actually want is harder than it sounds, and how we leave value on the table without realizing it. You'll hear practical stories, from resetting a difficult relationship with a glass of lemonade to expanding the pie in a salary negotiation, plus small daily exercises for building resilience to rejection and learning to say no in a way that strengthens relationships rather than damaging them. If you're looking for practical, doable ways to become a more confident negotiator and influencer, this episode is for you! Sound Bites "You can get more by caring about what the other person needs and building a strong relational foundation." "People are not born amazing negotiators. They develop that skill over time, just like people are not born confident." "You have to practice that small step out in the real world where the stakes are low and build that skill day after day, month after month." "You and I have probably already negotiated half a dozen times today." "When someone gives us something, we want to return the favor." "New studies now show that 90 to 95% of decision-making comes from unconscious emotional processing." "So many of us quit before we even start." "But if we do have a goal and we do prepare for the conversation, our likelihood of success is double." "A good negotiation doesn't always mean getting 'yes' at the end of it." "I always tell my students, people can almost always help you. It depends on if they want to or not." Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:06 Start of Interview 02:17 Growing Up: Early Lessons in Conflict 07:10 Negotiation and Confidence Are Skills, Not Personality 08:04 Life Is Full of Everyday Negotiations 10:30 Why Negotiation Training Often Fails 12:30 Resetting a Difficult Relationship 17:20 Influence vs. Manipulation 22:33 Emotions, Fear, and Building Resilience 28:00 Using the Emotion Wheel 29:36 Getting Clear on What You Really Want 33:39 Expanding the Pie: Creating Value 40:50 The Power of Saying No 47:27 Teaching Kids to Negotiate 51:23 End of Interview 51:55 Andy Comments After the Interview 55:22 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Attia and her work at AttiaQureshi.com. For more learning on this topic, check out: Episode 157 with Dr. Robert Cialdini. Known as the godfather of influence, his name came up several times during today's discussion, making this a great follow-up. Episode 412 with Scott Walker. A former Scotland Yard hostage negotiator who shares a lot of practical lessons about influence. Episode 385 with Vanessa Patrick. She wrote one of the best books on how to say no, a fitting companion to today's conversation. Chat with PMeLa You can chat directly with PMeLa—the podcast's AI persona—to get episode recommendations and answers to your project management and leadership questions. Visit PeopleAndProjectsPodcast.com/PMeLa to chat with her. Join Us for LEAD52 I know you want to be a more confident leader–that's why you listen to this podcast. LEAD52 is a global community of people like you who are committed to transforming their ability to lead and deliver. It's 52 weeks of leadership learning, delivered right to your inbox, taking less than 5 minutes a week. And it's all for free. Learn more and sign up at GetLEAD52.com. Thanks! Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Power Skills Topics: Negotiation, Influence, Leadership, Project Management, Reciprocity, Emotional Intelligence, Resilience, Saying No, Stakeholder Management, Relationship Building, Value Creation, Confidence The following music was used for this episode: Music: Quantum Sparks (Full Version) by MusicLFiles License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Tropical Vibe by WinnieTheMoog License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode Description: Leadership isn't built on talent alone. The best leaders don't simply know more—they understand themselves better, regulate their emotions under pressure, connect with people on a deeper level, and inspire others to become their best. In this solo masterclass, John Kitchens breaks down the five pillars of emotional intelligence that every real estate agent, team leader, and entrepreneur must develop to grow both their business and their influence. If your business has plateaued, it may not be a strategy problem—it may be a leadership problem. This episode dives into the mindset and daily disciplines that allow leaders to create trust, develop stronger relationships, build winning teams, and ultimately become the CEO their business requires. Connect With Us: Join us Live every Thursday: 7FigureBP.com • 7 Figure Audit: 7figurecall.com • Instagram: @johnkitchenscoach • LinkedIn: @johnkitchenscoach • Facebook: @johnkitchenscoach If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Stay tuned for more insights and strategies from the top minds. See you next time!

