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Steven Gaffney, author and expert in change management and honest communication on his nine-step formula for effective leadership. Coaching and advising high-achieving teams with Fortune 500 clients like Amazon, Marriott and Allstate Insurance and the US government and military has led him to highlight the need for deep listening and addressing emotions. Leaders must create emotionally safe environments he argues. Encouraging honest feedback, maintaining consistency and appreciating employees' hard work fosters a workplace culture centred on achievement and achievers versus performing and performers in a world of ambiguity and change.#Business #Management
You can find the Tame Your Thoughts book and Bible study at MaxLucado.com (https://maxlucado.com/tameyourthoughts/) or wherever you buy books! Hi friend, Max Lucado here. As an Encouraging Word listener, I want to share with you an exclusive preview of my new audiobook, Tame Your Thoughts. This message is for anyone who embraces the promise found in Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” I pray it encourages you.
Welcome to episode 291 of Grow Your Law Firm, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Eric Sanchez and Stacie Monahan, the powerhouse duo behind Maestro Strategic Partners, to discuss the leadership and delegation strategies that help law firms scale sustainably. Eric Sanchez, Managing Partner at Maestro Strategic Partners, brings decades of experience at the intersection of law, leadership, and technology. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and graduate of Northwestern University, Eric was instrumental in a landmark case resulting in a $1.25 billion settlement and an invitation to the White House. He has also designed legal software that earned nearly 30 patents, all while helping law firms enhance efficiency, innovation, and internal culture. Stacie Monahan, Partner at Maestro Strategic Partners, spent 25 years as a senior executive in both a large law firm and the insurance industry. Known for her emotional intelligence and operational expertise, she specializes in systems management and mentoring future leaders. Stacie has a passion for developing teams and building scalable structures that allow law firms to thrive. What you'll learn about in this episode: Leverage your strengths—and delegate the rest - Importance of focusing on strengths in leadership roles - Surrounding oneself with individuals who complement strengths and address diverse needs Authenticity is the foundation of effective leadership - Recognizing and nurturing authentic leadership styles - Building a team that supports personal growth and business development Delegation is essential for scalability and sustainability - Emphasizing the significance of effective delegation in leadership - Encouraging leaders to empower their team members to prevent organizational vulnerabilities Invest in people to create future leaders - Encouraging leaders to invest in mentorship and personal development - Prioritizing creating an environment that fosters new leaders rather than hoarding power Culture thrives on vulnerability, communication, and care - Highlighting the value of open communication and vulnerability in leadership - Measuring leadership success by replicating leadership roles and positively impacting others' lives Resources: Website: mstratpartners.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/maestro-strategic-partners Facebook: facebook.com/maestrostrategic/ Additional Resources: https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect https://www.pilmma.org/resources https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind
The One who holds the galaxies together is also holding you. Thank you for listening to Encourage-Mint. If you've been refreshed, don't forget to subscribe, Leave a review on iTunes, and share a little Encourage-Mint with someone you love. Encourage-Mint is a podcast from Family Radio. These stories are just a taste of the stories you can hear every day. Listen at FamilyRadio.org or find more encouragement on the Family Radio app. Get daily Scripture and encouragement by following Family Radio on your favorite social media platforms:FacebookInstagra Twitter
AI Optimism with Becky KeeneIn this episode of My EdTech Life, I sat down with author, educator, and thought leader Becky Keene to unpack her new book AI Optimism. We tackled everything from AI literacy and data privacy to the SAMR model, edtech skepticism, and what it really takes to shift classroom practice forward, not with hype, but with intention.Becky shares her “AI Optimism” framework, talks candidly about the realities of edtech implementation, and reminds us all that if AI can do your job, maybe it's time to teach differently.Whether you're a classroom teacher, district leader, or edtech developer, this conversation is for you. Dive in and walk away with clarity, strategy, and a renewed sense of agency.Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & Becky's background 03:10 – Why she wrote AI Optimism 07:00 – The SAMR model & AI's role 11:30 – From substitution to redefinition 15:00 – Empowering student agency with AI 17:30 – Rethinking PD for meaningful AI use 23:30 – Higher ed vs. K–12 AI needs 28:30 – Data privacy concerns 31:30 – Equity, access & the freemium problem 35:45 – Can AI replace teachers? 40:00 – Encouraging teacher reflection 42:00 – Final questions & takeaways
Tariffs, inflation and job growth remain a national economic concern, but new data indicate healthy economy in Oklahoma, says economist Dr. Robert Dauffenbach.
This high-energy episode of Fundraisers Friday is packed with smart, actionable tips to help nonprofit leaders reignite board engagement—especially when things feel slow or disconnected. Cohosts Julia C. Patrick and Tony Beall bring clarity, candor, and creativity to the perennial challenge of motivating board members to actively participate in fundraising.“If board members understand their roles and are equipped with tools, they can feel confident and proud to help raise funds,” starts Tony. He encourages nonprofits to start with clear job descriptions and fundraising expectations—not as pressure, but as empowerment.Julia adds heart to the conversation with a powerful reflection: “When we elevate one board conversation, that knowledge often travels with members into other parts of their community.” This ripple effect of board engagement is a golden opportunity for nonprofits to build momentum well beyond their own walls.They cover eight key strategies, including:· Revisiting board policies and roles in fundraising· Turning mission moments into impact moments· Using real dollar amounts (not percentages!) to make financial urgency tangible· Engaging board members in grant applications and partnership opportunities· Celebrating donor wins and learning from not-so-great experiences· Tapping into each member's personal “why” to foster deeper commitmentOne particularly refreshing approach? Encouraging board members to share their successes—and even their mistakes—so others can learn and grow together. “We've all had experiences as donors, good and bad,” says Tony. “Sharing both helps us create better outcomes and stronger relationships.”You'll also hear a compelling conversation about how board members can fill various fundraising roles—prospector, cultivator, solicitor, or steward—so no one feels forced into uncomfortable territory. “Every board member can participate in at least one of these ways,” Tony reminds us.This episode is perfect for any nonprofit leader preparing for a seasonal push or looking to infuse new energy into board culture. With warmth and wisdom, Julia and Tony show that reigniting your board starts with real connection, clarity of purpose, and honest conversation.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
274. The Ministry of Seeing People: Knowing and Authentically Encouraging Your Mentee with Author and Coach Mitch Matthews of mitchmatthews.com In this inspiring episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza sits down with Author and Coach Mitch Matthews to explore the profound impact of mentorship. Mitch shares his personal journey from a small-town bike shop enthusiast to a successful coach and mentor, revealing how authentic encouragement and the "ministry of seeing people" can transform lives. Learn how to harness the power of curiosity, ask the right questions, and create meaningful connections. Whether you're guiding young minds or leading in the corporate world, Mitch's insights on being present and authentic will equip you to mentor with purpose. Don't miss this opportunity to discover how you can make a lasting difference by simply showing up as yourself. https://mitchmatthews.com/ & @mitch.matthews - Check out Mitch's "Dream. Think. Do" podcast wherever you get your pods!#Mentorship #Encouragement #Authenticity #Leadership--Introduction and Welcome (00:01)Zach Garza introduces Mitch Matthews and sets the stage for the conversation.Mitch's Journey to Coaching (01:19)Mitch shares his background, from a small-town bike shop to discovering his passion for coaching.The Ministry of Seeing People (06:35)Mitch discusses the importance of truly seeing and engaging with others in mentorship.Encouragement in Mentorship (10:54)The conversation shifts to how encouragement plays a vital role in mentoring.Authenticity and Dropping the Persona (23:39)Mitch talks about the power of being yourself and the challenges of maintaining a persona.Practical Mentoring Tools (34:03)Simple yet effective tools for mentoring are discussed, emphasizing curiosity and presence.Conclusion and Resources (44:05)Mitch shares resources and ways to connect, wrapping up the episode.--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor
Join us for BookThinkers LIVE 2025! Happening Novemeber 9, 2025!https://www.bookthinkers.com/book-thinkers-live-2025In today's episode, we have the pleasure to interview Erin Krueger, author of Capture the Culture: The Proven Plan to Rise Above the Challenges, Build a Powerhouse Team, & Take Your Business to the Next Level.Erin is a nationally recognized real estate expert, bestselling author, and CEO of The Erin Krueger Team at Compass. After starting her career in corporate marketing, she became the #1 realtor in Tennessee and built one of the top-ranked real estate teams in the U.S., earning recognition from The Wall Street Journal and REAL Trends.In this episode, you'll learn how to build a winning culture that scales, the 4-step hiring system Erin uses to find and keep top talent, and how her unconventional entrepreneurial journey—from vending machines to $2 billion in real estate sales—can help you rise above the challenges in your own business.We hope you enjoy this incredible conversation with Erin Krueger.To Learn More about Erin and buy her book visit: The Book: https://a.co/d/gi9jCrCWebsite: https://erinkrueger.com/https://www.instagram.com/theerinkruegerteamhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theerinkruegerteamhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCEJ8OPlohyNVvLYor_dovQhttps://www.facebook.com/TheErinKruegerTeamChapters:0:00 Intro1:32 The unexpected impact of Erin's book3:14 Standing up for what is right7:18 Tips on hiring, getting hired & company culture15:58 Hiring slowly and growing an elite team19:09 How to implement this as a small business22:57 Encouraging team involvement through openness25:52 Erin's grind to launch a vending machine business31:19 Book suggestions: “The Energy Bus” & “Who Not How”36:37 Difficulties don't define you: fall forward________________________________________________Join the world's largest non-fiction Book community!https://www.instagram.com/bookthinkers/The purpose of this podcast is to connect you, the listener, with new books, new mentors, and new resources that will help you achieve more and live better. Each and every episode will feature one of the world's top authors so that you know each and every time you tune-in, there is something valuable to learn. If you have any recommendations for guests, please DM them to us on Instagram. (www.instagram.com/bookthinkers)If you enjoyed this show, please consider leaving a review. It takes less than 60-seconds of your time, and really makes a difference when I am trying to land new guests. For more BookThinkers content, check out our Instagram or our website. Thank you for your time!