With James Woodfall, Communication and Behavior Specialist, Raise Your EI As AI makes expertise more accessible, what becomes an advisor's true advantage? EI expert James Woodfall explains why authentic human connection may be the one thing technology can't replicate. In Summary As artificial intelligence reshapes how information is delivered, financial advisors are being challenged to rethink what truly differentiates their value. Mindy Diamond sits down with James Woodfall, a former wealth management business owner turned emotional intelligence expert and founder of Raise Your EI, to explore why emotional intelligence may become one of the profession's greatest competitive advantages. Together, they discuss how rapport, curiosity, and authentic human connection influence trust, referrals, leadership, and client loyalty and why those skills can be developed just like technical expertise. The conversation also examines the difference between AI's “synthetic empathy” and the authentic relationships clients continue to value—and why that distinction matters to financial advisors now more than ever.   The Storyline For decades, advisors have built successful businesses by combining technical expertise with thoughtful financial guidance. But as AI makes information more accessible and planning tools more sophisticated, expertise alone is becoming less of a differentiator. James Woodfall believes the future belongs to advisors who master something technology cannot authentically replicate: human connection. Drawing on his experience as both a former wealth management firm owner and a specialist in communication and behavioral science, James explains why emotional intelligence isn't simply a “soft skill.” It's a business skill that affects nearly every aspect of an advisory practice—from building trust and earning referrals to leading teams and helping clients make difficult decisions. Mindy and James explore why asking better questions matters more than having better answers, how curiosity creates stronger relationships than scripts ever can, and why advisors who create memorable client experiences may find themselves even more valuable in an increasingly automated world. The conversation ultimately reframes AI not as a replacement for advisors, but as a catalyst forcing the profession to rediscover the uniquely human qualities clients have valued all along.   Topics Covered Emotional intelligence as a business skill Building trust through rapport and curiosity Authentic empathy vs. synthetic AI empathy The psychology behind client decision-making Why referrals are rooted in emotional outcomes Coaching advisors to improve communication Leadership and emotional intelligence AI's impact on advisor differentiation Creating premium client experiences Future-proofing advisory businesses > Download a transcript of this episode… Listen and Learn Highlights for Advisors Why do better questions lead to better financial advice? (6:10) James explains why financial planning is only as good as the conversations that precede it—and why understanding a client's fears and aspirations leads to better outcomes than simply gathering financial facts. How does emotional intelligence translate into business growth? (15:30) Rapport isn't simply about making clients feel comfortable. James discusses why advisors who build trust quickly tend to earn more referrals and become significantly more referable. Can emotional intelligence actually be learned? (37:05) Contrary to popular belief, emotional intelligence isn't an innate personality trait. James explains why it is a trainable skill and how advisors can intentionally improve it throughout their careers. What makes authentic empathy different from AI? (39:10) One of the episode's most compelling discussions explores the difference between AI's ability to simulate empathy and the authentic emotional connection that develops between two people. Why should advisors think more about experience than efficiency? (45:10) Clients don't always pay more for information. Often, they pay more for confidence, judgment, reassurance, and the experience of working with someone they trust. Will AI replace advisors or elevate the best ones? (46:55) James shares why he believes AI is more likely to automate routine work while making relationship-centered advisors even more valuable. Key Takeaways Emotional intelligence is a measurable business capability—not simply a personality trait. Stronger client relationships begin with curiosity rather than advice. Advisors who solve emotional concerns make it easier for clients to recommend than advisors who simply deliver technical expertise. AI may replicate information, but authentic trust remains distinctly human. Premium advisory relationships will increasingly be defined by the experience clients receive—not just the answers they're given. Emotional intelligence improves leadership, client retention, referrals, and advisor well-being. The firms that embrace both technology and human connection will likely be best positioned for the future. https://youtu.be/xlQMQm6mqtc Quotable Moments “Rapport building is one of the foundational things for trust building.” “It's not real empathy. It's synthetic empathy.” “If all of our decisions were made on price, Ferrari wouldn't have a business.” “The advisors who create authentic human connection may be the ones who remain untouchable.” FAQs What is emotional intelligence, and why does it matter for financial advisors? James defines emotional intelligence as the ability to recognize, understand, and influence emotions in ourselves and others. For advisors, those skills strengthen communication, trust, leadership, and client relationships. Can emotional intelligence actually be developed? Yes. Unlike IQ, emotional intelligence can be improved through intentional practice, feedback, coaching, and greater self-awareness. Why do referrals have so much to do with emotional intelligence? Clients often remember and recommend how an advisor made them feel more than the technical work performed. Solving emotional concerns creates stories clients naturally share with others. What does James mean by “synthetic empathy”? AI can recognize language patterns and respond empathetically, but it doesn't genuinely experience human emotion. James argues that authentic empathy remains one of an advisor's greatest competitive advantages. How should advisors think about AI? Rather than viewing AI solely as a competitor, advisors should use it to improve efficiency while investing more time in conversations, judgment, and relationships that technology cannot fully replace. What is the biggest mindset shift advisors should make? Stop viewing emotional intelligence as a soft skill. Treat it as a business skill that directly influences growth, leadership, client loyalty, and long-term differentiation. James defines emotional intelligence as the ability to recognize, understand, and influence emotions in ourselves and others. For advisors, those skills strengthen communication, trust, leadership, and client relationships. Yes. Unlike IQ, emotional intelligence can be improved through intentional practice, feedback, coaching, and greater self-awareness. Clients often remember and recommend how an advisor made them feel more than the technical work performed. Solving emotional concerns creates stories clients naturally share with others. AI can recognize language patterns and respond empathetically, but it doesn't genuinely experience human emotion. James argues that authentic empathy remains one of an advisor's greatest competitive advantages. Rather than viewing AI solely as a competitor, advisors should use it to improve efficiency while investing more time in conversations, judgment, and relationships that technology cannot fully replace. Stop viewing emotional intelligence as a soft skill. Treat it as a business skill that directly influences growth, leadership, client loyalty, and long-term differentiation. Related Resources Why AI Matters Now: Filling the Estate Planning Gap with Wealth.com The Paradox of Choice Traps Successful Advisors Freedom vs. Familiarity: Is It Worth Disrupting Comfort for Something That Might Be Better? Guest Bio James Woodfall, founder of Raise Your EI, is a former financial planner who now advises financial services and firms on how they can leverage emotional intelligence (EI) to improve individual and organizational performance. He is the co-author, with Cliff Lansley, of “The Heart of Finance,” which teaches finance professionals to develop the emotional intelligence needed to build effective and profitable client relationships. NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. View the transcript of this episode… Emotional Intelligence: The “Untouchable” Differentiator in an AI World A conversation with Mindy Diamond and James Woodfall, Communication and Behavior Specialist at Raise Your EI.      Mindy Diamond: Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast series for financial advisors. Today’s episode is Emotional Intelligence: The “Untouchable” Differentiator in an AI World. It’s a conversation with James Woodfall, Communication and Behavior Specialist from Raise Your EI. I’m Mindy Diamond, and this is the Diamond Podcast for Financial Advisors. At Diamond Consultants, we help elite advisors identify the right environment for their businesses to thrive, whether that’s at a wirehouse, boutique, or independent firm. With nearly three decades of experience, we’ve guided thousands of advisors and represented more than a quarter of a trillion dollars in assets transitioned. And each year, one in four advisors managing a billion dollars or more who change firms are our clients. Our process is education driven and based on building relationships, starting as your strategic partner well before you’re even thinking of a move. To schedule a confidential conversation, call us at (908) 879-1002. Wondering why advisors change firms and where they’re headed? Are transition deals going up or down? Those very questions and more inspired us to create our Annual Advisor Transition Report. It’s the award-winning, data-driven resource designed for advisors that connects the dots between the motivations around movement and the firm’s appetite for top talent. Arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make smart decisions. Download your copy at diamond-consultants.com/transitionreport. For years, advisors have competed on expertise, the ability to solve problems, deliver answers, and provide guidance clients couldn’t easily find on their own. But today, those answers are becoming easier to access via artificial intelligence and tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity. AI can generate planning ideas, summarize complex topics, and answer questions in seconds. As the technology continues to improve, it raises an important question. If information becomes increasingly commoditized, what will clients continue to value most? My guest today, James Woodfall, is the Founder of the training firm, Raise Your EI, and a former wealth management business owner. James now helps advisors, leaders, and organizations strengthen the communication and behavioral skills that drive trust, influence, and performance. Skills rooted in emotional intelligence or EI, something that AI cannot authentically replicate. What’s interesting about James’s perspective is that he doesn’t view emotional intelligence as a soft skill. He views it as a business skill, one that impacts how advisors build rapport, earn referrals, lead teams, deepen client relationships, and ultimately differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive marketplace that includes human and machine-driven advice. Our conversation explores why rapport is the foundation of trust, how emotional intelligence can be developed like any other professional skill, and why advisors who learn to create authentic human connection may be best positioned to thrive alongside AI, not compete against it. Or as James puts it, remain untouchable in the face of a changing world. Because while technology may continue to reshape how advice is delivered, the experience of being understood, trusted, and guided by another human being remains remarkably difficult to replicate. So, let’s get to it. James, thank you for joining me today, especially coming all the way from the UK. I’m grateful. James Woodfall: Thanks for having me on. Mindy Diamond: So, let’s start at the beginning. You’re a different kind of guest for us, and a topic that is near and dear to my heart because I’m always all about emotional intelligence and EQ, but it’s a topic that sometimes can feel a little squishy to some folks. So, tell us a little bit about your background and really how you got into the world of wealth management. James Woodfall: I got into wealth management probably was by accident while I was, I think about 19 years old. I got a job at a bank because I was living with different jobs and it was the first company that would take me. So I ended up working in a bank as a cashier in a branch. And then after a series of different career moves, I ended up running my own wealth management firm for about nine years, which I sold about three and a half years ago. Around the time that I was selling it, I did my first master’s degree in communication and behavior analysis, and that’s when I started taking a bit of a deep dive into understanding emotional intelligence and behavior and communication. But really, I started that journey before I sold my wealth management company, and really the goal was, how can I become a better financial advisor to my clients by having a better understanding of their psychology behavior around money so that I could communicate with them more effectively, help them build their plans? So I had a bit of a… like a lot of people I speak to in wealth management, they fell into it. Mindy Diamond: So, a lot to unpack there and I’m fascinated by your story. Tell us a little bit about how you began to use or leverage emotional intelligence. You say you got into it or were fascinated by it because it was a way of helping your clients. So, talk to us a little bit about that. How did you begin to see the impact long before you started this business? James Woodfall: So going back a couple of steps to that. When I started the business, it was very transactional. You’d sit down with the client, you find out about what sort of assets they have, what type of plans they have already, and you look for gaps where you can optimize things, or there was a product which they need which you didn’t have. But I moved away from that type of service to a financial planning led service. So, where actually before we get talking about, well, how do we structure your world? We spend a lot of time building a plan in cashflow modeling software. So the one that I used was over at a company called Voyant, and effectively I build a cashflow plan for the clients, which would map out based on assumptions of what age they would reach financial independence. And then that then would then move on to, how to we optimize your holdings? Now what occurred to me pretty quickly in offering that service is that the outputs from that type of exercise are only as good as the inputs. So you’re really relying on the client to be able to come up with the answers to the questions that you ask them to make the financial plan work. And in my experience, quite a lot of the time you sit down with these people and you ask them, “Imagine you’re retired, what does an ideal week look like for you?” So, what I realized is actually I was asking clients a lot of questions which no one had ever asked them before, such as, “If you go retire, imagine you’re retired tomorrow, what does your idea week look like?” Very rarely do we get asked that day-to-day, especially not from friends, family members, certainly. So I went off and actually did a diploma in coaching because I thought initially I want to become better at actually getting people to think about the future and think about plans. And in doing that, I ended up wanting to take a bit of a deeper dive into understanding behavior at a higher level. So that led me on to getting my masters. Impacts on clients though is that I became, and me as well, is that I became a far better listener first. So I listened first, I stopped making so many assumptions as I found I had about people. And really, I think that changed the dynamic in terms of me constant, I suppose, dictating to people about what they should be doing. So of course that’s what a good advisor does, isn’t it, is advice. You switch around into actually making sure you’ve got a deep understanding of people’s hopes, fears, goals, dreams, and then ultimately, you can help them better in terms of optimizing their financial plans and wealth. Mindy Diamond: Yeah. 100% of what you just said speaks to me in a big way, because that is 100% our philosophy. Most recruiters, I don’t mean it disparagingly, but most recruiters in general are pretty transactional. They see a hammer, they see a nail. So, a recruiter sees a financial advisor and he’s a means to an end to making a deal to a transaction. And our whole approach from day one was never about seeing you, financial advisor, as a transaction, but rather first and foremost, wanting to understand what’s important to you. And we get told all the time that we were asking questions that nobody ever asked them before. And I want to unpack it more, because I love what you’re saying. The goal as far as I see it is not just to ask a bunch of questions nobody asked before, but it’s to ask questions as a means to an end, to start out by asking questions that make somebody comfortable that tell them that you care about them. Then it’s about asking questions that they’ve never been asked before because the answers to a question like, “How do you see yourself behaving in retirement,” has everything to do with how much money they’ll need to retire. So, one informs the other. In our world asking somebody, “What are the things that spark you and what are the things that really don’t? And what will you do with this information?” And all those sorts of questions are questions many people had never been asked before, especially if somebody was looking at them as a transaction. And yet, it’s what deepens relationships, it’s what creates trust, and it’s what allows you to identify me as a recruiter, identify the best solution or the best opportunity for someone. So, do you agree with that? Is there anything that I’m off about? James Woodfall: No, that’s exactly the point. I think I’m asking better questions as a wealth manager talking to your client. Because ultimately this is, I suppose, one of the things which comes from understanding emotional intelligence, is that for most of us, we make decisions in motion first and then we justify with logic and reasoning, which is basically back to from. If I was to start with logical reasoning and then expect people to make a buying decision. And so a lot of the time, especially with things like retirement savings, for example, because it’s in the future, it’s over there, especially if it’s 10, 20 years away, people think, “Well, why will I give up so much money a month now for something which is so far in the future that I can’t comprehend it yet?” But if you start reigning the questions in a way which gets to kind of the… Really what you want to uncover is, if you wake up at 3:00 in the morning and you can’t get back to sleep, what’s on your mind? Because if you can uncover that emotion that fits all that kind of pain or problem, then you deal with emotion first and logic second. Mindy Diamond: And it tells you what you need to solve for, right? James Woodfall: Exactly, yeah. Mindy Diamond: If what keeps me up is I’m worried I’m going to outlive my money, and you know that’s your true north in terms of how you begin to tackle that they’re thinking about the future, they want you to focus on the long term. Right? Is that what you get from that? What’s the typical answer you get to that question, that one in particular? James Woodfall: For retirement planning, it’s usually clusters around. “Well, I’m not sure I’m making the right decision. There’s lots of options that are complicated. But really, actually, am I going to have enough money? Am I going to run out?” Because it’s the big question, isn’t it? How long are you going to live and how much are you going to need? Mindy Diamond: Right. As I was preparing for this interview, I think I know the answer because I’m a person that lives in this world that believes fully in, I don’t have a degree in behavioral finance but I’m big on emotional intelligence, connecting, developing trust, and that I don’t have any right to sell anybody anything or suggest anything unless I’ve connected on an interpersonal level. But I don’t know that everybody believes that. So help us, our listeners to understand, why does this matter to financial advisors? So, I’m going to give you two examples. I’m a younger advisor that has, say, five to 10 years in the business, say $100 million or 100 million pounds under management and is looking to really build a business. How and why does the concept of emotional intelligence, of EI, matter to me? And then I’m going to ask you the same question again with respect to someone who manages a billion dollars or a billion pounds. How and why does it matter? James Woodfall: Yeah. I think probably a starting point is, let’s just clear up I suppose in definitions so that we understand what we’re talking about when we say emotional intelligence, it’s an EQ. Because I suppose let’s think about, let’s call EQ the measurement, and emotional intelligence is the concept. So the definition of emotional intelligence is it’s an ability, and it’s this ability to understand and influence emotions in ourselves and others. So within ourselves, can we perceive and understand our own emotions? What turns them on? What triggers them? Can we do something about that? Can we recognize it, manage it in the right context, or either initiate our emotions in the right context? And can we do that when we’re talking to other people? So, are we good at perceiving people’s emotions within different contexts, and are we good at influencing and utilizing that information to help us communicate more effectively? So, these are skills which requires regard within those two roles to make you effective. And so, one of the things that we’ve learned from probably 30 years of people studying emotion intelligence is that if emotion is involved within the job role, emotional intelligence correlates with job performance and has a meaningful impact on the difference between an average and a big performer. So regardless of whether it’s one of the two scenarios that you’ve said, performance improvements are always on the table. But one of the things which tends to happen as you move from, say, up in terms of the money that you’re managing is the stakes get higher. So quite often, you actually need a much far higher degree of self-management, a higher degree of self-awareness, a higher degree of ability to perceive emotions in others, and to be able to communicate with influence. Because quite often as you are dealing with clients who are more affluent, there’s a correlation between actually the skills that your clients have and the skills that they expect you to have as an advisor. So the higher you go up that sort of ladder in terms of value, the more effective you need to be. So that’s where that EQ measurement. If you had to sit down and do an EQ assessment, for example, you need to be scoring way above average the higher up you go. Mindy Diamond: How will somebody begin to notice that developing the emotional intelligence muscle, developing the quantity of EQ, how will that begin to show up and impact their business? James Woodfall: There’s a couple of ways, and I think it really does show up in self-awareness and self-management and awareness and understanding of others. So one of the things which will show up in terms of that awareness and understanding of others is, can you build trusted relationships quickly? So like those skills that we were talking about before about asking better questions and listening, especially the first time you meet a new prospective client, if you can really turn your ears on and get very, very curious about the person that you’re talking to, rapport building is one of the foundational things for trust building. And really, if you get rapport building right, one of the goals should be to find common ground early, because the minute that you can build a connection with people and you start uncovering things that you’ve got in common, it starts signaling to people that actually you’re someone who is like them, on their side, and that they’re someone that you can trust. Now people who get this right, they tend to close more clients and they tend to gain more referrals or recommendations to other clients. And when I used to run my business, referrals was the largest source of new clients. Every single year, all the other different marketing streams, they didn’t produce anything near referrals. And I think back to that, if you look back to the kind of retirement example, if you can really get an answer to that question of, you wake up at 3:00 AM, what’s on your mind, what’s up when you’re getting back to sleep? If you can uncover that and solve that, for a client, it’s far easier to articulate that to a friend than it is for them to explain the technicalities of what you did with their retirement savings. But it’s easier to articulate, “You should absolutely go and see James. We were worried about whether we’re saving enough, he solved that, it’s brilliant, you need to go and see him.” That’s what I mean, is that they’re able to articulate the emotional outcome. Mindy Diamond: Even though what we’re talking about here is someone making the case that strengthening one’s emotional intelligence will make you a better advisor, easier to say that, sounds logical. But you’re connecting it to, you’re saying that someone who actually gets this right, gets it better, is going to create more of an instant rapport rooted in trust, and likely grow their business because it makes them more referable. And those are things that certainly every young advisor wants, but every advisor wants. So, let me switch the tables a second. I get why a young advisor with 100 million wants to get to a billion, why this is really important. They want to do everything they can to really make themselves the most referable. But let’s take the advisor that’s on the back nine that has been doing this 30 years, manages a billion and a half of pounds, dollars in assets under management, is growing by referrals and it’s an organic referral stream. It’s a business that feeds itself. So, while everybody always needs to be in business development mode, they feel like they’ve cracked the code, they’ve got it covered. How and why does this concept impact a senior advisor, someone with a much bigger, more robust book of business? James Woodfall: Yeah, it’s interesting. So if we take a bit of a step back and look at a bit about what some of the research says about the impacts of emotional intelligence, there have been some studies done within financial services about the impact of your training on business outcomes. So there was a study done probably around about between 2000 and 2004 with Ameriprise, and they brought their agents through a year-long emotional intelligence development program. And it was interesting, they measured at the beginning of the program EQ, what someone’s EQ score was, but they measured things like health, anger, trade anger. So, how often were people experiencing anger, stress, and burnout. So they’re measuring all sorts of things other than EQ just to see what the impact of EQ training was. Now EQ scores went up, sales went up, I think on average of about 24% across four cohorts. But things like stress, burnout, health outcomes, perceived health outcomes, people are asked to rate, how would you rate your health, that went up. Experience of anger went down because people become better at managing it. So as you look at the kind of example that you described, I would say that as someone who’s in that stage of the career where they may not have the capacity to take on more clients. So just think, well, actually, I don’t want an uplift of 20%, 24% in sales because I might not process that. But one of the things which I suppose the EI research shows actually is that it impacts your quality of life. And there is finding which is quite common in research, is that actually EI scores correlate with age. So as we go through life and we have sort of ups, downs, highs, lows, and we learn from those. We learn from our emotional experience, and that’s hypothesis, is it feeds into our EQ score. So you’ve probably got people at that later stage of their career who actually probably have had experience which has developed their emotional intelligence. They’ve got mature standing, which means that they might not necessarily need to go out and find new clients. They’ve got experience, which has helped them develop client relationships, but they might want to take a step back at quality of life. If they’re experiencing stress, burnout, pressure, EQ can help absolutely with all of those. The other thing which is quite common as well is that if they’re playing any sort of leadership part within that business now, let’s say if they’re a business owner, EQ absolutely is key for leadership performance. So making sure that you’re building a team of people around you, you can help you develop the business. And actually, EI and leadership’s one of the biggest areas where research has been focused. But I think one of the other things I’ve got to say is that we’ve all got blind spots. It doesn’t matter where we are in life, we’ve all got things that I suppose that we could be better at. And actually shining a lens on those and improving our self-awareness is something that you can develop at all stages. Mindy Diamond: A lot of people in our industry, whether it be a recruiter or an advisor themselves, believe that efficiency or being most effective and efficient is the true north. And that to ask what may fee like unnecessary or ancillary questions that don’t directly get to help me to figure out what your asset allocation is so that I can grow your portfolio, may feel ancillary. And so, is that one of the most common objections you get when somebody, say, comes to you and they’re thinking about retaining you and they’re wondering what the benefit is? James Woodfall: Well, I think the people in firms I tend to talk to, there’s a couple of common things that are coming to mind now. One is pressure around fees. So, how can I make sure I’m articulating my value in a time where clients are more informed, they can go on AI and they come to meetings prepared with answers, and they’re challenging back around the value that advisors can provide. So getting back, I suppose, and the answer is funnily enough, is actually if you’ve designed your service around a proposition which makes yourself easy to replace by someone else who can do it for the same or cheaper price with a promise of better performance, or even in the years coming, a robo-advisor, it’s going to be challenging to retain and grow clients. But I’m not particularly worried about AI. The other types of firms that come to me is to say, “Look, we’ve identified actually that we need to think differently about our business model, what we do and who we serve, because it’s going to be easier than it’s ever been for clients to come up to do some of these things themselves.” But absolutely what is untouchable, I think, is this ability to create a human connection, to sit down and discuss a range of different options. “Do I do X, do I do Y? What are the trade-offs if I choose that over that?” And to uncover those things which, as I said, really keep people up at night and solve for them. I think it’s going to be quite hard to replicate that digitally. Mindy Diamond: So I want to get to a end that you hit the nail on the head, and I want to delve deeper into it. Whatever the advisor is looking for, they may not worry about pressure around fees, they may not be kept up at night. They have a practice or a business that’s worked well all these years and is growing organically and it’s more than good enough. But anybody who isn’t concerned about the potential impact of AI on their business and whether they’re a financial advisor or recruiter or anybody else, is living under a rock. So, the goal for everyone should be to make yourself untouchable. And you hit it on the head, it’s the ability to create human connection. So, I want to ask you something. It occurs to me, you talk a lot about learning to ask the right questions. In some cases, the questions that a client never been asked before makes sense to me. But I think the real skill, I mean, I imagine anybody can teach you a list of questions to ask. The real skill comes in is knowing what to do with that information. So, let’s assume that someone says an advisor says you ask that smart question, “What keeps you up at night? What do you think about at 3:00 AM?” Pressure around fees. I find people, clients asking me, prospects asking me all the time what sort of value I can add, whether it be in the land of AI or competitively, whatever it is, pressure around fees. What do you do? So you’ve asked the smart question, but what do you teach? What do you do with that information? James Woodfall: It’s a mindset, I think, because having just say a list of questions I don’t think is really helpful to any advisor when you’re training them. And yet I find I do get people who, okay, say, “Well, look, what questions should we ask? Have you got a list of questions that you would ask?” I hold back giving those out because I think that, well, that’s what I would say. It’s not necessarily going to land the same way if you say it. The mindset I’m trying to teach advisor is to adopt a curious mindset. So not asking questions for question’s sake, but if I’m talking to someone, what I want to do is I want to understand, how are you thinking? How do you see the problem? What assumptions are you making? What things do you believe which maybe don’t line up with how things are in reality, or goals, objectives, or whatever it is. So I’m trying to understand how you think, and that requires not asking questions off a list of great questions to ask, comes off of understanding the format for that, is utilizing the open questions to gather information, to check assumptions that might sit behind them, because actually understanding those assumptions is really, really useful. And to then summarize and play back to someone that you’re talking to so that you can demonstrate that you’re listening and you deeply understand them, and being able to summarize and be able to succinctly put their words into a, “Well, what do we do next about this?” Mindy Diamond: Yeah, and, why does it matter? I love that because what I always say is it’s art, not science. AI could give you a list of, if I put in the topic of emotional intelligence and give me a list of 10 smart questions to ask relative to X. One of the questions I would ask someone from an emotional perspective that demonstrates I have strong emotional perspective relative to pressure around fees, AI could spit out the questions. But I think you’re 100% right. The real key is being a good listener and meeting someone where they are. And it’s not about a prescribed or canned list of questions that demonstrate you have strong emotional intelligence. It’s much more about asking the right next question, saying the right thing, the validating statement afterwards. And not as a means to an end, not as a means to a transaction, not as just a way of checking the box, I have emotional intelligence, but really because demonstrating that you deeply care. And I like what you said, the notion of a changed mindset. Do people get that right away? I guess what I’m asking is, financial advisors, while smart ones who are looking to make themselves untouchable by AI will get that concept. They’re looking to differentiate themselves and they’re looking to hone the skills that AI can’t bring to the table. But at the same time, financial advisors are number oriented and goal oriented. And so, how long does it typically take to begin to see, or how do you paint the picture about getting from here to there, connecting the dots between strengthening changing your mindset, strengthening your emotional intelligence, and seeing more results? James Woodfall: Well, look, it’s about behavior change, isn’t it? Like any kind of behavior change, there has to be a few things at play. One is that you have to have a good understanding of where you are right now, what things that you are good at, but what things you need to work on. And then effectively the things you need to work on, you need a plan of how you’re going to work on them. So I think commonly how you develop these kind of relational skills is that you need to be able to get close to, what does the goal look like? Where am I headed? If I get this right, what’s it going to look like? And then you need to have a plan to get from A to B. And actually part of that plan has to be built around good feedback. And I was quite lucky where during my career, I worked for two large banks before I started my firm. And I had really, really good training from managers that I worked with, almost on a monthly basis would come and sit in my client meetings and then feedback to me about what I could have done better. And so actually, if you’re going to really commit to developing, I suppose relational skills and becoming more emotionally intelligent, you need help from someone within your firm or externally to come in and actually observe you by trying out new things and giving you feedback. Now of course, you could do some of that yourself if you’re doing a virtual meeting, you could hit record, play it back, be your own analyst. But quite often we can’t see that ourselves, but if you’ve got say a third party, they can watch you in action. Quite quickly they can hone in and say, “Well, actually, you could have asked a different question here, or actually if you’d phrased that like this, you might’ve got a bit more information, or the client closed down when you ask that question.” So actually then, you start to create that behavior change. So feedback I think is one thing, but actually aligning it with really, values, I think. So, one of the things that I suppose is quite important for behavior change is that we are motivated to do things where we strongly believe it’s the right thing to do. So, I think which is why it can be quite difficult for a firm to bring in with a team of advisors and say, “Well, we’re going to roll out emotional intelligence training,” because you’ll get some of us go, “This is brilliant.” Mindy Diamond: Eye roll. I would imagine eye roll is the… It can be a lot of the response, right? James Woodfall: You get a lot of resistance, because some people see it as a criticism of just saying, “Well, actually I’m good at that. I don’t need training in that, thank you very much.” Mindy Diamond: And because if efficiency in getting to a goal is the true north, I mean, I think the mindset shift you’re talking about is going from believing that getting to the goal by just asking the right numbers and dealing in data, changing that from it’s about building a relationship, which ultimately will impact the amount you manage and how you grow and how you connect and all of that stuff. But for people that are goal-oriented, linear in their thinking, I imagine this can be not just felt as a criticism but hard to embrace. James Woodfall: Oh, yeah, no. I think we view the brain as kind of a black box. I do get people I speak to, they go, “Mental health isn’t real. And all of this is psychobabble,” but from the people that I’ve had feedback from, and this is even for people I haven’t trained. I wrote a book about 18 months ago about the topic which talks about emotion intelligence within the 5X context. I’ve had people contact me on LinkedIn and say, “Look, I read your book. I’ve been following your content for a while. I’ve put some of the ideas to work, and I’m now getting my manager and their manager contact me and saying, ‘What are you doing differently?’” Because all of a sudden they’re opening up conversations with clients that they couldn’t before, doing business with clients where they couldn’t before. And all it is that this kind of focus on the client, the relationship, building that connection, and all of a sudden you start seeing that convert into more sales opportunities. Mindy Diamond: Yes and more yes, because that’s always been our philosophy, my philosophy from starting the business and our philosophy, and I couldn’t agree with you more. You articulated it probably as did, I got to it instinctively. You have research behind it, etc. By the way, for our listeners, we will link your book in the notes for this episode if anybody’s interested in buying it. But you hit the nail on the head, so, or you took the words out of my mouth in terms of next question. Who are your clients? Are they individual advisors? Are they independent RIAs? Are they Morgan Stanley and Merrill Lynch? And what kind of work do you do for them? James Woodfall: So, I do, there’s probably two parts to my business. One is the consulting training part, which is going into firms, typically firms that were the owner managed typically, where the owner either is still advising or has a big impact on other behaviors of the advice team that’s underneath them. And really, I work on a consultancy basis. So rather than going and just provide EI training, what I do is effectively start with understanding the business. So exactly as I’ve been talking to you about, the process I used to follow as an advisor, it’s the same process I follow when I’m working with practices, is I want to find out what’s going well in the business. Where are the blockers, what’s not going so well? And I’m a social science researcher. So I’d want to spend some time in the business actually doing a bit of a deep dive and maybe speaking to the team while the owner’s not in the room and finding out a bit about how they’re seeing things. Because ultimately, what that will do is it allows me to look at thematically extracting what types of training interventions might move the needle within the business. And then I put that onto a report for businesses and say, “Look, this is what I think we should be doing.” Some of that might be me working one-to-one, doing that coaching, observing, training with particular people in the business who have been highlighted as requiring development, or it might be group training, might be taking the whole teams through a training program. And then following up, helping build those development plans, and then being there supporting with the one-to-ones as they bed in that behavior change. So, that’s one part of the business. The other part of the business is working for the larger firms. I’ve done a bit of work for Fidelity this year and last year, and they’re looking to hire me as an authority expert on the topic to put together training programs that go out to the advisors that they work with. So, there’s the two aspects, like an external speaker trainer that’s brought in by some of the larger companies. And then the other one is a bit more hands-on, applying not only the science but my experience of having been there and run a business. Mindy Diamond: Right. So are the big firms like… So you mentioned Fidelity, are the wirehouses, Merrill, Morgan, UBS, Wells Fargo, are they embracing this? Are the big banks embracing it, or is this largely in the RIA space right now? James Woodfall: In the UK, there’s been a huge kind of interest in emotional intelligence, behavioral finance, relational skills. And actually, a lot of the kind of people who require influential in the UK are actually based in the US. And so, I think there’s a good bit of crossover. We’ve got good people who are specialists in looking at the retirement piece from a retirement transition about, how do you support people through what is a profound psychological transition? So, I think the RIAs are really interested in it as a topic. Then we’ve got the larger institutions are interested in it either as the RIAs are clients of theirs and they want to be seen to providing thought leadership to the RIAs and helping them develop these skills. But also, we’ve got some quite large companies in the UK now here, like the banks, for example, the banks or the whole exited the advice market in around about 2012, 2013, and then this year they’re starting to come back. So they’ve had 15 years nearly out of the market and they’re coming back because they’re just wanting an opportunity for face-to-face advice. So, I think actually it’s a hot topic now and I think all segments of the market are looking at, how do they develop non-technical skills to help them succeed in the future? Mindy Diamond: Can someone who was not born with strong EQ, can they learn this? James Woodfall: Absolutely. One of the interesting things about EQ is it’s not like IQ, for example. IQ is our a sort of cognitive ability. There was some good research that was done probably about, I think 2016, which looked at, do you remember all this sort of brain training apps like, if you do Sudoku, do you get smarter? You get better at Sudoku, but it doesn’t translate into performance on another. You don’t get better at crosswords from doing Sudoku, for example. So, IQs are pretty much fixed and there’s not a lot we can do about that. But EQ has been shown to be a trainable ability. So regardless of where you are now, if you understand your strengths and weaknesses and put a plan together for improvement, everyone has the ability to improve their EQ. And it’s not like personality, for example, where it’s quite hard to shift the dial. Let’s say if you’re quite strongly introverted and you find social situations difficult, if you just took that approach and said, “Well, look, can we make you extremely extroverted?” The answer would be, well, probably not. But EQ absolutely helps that person because noticing that you feel uncomfortable in, say, a networking situation if you have to do that professionally, having the tools in the bag to manage that feeling and throw yourself into the experience, that’s EQ in action. So, it doesn’t matter your baseline of where you are, EQ can have a big impact on your ability to perform across a range of different contexts, home, work, with friends. Mindy Diamond: Yeah. Let’s talk about your comment that EQ or strong emotional intelligence is what can make an advisor untouchable by AI. And I assume the premise being that, I can’t replace a human relationship. It may be able to come up with the questions, but at least for today it lacks the ability to know what to do with that information and to create the human connection. Talk to me more about that. How and why is that? I mean, is that part of why people are coming to you, because they’re worried about AI encroaching on their business? James Woodfall: Where we are at the moment is actually AI… Let’s look at healthcare for a second. Chatbots in healthcare have actually been outperforming humans in some respects. So there’s a type of therapy called cognitive behavior therapy, that’s been run with AI agents and patients. And as researchers to show that actually, disclosure has increased when patients are speaking to a chatbot because cognitive behavior therapy is like it’s guided, is a method, it’s a methodology to it. But disclosure increases and this theory behind that is is that people open up more when they don’t feel like they’re being judged by another person. So that’s interesting, because that saying to us, “Well, actually, people are trusting AI agents with very, very personal information, and people are already getting that feeling of empathy with AI agents.” Because if you tell an AI agent something deeply personal and it says, “That must have been really difficult for you,” for example. Mindy Diamond: Yeah, it does that well. Wonderful feedback about how great you are or what a smart question you just asked. James Woodfall: Yeah, but it’s synthetic, it’s not real empathy, it’s synthetic empathy. Whilst we might feel actually we get that feeling that we’re being understood, it’s not real. And I think the advisor’s edge is, look, I think where we might end up with this is that if you take a step back and you do this kind of exercise of what’s my ideal client, the ideal client is, I think, now is someone who is still time poor. So yes, an AI agent might be able to interview you, build a financial plan, but do you really want to spend the time doing that or do you have any inclination to do that? No. Well, that’s a perfect client who would hire an advisor. They value human relationships. Obviously when we do get AI entering the advisor market, it’s going to be at a lower price point. So actually, we’re now talking about a difference between experience. So the experience of being with an advisor comes at a premium. So that experience is going to be what people are going to pay additional value for. So, it’s the experience of dealing with a human. It’s the experience of dealing with a human who can talk them through complex information and options, help them understand their thinking and apply judgment, connect with those emotional things. But there’s a whole range of information that we get when we’re talking face-to-face, which AI doesn’t have access to. So back to that retirement example, if we say, “Well, man, I’ve modeled your plan. If we do X, Y, and Z, you’re not going to run out of money when you retire. You’re going to be okay.” And then the person, usually what they do is they sigh with relief, which is actually the emotion of joy, relief is actually happiness. So that sigh of relief and the softening of muscle tension in the body that you see when you’re face-to-face with another person, AI can’t, doesn’t get that data. Mindy Diamond: And how powerful is that? So, why does that matter? If I say, “I have X, I need Y. I have X number of years until I retire. Will I have enough money to retire the way I want to?” AI can spit that answer out faster than any financial advisor and come back hopefully saying, “Yes,” they’ll know that I will experience relief and joy because I’ll write back saying, “Great news.” It’ll say, “Yes, that is fabulous news.” It’ll tell me why I’m relieved and all that sort of stuff. So, why does that matter? James Woodfall: I think fundamentally, it comes back to trust. For those people who can get that quick answer, they’ll go, “Yeah, that’s great.” But there’ll be some people who go, “Yeah, fine. I’ll take that answer at face value.” There’ll be other people who go, “Well, what if you made a mistake?” Quite interesting that actually, people will get the same answer from a human advisor and they’ll trust it more. And I think one of those things is because we’re wired for connection, so when empathy develops, it’s quite interesting. Something which you see in young children, for example, is when we develop at the very early stage, probably about three or four years old, before children have learned to self-regulate their emotions, you see emotional contagion in groups of children happen quite rapidly. You get one child who say gets a toy taken away from them and starts crying, and then all the other children at the same age in the nursery start crying. Now, none of those other ones are crying because they’re sad. They’re crying because we have these things called mirror neurons, which means we pick up and mirror the emotional state of people around us. So, you actually get an experience of shared feeling and especially if you’ve got strong rapport, strong relationship, you actually share emotions of the people around you. Now, of course, as we grow out of that developmental stage, we learn this ability to understand that actually what we’re feeling isn’t happening to us, it’s happening to someone else. But have you ever been around… My favorite example for this is, if my wife has had a bad day at work because she comes home and starts slamming the door and banging cupboards, why I start to feel anger, because it’s rubbing off, it’s in the room. So, it’s this shared understanding that I think is where the value is. And so absolutely the answer might be faster and quicker, but for some clients they value that experience of having that answer delivered by someone who understands them. Mindy Diamond: And I think, so the point is that there will be clients or prospects that will value the efficiency of AI, that don’t necessarily need the face-to-face, that don’t necessarily… They just want the answer. They want the answers to the test, they don’t care how you got there. But what you’re talking about is finding the clients that really value the human connection. And if that’s what in fact is going to make advisors untouchable, then they need to make sure that they really strengthen this skill. James Woodfall: It’s not just the answer, but it’s the whole experience that’s wrapped around that. So actually last year, and my wife took me to a restaurant and we had a lovely, lovely meal. And on the menu there was this cup of coffee and the beans were like one of the rarest beans in the world. They’re the ones that get eaten by this little animal with the jungle in it, poops them out, and then the beans get roasted. But it was about 40 pounds for this cup of coffee and I thought, well, I’m going to have that. But that’s the experience, isn’t it? I could get a cup of coffee at McDonald’s, but actually the experience of this, something which is rare, exclusive, delivered in an amazing environment, that’s what you’re paying for. So, you’ve got to remember that actually if experience dictates a lot of what we value as well. So because if all of our decisions were made on price, Ferrari wouldn’t have a business because everyone would just be buying the cheapest car that does the job. You’re going to think advisors that are going to operating in this space, well, they need to think about the whole package, as in the experience that the plan that’s delivered, and the advice. Mindy Diamond: But it speaks to the notion of any advisor that isn’t thinking about AI’s impact on his business and how to reshape or rewire the business, even just rewiring the value proposition, retooling their value proposition, how they explain their value and what they do needs to change because they’re competing not only with the advisor that sits next to them or down the hall, but they’re competing with AI. How about as AI, as you see AI develop? So fast-forward five years, you and I are talking about where AI is today, but AI is, God knows where it’ll be five years from now. So, how do you foresee, do you still foresee the advisor being untouchable if they get this right, five or 10 years from now? James Woodfall: I don’t think it’s financial advice that’s unique with this, because I think it’s any profession where at the moment human judgment and understanding are valued. Healthcare, for example, same thing, doctors follow consultancy process. You’ve got this like tax, legal, a whole range of professions which are all grappling on the same problem. So I think in five years time, I think the answer is, is that we just don’t know what AI will look like. But certainly in the moment, if you track what Claude are doing with code work, and what Perplexity is doing with its skills and add-ons, a lot of it is actually at the moment geared up to freeing up the advisor’s time so that they can spend more time with clients. So, I think at the moment this sort of trend is looking like AI companies want to support advisors to be way more efficient so that they can deal with more clients. But in five years time, who knows? I think probably one of the biggest leaps that will happen is when AI is no longer working from, say, just a transcript. If it gets out to that kind of chat where you can actually interact with an AI agent like you and I are talking, I think that’s going to provide a different experience, because then you’re moving it from, as I said, that kind of structure where somebody is stuck there tapping away at keyboard, having a conversation with a chatbot, effectively, to actually having a conversation with an embodied agent with a face, gestures, a voice. That I think will start to change things a little bit. Mindy Diamond: Yeah. Well, it will be an interesting future, for sure. This has been a fascinating conversation. I really enjoyed it, and thank you so much for sharing so graciously. Is there anything to wrap up that I didn’t ask you, that you would want an advisor to know about this concept or anything you’re thinking about? James Woodfall: I think we’ve taken a broad sweep and then a deep dive into certain areas. I think really probably have to get started. I think probably one of the… I mean, you mentioned obviously I’ve got a book that you share the links to, which is fantastic. Audiobook is available to that as well on Spotify or wherever audiobooks are listed. I think there’s a lot of good advice in that about how to get started. So, I think for people who are looking at covering that next step of, what do we do, it’d be, yeah, pick up a book and have a bit of a deep dive. If you want to skip the book and come straight to having a conversation with me, then I write a weekly email, which goes out once a week, which is just one topic. So very much like we’ve been talking today, I share ideas on that once a week, or on LinkedIn, I’m around on LinkedIn as well. Mindy Diamond: Good. Well, we will link all of it so everyone knows how to find you. Thank you again for being so gracious. Love the topic, love the work that you’re doing, love that there’s a need for it, and can’t wait to see where you go from here. James Woodfall: Brilliant. No, I enjoyed it. Thank you. Mindy Diamond: Thank you. As a financial advisor, you hold yourself to the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and credibility. You are successful because you take your professional responsibility seriously, and are dedicated to your clients. But are you living your best business life? Are your goals aligned with your firms or could a better option exist? Should I Stay or Should I Go? Is a book written with you in mind? It’s a self-guided journey that walks you through the key steps that we take with our advisor clients. This strategic thought process and roadmap to professional self-discovery is designed to help you ask the right questions and think critically and objectively, whether you’re considering change or not. Learn how to get your copy at diamond-consultants.com/thebook. Emotional Intelligence: The “Untouchable” Differentiator in an AI World A conversation with Mindy Diamond and James Woodfall, Communication and Behavior Specialist at Raise Your EI.      Mindy Diamond: Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast series for financial advisors. Today’s episode is Emotional Intelligence: The “Untouchable” Differentiator in an AI World. It’s a conversation with James Woodfall, Communication and Behavior Specialist from Raise Your EI. I’m Mindy Diamond, and this is the Diamond Podcast for Financial Advisors. At Diamond Consultants, we help elite advisors identify the right environment for their businesses to thrive, whether that’s at a wirehouse, boutique, or independent firm. With nearly three decades of experience, we’ve guided thousands of advisors and represented more than a quarter of a trillion dollars in assets transitioned. And each year, one in four advisors managing a billion dollars or more who change firms are our clients. Our process is education driven and based on building relationships, starting as your strategic partner well before you’re even thinking of a move. To schedule a confidential conversation, call us at (908) 879-1002. Wondering why advisors change firms and where they’re headed? Are transition deals going up or down? Those very questions and more inspired us to create our Annual Advisor Transition Report. It’s the award-winning, data-driven resource designed for advisors that connects the dots between the motivations around movement and the firm’s appetite for top talent. Arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make smart decisions. Download your copy at diamond-consultants.com/transitionreport. For years, advisors have competed on expertise, the ability to solve problems, deliver answers, and provide guidance clients couldn’t easily find on their own. But today, those answers are becoming easier to access via artificial intelligence and tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity. AI can generate planning ideas, summarize complex topics, and answer questions in seconds. As the technology continues to improve, it raises an important question. If information becomes increasingly commoditized, what will clients continue to value most? My guest today, James Woodfall, is the Founder of the training firm, Raise Your EI, and a former wealth management business owner. James now helps advisors, leaders, and organizations strengthen the communication and behavioral skills that drive trust, influence, and performance. Skills rooted in emotional intelligence or EI, something that AI cannot authentically replicate. What’s interesting about James’s perspective is that he doesn’t view emotional intelligence as a soft skill. He views it as a business skill, one that impacts how advisors build rapport, earn referrals, lead teams, deepen client relationships, and ultimately differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive marketplace that includes human and machine-driven advice. Our conversation explores why rapport is the foundation of trust, how emotional intelligence can be developed like any other professional skill, and why advis