This series of Voices of Student Success focuses on adult learners in higher education, the various challenges they face and successful support mechanisms to aid their retention and completion. Credit for prior learning (CPL) is one strategy colleges and states can employ to expedite adult learners' progress toward degree and promote student success. Past research also shows that students' who take advantage of f CPL opportunities have higher employment rates and increased earnings after graduation. But administering CPL can be a challenge in part because of different departmental and academic disciplines' understandings of and evaluation of prior experience. In the most recent episode of Voices of Student Success, Colleen Sorensen, Utah Valley University's director of CPL and student assessment services, discusses how her university is encouraging faculty and department heads to offer and promote CPL pathways. Hosted by Inside Higher Ed Student Success Reporter Ashley Mowreader, this episode is sponsored by KI. Read a transcript of the podcast here.
On Washington Wednesday, blocked nominees and Texas walkouts; on World Tour, violence resurgence in Columbia; and chaplains offer hope for Texas flood survivors. Plus, miniature horses bring smiles to the hurting, Brad Littlejohn on Trump's AI action plan, and the Wednesday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from Asbury University. Where academic excellence meets spiritual growth. asbury.edu/visitAnd from Cedarville University—a Christ-centered, academically rigorous university located in southwest Ohio, equipping students for Gospel impact across every career and calling. Cedarville integrates a biblical worldview into every course in the more than 175 undergraduate and graduate programs students choose from. New online undergraduate degrees through Cedarville Online offer flexible and affordable education grounded in a strong Christian community that fosters both faith and learning. Learn more at cedarville.edu, and explore online programs at cedarville.edu/online
How can you be sure you're saved? Christ will hold you fast. Thank you for listening to Encourage-Mint. If you've been refreshed, don't forget to subscribe, Leave a review on iTunes, and share a little Encourage-Mint with someone you love. Encourage-Mint is a podcast from Family Radio. These moments are just a taste of what you can hear every day. Listen at FamilyRadio.org or find more encouragement on the Family Radio app. Get daily Scripture and encouragement by following Family Radio on your favorite social media platforms:FacebookInstagram Twitter
Oral Surgery Admin's Time Out: Practice Management Success Tips
This SOMSA podcast episode, part of our New Admin Series, features a candid conversation between host Lucy and HR consultant Adrienne Twigg of Bent Ericksen & Associates, focused on managing difficult employee conversations and termination procedures within oral surgery practices. They dive into how OMS practice administrators can approach performance issues, interpersonal conflict, and behavior problems with confidence, empathy, and clarity. Adrienne emphasizes the value of preparation, documentation, and emotional regulation before any HR conversation. Lucy shares a specific, real-life situation involving clinic cleanliness and front desk accountability, providing listeners with an actionable example of how to address workplace issues using daily checklists, verbal warnings, and written follow-ups. Adrienne outlines the necessary steps before terminating an employee—from understanding your state's laws and ensuring fair processes to protecting patient safety and team morale. Key takeaways include how to structure feedback, encourage team collaboration, maintain professionalism during termination, and whether and when to conduct exit interviews. It's essential listening for any OMS administrator aiming to create a culture of trust, accountability, and clear communication. Topic Outline Purpose of Difficult Conversations Building trust and improving communication Aligning conversations with broader cultural goals Preparation Steps Identifying the core issue (performance vs. behavior) Gathering documentation and facts Setting time, place, and emotional readiness Real-Life Scenario: Bathroom Cleanliness Issue Lucy's 48-hour rule for addressing issues Use of checklists, photo documentation, and assistant manager delegation Verbal warning and follow-up strategy Common Pitfalls Avoiding the issue Letting emotions dictate timing or tone Overlooking accountability Team Guidelines for Emotional Regulation Discussing 24–48 hour cool-off expectations Encouraging managers to tailor approaches to their emotional makeup Collaborative Solutions Team brainstorming to prevent repeat issues Empowering staff to ask for help Transition to Termination Ensuring all support options are exhausted Legal considerations and documentation Termination Process Guidelines Who should be in the meeting Having materials (final check, COBRA forms, key returns) ready Keeping the tone respectful and the meeting brief Voluntary Resignation as an Option Offering space for employees to choose resignation How to document and follow up Post-Termination Communication Sending a professional team email Preventing gossip and maintaining morale Exit Interviews When and how they are useful How to structure and apply feedback
Oral Surgery Admin's Time Out: Practice Management Success Tips
This SOMSA podcast episode, part of our New Admin Series, features a candid conversation between host Lucy and HR consultant Adrienne Twigg of Bent Ericksen & Associates, focused on managing difficult employee conversations and termination procedures within oral surgery practices. They dive into how OMS practice administrators can approach performance issues, interpersonal conflict, and behavior problems with confidence, empathy, and clarity. Adrienne emphasizes the value of preparation, documentation, and emotional regulation before any HR conversation. Lucy shares a specific, real-life situation involving clinic cleanliness and front desk accountability, providing listeners with an actionable example of how to address workplace issues using daily checklists, verbal warnings, and written follow-ups. Adrienne outlines the necessary steps before terminating an employee—from understanding your state's laws and ensuring fair processes to protecting patient safety and team morale. Key takeaways include how to structure feedback, encourage team collaboration, maintain professionalism during termination, and whether and when to conduct exit interviews. It's essential listening for any OMS administrator aiming to create a culture of trust, accountability, and clear communication. Topic Outline Purpose of Difficult Conversations Building trust and improving communication Aligning conversations with broader cultural goals Preparation Steps Identifying the core issue (performance vs. behavior) Gathering documentation and facts Setting time, place, and emotional readiness Real-Life Scenario: Bathroom Cleanliness Issue Lucy's 48-hour rule for addressing issues Use of checklists, photo documentation, and assistant manager delegation Verbal warning and follow-up strategy Common Pitfalls Avoiding the issue Letting emotions dictate timing or tone Overlooking accountability Team Guidelines for Emotional Regulation Discussing 24–48 hour cool-off expectations Encouraging managers to tailor approaches to their emotional makeup Collaborative Solutions Team brainstorming to prevent repeat issues Empowering staff to ask for help Transition to Termination Ensuring all support options are exhausted Legal considerations and documentation Termination Process Guidelines Who should be in the meeting Having materials (final check, COBRA forms, key returns) ready Keeping the tone respectful and the meeting brief Voluntary Resignation as an Option Offering space for employees to choose resignation How to document and follow up Post-Termination Communication Sending a professional team email Preventing gossip and maintaining morale Exit Interviews When and how they are useful How to structure and apply feedback
In this episode of Literally First Class, host Keri Ford discusses the importance of establishing tech boundaries for children to promote mental health and family connection. She shares personal experiences and practical strategies for managing technology use in the household, emphasizing the significance of family meals, encouraging life skills, and fostering imagination. Keri highlights the need for presence and connection in parenting, urging listeners to prioritize quality time with their kids over material possessions and digital distractions. Takeaways: Tech boundaries are essential for mental health. Family meals foster connection and communication. Old technology can be a fun alternative for kids. Encouraging boredom can spark creativity. Presence with children is more valuable than material gifts. Social media often presents an illusion of reality. Kids crave quality time with their parents. Establishing tech rules early can prevent future conflicts. Involving kids in daily life teaches valuable skills. Real connection is vital for family dynamics. Episode Resources: Book your free 15-minute Somatic Strategy Call with Jalena (no sales pitch, just a free nervous system audit)! Explore Keri's programs such as Power Hour sessions, VIP Days, and Private Mentorship. Subscribe to The Newsletter and VIP e-mail list for advanced insights, strategies, and exclusive resources to drive growth, inspire peak performance, and elevate your impact. Step into Keri's FREE Somatic Success® community on Facebook and connect with like-minded individuals on your journey to success! The Champagne Club™ just leveled up. Introducing our brand new site with updated details, 2026 dates, and everything you need to experience the most iconic rooms in business, networking, and leadership refinement Get in the Millionaire Mental Health Network – Fast, powerful 90-minute monthly nervous system resets to keep your mind sharp, calm, and ready to lead. Connect with Keri: Follow Keri on Instagram: @iamkeriford Connect on LinkedIn Subscribe to YouTube Keep up with Keri on Pinterest
With the media full of reports about the decline of reading in young people, Megan and Allison look at strategies for encouraging reading at home, giving expert tips, advice and insights in how to keep kids in touch with books. Plus, our thoughts on whether books need age classifications...Read the show notes for all book references at yourkidsnextread.com.au Connect with Allison, Megan and the Your Kid's Next Read Community on Facebook Visit allisontait.com | megandaley.com.au
Hi, friend. Thank you so much for joining me for the podcast this summer. I hope this series has been an encouragement to you, particularly if you're going through a difficult time. We've got some new stuff coming next week that I'm really excited about, but first we're going to put a bow on our study of the life of Joseph. If there's one thing you take from it, may it be this: we have a heavenly father who guides us with a sure hand.
Back-to-school season is here, and mornings can feel like chaos with alarms blaring, backpacks missing, and everyone rushing out the door. But what if your mornings could feel calm, organized, and stress-free? In this solo episode, Janet M. Taylor shares 7 simple and practical strategies to transform your family's morning routine. From prepping the night before to building in extra buffer time, these tips will help you create peaceful, productive mornings that set the tone for a successful day. What You'll Learn: ✅ Why a good morning starts with a restful evening ✅ How prepping at night saves time and sanity ✅ The benefits of getting dressed before leaving your bedroom ✅ Simple breakfast tips to keep mornings easy and healthy ✅ How to plan your schedule backwards for a smoother start ✅ Ways to build in extra time and avoid last-minute stress ✅ Encouraging mindset shifts to create calm mornings Whether you're a parent trying to get kids out the door or simply want to streamline your personal routine, this episode will help you start your days with confidence and clarity. Check out other episodes: https://gotcluttergetorganized.com/
Some topics from today's episode include:⭐️Laura struggled with weight since childhood and tried various diets.⭐️She joined Rock That Fitness to regain control of her health.⭐️Community support plays a crucial role in her journey.⭐️Tracking food intake became second nature for Laura.⭐️Emphasis on the importance of consistency over perfection.⭐️Laura's motivation stems from a desire to avoid health issues.⭐️Encouraging women to take the first step, regardless of age.⭐️Meal prepping has been a game changer for Laura and her husband.⭐️It's never too late to start a fitness journey.⭐️Laura feels empowered and hopeful about her future.Download the FREE POWER BUNDLE. Gain strength, BUILD MUSCLE, AND BURN FAT, WITHOUT RESTRICTIVE DIETS, EXHAUSTING CARDIO, OR TURNING YOUR LIFE UPSIDE DOWN!https://www.rockthatfitness.com/30-day-challenge-and-protein-guideAs a reminder, if you have a chance, please rate and review the podcast so more women just like you can learn more about the Rockstar way! I appreciate you for your support and love ❤️Links:Join the priority list for RTF Jumpstart coming September 2025! https://www.rockthatfitness.com/rock-that-fitness-jumpstartJoin the Rockstar Fit Chicks Weekly Newsletter https://rockthatfitness.kit.com/e10d0c66ebCheck Out Our Exclusive Offer for Extensive Lab Work with Marek Health https://www.rockthatfitness.com/rock-that-fitness-marek-healthApply for RTF 1:1 Coaching https://www.rockthatfitness.com/coachingHead to the Rock That Fitness Instagram Page https://www.instagram.com/rockthatfitness/ Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/cruen/we-got-thisLicense code: RBWENWHGXSWXAEUE
Encouraging babble with babies, worried about a speech delay, baby sign language, baby's first words and MORE!Figuring out baby communication is a lot. From the first signs to the first word, there are so many changes. You'll need to learn how to adjust to all of it.This week, I chatted with Katie and Carly, the founders of Wee Talkers. This conversation is THE inside scoop into all things baby communication. With insight on all things sign language, babbling, and even toys to encourage speech development, this episode has it ALL.You'll learn:Baby language milestonesHow to encourage babbling in babiesLanguage development 0-6 monthsWhat age are babies aware of tvWhen should my baby start making sounds?Baby speech delay treatmentWhy baby sign language is importantAt what age can babies use sign language?Easy sign language to teach babiesToys to help babies learn to talkScreen time language developmentIs baby talk bad for language development?And more!----------------------------------------------------------------------------IMPORTANT LINKS• Clarilight Facial Essence Toner For Acne HERE ◦ Use Code ADVOCATE10 for 10% off!•Shop Laila's Clean Makeup Bag Staples HERE•Truly Free Home- Toxin Free Laundry Detergent and Cleaning Supplies HERE ◦ Use Code LEARNINGTOMOM for 30% off!Connect with Wee Talkers HERE----------------------------------------------------------------------------how to teach baby first words, when baby speak first words, when baby says first words, when baby first words, what are the best first words for babies, what first words should I teach my baby, what are the top 10 babies first words, when should a baby say the first meaningful word, can babies say dada at 6 months, what is the youngest a baby can say dada, can babies start saying words at 6 months, what percentage of babies say dada first, what is the earliest a baby can talk, how much should a 6-month old talk, what age to baby say first word, can a baby say mama at 6 months, how late is too late for first word, what is considered an early talker, what percentage of babies have their first words, what is the average age babies have their first words, what's the most common first word, does babbling count as first words, baby first words with pictures, baby first words mama or dada, baby first words age, baby first words at 7 months, baby first words at 5 months, baby first words age 9 months, baby first words age 1 year old, baby first words average age, baby first words dada, baby first words earliest, Mom podcast, parenting podcast, First time mom podcast, motherhood podcast, postpartum podcast, infant podcast, newborn care podcast, new baby podcast, pregnancy podcast, how to parent, parenting tips, parenting advice, 2 month old, 3 month old, 4 month old, 5 month old, 6 month old, 7 month old, 8 month old, 9 month old, 10 month old, 11 month old, 12 month old, baby speech delay podcast episode, does my baby have a speech delay, how to get baby to talk more, baby speech delay signs
How to fan the flame of your faith in dry seasons. Thank you for listening to Encourage-Mint. If you've been refreshed, don't forget to subscribe, Leave a review on iTunes, and share a little Encourage-Mint with someone you love. Encourage-Mint is a podcast from Family Radio. These moments are just a taste of what you can hear every day. Listen at FamilyRadio.org or find more encouragement on the Family Radio app. Get daily Scripture and encouragement by following Family Radio on your favorite social media platforms:FacebookInstagram Twitter
In this episode, I speak with Hannah Kershaw, Chief Product Officer at Domestic and General, a company that you might not have heard of but absolutely need in your corner the next time your dishwasher breaks. Hannah's journey took her from marketing to e-commerce, into product leadership at GoCompare, and now to transforming Product at a billion-pound growth organisation. We cover a lot, including: What Domestic and General actually does: A century-old, billion-pound business with 6.5 million subscribers across 12 markets, providing repair and replacement services for household appliances through service plans and insurance products. A behind-the-scenes powerhouse: Domestic and General powers customer journeys via major retail and manufacturer partnerships (e.g. Argos, AO, Hotpoint), often handling registration, support, and repair logistics under their partners' brands. Product complexity in a partner-led model: Coordinating customer experience, retailer requirements, manufacturer constraints, and service delivery logistics - without directly employing a single repair technician. Building product from scratch: How Hannah established a product function at Domestic and General, moving from a traditional delivery model to domain-based product teams focused on growth and customer retention. Evolving team structures: Starting with customer and partner-aligned squads before transitioning to domain-oriented teams, reflecting shifts in strategic focus and incorporating feedback from engineering and delivery teams. Product vs Proposition: Domestic and General brings together digital product managers and proposition managers - handling platforms and customer experiences on one side, and the commercial performance of insurance offerings on the other. Philosophy of simplification and belief: Encouraging resilience and optimism, Hannah champions a mindset that anything is possible - helping teams cut through complexity and deliver tangible outcomes. Pragmatism over product purism: While Domestic and General aspires to be product-led, the focus is on real-world delivery - balancing best practice with the pace and realities of a high-growth, partner-centric business. Executive-level impact: Demonstrating the value of Product by delivering outcomes. Early wins - such as improving online claims and conversion rates - helped build credibility and demand for product ways of working. Check out Domestic and General Check out Domestic and General's website: https://www.domesticandgeneral.com/, or their careers page: https://careers.domesticandgeneral.com/. Connect with Hannah You can connect with Hannah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-kershaw-421b7b25/.
Ed and Rob took some time from the opening hour of Monday's BBMS to recap the O's series against the Cubs. They lost two of three, but is it encouraging to see them remain competitive against a good team?