Emotional intelligence isn't something you're born with—it's a skill you can strengthen, and it has the power to transform your relationships, your confidence, and your overall well-being. In this episode, we're unpacking what high EQ really looks like (hint: it's probably different than you think) and sharing the key markers of emotional maturity that help people thrive at work, at home, and within themselves.Join us as we explore practical ways to become more self-aware, regulate emotions, communicate with greater clarity, and navigate relationships with more compassion and confidence. Whether you're looking to grow personally or strengthen your connections with others, this conversation will leave you with plenty to reflect on—without giving away all the insights before you hit play.Episode Highlights[0:00] – Why emotional intelligence matters more than ever in midlife.[1:25] – What EQ really is—and the common misconceptions people have about it.[5:44] – The difference between sensing something is wrong and assuming you know why.[8:58] – Learning to recognize, name, and express emotions in healthy ways.[13:54] – Self-compassion, emotional regulation, and why feeling your emotions matters.[17:00] – Understanding your needs and learning to ask for them.[20:10] – Conflict, repair, and why emotionally healthy relationships can handle hard conversations.[24:52] – Receiving feedback without shame or defensiveness.[28:54] – Why your words, body language, and emotions need to align.[30:38] – Emotional intelligence is built through intentional practice—not just age.If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here's to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

The most common reason people hold back from teaching mindfulness isn't lack of talent, it's that quiet thought: “I'm not good enough to lead this.” We sit down with Buddhist meditation teacher and author Lodro Rinzler to get honest about imposter syndrome, self doubt, and the pressure to be “perfect” before you help anyone else.We talk about what responsible teaching actually looks like: doing real practice, learning the terrain, and finding your own authentic voice instead of copying someone else's script. Lodro shares a powerful reframing: doubt may keep showing up, but you can choose whether it gets to drive. That idea lands not only for meditation teachers, but for writers, parents, and anyone building something meaningful while feeling exposed.From there, we explore shame, guilt, and the Buddhist lens on Hiri and Ottappa, including how “positive shame” can become wise regret that helps you change without crushing your spirit. Finally, we step into a bigger question that many listeners wrestle with right now: how to relate to harm, polarisation, and the concept of evil without giving up on basic goodness or losing your backbone.If you care about meditation, compassion, and staying human in a divided world, this conversation will meet you where you are and still challenge you. Subscribe for more, share this with someone who's doubting themselves, and leave a review so more people can find the show. What part of the conversation do you want to practice this week?BECOME A CERTIFIED MINDFULNESS MEDITATION TEACHER Teach mindfulness with confidence and skill — without self-doubt, fear of judgment, or imposter syndrome. Our internationally accredited certification is for therapists, coaches, yoga teachers, educators, and helping professionals. Accredited by the IMMA and CPD; endorsed by Gabor Maté and Rick Hanson. → https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certification/NEW HERE? START FREE Explore 3,000+ free guided meditations, scripts, and worksheets — for your own practice or to share with the people you teach. → https://mindfulnessexercises.com/free-mindfulness-exercises/ENJOYING THE PODCAST? Follow the show in your favorite app and leave a quick rating or review. It takes a moment, and it genuinely helps more teachers and practitioners find these conversations.———————————————————————————ABOUT THE SHOWMindfulness Exercises with Sean Fargo is a practical, grounded mindfulness podcast for people who want meditation to actually help in real life.Hosted by Sean Fargo — a former Buddhist monk, mindfulness teacher, and founder of MindfulnessExercises.com — the show explores how mindfulness can support mental health, emotional regulation, trauma sensitivity, chronic pain, leadership, creativity, and meaningful work.Each episode offers a mix o...

In this episode from the archives, Tammy is joined by Nimesh Mehta. Nimesh is the Chief Information and Strategy Officer at National Life Group and is passionate about creating human experiences with AI — music to our ears! Tammy and Nimesh discuss how to implement digital transformations with empathy and purpose. Nimesh also shares his thoughts on why psychological safety is so important at organizations working at the forefront of technological change, because disruption can't happen in the presence of fear.Please note that the views expressed may not necessarily be those of NTT DATA.Links:The Trusted Advisor Learn more about Launch by NTT DATAThis podcast is presented by Catalyst, the opinions and views expressed are those of the host and participants and do not necessarily reflect National Life Group's views on the topics discussed. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy a security in any state where such offer or solicitation would be illegal. Any unauthorized use is prohibited. National Life Group is a trade name of National Life Insurance Company (NLIC), Montpelier, VT and its affiliates. This podcast was recorded on 2/21/2025. TC7784363(0325)3See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Some of the most important conversations in life are the ones we keep putting off.Whether it's with a spouse, a parent, a sibling, a friend, or someone at work, avoiding difficult conversations often feels safer than having them. But what if those conversations are actually the foundation of the legacy you're building?In Episode 201 of the Decide Your Legacy podcast, Adam Gragg explores why we naturally avoid hard conversations, what psychology teaches us about those fears, and how greater clarity leads to greater confidence. Through personal stories, practical coaching insights, and real life examples, you'll discover simple ways to start meaningful conversations that strengthen relationships instead of damaging them.In this episode you'll learn:• Why most difficult conversations are less painful than we imagine• The two biggest fears that keep us silent• Why peace doesn't always mean the absence of conflict• How clarity creates confidence before a hard conversation• Three simple ways to start meaningful conversations with anyone• How AI can help you prepare for important conversations without replacing them• Practical tools to help you build deeper relationships and a lasting legacy22 Conversations Starters (post) by Adam GraggLegacy isn't something you leave behind someday. It's something you build every day through honest conversations with the people who matter most.If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe for more conversations on courage, leadership, personal growth, and intentional living.