Neil explores the importance of understanding the subtle cues and changes in students' behaviour and body language as indicators of their emotional and psychological states. Drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring and coaching business, Neil emphasises the significance of creating a safe and comfortable learning environment that fosters playfulness and creativity. He discusses how observing changes in posture, breathing rates, and language can inform educators about their students' well-being and learning potential. Throughout the episode, Neil encourages listeners to be aware of their own impact as educators and to cultivate a nurturing space that allows learners to thrive. KEY TAKEAWAYS Observation of Changes: Pay attention to the physical and emotional changes in students, such as posture, facial expressions, and language patterns, as these can provide insights into their learning state and overall well-being. Creating a Safe Environment: Establish a comfortable and secure teaching space that allows learners to feel free to express themselves and explore their potential without external pressures or distractions. Importance of Playfulness: Recognise that playfulness is a natural human quality that can enhance the learning process. Encouraging a playful atmosphere can lead to greater engagement and creativity in students. Baseline Awareness: Develop a baseline understanding of each student's typical behavior and emotional state. This will help in identifying any significant changes that may indicate shifts in their learning or personal circumstances. Role of the Educator: Embrace the role of being a positive, calm, and inspiring leader. Your attitude and approach can significantly influence the learning experience and help students rediscover their creativity and enthusiasm. BEST MOMENTS "The face encodes the whole life. It's a palimpsest, an ongoing record." "Conventional education isn't really about educating. It's about making people manageable." "Good things happen in great environments. Much less so in chaotic and unsafe places." "My job is to engender change, to create the space and let the learner freely expand into it." "Be the calm. Be the kindness. Be the excited, enthusiastic, positive leader who inspires them." VALUABLE RESOURCES www.Neilcowmeadow.com info@neilcowmeadow.com HOST BIO Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years' experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil's invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
Hello lovelies! Thanks for listening (and reading!)This is a re-release. I'm taking a break/pause for the Summer "slowing down to speed up" and am looking forward to what the Fall will bring!To name a few things that I'm working on are!1. An upcoming Audio Summit (to be launched in the Fall of 2025). 'A Summit for High Achieving Introverts, Empaths and Highly Sensitive People to go from Selfless to Self-love and from Depleted to Dynamic!'2. And an upcoming Audiobook (to be released in February of 2026). It will have the same premise and title as the Audio Summit, except it will be 'A Guide for High Achieving Introverts, Empaths and Highly Sensitive People to go from Selfless to Self-love and from Depleted to Dynamic!'I hope you enjoy this episode!ElizabethMy websiteIG handleAll links are here!Helping High Achieving Introverts, Empaths and Highly Sensitive People To Go from Depleted to DynamicFreebie! Listen to My Summer of Self-love Podcast Series!Work with Me (Set-up a 1:1 Strategy Call!)Get My Newsletter (or Love Letters As I Like To Call Them!) :)Send me a DM on IG!Let's Connect on LinkedIn!~~~~~~~~~~~~~Now, back to your regularly scheduled programming.... ;-)What is your Zone of Genius? Or Zones of Genius plural? This term came from the book 'The Big Leap' by Gay Hendricks. Some say it's our purpose and some even say it's our 'superpower'.The best way for me to describe it is that our Zones of Genius are our traits or things that we're naturally good at (it comes easy for us) and it's things or actions that energize us altogether.So for example, I'm good at planning gatherings but I don't absolutely love the tasks that go into it. This isn't my Zone of Genius because I don't love to do it and I don't feel that it's my purpose. Another way to figure this out is if you don't do any of your Zones of Genius, you feel 'empty' or 'off' or even 'down'.If I don't do at least one of the below every so often I won't feel good and I'll be down and out. I've discovered that my Zones of Genius are (in no particular order): 1. Connecting with others2. Encouraging and Motivating others3. Sharing information with othersIt took the most of my life to figure out what they were. I didn't know before this. Self-awareness is a part of self-love. Do you know what your Zone of Genius is or are? If the answer is no, I encourage you to take some time and to do a brain dump and write down what you absolutely love doing as well as what you're naturally good at. Something that comes easy for you that people always say..."you're really good at this!" or "How did you do this so effortlessly?". Remember it also has to be things that you absolutely love doing, too! If you know what your Zones of Genius is or are, please make a comment below! :) Thanks~~~~~~~~~~~If this or any of my podcast episodes have been of value to you, please subscribe/follow and if you would be so kind as to rate me a 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review? >>>To do a review on: Apple>>> 1. Click here >>>and 2. Scroll to the bottom to Ratings & Reviews >>3. Tap to Rate >> how many stars ️️️️️'s and then 'Write a Review'. Thanks! ORon Spotify >>> 1. Click here >>> and 2. Scroll to the Top and Click on the three dots (...) and 3. Rate Show >> how many stars ️️️️️️'s. Thanks in advance! ~~~~~~~~~~~I talk more about this on my newsletter or my ‘Love Letters' as I like to call them). Wanna get my newsletter? Sign-up here!I hope you enjoy this episode and that it helps you in some way, shape or form. I podcast for the love of connecting with others, encouraging others and sharing information with others. Cheers to speaking up and for making your voice heardLet's Connect!
People will let you down—but God's love will always hold firm. Thank you for listening to Encourage-Mint. If you've been refreshed, don't forget to subscribe, Leave a review on iTunes, and share a little Encourage-Mint with someone you love. Encourage-Mint is a podcast from Family Radio. These stories are just a taste of the stories you can hear every day. Listen at FamilyRadio.org or find more encouragement on the Family Radio app. Get daily Scripture and encouragement by following Family Radio on your favorite social media platforms:FacebookInstagram Twitter
In Episode 165, Scott Piehler's topics include: A major discrepancy in political donations. The Planning Board approves an eight-story project. A mystery from 2008 is solved. Encouraging results from a chemical removal test. An Alameda rower breaks a dry spell for the USA. Plus arts and the outdoors.Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •
Manager Minute-brought to you by the VR Technical Assistance Center for Quality Management
Finance doesn't have to be scary. In this episode of VRTAC-QM's Manager Minute, Kat Martin, Finance Director at the Oregon Commission for the Blind, joins Carol Pankow to break down the complexities of government finance in vocational rehabilitation. Kat shares her journey from the private sector into VR, the lessons she's learned managing federal and state dollars, and the difference between budget authority and actual revenue (spoiler: it's not as simple as it sounds). From making reports accessible for blind colleagues to explaining why finance people should bepartners—not compliance enforcers—Kat offers practical advice, thoughtful insights, and a healthy dose of humor. Whether you're new to VR, leading a program, or just finance-curious, this episode delivers the wisdom you didn't know you needed—plus a little reality check on what it takes to manage complex funding with heart and clarity. Listen Here Full Transcript: {Music} Kat: It took me a bit to wrap my head around was the difference between budget and revenue. I like the way my executive director describes it to other directors. You have to be paying attention to what's going on with your budget, not because that's the amount of money you have to spend, particularly with federal funding. That is what you have authority to spend. That doesn't mean you have that revenue to spend. If somebody has helped you out, pay it forward, help the next new person out that got their eyes crossed and looking overwhelmed when they're trying to figure out what in the world is re allotment, let alone carryover and maintenance of effort. Carol: Oh my gosh. Intro Voice: Manager Minute brought to you by the VRTAC for Quality Management, Conversations powered by VR, one manager at a time, one minute at a time. Here is your host Carol Pankow. Carol: Well, welcome to the manager minute. Joining me in the studio today is Kat Martin, finance director at the Oregon Commission for the Blind. So, Kat, how are things going in Oregon? Kat: They're going well. We're getting started on a lovely summer and a new biennium and trying to close out the old ones. So, you know, busy is always in the finance department. Carol: Yeah, all the things. Nothing like getting the finance director like turnover of a state year and all that. I know you got a lot of things going on. So as the QM grant is winding down, I thought it would be great to hear from a respected VR finance director, someone who's walk the walk. Kat has been a standout voice in her fiscal management community of practice, sharing advice that's grounded, real, and incredibly helpful. So, Kat, let's dig in. So, Kat, can you tell our listeners a bit about your career journey and how did you land in your current role? Kat: Sure. Thanks, Carol. I worked in the private sector for the first decade or so of my life and realized after about a decade of that that I really needed work that spoke to my heart. And coming from a family of educators, I was a little too late to go back to school and get my teaching credentials at that point in time. But I decided to pursue mission focused organizations that were helping others. So I worked for about six years for a law firm that represented the disabled and injured individuals before the Social Security Administration and the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. And then I went into public education for about 15 years. About five years ago, I left public education and came to work for the Oregon Commission for the blind. And it was my first role in the world of vocational rehabilitation. So it was a new experience for me. I love a good challenge and it's been that for five years. Carol: That sounds amazing. I always love to hear how people kind of make their long and winding road into VR, because none of us ever usually get here very directly. So I know when you and I chatted before, you have just some great perspective on any role you take. How do you go about building that solid foundation when you start a new role? Kat:, You know, I came up through the accounting departments, specifically accounts receivable. So I was working with invoicing and collecting bills, and I experienced a lot of success in those jobs, so much so that I was moved into first supervisory and then management positions and eventually the C-suite role. And when I moved into my first CFO position, I worked with an amazing campus president who talked with me about the fact that my focus up to that point in time as the director of accounting for the organization and my prior professional experience, had been very much compliance focused. And that as her new director of finance, she needed me to be more of a fiscal partner to not only herself, but my peers on the leadership team. So, you know, that took me a little bit to figure out, because when you've been doing it for decades, it's easy to be a compliance goon. It's a little more difficult to figure out what being a finance partner looks like. I recognized that particularly when I was starting a new role like the one I did in VR five years ago. It was really important for me to understand who I needed to form relationships with, what the systems were that I was going to be utilizing to complete my work and to manage those that were completing the day in and day out of the accounting work that we were doing. And then also what were