Episode Chapter Summaries Chapter 1: The One-Take Pro vs. The Strategic Option (00:00 – 04:28) Anne and Lau open the show with a live demonstration of a second vocal take, using the contrast to introduce the mechanics of audition submissions. Lau points out a frustrating trend in modern casting: talent who fail to read basic script directions. The bosses establish the baseline rules: if a spec specifies a take count, follow it explicitly. However, if the specs are silent, up to two takes is the generalized sweet spot. Lau addresses why some elite, seasoned pros refuse to submit more than one take, explaining that the bosses are choosing to lead with their definitive signature strength rather than forcing a weaker backup option. Chapter 2: The Pay-to-Play Dynamic & The Pizza Parlor Analogy (04:29 – 08:39) Anne highlights a massive operational difference that new talent overlook: submitting an audition to a vetted talent agent is completely different from submitting to an open marketplace or pay-to-play platform. Vetted agents listen to performances all day and can spot baseline acting technique instantly. On an open marketplace, however, you might be auditioning for a small pizza parlor owner who has zero casting experience and can't articulate what the bosses want. Anne and Lau explain why open platforms require talent to submit a secondary take to showcase their versatility, serving as a tactical safety net against poorly written casting specs. Chapter 3: The Danger of the Blind AI Market (08:40 – 10:24) Lau injects a sobering reality check into the conversation, highlighting the alarming rise of highly advanced, naturalistic text-to-speech models. She warns that on unvetted, lower-budget casting platforms, talent cannot even guarantee that the "client" or the competing files are human beings. Anne notes that while generative models are capturing a specific segment of the automated market, human actors retain the upper hand on projects that demand deep narrative comprehension and emotional subtext. Chapter 4: Script Editing & Protecting Your Labor (10:25 – 14:03) Anne outlines her exact tactical blueprint for handling long-format corporate or narrative copy on open casting sites. If a client provides a full two-minute script without specifying a take count, never record the entire script for multiple takes. Anne recommends recording the beginning section as Take One to establish a baseline. For Take Two, do not repeat the first paragraph; instead, cut to the middle or end of the script to highlight a completely different emotional arc or technical delivery. This approach showcases your artistic range while protecting your professional labor from being used without compensation. Chapter 5: The 5-Second Rule & Audition Commitment (14:04 – 16:16) The hosts tackle the widespread industry rumor that casting directors only listen to the first five seconds of an audio file. While five seconds is the standard timeline for initial screening and weeding out unvetted files, clients listen significantly longer once the bosses narrow their pile down to a shortlist. Anne warns talent to never drop their commitment or soften their acting choices after the opening sentence, explaining that a great performance must maintain structural logic and narrative focus through the very last word of the submission. Chapter 6: Nuance vs. Overt Pitch Shifting (16:17 – 20:34) Anne and Lau break down what a genuine vocal variation actually sounds like. Lau warns against the common beginner trap of changing your pitch or adopting a random regional accent for a second take. True variation is built entirely on subtext, relationship dynamics, and energetic shifts. Anne connects this directly to her upcoming presentation at VO Atlanta on Emotional Intelligence in Narration, explaining how changing your mental relationship to the listener—such as shifting from an authoritative corporate authority figure to an equal, peer-to-peer friend—naturally alters the breathing, rhythm, and melody of your voice without sounding forced. Chapter 7: The Alliteration of Longevity: Care, Create, and Change (20:35 – End) Lau delivers her definitive framework for vocal training: Care, Create, and Change. She challenges talent to probe their own motivations, asking themselves "Why am I saying this?" and "How can I make the listener care?" before they hit record. Anne and Lau conclude by reminding talent that a true creative professional focuses entirely on the value they can offer the client, rather than obsessing over personal validation or worrying about what a stranger thinks of their voice print. Top 10 Boss Takeaways Directions are your primary filter: No matter how incredible your vocal range is, failing to follow technical filename structures, take counts, or file formats in a casting spec will get you screened out instantly. Two takes is the universal sweet spot: If an audition notice is completely silent regarding the take count, provide two distinct, contrasting reads to maximize your opportunities. Only submit what you can master: If your secondary vocal option sounds rushed, messy, or structurally identical to your first take, do not include it. A casting director will instantly assume you lack self-direction. Marketplaces demand structural variation: Direct buyers on unvetted casting sites rarely understand vocal terminology. Use a secondary take to protect your business against inaccurate or confusing casting specs. Protect your long-format files: When auditioning with long narration or corporate scripts, never record the entire text for multiple takes. Read the opening for Take One, and select a compelling middle or closing section for Take Two. Commit through the final punctuation mark: While initial screening rounds are fast, decision-makers listen closely to your entire file once you make the shortlist. Maintain your psychological connection through the final second of the track. Ditch the basic pitch shift: Changing your pitch or forcing an artificial accent for a second take sounds gimmicky. Real variety is achieved by altering your internal subtext and changing your relationship to the listener. Map your target audience relationships: Treat your copy like a dynamic conversation. Shift your delivery by imagining different listeners: read once as a corporate consultant speaking to an executive, and read again as a peer offering advice. Build a personal toolkit of 10 tactics: Develop a reliable mental list of ten performance adjustments—such as altering your physical posture, shifting your internal energy, or adjusting your breathing pace—to execute variations quickly during live director sessions. Implement Lau's 3 Cs: Build your business foundation around three pillars: Care deeply about the text, Create a distinct, committed world for your characters, and be ready to Change your tactics on a dime when a client requests an adjustment.  