the policies, procedures and standards? So when I start a new job, I like lay out my first 100 days and I create myself a little Venn diagram that is all about those three things where at the intersection of that right in the middle, that's the work that I'm going to be doing for the organization planning, organizing, directing and monitoring their finances and the fiscal health of the organization. Carol: I love that you have that people, systems and processes. I mean, I think that sweet spot in the middle where all of that intersects is really wonderful. You've talked to me before about this whole compliance goon fiscal partner, and I do like that approach. Can you talk a little more about what that really means to you and kind of how that's played out? Kat: Yeah, it's really about people and about relationships in a vocational rehabilitation agency. We are helper humans and even fiscal employees, accountants, your travel coordinator, your payroll specialist. They need to be helper humans as well, because it's easy to get all wrapped up in the way we have to transact these certain things or the deadlines that the state lays down. If it's an enterprise wide system that you're using and sometimes lose sight of the fact that the people we are serving are actually the employees who are providing the direct service to the blind Oregonians that we serve at the Oregon Commission for the blind. So I have worked very hard to develop that in myself. And the way I've accomplished that is beginning first with the people I'm going to be serving and whether that's my boss, my peers, my employees, that to report directly to me, my employees that report indirectly to me or those other individuals in the larger organization, like the state's chief financial officer and the state's legislative fiscal office, and maybe the procurement office and the Payroll Services Office to make sure that I know what our place is, but also how we can provide the best possible services within that matrix that we operate in to those eventual end users that we're there to serve so that they don't ever have to worry about, am I going to get paid on time? Is my computer going to be working? Those kind of things I tell my staff when we're doing our jobs exceptionally well, nobody knows what we're doing. And then that allows them to focus on the work that they're doing with our clients. Carol: How long do you think it takes, really, to get settled, especially coming into VR for a finance person? How long do you feel like you know what, I got this, I feel proficient what I'm doing because I think people have this idea that can come in. I was an accountant here or a CPA, or I've done something else. But you come into this program. How long do you feel it takes you to really get a handle on what's going on. Kat: A full fiscal cycle in the state of Oregon, we operate on a biennium, so that's a full 24 months. I had been with the agency for two years before. I really felt like, oh, now I'm repeating things and there's a lot of repetition in a finance role, regardless of what role it is, there's a lot of repetition. But what makes it complicated in the VR world, in my state, for instance, is we have state fiscal years that end on June 30th, and then you have your federal fiscal year that ends on September 30th. So right there, those two things are out of sync. And then the VR awards in particular, are the most complicated revenue stream I've ever worked with. Braid those in with the general fund that you have to be on top of, which is truly available to you, and you can sometimes lobby for more. But there's a lot of politics and personalities that you have to deal with when you're trying to obtain more general fund for your agency, and then the limited amount of other funding. So I have been working as a finance director since 2009, and I would have to say that these last five years, it has been the most complicated fiscal management for an organization that I've ever touched upon in my career up to this point in time, because of those complexities between the state and the feds in fiscal years that don't align. And we're on a biennium where, you know, the federal awards are one year, and maybe you can get carryover if you do all the things you got to do to meet the requirements around March to get there. Carol: And you're confirming what the feds say, because David Steele, who's the unit chief for the fiscal unit at RSA, he often says this is the most federally complex grant. And I remember hearing him a long time ago thinking, is it really? But yeah, it really it really is. Proof is in the pudding when you're actually doing that work. So given all of that complexity, how do you implement like strategies or things that you do to help your leadership, like literally be able to interpret and understand because it is like talking to different languages. And how do you get your whole executive team kind of on board with what's happening because you have these realizations and insights. But that isn't always apparent in the VR world, because a lot of people are not they're not math people. They're people people. They're social services people. They don't know about reading a spreadsheet. You just show them these numbers, and their eyes kind of glaze over and they hear you talking, but they don't know what you're saying. Kat: Yeah. I think the first thing I try to do is keep it short and simple. And that's not to say that these individuals are not intelligent. They are highly intelligent, and they have skills and expertise that I'm incredibly impressed by. But I have different skills and expertise. And if I'm going to provide the information to them that allows them to make informed decisions about not only what we're doing in the present, but for the duration of whatever the fiscal period is that we're in and for the long term. Then I need to present the information in such a way that it's digestible. Now I work for a blind agency, so that means it needs to be accessible. I see a lot of spreadsheets that folks like myself love to create. You know, it's fun to get in there and do the color coding and the formatting and have multiple tabs that support your summary. Conclusions and charts are then the next best thing in the world, right? You can spend a lot of time on that. And yet my director of rehabilitation services can't see any of it, can't read any of it. So what I need to create for her and for the other 20% of the employees at my agency that is usable and digestible is very straightforward spreadsheets that are readable by the assistive technology they use in order to do their jobs. The other thing that I do to try and help the leadership team, and my executive director in particular is I insist upon regular report outs. It's really easy to be just like, yeah, yeah, Kats got it. Budget to actuals are going to be fine. She knows we don't want to leave any general fund on the table at the end of the biennium. She'll let us know how we're doing with match, but she'll take care of all of it. And what I let them know is I report on the money, but I don't decide how it's spent. I know what's in the purse, but the executive director is holding the purse strings and you all are influencing that spend. So by insisting upon regular report outs, I review budget to actual data summary grant reporting, cash reporting on at least a weekly basis. Right now I'm reviewing that more like 2 to 3 times a week, because it's the end of the biennium and startup of a new one, but the management team gets finalized reporting once a month that is based on the accounting close. And not only do we distribute that to them with the highlights, we want to pinpoint in written format, but then I also present on that every month at the leadership team meeting, when we're reviewing other results for the month and other measures that matter to us. Carol: I think that's really super good advice for our listeners. I've seen it all across the country. I mean, I've seen where sometimes fiscal people, they are calling all the shots. They aren't that partner. They're like, hey, I'm the one that knows you all can't do math. I'm deciding. I'm doing. People are signing for the director. You know, they're sending stuff in. Directors get it? Zero clue. And while that can be a way to operate. Boy, highly not advisable. Because at the end of the day, the director is the one holding the bag. You know, the buck stops with them. If something goes wrong, something happened. They're the one. And those are the ones that end up getting fired or whatever it may be. So I'm always on the new director end of things. Encouraging people to learn as much as they can. And it's just like learning anything. You take one step at a time, one item at a time, one cell on the spreadsheet to gain understanding. You're not going to be instantly an accountant, but you can get to a level understanding where you hear what's happening. So I appreciate that you've had that experience, because I think you always bring so much to any conversation. Having worked in a blind agency, when you're thinking about how am I going to convey information in a way people can read it for one with assistive technology, not make it so fancy that you kind of lose sight really, of what is trying to be conveyed. So I think you really have great advice there and that you're the partner. I mean, you're advising and then the director's deciding. I think that's a really lovely partnership. What have been your biggest surprises and lessons learned in this role? Kat: Well, first and foremost, it is more complicated than budgets, significantly larger than what I'm dealing with now because of the interplay of federal and state. Some of the surprises that came to me early on were around the timelines and how important it is to create a calendar of key events that not only takes everything going on with your state into consideration, but all those federal timelines, particularly the federal reporting timelines. We now, after five years, talk about the months between October 1st and the end of January as federal reporting season, because between the support we provide to program with some of their program reports that have fiscal elements in them, and then all of the federal financial reports that have to be submitted during that period of time. There's 18 different reports that my grant accountant and I prepare, review, discuss, and then, of course, go over with the program directors before they are ever submitted to our federal funding partners. Carol: I'm a huge fan of the calendar. I just have to say, I literally we get calls. I had one of the finance directors from one state. He will remain unnamed, but he calls me on April 30th and he's like, please don't tell me a report is due today, and I'm like, uh, yeah, this is gonna be a really bad day. He said, I gotta go, and he, like, hangs up the phone. I'm like, calendar this stuff. You need the calendar. Oh my gosh. Drives me crazy. Kat: It's important. And I mean, one of the surprises that came to me is I started with the commission in August of 2020, and a couple of days after I arrived, my senior accountant and we have a small shop. At that time I only had one accountant and two accounting technicians. My senior accountant went out on a family leave of absence about two weeks early. So here I was, no VR experience trying to figure out what the heck I'm doing. I don't even have access to most of the systems. And as it turns out, as the agency security officer, I give everybody else access. But nobody knew how to give me access. So that was an interesting start. And when she came back from her leave, she said to me, so how did that SF 425 report submission going? I'm like, what? SF 425 report submission. So I missed I started my career with the Commission for the blind by missing a federal Financial Report submission. Carol: Oh my gosh. Kat: I'm still here. So I guess it wasn't the end of the world that we were late with one report. Carol: How do you find it so different between like government accounting compared to the other accounting work you've done? I always hear from people that go, government accounting is like nothing else I've ever been exposed to. Kat: Yeah, it is very different in that having worked in the private sector and the for profit sector for a number of decades, obviously you're looking for efficiencies and effective ways of doing business that drive your bottom line. The profit imperative is just that don't be fooled by what the for profit organizations say they're really