What if defiance is really dysregulation? In this episode I sit down with Alyssa Blask Campbell — New York Times bestselling author of Tiny Humans, Big Emotions, founder of Seed & Sow, and co-creator of the Collaborative Emotion Processing method — to talk about emotional intelligence, unique nervous systems, and why the behavior we find hardest is so often a child asking for support. When we see challenging behavior, we're usually looking at a nervous system that needs support — not a child who needs fixing. Alyssa breaks down the five components of emotional intelligence — self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, motivation, and social skills — and why every one of us develops them differently. She shares a fresh way to understand empathy, a powerful reframe around the word "autistic" and our own implicit biases, and why so much of supporting a dysregulated child starts with regulating ourselves first. We also get into her flagship free tool, the regulation questionnaire built alongside OTs, and the sensory shift that's helping schools cut behavior support calls by 60 percent — not by adding more tools, but by matching the right tool to the child in front of you. We'll talk about: the five components of emotional intelligence, and why we each develop them differently why regulation is never one-size-fits-all a fresh way to understand empathy: believing a feeling is true for the child the Collaborative Emotion Processing method, and why most of it is about us how implicit bias shapes the way we respond to an autism diagnosis the free regulation questionnaire, and the sensory shift that cut behavior calls by 60% In This Episode, You'll Learn The five components of emotional intelligence: self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, motivation, and social skills Why "the volcano" is such a powerful way to teach kids self-awareness Why regulation strategies have to match a child's unique nervous system A new definition of empathy — connecting over what a child feels, not why How implicit biases quietly shape what we expect of an autistic child Why supporting kids well starts with regulating ourselves first The difference between sensory-seeking and sensory-sensitive needs, and why the right tool matters How a free regulation questionnaire helps match the right support to the right child Why predictable routines are regulating and build a child's autonomy Key Takeaways Challenging behavior is often a dysregulated nervous system asking for support Every human has a unique nervous system — regulation is not one-size-fits-all We each develop the five components of emotional intelligence differently Empathy means believing a child's feeling is true, no matter the reason behind it The work starts with the adult: our self-awareness, our biases, our self-care The right sensory tool beats more tools — match the tool to the child Meeting sensory needs for everyone can dramatically reduce behavior support calls Predictability regulates the nervous system and supports autonomy Your reactivity isn't failure; it's dysregulation — and there's a path forward Try This Name the "volcano" with a child to build self-awareness before the explosion Ask what truly calms this nervous system instead of defaulting to deep breaths Practice empathy by believing the feeling, without judging the reason for it Notice the story or bias behind your own reaction to a behavior Map your own nervous system: what recharges you, and what drains you Offer a sensory tool to any child who needs it, not just to one labeled child Build in predictable routines and transition objects to ease the day Regulate yourself first, then return to the child with more capacity Related Resources & Links  Seed & Sow — free Regulation Questionnaire Tiny Humans, Big Emotions by Alyssa Blask Campbell Big Kids, Bigger Feelings by Alyssa Blask Campbell Preschool Autism Summit (July 2026) We all have a unique nervous system, and none of us regulate the same way. When we stop trying to manage behavior and start getting curious about the human in front of us — what's dysregulating, what's regulating, what support would actually help — everything softens. Behavior becomes communication, and our job becomes connection. That's good for our autistic learners, and it turns out it's good for every child in the room.

What if your desire to help is actually getting in someone else's way? You may think you're supporting, protecting, or guiding others, but sometimes your good intentions can unintentionally limit their growth, confidence, and sense of purpose. Drawing from a deeply personal experience with my father, I explore how helping can cross the line into rescuing, controlling, or satisfying our own need to be right. You'll discover why this lesson matters not only in your personal relationships but also in your role as a leader, where the urge to solve problems can prevent others from developing their own capabilities and strengths. I'm the co-founder and president of Grow Strong Leaders. We provide assessment and development systems that help leaders strengthen their character and communication skills so they can consistently live their values and sustain strong, high-trust cultures—especially under pressure. You'll discover:Why helping can sometimes feel controlling How rescuing prevents growth and confidence What your need to be right costs Why leaders should ask more questions The difference between support and interferenceConnect with Meredith on Social MediaLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredithmbellFacebook  https://www.facebook.com/MeredithMBellTwitter  https://x.com/meredithmbell Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/meredithmbell/Website Grow Strong Leaders  https://growstrongleaders.com/ BooksConnect with Your Team: Mastering the Top 10 Communication Skills: https://amzn.to/3jL0pEI  Grow Strong Character  https://tinyurl.com/3zwcanxa Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn

Jeff Dudan's free digital copy of his book What if the FBI's playbook for recruiting spies is actually the ultimate guide to building trust, closing deals, and leading people? In this episode, Jeff Dudan sits down with Robin Dreeke - former FBI behavioral expert and head of the Bureau's elite Behavioral Analysis Program - to break down the exact communication frameworks Robin developed over 22 years working in counterintelligence and spy recruitment. Robin shares his Four Keys of Communication from his book Unbreakable Alliances, explains why inspiration is more powerful than influence or persuasion, and reveals how game theory - starting with kindness - is the most effective negotiation strategy in the world. You'll also learn why resentment is the single most reliable signal that a relationship is failing, how to use 'what' questions to defuse defensiveness, and why pushing someone away in a negotiation is sometimes the fastest way to get them to say yes. Whether you're navigating a merger, managing a team, building a sales process, or just trying to connect more deeply with the people in your life, this conversation delivers a complete operating system for human relationships. Topics covered: • The Four Keys of Communication for building unbreakable alliances • Why manipulation fails and inspiration wins • Game theory: the tit-for-tat strategy that cooperation science proves works • How FBI spy recruiters build trust with hostile targets • The resentment test for healthy vs. unhealthy relationships • Why asking 'what' questions beats 'why' questions in negotiations • The neuroscience of trust: serotonin, oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins • How to build a personal brand as a problem solver and lighthouse • True crime behavioral analysis and what broken decision-making looks like • Career advice from a behavioral expert for aspiring leaders Homefront Brands: https://www.homefrontbrands.com  Jeff Dudan: https://www.jeffdudan.com Guest: Robin Dreeke Guest YouTube Guest Website: https://www.robindreeke.com/  Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rdreeke/  #FBI #NegotiationTips #LeadershipDevelopment #UnbreakableAlliances #RobinDreeke #CommunicationSkills #BuildingTrust #GameTheory #BehavioralScience #SalesStrategy Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jeff Dudan's free digital copy of his book What if the FBI's playbook for recruiting spies is actually the ultimate guide to building trust, closing deals, and leading people? In this episode, Jeff Dudan sits down with Robin Dreeke - former FBI behavioral expert and head of the Bureau's elite Behavioral Analysis Program - to break down the exact communication frameworks Robin developed over 22 years working in counterintelligence and spy recruitment. Robin shares his Four Keys of Communication from his book Unbreakable Alliances, explains why inspiration is more powerful than influence or persuasion, and reveals how game theory - starting with kindness - is the most effective negotiation strategy in the world. You'll also learn why resentment is the single most reliable signal that a relationship is failing, how to use 'what' questions to defuse defensiveness, and why pushing someone away in a negotiation is sometimes the fastest way to get them to say yes. Whether you're navigating a merger, managing a team, building a sales process, or just trying to connect more deeply with the people in your life, this conversation delivers a complete operating system for human relationships. Topics covered: • The Four Keys of Communication for building unbreakable alliances • Why manipulation fails and inspiration wins • Game theory: the tit-for-tat strategy that cooperation science proves works • How FBI spy recruiters build trust with hostile targets • The resentment test for healthy vs. unhealthy relationships • Why asking 'what' questions beats 'why' questions in negotiations • The neuroscience of trust: serotonin, oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins • How to build a personal brand as a problem solver and lighthouse • True crime behavioral analysis and what broken decision-making looks like • Career advice from a behavioral expert for aspiring leaders Homefront Brands: https://www.homefrontbrands.com  Jeff Dudan: https://www.jeffdudan.com Guest: Robin Dreeke Guest YouTube Guest Website: https://www.robindreeke.com/  Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rdreeke/  #FBI #NegotiationTips #LeadershipDevelopment #UnbreakableAlliances #RobinDreeke #CommunicationSkills #BuildingTrust #GameTheory #BehavioralScience #SalesStrategy Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Check Odoo Website Here:-https://www.odoo.com/r/wu8Check out BeerBiceps SkillHouse Courses Here - https://linktr.ee/bbskillhouseFor all BeerBiceps vlog content Watch Life Of BeerBiceps - https://www.youtube.com/@LifeOfBeerBicepsDownload my meditation and wellness app, Swa:aha.https://app.level.game/?c=zSbmYnShare your guest suggestions hereMail - connect@beerbiceps.comLink - https://forms.gle/aoMHY9EE3Cg3Tqdx9Follow BeerBiceps SkillHouse's Social Media Handles:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeerBicepsSkillHouseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beerbiceps_skillhouseWebsite : https://beerbicepsskillhouse.inFor any other queries EMAIL: support@beerbicepsskillhouse.comIn case of any payment-related issues, kindly write to support@tagmango.comFollow Jaya Kishori's Social Media Handles:-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjayakishori/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamjayakishori/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Iamjayakishori/In this 520th episode of The Ranveer Show, we are joined by a renowned spiritual speaker and storyteller Jaya Kishori for a deep conversation on faith, devotion, relationships, parenting, emotional resilience, and the timeless wisdom of Indian spirituality.In this conversation, we explore how life's challenges become opportunities for inner growth, the importance of unwavering faith in God, and profound lessons from the lives of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. We discuss spiritual loneliness, emotional intelligence, surrendering to the divine, choosing the right life partner, building stronger relationships, and how marriage and parenthood transform an individual's perspective on life.This podcast is a valuable resource for anyone interested in Spirituality, Hindu Philosophy, Bhakti, Self-Growth, Emotional Intelligence, Relationships, Parenting, Indian Culture, Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, and living a more meaningful life.00:00 - Introduction & Journey of the Last 3 Years04:58 - Are Problems a Test of Our Growth?07:17 - Lessons from Lord Ram12:58 - Spiritual Loneliness15:15 - Devotion: Surrendering to God18:26 - Marriage & Parenthood20:53 - Dealing with Negativity & Trolls30:53 - How to Choose the Right Life Partner33:26 - Respect & Understanding in Relationships35:55 - The Power of Women in Indian Culture48:25 - Childhood Lessons & EQ52:26 - A Positive Perspective on Men1:03:41 - Lord Krishna & Devotional Love1:08:43 - My Personal Experiences of God's Presence1:27:38 - Lessons from Lord Ram & Lord Krishna1:31:13 - Conclusion & Final Message

Healing Work WoundsYour job can break your heart without ever breaking a law, and that gap is where so many professional women get stuck. We sit down with Bree, an attorney turned founder of Executive Unschool and host of the podcast How Good Can It Get, to name what so many people feel but rarely say out loud: workplace harm leaves real wounds, and your nervous system doesn't forget them just because you switched companies. We unpack the legal career reality behind the prestige, including the associate grind, billable-hour pressure, partnership goalposts, and the golden handcuffs of student debt and status. Bree shares how motherhood, entrepreneurship, and major career pivots reshaped her view of ambition, identity, and what it means to be “successful” when you also want to be present at home. Then we get actionable with healing and work recovery. Bree walks us through her “work wounds” framework (burnout, bullying, bad behavior, betrayal), why betrayal can be the hardest to unwind, and how separating worth from work creates space for faith, joy, and better boundaries. We also talk nervous system regulation, micro recoveries throughout the day, breathwork for scattered minds, and designing seasonality into your year so you can create, recover, and show up with more clarity. If you're craving a career that loves you back, hit play, share this with a friend who needs a reset, and subscribe so you don't miss what's next. If you enjoy the conversation, leave a review and tell us: what would “enough” look like in your life right now?Resources Mentioned:How Good Can It Get PodcastConnect with Bree:Website: Executive UnschoolIG: @executiveunschool & @breejohnsonofficialLinkedIn: Bree JohnsonContact the Host, Kelly Kirk:Email: info.ryh7@gmail.comGet Connected/Follow:The Hue Drop Newsletter: Subscribe HereIG: @ryh_pod & @thekelly.tanke.kirkFacebook: Reclaiming Your Hue Facebook PageCAKES Affiliate Link: KELLYKIRKCredits:Editor: Joseph KirkMusic: Kristofer Tanke Thanks for listening & cheers to Reclaiming Your Hue! 