about. Making money is what it's all about in the end. But in the public sector and definitely for the government, one of the things that it took me a bit to wrap my head around was the difference between budget and revenue, and I like the way my executive director describes it to other directors that you have to be paying attention to what's going on with your budget, not because that means that's the amount of money you have to spend is because, particularly with federal funding, that is what you have authority to spend. That doesn't mean you have that revenue to spend. So figuring out how to keep track of where am I at, actually, with my approved budget and my limitations on the federal fund and other fund that I operate with? And where am I actually at with cash available to me through my federal grants, was something else that was very new to me, because every place I'd been before budget was budget. You had that to spend, even in higher education, in the public sector. It was like I had that budget to work with for the entire fiscal cycle. Not true here. So you really have to be paying attention to that difference between budget and revenue. I started to say my executive director describes this to other directors. She tries to put it as think about budget as being the line of credit. If you had a credit card in your wallet. Think about it as the line of credit that you could spend up to, but your revenue is actually how much money you actually get paid. So if you have a $50,000 line of credit, but your income for the year is only going to be $25,000, you're going to have a problem when you spend up to that line of credit. Carol: That is such an awesome point. We have seen lately. There's been some really interesting things with the budget Authority, and this has to do with kind of the reverse, where for whatever reason, you have a federal grant say you get $100 million. But the legislature has said we are only going to give you $90 million of budget authority. And that's cropped up more and more. And so people forget because you've got program income coming in and you've got other kind of sources of these revenues. And the legislature has set this limit. And so you're bumping on it, but your eye is over here. You're looking at well, yeah, but I've got I can match and I can draw these funds. But for whatever reason the legislature hasn't given you enough authority to actually maximize and utilize everything available to you. That is super concerning for folks. And the thing they weren't watching. Really? Kat: Yeah. And we all know of a state recently that got into difficulties with that. The thing to keep in mind with that too. And we were in a spot where we had to go back to the legislature and ask for an increase in our spending authority, which is even more complicated than going to just the legislative body, because we have a governing board of commissioners. So first we have to go to the commissioners and get approval to take this before the legislature. And there is a lot of months of lead time in order to accomplish those things in the correct order. We needed to do it because we were fortunate enough to receive an additional sum in the Re allotment process last summer, so we were going to be okay with the amount of revenue we were expecting with the existing authority we had to spend. My concern, of course, was we don't got enough money to get through the end of the state fiscal year, let alone the federal fiscal year. So we went after re allotment. Then I didn't have enough authority on the federal side, so we had to get permission from our board of commissioners. Then of course, go through the legislative process to increase our federal fund limitation. Carol: Well, and that's a whole other probably lesson learned is the whole legislative process and those cycles for the legislature and all of that. That is no small feat to understand. I'm sure your calendaring all of those dates as well. Kat: I am. Our agency is small enough that not only am I the finance director, I'm also the budget coordinator, so it's helpful to me at the same time. My office is situated a couple hours away from the state capitol where the legislature meets. So for a hearing before Joint Ways and Means, for instance, that maybe is going to last five minutes. It's a four hour round trip, but I go down there for those meetings and I'm ready to answer any questions should they come. Carol: That's excellent. That's excellent. Now, I know you have been, are particularly like vocal finance director and participate in things. You've done a great job with networking, and I understand you have a bit of a fan club at CSAVR. So what happened there? What's going on with that? Kat: You know, one of our asks of all of our staff is that they be on camera when we're in virtual meetings, and it's in part because as a blind agency, we are trying to help our clients be prepared for virtual meeting environments as we're helping them launch into the working world. So we need to model those behaviors, right? So I just developed the habit of whenever I'm speaking, even in large group meetings, like the community of practice that you and your team run is that I'll not only come off of mute, but I'll come off of having my camera shuttered so that people can see me talking. I don't know why, but it's become muscle memory, right? Well, as a result of that, because I have a lot to share at times and I want to help others the way I was helped when I first started by fiscal directors with more experience that had been, you know, around the block a couple of times. I like to try and offer up my contact information as well, so people can feel free to reach out and get in touch with me. So when we were at CSAVR the last session, kind of surprisingly, my director and I were walking around and there was a couple of folks that, as we passed, were like, your Kat, right? Your Kat from Oregon blind. And I'm like, I am. And they said, you know how helpful it was. Some of the things that I had berbled out in one of the community of practice meetings and that it had really helped them wrap their head around the topic or the concept or whatever it may be, and also then have conversations with their leadership team and their executive directors, which I was kind of blushing, but I appreciated hearing that what I had done was helpful to others. Carol: Oh, 100%. We hear it all the time. Whenever you come on and you give some advice and people be like, that really helped me. You know, we've had folks come back the next month and they're like, that really helped me. I was able to talk to our finance people and whatever, you know, any of the things. They were so excited. You've been an immense help. So let me spin that a little different way. Maybe you can help some of our directors. So fiscal folks are coming and going just as quickly as directors and executive leadership. What suggestions would you have for those VR leaders that are hiring fiscal staff? Because sometimes people think they're bringing in somebody and it's going to be the best thing since sliced bread. And then they're like, this didn't work out at all. Kat: Yeah. Carol: So I think folks, especially when you're talking to non-math people and such, they don't tend to know. What should they ask? Kat: Yeah that's a tough one because on paper it is really hard to assess somebody's education and their stated experience in the positions that they've had before. If you're not a finance person and even understanding the difference between accounting and finance, I have to explain to people again that are really intelligent individuals. I mean, they have their master's degree in counseling and rehabilitation. And yet explaining the difference between accounting and finance is something that I do pretty regularly. My first suggestion to directors would be, if you are at all uncomfortable with accessing the written materials that you're receiving in terms of resumes and a well-written cover letter, find somebody in your state that knows a little bit about fiscal and accounting, or rely upon a recruiter. If you're using the state's chief human resource office to help you assess not only the minimum qualifications that you should be asking for when you're going to turn over millions of dollars to an individual who is going to be responsible for planning, organizing, directing, monitoring and reporting on that money, but also in your preferred qualifications. Look for things like foundational knowledge of appropriations and grants. I don't put that as a minimum qualification because I didn't come in with foundational knowledge around appropriations and grants, but I'm eminently teachable. So that's another thing to look for, is, is this somebody that's a lifelong learner? Do they like a good challenge? Are they good with change and do they know how to lead change? I've experienced this quite a bit in the state of Oregon. We have, since I've arrived, adopted two different enterprise wide solutions for payroll and time tracking, contract management and procurement that we didn't really have a choice to adopt these, but the implementations were intended for very large agencies, and we're an agency of 67 employees. So figuring out how to do these things that you're required to use by the larger organization, that you are a part of being the state at your agency to complete the work that you're going to do is somebody that really needs to be a quick learner that's adaptable, and that can lead change because technology is influencing all of our lives and with what's coming with AI, it's going to continue. And these are good things, but it can be tiring if you think you're going to get in the door as a finance director, and it's all going to be business as usual after you've completed that first fiscal cycle. The other things executive directors could look for are somebody that is curious. I think I mentioned flexibility, but adaptability is very important. When I was interviewing for my role, our VR director, who is fully blind, said to me, how are you going to present materials to me so that I am able to access them and read them? And for me, that was like a oh, how exciting, a new opportunity to take my knowledge and present it in such a way that somebody that I've never worked with before, having a visual impairment or blindness, can also use it. So what do I need to do differently to meet their needs? Not expecting them to accept whatever it is I'm pushing out their way and be just like here it is. If you don't get it, well, that's too bad. The last thing I would mention, and this is just because your fiscal director does have a great deal of access, it's important to remain diligent in managing that employee, just like you would any of your other direct reports. I am fully aware of the responsibility that I have for these millions of dollars that our taxpayers dollars, when all is said and done. So you know you don't want to be so trusting of the person that's managing your finances, that you set yourself up for any kind of a situation where maybe a good person does something not so good because they're in a very difficult spot. So that's where even if you don't know, finance, finding somebody in your own professional network that maybe knows a little bit more about this, that even if you ever have a slight inkling, you can say, hey, you know, my finance director told me this. Can we noodle that around just a little bit? Because I want to make sure that it's all okay. Based on your years of experience doing this and your relationship with your finance director. Carol: That's good advice. Kat: Yeah. I don't mean to be skeptical. I think it's just realistic to know that when you have access to and the ability to move around millions of dollars, you should be diligent in managing them just like you would anybody else. Carol: And things have happened across the country in years past, and people have lost jobs and all kinds of things. So it is no joke. That is excellent advice. Do you have any final kind of words of wisdom for our listeners? Kat: Don't be afraid to admit what you don't know. I mean, early on in my career, as I was being promoted into management positions, I was like, fake it till you make it right and we can all do that. But the further I've progressed and the older I've gotten, I've developed some of that crone wisdom that comes at this decade of your life, which is, boy, there's a whole lot I don't know. And there are people out there that have been doing this for a while. So who do I need to meet? Who do I need to form a relationship with? Who can be my buddy? And then how can I pay that forward? And that would be the other advice is if somebody has helped you out, pay it forward, help the next new person out that got their eyes crossed and looking overwhelmed when they're trying to figure out what in the world is re allotment, let alone carryover and maintenance of effort. Carol: Oh my gosh. Well Kat, I really appreciate your wisdom and your honesty. You are so direct. I love it for our listeners. If you're a leader or fiscal staff or share this episode with somebody new in the role, they do not have to do this alone. Thanks so much for joining me today, Kat. Kat: Thank you Carol. {Music} Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR, one manager at a time, one minute at a time, brought to you by the VR TAC for Quality Management. 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The guided meditation aims to help individuals cultivate calm and alleviate anxiety before sleep. The session begins with instructions to find a comfortable position and focus on breathing. Participants are guided through a progressive body scan, starting from the feet and moving up to the head, releasing tension with each breath. The meditation emphasizes cognitive diffusion, encouraging participants to observe their thoughts and feelings without attachment. Visualization techniques involve imagining worries and stresses floating away in a stream. The session concludes with affirmations of self-acceptance and resilience, promoting a peaceful state of mind ready for sleep. This meditation session includes: 1. Guided Relaxation Techniques - Deep breathing exercises - Body scan from feet to head - Progressive muscle relaxation - Breathing awareness 2. Cognitive Techniques - Cognitive diffusion - Separating thoughts from self - Affirmations of personal capability - Letting go of anxiety and stress 3. Visualization Methods - Imagining a gentle stream - Placing worries/memories into the stream - Watching thoughts float away - Creating personal imagery for release 4. Meditation Structures - Countdown method (10 to 1) - Extended pauses between numbers - Repeated relaxation cycles - Soft, calming vocal guidance 5. Psychological Support - Reassurance statements - Self-acceptance messages - Resilience reinforcement - Anxiety reduction 6. Physical Relaxation - Systematic muscle relaxation - Encouraging bodily softening - Releasing physical tension - Preparing body for sleep The overall goal is to cultivate calm, reduce anxiety, and prepare participants for restful sleep through a comprehensive, multi-layered meditation approach. Let me help you reduce anxiety, fall asleep, cope with grief, and navigate through life through guided sleep meditations designed for restful sleep. It will be ok. Each session combines relaxation techniques with my calming voice to create a peaceful environment, allowing you to fall asleep fast and wake up rejuvenated. Discover effective strategies to enhance your sleep quality, manage anxiety, and cultivate peace. I integrate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) principles into my content, offering practical insights to help you overcome sleep disorders and anxiety. Here, you will find a wealth of resources to support your journey toward better sleep and overall well-being. For additional support, I offer online counseling sessions as a certified counselor with a Master's in Counselling. Book a session through my SimplyBook.me page: [Book a Session](https://laurenostrowskifenton.simplybook.me/v2/). Connect with me on Patreon for exclusive content: [Join me on Patreon](https://www.patreon.com/laurenostrowskifenton). Make a difference by contributing via PayPal: [Donate Here](http://paypal.me/Laurenostrowski). Follow my journey on Instagram for daily inspiration and updates: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/laurenostrowskifenton/). Explore my stories on Medium, where I share insights intertwined with life experiences: [Medium](https://medium.com/@laurenostrowskifenton). Check out my book, "Daily Rituals For Happiness," an instructional workbook designed to help you cultivate happiness every day. Please remember, while my content is meant to provide support, it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health guidance. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice Original vocals and video by Lauren Ostrowski Fenton copyright © 2025 #sleepmeditation #guidedmeditation #fallasleepfast #personaldevelopment #deepsleep #mindfulness #BreathWork #BodyScan #SelfCare #BreathWork #BodyScan
Let us know what you think! Text us!In this powerful episode of the Security Halt! Podcast, Deny Caballero sits down with Trent Seegmiller to talk about purpose-driven living, military service, and the power of fitness, leadership, and community. From special operations camaraderie to the journey of building a podcast that uplifts others, Trent opens up about the real struggles and rewards that come with service, transition, and self-growth.They dive into the importance of staying physically and mentally resilient, taking risks, and fostering supportive communities for veterans and civilians alike. If you're seeking motivation, purpose, and insight into the challenges our service members face—and how they overcome them—this episode delivers.
Today's AgNet News Hour highlighted the resilience and passion of California's dairy industry, featuring an in-depth interview with Joseph Bakker of Back Road Ranch and Countryside Dairy in the Tulare–Visalia area. A third-generation dairyman, Bakker shared his journey in agriculture, managing over 6,000 cows and farming 2,000 acres with his family. His deep ties to both the land and the community reflect the strength and legacy of California's dairy families. The episode dove into the many challenges facing dairymen in California—from relentless regulation and water scarcity to labor hurdles and rising operational costs. Despite these burdens, Bakker remains hopeful, expressing optimism about the future of the industry and calling for smarter policy, more education, and greater public understanding of where our food comes from. Host Nick Papagni and co-host Josh McGill emphasized the importance of representation for farmers on state boards and in politics. They underscored the lack of understanding in Sacramento about the day-to-day realities of agriculture, stressing the need for firsthand engagement and visibility from the ag community. Listeners also learned more about Bakker's family, his children's involvement in football at Central Valley Christian School, and how sports and farming go hand in hand in instilling strong values and work ethic. In the second half of the episode, the show transitioned to industry updates from the Almond Board of California. Encouraging news included tariff reductions in Pakistan, reduced inspections for EU-bound shipments, and insights into pest control and facility registration in China. These updates show that California's almond sector continues to fight for global competitiveness. As the episode closed, Nick and Josh issued a call to action—inviting farmers to bring kids out to the farm, champion FFA, and foster ag literacy. Their message: support your local farmers, drink more milk, and never underestimate the power and necessity of California agriculture. Stay connected at AgNetWest.com and catch the full episode wherever you get your podcasts.
Send us a textEver wonder if you're truly using the unique gifts God gave you? In this week's Midweek Motivation, join Pastor Jess and Caleb Kolstad, Westside's Production Director, for an engaging “Campfire Conversation” about discovering your spiritual gifts and putting them into action. Caleb shares his personal journey—from a curious six-year-old volunteer to passionately leading a thriving ministry team. Learn practical tips on experimenting with different opportunities, how to recognize what truly fires you up, and the power of boldly encouraging others.Discover:How to practically identify and embrace your spiritual giftsThe power of the “I See in You” conversationWhy serving transforms not only others but yourselfBiblical insights from Jesus' interaction with PeterWhether you're exploring your own calling or eager to ignite passion in those around you, this episode is your next step toward bold spiritual growth.Key Takeaways:Your gifts often feel natural—but others notice them clearly.True fulfillment comes from boldly stepping into your gifts and serving.Encouraging others activates spiritual transformation for you both.If you've been waiting to plug into community—this is your sign! We'd love to help you get connected at Westside. Explore options at https://www.westsidecommunitychurch.com/volunteering or visit us in person this Sunday!Question for You to Think About:What gift or passion have you been holding back from exploring or sharing?Be bold. Your journey begins here.Subscribe, share, and join us for more Midweek Motivation!
The U.S. fertility rate reached an all-time low in 2024, according to the CDC. This trend has sparked fear among many on the right, from Elon Musk to Donald Trump, who believe Americans should have more babies. Sarah Varney looks at this movement encouraging families to have more children, its growing influence and ties to the anti-abortion movement. It's part of our series, The Next Frontier. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledYou know that feeling when summer's barely over, kids are back in school, and suddenly you're staring down September, wondering what the heck to post on social media? Yeah, that's where this episode comes in. Brian is back with Caroline Legrand for their monthly marketing prep session, your go-to podcast for staying ahead with smart, simple ideas that actually matter.They're covering everything from prepping your fall events, tying in national awareness months (like National Preparedness Month), and even having some fun with off-the-wall days like “Talk Like a Pirate Day” and “Bald is Beautiful.” But it's not just fluff, this episode is packed with real ways to build trust, showcase your shop's personality, and create content that positions your brand as the go-to in your community.Whether it's using DVI photos the right way, setting up educational posts, or just being more intentional with your calendar, this episode is all about showing up prepared before your slow season hits.This episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. Shop Management software that works the way you need it to right out of the box. Want to revolutionize your marketing? AppFueled does it all email, text, app notifications, and even call center integration. Stop guessing and start connecting with AppFueled.comLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Preparing for August's MarketingDays of the YearNational Calendar Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgement (00:00:10): Brian introduces the episode, guest Caroline, and thanks the sponsor. Sets up the September marketing theme.Overview of September Marketing and Industry Events (00:01:09): Discussion about September being packed with causes and events, and how shops can leverage industry events and conferences.Smoothing Out Workload for the Holidays (00:03:59): Advice on scheduling regular clients during slower holiday months to balance shop workload.Monthly Themes: Save Your Photos & National Preparedness Month (00:05:44): Encouragement to take and use shop photos, and tie in National Preparedness Month with vehicle safety and maintenance.Preparedness Content and Giveaways (00:07:20): Ideas for preparedness videos, EDC (Everyday Carry) for vehicles, and preparedness kit giveaways.Community Sponsorships: Little League & Baby Safety (00:11:23): Promoting shop involvement in Little League sponsorships and baby safety events, including car seat checks.Read a New Book Month (00:13:20): Encouraging team reading and sharing book recommendations as part of shop culture.Weekly Themes: Child Passenger Safety & Compassionate Leadership (00:13:37): Highlighting Child Passenger Safety Week and Compassionate Leadership Week, and their relevance to shop training and culture.Other September Weeks: Fall Foliage, Security Officer, Truck Driver Appreciation (00:15:30): Ideas for pre-trip checks, security officer discounts, and truck driver/fleet customer appreciation.Fun September Days: Beards, Bacon, Labor Day, Pizza, Beer (00:18:09): Creative content ideas for World Beard Day, International Bacon Day,...
The U.S. fertility rate reached an all-time low in 2024, according to the CDC. This trend has sparked fear among many on the right, from Elon Musk to Donald Trump, who believe Americans should have more babies. Sarah Varney looks at this movement encouraging families to have more children, its growing influence and ties to the anti-abortion movement. It's part of our series, The Next Frontier. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders
How to Connect with Family When on the Road In this episode of the Helping Families Be Happy podcast, host Christopher Robbins speaks with Brian Brown about parenting on the road while maintaining a full-time job. Brian shares his experiences and strategies for staying connected with his family despite travels that take him away from home. The discussion covers the importance of genuine communication, creating traditions such as collecting books from different locations, and involving children in understanding the parent's work life. Listeners will find valuable insights on nurturing relationships with their children while balancing professional commitments. Episode Highlights 00:00:09: Introduction to the podcast and guest, Brian Brown, and the focus on parenting while working full-time away from home. 00:01:42: Brian expresses pleasure in participating and remarks on the importance of being real to maintain family connections. 00:01:46: Exploring how to be an engaged and loving parent even when miles apart by prioritizing real and honest communication. 00:03:09: Brian discusses making proactive efforts to call at times that are suited to his and his daughter's schedules, reflecting prioritization. 00:04:17: Introduction to the power of parental gifts, with focus on tangible and intangible gifts, and Brian's book collection tradition. 00:05:09: Brian describes his tradition of buying children's books from local bookstores worldwide during his travels. 00:07:21: Encouraging children to appreciate the parent's work life by involving them in meaningful conversations and sharing experiences. 00:08:07: Engaging children in genuine conversations by asking specific questions that elicit better and more extensive responses. 00:09:59: Host Christopher Robbins summarizes the recommendations and invites listeners to connect with Brian on LinkedIn. 00:10:21: Closing comments thanking participants and encouraging listeners to explore literature to engage families and improve happiness. Key Takeaways Prioritizing real and honest communication builds stronger connections with family members even when physically apart. Being proactive in scheduling calls during travel demonstrates prioritizing family over work engagements. Creating a tradition, such as collecting local books, can reinforce thoughtful engagement with family while providing meaningful memories. Encouraging genuine conversations through specific questions helps build deeper relationships and better understanding between parents and children. Involving children in understanding the parent's work life can lead to increased appreciation and engagement in both lives. Tweetable Quotes "Being real in our conversations often builds the bridge back home, no matter how far the distance." "A simple book from the road, with memories inscribed, can connect us back to those we cherish the most." "Ask your kids something specific about their day—it's where the true stories unfold." "Quality time is less about where you are and more about where your heart is." Show Notes by Barevalue.
More than belief, faith is trusting Jesus with your life. Thank you for listening to Encourage-Mint. If you've been refreshed, don't forget to subscribe, Leave a review on iTunes, and share a little Encourage-Mint with someone you love. Encourage-Mint is a podcast from Family Radio. These moments are just a taste of what you can hear every day. Listen at FamilyRadio.org or find more encouragement on the Family Radio app. Get daily Scripture and encouragement by following Family Radio on your favorite social media platforms:FacebookInstagram Twitter
Both podcast hosts and guests struggle to get listeners to take action after listening to episodes. This is because the call to action (CTA) is often unclear, scattered, or too complex. In this episode, Alex Sanfilippo along with Luis and Fonzi Camejo share a 6-step framework to help podcast hosts and podcast guests create focused, compelling calls to action that actually get results. Get ready to simplify your message, guide your listeners, and turn listeners' attention into action!MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/342Chapters00:00 Introduction to Podcasting and Personal Connections01:53 The Importance of Calls to Action in Podcasting05:19 Developing Trust and Authority with Listeners09:44 The Power of a Singular Call to Action12:20 Relevance and Coherence in Calls to Action15:43 Dynamic Insertion and Evergreen Content18:32 Visualizing Frameworks for Effective Communication19:56 Engagement Levels and Call to Action Strategies21:51 Creating Anticipation: The Power of Teasers22:36 Crafting Memorable URLs and Easy Navigation24:31 Value Reinforcement: Ensuring Alignment with Expectations26:00 The Importance of Value-First Approaches30:00 Innovative Opt-In Strategies for Audience Engagement32:19 Building a Community Focused on Action and AccountabilityTakeawaysCalls to action are crucial for podcast success.Overwhelming listeners with options can lead to inaction.Building trust with your audience is essential.A singular call to action is more effective than multiple.Relevance to the topic is key for effective CTAs.Dynamic insertion can keep content evergreen and relevant.Listeners appreciate transparency and value in content.Testing different CTAs can lead to better results.Simplicity in CTAs helps listeners understand and engage.Developing a relationship with the audience enhances response rates. Visual frameworks help audiences visualize concepts easily.Engagement levels dictate the length and depth of calls to action.Creating anticipation can enhance listener retention.Memorable URLs improve audience navigation and recall.Value reinforcement is crucial for maintaining audience trust.A value-first approach can lead to better audience engagement.Innovative opt-in strategies can enhance audience interaction.Building a community fosters accountability and action.Clear communication reduces confusion and increases conversions.Encouraging actionable steps is essential for audience growth.MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/342
In this episode of the Prosperity Podcast, discover how to enrich money conversations with kids at every age! Host Kim shares practical strategies for teaching spending, saving, and sharing from age two onwards, fostering financial responsibility through “healthy struggles.” Your guide to raising financially savvy children, this episode is a must-listen for parents! Prosperity Thinkers is proud to be an affiliate of the transformative Gravy Stack movement, helping individuals around the world unlock their potential and achieve financial freedom. By providing resources, tools, and mentorship, we contribute to creating a culture of abundance, possibility, and growth. Please note, that as an affiliate, we may receive compensation for our efforts. Our collaboration, however, goes beyond financial arrangements; we truly believe in the power of the Gravy Stack movement to change lives and foster prosperity. Best-selling author Kim Butler and Spencer Shaw show you how to take more control of your finances. Tune in to The Prosperity Podcast to learn more about Prosperity Thinkers' thinking and strategies today! Do you have a question you would like answered on the show? Please send it to us at hello@prosperitythinkers.com and we may answer it in an upcoming episode. Links and Resources from this Episode For resources and additional information of this episode go to https://prosperitythinkers.com/podcasts/ http://prosperityparents.com/ https://prosperitythinkers.com/action/ https://www.youtube.com/@KimDHButler https://prosperityparents.com/ Show Notes Teaching finance to toddlers: spend, save, share. Engaging children with physical coins. Breaking away from chores and allowances. Extra pay impacts children's spending. Preparing teenagers for adult financial life. Teen-run businesses offer life lessons. Freedom through responsibility. Healthy struggle for independent problem-solving. Encouraging children with structured struggles. Prosperity Parents: Community resources for families. Special Listener Gift Free eBook: Activating Your Prosperity Guide. Kim Butler's groundbreaking eBook/ audiobook explains why typical financial advice may be sabotaging your wealth... and what to do instead! Review and Subscribe If you like what you hear please leave a review by clicking here Subscribe on your favorite podcast player to get the latest episodes. iTunes RSS
Hello, friend. Welcome to the Encouraging Word Podcast. Did you know the Bible has something to say about crisis management? That might feel like a modern construct, but it's not. In Joseph's life he faced multiple crises, including an extended, widespread famine. So how did he get through it? A two-pronged approach – he approached the crisis with faith and then came up with a plan.
LEARN MORE at http://teach4theheart.com/352 Encouraging student motivation can be one of the most challenging parts of being a teacher. Have you ever thought about the role your classroom management plays in this? Listen in as we discuss how classroom management influences student motivation! 00:00 Introduction of Classroom Management and Student Motivation 06:27 Building a Foundation for Motivation 12:14 Relationships for Increasing Student Motivation Resources/Links Mentioned: 8 Easy Way to Turn Boring Worksheets into Engaging Activities – Rise Up Summit: https://youtu.be/SSDXKkQfoKU Classroom Management 101: https://teach4theheart.com/cm101 Back to School Classroom Management and Motivation Training: https://teach4theheart.com/training Classroom Management Podcast Series Episode 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/classroom-management-01-what-kind-of-classroom/id1075393336?i=1000602940811 Rise Up Summit: https://riseupchristianeducators.com/ If you liked this episode, check out our Classroom Management Playlist at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLqOa5heLXggdIL2pxolZeWg11tLJHHSnD
Education On Fire - Sharing creative and inspiring learning in our schools
David Carson from Dumbify delves into the intriguing concept that embracing "dumb" thinking can often lead to innovative solutions. We explore how society has cultivated a reluctance to ask seemingly foolish questions, thereby stifling creativity and potential breakthroughs. Our conversation is enriched by anecdotes illustrating how historical figures, like Isaac Newton, harnessed the power of curiosity and unorthodox thinking to arrive at revolutionary ideas. We also reflect on personal experiences and methodologies that advocate for a shift in mindset—encouraging individuals to welcome and cultivate their "dumb" thoughts as a pathway to discovery and success. Takeaways: Throughout history, the concept of 'dumb' has surprisingly provided solutions to complex problems. As individuals gain more knowledge, they often realize how much they still do not know. Encouraging the asking of seemingly 'dumb' questions can lead to significant creative breakthroughs. Creative thoughts often stem from individuals attempting to replicate others but failing, thereby generating originality. Rewarding curiosity in educational settings can foster a more open and innovative learning environment. The practice of intentionally thinking 'dumb' can lead to the development of new and effective solutions. Websitedavid-carson.com dumbify.beehiiv.comShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/