Informed Dissent with Dr. Jeff Barke – Children's music therapy reveals how healing begins when the body, mind, and spirit work together. Breath, movement, truth, and emotional awareness help calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and restore resilience. Real healing grows closer when people trust the intelligence God already built within them from the beginning...

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with leadership coach and somatic practitioner Naomi Scott about why so many high-performing entrepreneurs burn out — even after achieving success. Naomi explains how burnout isn't a willpower problem, but a nervous system problem, and why the same drive that helps founders succeed can actually prevent them from sustaining growth. We dive into the biology behind burnout, how childhood patterns show up in leadership, and what it really takes to build a business that doesn't destroy your health. If you've ever felt like you're winning on the outside but running on fumes internally, this episode will help you rewire how you operate and lead.

Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn this compelling episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we sit down with Dr. Ron Camacho, the Chief of Police with over three decades of experience in law enforcement. Dr. Camacho shares his transformative journey in leadership, emphasizing that true leadership begins from within. He reflects on his early career, the challenges of leading a diverse team, and the pivotal moment when he realized the importance of self-reflection and emotional intelligence in effective leadership.Listeners will gain insights into Dr. Camacho's evolution from a results-driven leader to one who values vulnerability and empathy. He discusses how therapy helped him confront his past and reshape his approach to leadership, ultimately fostering a culture of trust and accountability within his department.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Camacho highlights the significance of open dialogue and the need for leaders to remain lifelong learners. He also shares his upcoming project—a book titled *Bringing Ego to the Forefront*, which delves into the role of ego in leadership and offers practical tools for self-awareness and personal growth.What You'll Learn in This Episode:- The journey of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in leadership- How to balance tough decision-making with empathy- Warning signs that a leader's ego may be affecting their effectiveness- Strategies for creating a culture of accountability that empowers rather than punishes- Insights into Dr. Camacho's upcoming book and its focus on ego in leadershipFor more information on Dr. Ron Camacho and to keep up with his work, visit https://www.camachoconsulting.net  and connect with him on LinkedIn.Support the show

Are you outwardly “successful” but inwardly exhausted, conflicted, or unsure what your life is really about? Do you find yourself stuck between fear and possibility, wanting deeper purpose, better relationships, and more peace of mind, but not knowing how to get there? In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Bryan Blakeny explores the deeper drivers behind our behavior, particularly the two fundamental emotional currents Bryan sees at the root of nearly everything: love and fear. Bryan explains how negative emotions like anger, greed, and resentment are almost always fear-based, while qualities like generosity, humility, and joy emerge from love. Instead of treating emotions as random or chaotic, he lays out a more structured way of understanding them, like a “map” that helps you locate where you are and consciously move toward something healthier and more empowering.  Bryan shares how purpose operates on two levels: a personal, unique calling you design for your own life, and a larger, collective purpose that allows you to contribute to something greater than yourself. He and Robert talk about how clarity of vision, “outward-looking” contribution, and a horizon bigger than your own comfort can liberate your energy and pull you through difficult, long-term, and often thankless tasks, especially as an entrepreneur or leader. They also discuss the “seasons of life,” why many of us get stuck in survival mode, and how raising our awareness can help us shift from self-centered patterns into more connected, meaningful ways of living and working. Bryan also dives into entrepreneurship, asking hard questions about what we truly value: money, status, or the limited time and life we have to spend. Through thought experiments and reflection, he challenges listeners to realign their priorities so that business success doesn't come at the cost of fulfillment, relationships, or inner peace. He emphasizes the power of good questions, from yourself or from a coach, to expand consciousness, reset your perspective, and open up new possibilities when you feel stuck, uncertain, or burned out. https://youtu.be/aU0BGGacYcg?si=K2nrUHAPTW7yWZOs If you're navigating emotional pain, relationship conflict, identity questions, or a major life or business transition, Bryan outlines what working with him looks like, from a low-pressure, short introductory call or text-based consult to deeper coaching rooted in the principles from his book “Top Secret: Declassifying the Meaning of Life, the Nine Keys, and Top Secret: Declassifying the Meaning of Life 2nd Edition: Empowering wisdom and true happiness in this life and beyond.” Along the way, he offers a powerful metaphor of life as a giant quilt: messy and tangled on the back side, but potentially beautiful and coherent when viewed from the other side of the journey. This episode is ideal for entrepreneurs, professionals, and growth-minded listeners who feel a gap between their external success and their internal state. If you've ever felt driven yet emotionally exhausted, purposeful yet confused, or stuck in patterns you can't fully explain, Bryan's blend of emotional intelligence, spiritual insight, and practical counseling may help you reframe your struggles, rediscover your purpose, and move from fear to love, both in business and in life. Quotes: “Purpose looks like clarity of vision; it's a liberating, uplifting energy and a contribution greater than ourselves that turns us outward rather than confined to our own selves.” “Healing is a lot harder outside of relationship. We're social creatures, and our deepest healing often happens when we stay connected enough to work through the pain together.” “At the core for human beings is how things occur to us; when we can share that and truly listen, we can deconstruct our old meanings and reconstruct new ones that unite and heal us both.” Contact Details: Explore Bryan Blakeny's Official Website

What you'll learn in this episode: ● Why emotional regulation is one of the most important skills for entrepreneurs ● How emotional intelligence improves leadership and decision-making ● The hidden connection between burnout, stress, and high achievement ● Why successful people can still feel unhappy despite reaching their goals ● How childhood experiences influence business and personal relationships ● The difference between reacting emotionally and responding intentionally ● The four pillars of embodied presence: awareness, embodiment, connection, and flow ● How to recover from nervous system overwhelm and emotional exhaustion ● Why intuition and logic work best when combined ● Practical techniques to improve resilience, focus, and sustainable peak performance

This week on Catalyst, Tammy is joined by Shelly Swanback, a transformation executive who spent her career helping global organizations navigate digital disruption and large-scale cultural change. Before retiring, Shelly co-founded and helped build Accenture Digital, then went on to lead Western Union and TTEC through major transformations, and she recently published a chapter in The AI Edge: How to Thrive Within Civilization's Next Big Disruption. Shelly and Tammy discuss what leaders need to be communicating right now, and why in this moment of disruption, messaging matters as much as the vision itself. They also dig into why so-called soft skills, curiosity and emotional intelligence are, in fact, hard business requirements at a time when employees are anxious about what AI means for their jobs and their futures. As Shelly puts it, leadership isn't about having all the answers, it's about building teams that can thrive within the questions. Please note that the views expressed may not necessarily be those of NTT DATALinks: Shelly Swanback The AI Edge: How to Thrive Within Civilization's Next Big DisruptionLearn more about Launch by NTT DATASee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Communication is the number one way to remove friction.”If communication is the key to connection, then removing friction is what makes every interaction work. According to Vanessa Van Edwards, the most effective communicators aren't just skilled with words—they know how to align their gestures, body language, and presence to make others feel at ease. A behavioral researcher and bestselling author of Captivate and Cues, Van Edwards studies the subtle signals that shape how we are perceived. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, she joins Matt Abrahams to explore the hidden factors that influence communication, from purposeful gestures and expressive body language to the words, images, and visual cues that build trust and credibility.Takeaways:Great communication goes beyond words. Gestures, facial expressions, visual cues, and even the language we use in emails and meetings can either create friction or build trust, clarity, and connection.Focus on the other person, not yourself. By applying the Platinum Rule—treating others as they want to be treated—and intentionally putting people at ease, communicators can foster stronger relationships, deeper conversations, and greater influence.Activity:Practice the Platinum Rule. Before your next important conversation, meeting, or email, take one minute to answer: “What does this person need from me right now?” Then tailor your communication to their priorities, concerns, and preferred style—not your own. Afterward, reflect on how that shift changed the quality of the interaction.Printable PDF of Takeaways & ActivityEpisode Reference Links:Vanessa Van EdwardsVanessa's Books: Cues / CaptivateEp.137 When Words Aren't Enough: How to Excel at Nonverbal Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:01) - The Importance of Strategic Communication (01:45) - The Power of Gestures (04:10) - A Readiness Check for Speakers (05:56) - Over-Signaling vs. Under-Signaling (08:18) - Dangerous Words in Communication (12:27) - Imagery Cues & First Impressions (15:03) - Virtual Backgrounds Matter (17:33) - The Platinum Rule (19:01) - The Final Three Questions (23:59) - Conclusion

I continue to find and place value in Emotional Intelligence. I spent much of my life misperceiving social intelligence as emotional intelligence. I felt I could read and cater to other's emotions, but I was very ignorant and neglectful of my own emotions, which took a toll on myself, and others. In this episode I brought on an expert who cites that emotional intelligence as the single biggest predictor of our personal and professional success. Scott Allender is an expert in global leadership and organizational development. He regularly teaches Enneagram workshops and conducts emotional intelligence assessments for individuals and teams who seek to become more radically self-aware and cognizant of the impact they have on the world. Scott has a book titled, The Enneagram of Emotional Intelligence: A Journey to Personal and Professional Success. This is another installment in my continual pursuit of understanding and owning my own emotions. Sign up for your $1/month trial period at shopify.com/kevin Go to shipstation.com and use code KEVIN to start your free trial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices