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In this episode, Phil interviews Thomas Lahnthaler about his book 'Facilitating Reflections'. They discuss the inspiration behind the book, the role of facilitators, essential skills needed, and the concept of self-harming humility in facilitation. Thomas emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's contributions and the need for facilitators to be aware of their impact on group dynamics. The conversation also touches on the evolution of facilitation practices and the balance between experience and new facilitators. Critique is essential for growth and care. Facilitators should not be the sole source of answers. Facilitation is about navigating human dynamics. Self-harming humility can hinder facilitators' growth. Facilitators need to acknowledge their contributions. Awareness is crucial for effective facilitation. Facilitators should embrace their unique styles. Reflection is key to improving facilitation skills. Facilitators must adapt to each unique group. The book encourages introspection and personal growth. Learn more about Thomas - https://www.lahnthaler.com/ Connect with Thomas - thomas@lahnthaler.com Purchase the book - https://a.co/d/4E9fjKc Thomas' LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaslahnthaler/ Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org Podcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/ Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com
"Somewhere along the line, as we grow up, we get so used to doing things a certain way that we lose touch with that creative side of the brain. As kids, we tried all sorts of things and never stuck to a certain methodology or structure, but I think facilitation brings out that childlike curiosity, which makes the whole thing very special. And I think that's what's kept me going."- Varsha Prasad In this Facilitation Lab podcast episode, host Douglas Ferguson interviews Varsha Prasad of IdeaCompass about her journey as a facilitator and entrepreneur. Varsha shares insights from her first design thinking workshop, the impact of mentorship, and the importance of creating engaging environments. She discusses navigating cultural differences in facilitation, her transition to independent consulting, and the value of community support. The conversation highlights the power of innovation, structured reflection, and open-mindedness in workshops, offering practical advice for facilitators seeking to inspire creativity and collaboration across diverse teams.
In this solo episode, host Beth Cougler Blom reflects on how to create learning that truly lasts. Beth shares thoughts about how we can shift from simply delivering content to designing experiences that drive behaviour change and embed meaningful memories for learners. She also shares: Why behaviour change is the heart of lasting learning How relevance and meaning move ideas into long-term memory The importance of learner analysis in your design process Ways to reinforce learning beyond the session Links From the Episode EP 47 The Pivotal Role of Learning Outcomes with Beth Cougler Blom Canadian Museum for Human Rights Hollyhock Retreat Center Transformational Speaking with Gail Larsen EP 13 Experimenting with Experiential Learning with Romy Alexandra Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca Facilitating on Purpose Community on LinkedIn Connect with Host Beth Cougler Blom Give feedback or suggest upcoming show topics or guests at hello@bcblearning.com Visit bcblearning.com to explore Beth's company's services in facilitation and learning design Purchase a copy of Beth's book, Design to Engage Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
Tommy Dee went from blue-collar trades to nursing to authoring Blue Collar Revolution, a bold new guide for contractors navigating the AI age. In this high-energy episode, Tommy shares how AI helped him turn $10K into $2.7M, which tools he swears by, and why giving your AI a name like “Charlie” might just change how you work. If you're in the trades, or manage anyone who is, this is the episode to send around. Experience our episodes in a whole new way - watch every video version on our YouTube channel HERE. Subscribe now to be the first to catch our next release. Soundbites [1:07] Meet Tommy Dee: author, entrepreneur, tradesman, and AI trailblazer. [2:32] Why AI chose the trades this book should serve - and how. [3:27] Self-assessment categories from enthusiast to Luddite. [4:51] Five reasons tradespeople should embrace AI now. [5:12] What happens when you don't adapt: a personal story. [6:06] Meet “Charlie,” the AI assistant that types like a speed pianist. [6:31] From one-man plumber to smart project manager - how AI helped. [7:57] The prompt library: how Tommy engineers AI to engineer itself. [9:22] Nina learns a new level of prompting - asking AI to write the prompts. [11:33] Why his book lists AI tools without sponsorship, just value. [12:16] A deep dive into Contractor Marketing Pro and Facebook group ads. [13:51] AI never gets offended - why that matters in blue collar settings. [15:10] Streamlining estimates with photos, voice, and AI-generated docs. [16:26] HVAC tools like ServiceTitan: tracking, fairness, and transparency. [18:36] Roofing tools like AccuLynx cut waste from 15% to 3%. [20:17] Financial tools for P&L, loans, and attracting investors. [20:50] How to access Tommy's free worksheet and resources. [21:14] The $10K to $2.7M story - and why he's giving back. CONTACT TOMMY ABOUT PODCAST HOST, NINA SUNDAY To learn more about face-to-face training programs with Nina Sunday or one of her experienced Facilitators from Brainpower Training Pty Ltd in Australia Pacific, visit: https://www.brainpowertraining.com.au/signature-programs/ To visit Nina Sunday's speaker site for global in-person speaking bookings visit: https://www.ninasunday.com/ Connect with Nina Sunday on LinkedIn HERE To subscribe to Nina Sunday's blog go to https://www.brainpowertraining.com.au/ and scroll to bottom of the page to register. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Codd's World June 2, 2025 Today's show features guests from Ephemeral Magazine and the Wellness Collective. First up is Megan Vickery (2:15). She is one of three editors for Ephemeral Magazine which launched its second edition this Spring. Ephemeral alters the theme of each edition to ensure it captures some of the magical moments that occur in the desert landscape of Moab and Grand County. Vickery shares her thoughts on how the magazine came into existence and what they hope to achieve with the publication. Vickery said they encourage artists to be creative with their submissions which can be poetry, art, free form writing, and other formats. Vickery, who is also a co-director of the Moab Museum, also discusses the second part of the U-92 exhibit at the Museum which is opening in July 2025 (18:00). The exhibit examines how living with uranium impacts our lives. The exhibit focuses on the environmental and health impacts of uranium upon the lives of those exposed to it. The exhibit also discusses the future of uranium mining in Utah which is experiencing a resurgence in the United States. Also appearing on the show is Breann Davis, Executive Director of the Moab Wellness Collective (22:10). Davis started the Collective two years ago The Collective's primary focus is on mental health. They offer a wide variety of classes and programs intended to help individuals with substance use disorders and related issues overcome their dependency. The Collective partners with other organizations in Moab such as The Moab Hospital's new Regional Recovery Center and USARA. The Wellness Collective has several Facilitators on staff who provide various kinds of yoga classes, healthy eating and nutrition awareness activities, music, art, and other activities to help improve the mental health of many individuals in our community. Thomas, a facilitator with the Collective plays the handpan, a type of drum that sounds similar to a steel drum. He demonstrates its soothing sound and discusses how it is used in conjunction with ear acupuncture to reduce cravings for drugs or alcohol.
Can we shift our energy without pretending everything's okay? When anxiety kicks in, it can feel like everything in our body and mind is spiraling — but that doesn't mean we're stuck there. We reflect on what it looks like to raise our vibration when anxiety shows up, not by forcing a shift, but by creating space for it. This episode explores the power of allowing ourselves to fully feel, gently regulate, and reconnect to our natural state. From reality TV as a nervous system reset to deeper somatic practices, we talk about what actually works when we're in the thick of it. Key Takeaways: ✨ Why honoring where we are is the first step to shifting energy ✨ The role of somatics and the nervous system in anxiety recovery ✨ How to find clarity without bypassing what you feel ✨ Real-life practices that help calm chaotic energy ✨ The surprising tools that support emotional regulation ✨ Why slowing down is sometimes the most aligned move This episode is for you if you've ever felt stuck in an anxious loop, are craving calm, or are learning how to raise your vibration from a grounded, embodied place. Energy Healers, Facilitators, & Resources mentioned in this and/or past episodes:
What happens when we let things fall into place? When we stop trying to control every detail and start trusting the timing, life has a way of surprising us from aligned opportunities to seemingly magical outcomes. We reflect on how the balance of effort and ease plays out in everyday moments, whether it's parking spaces or big-picture shifts in business and relationships. Recorded in Milan, this conversation is part travel diary, part energetic deep dive and all about learning how to hold the frequency of self-trust, especially when we don't yet see the outcome. Key Takeaways: ✨ Why surrender isn't giving up and how to know the difference ✨ The subtle power of letting go at the right time ✨ Real-life stories of ease, alignment, and “coincidences” ✨ How self-trust and frequency shape your reality ✨ Energetic tips for balancing effort and flow ✨ A behind-the-scenes update from Milan and how it ties into the theme This episode is for you if you're learning to trust the process, tired of pushing, or curious about how ease can be a strategy, not a setback. Energy Healers, Facilitators, & Resources mentioned in this and/or past episodes:
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Sumesh Khatua and Simrat Pahwa about the power of storytelling to create lasting impact in learning experiences. They explore how stories help drive clarity, build emotional connection, and support learning transfer both during and beyond structured learning sessions. Beth, Sumesh, and Simrat also talk about: Designing learning with the end impact in mind Using storytelling to spark behaviour change and recall Building stories that are relatable, inclusive, and grounded in real life Navigating missteps and adapting in the moment Engage with Sumesh Khatua and Simrat Pahwa: Sumesh Khatua on LinkedIn Simrat Pahwa on LinkedIn | Instagram Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca Facilitating on Purpose Community on LinkedIn Connect with Host Beth Cougler Blom: Give feedback or suggest upcoming show topics or guests at hello@bcblearning.com Visit bcblearning.com to explore Beth's company's services in facilitation and learning design Purchase a copy of Beth's book, Design to Engage Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
In this episode, Phil Brown discusses the importance of empowering participants in climbing activities by allowing them to make choices about their experience, particularly the choice to come down when they feel uncomfortable. He challenges traditional mindsets that prioritize reaching the top as the ultimate goal and emphasizes the need for facilitators to listen to participants' needs and create a supportive environment. Phil advocates for a shift in perspective that prioritizes emotional safety and encourages facilitators to critically evaluate their programming and language to enhance the overall experience for all participants. If a participant wants to come down, always say yes. Celebrating those who advocate for themselves is crucial. Reaching the top shouldn't be the only measure of success. Facilitators must balance challenge and panic for participants. It's important to honor participants' choices for emotional safety. Encouragement should be framed with respect for individual needs. Program design should allow for adequate time and support. Language used in facilitation can impact participants' experiences. Facilitators should continuously critique and improve their programming. Empowering participants leads to better outcomes in climbing experiences. Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/ Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org Music and Sound effects - epidemicsound.com
Dan Silberberg is a leadership visionary with a Fortune 500 track record, now focused on helping executives uncover the unconscious patterns that shape their leadership. In this powerful episode, Dan exposes the invisible operating system that drives our choices, beliefs, and leadership style, and why it's time to rewrite the code. If you're curious about how childhood beliefs, culture, and fear of standing out could be holding you back, this episode is your wake-up call. Experience our episodes in a whole new way and watch every video version on our YouTube channel HERE. Subscribe now to be the first to catch our next release. Soundbites [1:01] What does it mean to unmask leadership and uncover your true self? [3:45] How early childhood experiences shape unconscious beliefs about safety. [6:18] The link between Maslow's hierarchy and the hidden mindset of survival. [8:32] The default system formed through family, culture, religion, and school. [10:11] How children internalize blame and form lifelong narratives. [12:09] Why nurture is more powerful than nature in forming your worldview. [14:16] Experience vs. fact: most people confuse one for the other. [15:52] Why we play to fit in: survival instincts and tribal fear. [17:03] Why self-reflection alone isn't enough - you need mirrors like coaches. [18:20] How repetition hardwires your beliefs and keeps you small. [19:47] Paradigms reinforced by confirmation bias and group identity. [21:00] How we sabotage ourselves by staying in the comfort zone. [22:15] The impact of family patterns, religious institutions, and peer conformity. [24:01] Why leaders must confront unconscious behaviors to evolve. [25:48] Why younger leaders under 50 are more open to deep change. [27:04] Navigating five generations in the workforce and their value shifts. [28:19] Why self-awareness and purpose are the new leadership differentiators. [30:08] Reprogramming your unconscious mind in the present moment. [31:42] Beliefs about money: how early scripts sabotage adult success. [34:03] Why people rise, fall, and repeat success based on hidden paradigms. [35:45] Imposter syndrome - why it only afflicts successful people. [37:12] How past trauma shapes invisibility and fear of speaking up. [39:08] When your work is great but your voice is missing - what that reveals. [41:00] The real reason some C-suite leaders stay silent in the room. CONTACT DAN https://entelechy.ai/product/leader-council/ https://entelechy.ai/contact/ https://pages.c-suitenetwork.com/the-leader-council ABOUT PODCAST HOST, NINA SUNDAY To learn more about face-to-face training programs with Nina Sunday or one of her experienced Facilitators from Brainpower Training Pty Ltd in Australia Pacific, visit: https://www.brainpowertraining.com.au/signature-programs/ To visit Nina Sunday's speaker site for global in-person speaking bookings visit: https://www.ninasunday.com/ Connect with Nina Sunday on LinkedIn HERE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninasunday/ To subscribe to Nina Sunday's personal blog go to https://www.brainpowertraining.com.au/ and scroll to bottom of the page to register. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Speak Easy, we explore how we read signs. Is it possible that the way we read universal signs goes through the filter of our beliefs, experiences, & confirmation biases? Further, have a look at how we can interpret signs to cause magnetism to our desires. A recent behind-the-scenes moment during a podcast recording opens the door to a deeper conversation about confirmation bias, energy, and intuitive interpretation. We reflect on how our beliefs shape the way we read signs — and how doing the inner work changes everything. We also talk about travel, vision boards, and how experiences that once felt like red flags can actually become green lights when we've done the healing. Key Takeaways: ✨ How embodiment transforms the way we read and respond to signs ✨ The link between confirmation bias and spiritual interpretation ✨ A real-time story about navigating signs and shifting perspective ✨ Why internal alignment matters more than external “answers” ✨ The role of energetic clarity in manifesting what we want ✨ Travel, vision boards, and aligning with your future self This episode is for you if you're learning to trust your inner cues, questioning old interpretations, or ready to embody the energy you want to attract. Energy Healers, Facilitators, & Resources mentioned in this and/or past episodes:
Lauri Ann Lumby explores the power of embodied learning and self-actualization, blending mindfulness, creativity, and spiritual inquiry. Her approach highlights deep personal growth, the role of the facilitator, and fostering a patient and authentic connection for transformative online education.Lauri Ann Lumby has nearly 30 years of experience as an educator, spiritual counselor, and soul guide, and is the author of 11 books. In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Lauri discuss:The goal of courses is to support people in becoming self-actualized.Embodied learning integrates intellectual knowledge into lived experience.Facilitators should focus on guiding rather than lecturing.Personal interaction is crucial for deep learning and course completion.Online courses can reach a global audience, enhancing accessibility.Creativity practices can enhance engagement and learning.Discussion boards are essential for student interaction and accountability.Patience is key in building an audience for online courses.The majority of students may not complete deep-learning courses due to personal challenges.Using diverse materials like poetry and scripture can enrich the learning experience.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Course Lab and Guest Background03:32 - Lauri's Journey into Online Courses07:12 - Exploring Course Structure and Teaching Methods11:03 - Transitioning from In-Person to Online Learning14:59 - Engagement and Retention in Online Courses18:43 - Embodied Learning and Creative Approaches22:36 - Patience and Building Trust in Online Education25:01 - Exploring Embodied Learning27:04 - The Role of Patience in Course Creation28:47 - Personal Outreach and Student Engagement“All of my work is an integrative approach that supports what I call embodied learning. This is not about intellectual knowledge, because we can all read all the books we want to read, but having embodied the concept.” — Lauri Ann LumbyGuest Bio:Lauri Ann Lumby has nearly 30 years of experience as an educator, spiritual counselor, and soul guide. She has supported hundreds through her one-on-one mentoring, training programs, books, and intentional communities. She earned her master's degree in Transpersonal Psychology from Sofia University, is a trained Spiritual Director in the Ignatian tradition, and has certificates in Adult Education and Spiritual Development. She's also a Reiki Master Practitioner in both the Usui and Karuna traditions and an ordained interfaith minister. Lauri is the author of eleven books, including Authentic Freedom: Claiming a Life of Contentment and Joy and her novel, Song of the Beloved: The Gospel According to Mary Magdalene. Learn more about Lauri at www.LauriAnnLumby.com.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuLauri's website: LauriAnnLumby.comCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer: Michi LantzEditor: Andrew ChapmanExecutive Producer: Danny InyMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Teaching for Transformation: Creativity, Patience, and Presence (Lauri Ann Lumby) coming soon.
In this conversation, Phil Brown and Devin Farkas discuss the evolving landscape of outdoor education, focusing on accessibility, the importance of experiential learning, and the development of leadership skills in outdoor settings. They explore the core impacts of outdoor education, including confidence building and connection with nature, while also addressing the need to shift perspectives on risk and challenge. The discussion culminates in a vision for the future of outdoor education that emphasizes reducing barriers and enhancing learning experiences through outdoor spaces. Outdoor education should be accessible to all, not just the adventurous few. Experiential learning is key to achieving educational outcomes. Confidence, connection, and skill development are core impacts of outdoor education. The focus should be on creating meaningful experiences, not just flashy adventures. Leadership development is best achieved in low-risk environments. Facilitators should allow discomfort to foster learning opportunities. The situational leadership model can enhance group dynamics. Outdoor education can be integrated into everyday learning environments. The future of outdoor education lies in reducing barriers and enhancing accessibility. Learn more about Devin - workwithdevin.com Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/ Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com
What if chasing the right strategy is keeping us from the abundance that's already trying to meet us? In this episode of Speak, Easy, we explore the difference between being aligned to the process and being aligned to abundance. We reflect on the subtle but powerful shifts that happen when we move from obsessing over doing it “right” to trusting in the energetic foundation behind our actions. It's a conversation that blends spiritual insight with grounded experience in business, personal growth, and manifestation. Inspired by a recent conversation with a friend, this episode reminds us that true abundance isn't earned through over-efforting, it's received through deep alignment. When we understand the difference, we begin to let go of rigid plans and instead make space for natural success. Key Takeaways: ✨ Why alignment to abundance often feels simpler and lighter than strategic over-efforting ✨ How to assess whether your current beliefs are aligned with the outcome you want ✨ The role of energy in business success and personal evolution ✨ A personal story that sparked a major mindset shift ✨ The cost of over-identifying with the process ✨ How to recalibrate when things feel off even though you're “doing all the right things” This episode is for you if you've been stuck in cycles of doing more but receiving less, or if you're ready to trust your energy as much as your effort. Energy Healers, Facilitators, & Resources mentioned in this and/or past episodes:
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Leanne Joe and Amea Wilbur about how they designed a course on Indigenous pedagogies for adult educators at the University of the Fraser Valley. Their conversation offers insights that can inspire all of us, wherever we work, to thoughtfully incorporate Indigenous voices and ways of knowing into our learning environments, enriching the experience for both ourselves and our learners. Beth, Leanne, and Amea also talk about: Starting with story and relationship to land Bringing language, gifts, and storytelling into course design Navigating colonial structures while honouring Indigenous worldviews Using reflection and personal narrative in learning Engaging Elders and Knowledge Keepers in learning experiences Creating spaces for learners to share forward what they've learned by teaching others Engage with Leanne Joe and Amea Wilbur Leanne Joe: LinkedIn | Instagram | Bluesky Amea Wilbur: LinkedIn | Website Links From the Episode Teaching Where You Are: Weaving Indigenous and Slow Principles and Pedagogies by Shannon Leddy and Lorrie Miller First People's Principles of Learning Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.com Connect with Host Beth Cougler Blom: Give feedback or suggest upcoming show topics or guests at hello@bcblearning.com Visit bcblearning.com to explore Beth's company's services in facilitation and learning design Purchase a copy of Beth's book, Design to Engage Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team behind the Dementia Care Family Support Program. About Denise M. Brown: Denise began supporting family caregivers in 1990, launching one of the first online caregiving communities in 1996. She trains Caregiving Consultants, Facilitators, Guides and Navigators. She cared for her father for almost 20 years and for her mother for 8 years. She's written 16 books for current and former family caregivers. About Dr. Laura Gitlin: Dr. Laura Gitlin is the Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer at Plans4Care. She is an intervention scientist with over 40 years of experience in dementia care and research. Dr. Gitlin currently serves as a multiple Principal Investigator on several NIH-funded grants, where she leads the development and testing of innovative interventions to support people living with dementia and their caregivers. About Eric Jutkowitz, PhD: Eric Jutkowitz, PhD is the Co-founder and CEO of Plans4Care. He is health services focused on improving the nation's long-term care system. He co-founded Plans4Care to bring evidence-based dementia care out of the university and into the hands of all family caregivers. About the Dementia Care Family Support Program: Our Certified Caregiving Consultants partnered with Plans4Care, a technology start-up to offer 5 coaching sessions to dementia family caregivers in order to resolve 3 care challenges. We'll share what we learned about using technology during coaching sessions, the common care challenges we addressed and the insights we gained from tracking our coaching sessions. We also will talk about what we learned about how to best support dementia family caregivers to help ease their stress and worries.
In this conversation, Phil Brown discusses the nuances of training in challenge courses, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences and safety protocols. He recounts a near miss incident involving a participant and a helmet, highlighting the lessons learned and the need for vigilance among facilitators. The discussion encourages a culture of continuous learning. Facilitators should encourage discussions about impactful moments. Safety protocols must be adapted based on real experiences. Helmets can be both beneficial and problematic in certain scenarios. Vigilance is crucial when managing participants on challenge courses. Facilitators should practice lowering techniques before climbing. Sharing stories helps build a learning community. Anecdotal experiences can provide valuable lessons not found in manuals. Continuous learning is essential in the outdoor education industry. Engagement with the community can lead to shared insights and improvements. Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org
Is this the end of reading as we know it? Nina Sunday is a speed reading trailblazer and founder of Brainpower Training. In this episode, she raises the alarm on our vanishing "deep reading brain" and why reclaiming our capacity for focus and complex thinking is now a leadership imperative. From book bans to slogan-thinking, Nina unpacks how short-form content is rewiring our minds and what leaders can do about it. Experience our episodes in a whole new way and watch every video version on our YouTube channel HERE Subscribe now to be the first to catch our next release. Soundbites [00:13] Are we losing our deep reading brain? What does that mean for critical thinking in a digital age? [01:50] Pre-literate vs literate thinking. How reading shapes the brain and enables objective analysis. [03:06] Benefits of reading books. Developing empathy, tolerating ambiguity, and expanding mental flexibility. [04:22] Proposals for workplaces: “Drop Everything and Read” day and the mindfulness of slow reading. [05:26] Macro reading explained. Why speed of thought and speed of reading go hand in hand. ABOUT PODCAST HOST, NINA SUNDAY To learn more about face-to-face training programs with Nina Sunday or one of her experienced Facilitators from Brainpower Training Pty Ltd in Australia Pacific, visit: https://www.brainpowertraining.com.au/signature-programs/ To visit Nina Sunday's speaker site for global in-person speaking bookings visit: https://www.ninasunday.com/ Connect with Nina Sunday on LinkedIn HERE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninasunday/ To subscribe to Nina Sunday's personal blog go to https://www.brainpowertraining.com.au/ and scroll to bottom of the page to register. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if staying in flow had more to do with self-trust than everything related to doing? In this episode of Speak, Easy, we talk about what it really means to let ourselves be in full permission to flow. We reflect the journey of identifying our true desires, how our ability to stay in flow is directly tied to self trust. We trust ourselves not just as a thought pattern, but we earn the self trust through discipline, our sense of worthiness, and the value we give ourselves. We go through a very impactful personal story from a craniosacral therapy session which unpacks our ability to go from a sense of fundamental lack to fundamental abundance. This conversation also takes aim at the notion that flow is freedom from responsibility, instead exploring how intention with responsibility also can feel as its own version of purpose. Key Takeaways: ✨ Why staying in flow is about self trust, not avoiding structure ✨ The relationship between discipline, worthiness, and long-term alignment ✨ My own personal breakthrough moment from craniosacral therapy ✨ How to distinguish if you're operating from a sense of lack or abundance ✨ Re-imagining responsibility as a totally natural way of expressing purpose ✨ Practices that support a more easeful, trust-based approach to living and creating This episode is for you if you've ever felt challenged in keeping consistent in your creative or professional work, or if you're ready to practice experiencing responsibility and flow as two parts along the same path. Energy Healers, Facilitators, & Resources mentioned in this and/or past episodes:
In this episode of the YourForest Podcast, Matthew Kristof explores the essential role of dialogue in effective landscape and wildfire management. Joined by Robin Freeman, Project Manager for the Wildfire Networks at the SFU Centre for Dialogue, and James Whitehead, Special Projects Manager for the Mitigating Wildfires Project, they dive into how open, empathetic communication can help diverse stakeholders collaborate toward better environmental management solutions.The discussion covers the intricacies of dialogue as a tool for conflict resolution, the challenges of managing wildfire risks, and the importance of understanding differing perspectives in environmental decision-making. The conversation highlights the need for vulnerability and honesty, both from facilitators and participants, in creating an environment where meaningful dialogue and change can happen.
We dive into the interconnected relationship between the mind, body, and soul and how aligning all three can unlock the manifestation of your deepest desires. We explore the non-linear path of self-growth, the power of somatic awareness, and what it actually means to be in energetic alignment. Through personal stories and experiences with modalities like NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and energy healing, we look at how burnout, misalignment, or over-efforting are often invitations to reconnect with your full self. This isn't about doing more. It's about doing the inner work that sustains outer results. Key Takeaways: ✨ How the mind, body, and soul each play a unique role in manifestation ✨ Real-life experiences with burnout and the practices that helped with recovery ✨ Why self-growth is not linear and how to embrace the in-between moments ✨ The role of energy healing, NLP, and EMDR in releasing internal blocks ✨ How somatic work can reveal what mindset work alone cannot ✨ A grounded look at authentic pricing strategies for service-based entrepreneurs This episode is for you if you've been doing the mindset work but still feel stuck, or if you're seeking a more embodied and soul-aligned approach to growth and success. Energy Healers, Facilitators, & Resources mentioned in this and/or past episodes:
Improving Organizational Performance, with Deb Page, The Institute for Performance Improvement (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 872) In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Deb Page, the president of The Institute for Performance Improvement. Deb shares her insights on how organizations can navigate complex challenges, particularly focusing on the role […] The post Improving Organizational Performance, with Deb Page, The Institute for Performance Improvement appeared first on Business RadioX ®.
Improving Organizational Performance, with Deb Page, The Institute for Performance Improvement (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 872) In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Deb Page, the president of The Institute for Performance Improvement. Deb shares her insights on how organizations can navigate complex challenges, particularly focusing on the role […]
Mayumi Willgerodt, editor of The Journal of School Nursing, interviews author Elissa Allen to discuss the article, "Adolescent Women's Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators to High School Bathroom Use". The article can be found in the JOSN June 2025 Issue (Volume 41, Issue 3). To view the article, click here.
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Guillaume Vermette about his work as a therapeutic clown, using theatre, emotion, and deep listening to build human connection in long-term care homes. While the conversation doesn't focus directly on facilitation, the skills Guillaume shares are highly relevant to facilitation practice. Beth and Guillaume also talk about: Listening beyond words to honour people's emotional realities The power of non-verbal communication and presence Working in pairs to create more opportunities for connection The five core qualities of clowning and how they relate to being human How authenticity and lightheartedness can impact well-being Engage with Guillaume Vermette Website: https://www.GuillaumeVermette.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/guillaumevermette Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guillaumevermette/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clownhumanitaire Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.com Connect with Host Beth Cougler Blom: Give feedback or suggest upcoming show topics or guests at hello@bcblearning.com Visit bcblearning.com to explore Beth's company's services in facilitation and learning design Purchase a copy of Beth's book, Design to Engage Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
In this conversation, Phil Brown and Ken Weisner explore the significance of play in learning and personal development. Ken shares his journey into the world of play, highlighting key moments that shaped his understanding of its importance. They discuss the barriers adults face in engaging with play, the marketing challenges within the industry, and the profound impact play can have on team dynamics and personal growth. Ken emphasizes the essential qualities of a facilitator in creating a playful environment, underscoring the need for energy and passion in facilitating play. In this conversation, Ken Weisner shares insights on the importance of play in education and personal development. He emphasizes the need for a playful mindset, engaging activities, and the power of empathy in connecting with participants. Ken discusses his favorite activities that foster connection and learning, and he reflects on his journey towards writing a book about the significance of play. Play is essential for learning and personal growth. Experiences in Montessori education can reshape perspectives on learning. Adults often fear looking silly, which hinders their ability to play. Creating a safe environment is crucial for adult play. Marketing play effectively can change perceptions of its value. Fun experiences can lead to significant personal insights. Team bonding through play can enhance relationships and performance. Facilitators must exude energy and passion to engage participants. Reflection can occur without verbal reporting; internalization is key. Play can break down barriers and foster connections among diverse groups. You have to have a child's mind. Learn more about Ken - https://www.beachplaycompany.com/ Ask me a question - podcast@high5adventure.org Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com
Miguel Flores, Assistant Professor and Programme Director for Work Placements at the School of Business, National College of Ireland (NCI), has been awarded the prestigious New Foundations research grant from Research Ireland to lead a groundbreaking project aimed at improving the inclusivity and accessibility of Degree-Embedded Work Placements for students with disabilities in Irish Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The project, titled "Enhancing University-to-Work Transitions of Students with Disabilities Through Work Placements: Assessing Barriers and Facilitators in Irish Higher Education," seeks to address a significant gap in academic research. While existing studies highlight that work placements help graduates apply academic knowledge, develop transferable skills, build professional networks, and shape their graduate identity - ultimately easing the transition into the labour market - these benefits are not equitably experienced by all students. Students with disabilities often face unique challenges, including attitudinal and institutional barriers, and additional systemic hurdles that can hinder their access to these valuable opportunities. "This research aims to uncover the barriers and enablers that influence the participation of students with disabilities in work placements. The goal is to inform evidence-based policies that foster more inclusive opportunities, empowering students with disabilities to maximise both their academic achievements and professional potential." ~ Dr Miguel Flores. This project builds on Dr. Flores's research into the labour market outcomes of higher education graduates, with a particular focus on the connection between work placements and employability. His recent study found that graduates who complete work placements are more likely to secure roles aligned with their career aspirations compared to those without placement experience (Arsenis & Flores, 2024a). Additionally, his latest publication highlights how work placements influence graduate earnings, revealing that students who return to their placement employer after graduation often enjoy significant financial advantages. These findings underscore the vital role that work placements play in enhancing graduate employability and long-term career success (Arsenis & Flores, 2024b). The New Foundations research grant presents an exciting opportunity to expand this research into the realms of disability, equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in higher education. The project is expected to have a lasting impact on how Irish HEIs design and implement work placements, contributing to the development of more inclusive educational environments that support the successful university-to-work transition for students with disabilities. In pursuit of this research, the project will be conducted in partnership with AHEAD, Ireland's leading civil society organisation dedicated to creating inclusive environments for students and graduates with disabilities. This collaboration will ensure that the research not only identifies the challenges faced by students with disabilities but also translates findings into practical, actionable strategies for both educational institutions and employers. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.
In this conversation, Romy Alexandra discusses the concept of experiential learning, sharing her personal journey and insights into how experiential education can transform traditional learning methods. She emphasizes the importance of engaging learners through experience, reflection, and action, and explores the experiential learning cycle and various learning styles. The discussion also highlights the significance of reflection in the learning process and how it can be made more engaging. Romy shares practical strategies for facilitators to enhance their teaching methods and the need to bridge theory and practice in education. Experiential learning is about learning through experience, reflection, thinking, and acting. Reflection is essential for deep learning and should be varied to keep it engaging. Learning styles are preferences that can change over time and should not box learners in. The experiential learning cycle can be applied to all aspects of life, not just formal education. Peer learning is often more impactful than facilitator-led instruction. Creating a safe space for reflection can lead to powerful insights and learning outcomes. Facilitators should strive to engage all learning styles in their teaching methods. The journey of learning is continuous and can spiral into deeper understanding and action. Connect with Romy - romy@romy-alexandra.com Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com
Charlotte Schoeffler es una diseñadora, formadora y facilitadora francesa radicada en España que fundó in-mocion, una escuela de creatividad que apoya a equipos de trabajo. También es formadora para Next Level Formation. En esta entrevista hablamos de las habilidades blandas, de poner el cuerpo, hacer bodystormings, equivocarnos y actuar lo que queremos que pase y de diseñar con el cuerpo. Facilitar tiene mucho arte y Charlotte en esta entrevista nos cuenta un poquito de todo lo que sabe e investigó en relación a facilitar para dar paso a la creatividad. Charlotte nos recomienda: Facilitators guide to participatory decision makingBird by birdEsta es la segunda serie sobre Creatividad. Esta serie tiene 6 episodios desde Colombia, Chile, México, España y Francia. Muchas de estas personas, como pasó ya en la serie anterior, no estudiaron diseño, sino otras cosas pero todas trabajan en relación al diseño. La serie anterior y esta la encuentran en la lista: Creatividad. Esta entrevista es parte de las listas: Creatividad, Diseño de servicios, Educación en diseño, España y diseño, Francia y diseño y Juegos. Las listas las encuentran en nuestra página web, en la sección de recomendados, en Spotify y en Youtube. Si están buscando algo y no lo encuentran siempre se pueden comunicar conmigo.
April 28, 2025: James Bowie, VP and CISO of Tampa General, explores the human side of cybersecurity leadership. Facing a fragmented IT team James reveals how a $20,000 investment in ethical hacking training eliminated millions in security risks in a single weekend. Then, how do healthcare security leaders balance life-and-death decisions when ransomware hits critical services? The conversation delves into managing AI implementation safely in healthcare settings, with James detailing their two-week governance turnaround that laid the foundation for all AI projects to come. Key Points: 02:56 Building a Cybersecurity Culture 07:00 AI and Cyber Foundations 11:29 High-Pressure Situations 15:39 Bonus Round: Personal Insights and Advice X: This Week Health LinkedIn: This Week Health Donate: Alex's Lemonade Stand: Foundation for Childhood Cancer
In this episode, Seth reviews an article by Brett McKay and discusses the importance of community for your marriage, giving one powerful trick to solidify frequent community interaction. To access the sources for this episode, visit: https://www.artofmanliness.com/people/relationships/social-initiators-and-non-initiators/To become a subscriber of this podcast, visit:https://anchor.fm/seth-hensley/subscribe
In this episode, Seth reviews an article by Brett McKay and discusses the importance of community for your marriage, giving one powerful trick to solidify frequent community interaction. To access the sources for this episode, visit: https://www.artofmanliness.com/people/relationships/social-initiators-and-non-initiators/To become a subscriber of this podcast, visit:https://anchor.fm/seth-hensley/subscribe
Samantha and Danielle joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Advance Care Planning with OSF HealthCare. OSF HealthCare offers a vital resource for individuals planning their future medical care. The OSF Care Decisions model provides specially trained facilitators to guide patients through critical conversations about end-of-life preferences. Facilitators assist in completing the Power of Attorney for Health Care form, allowing individuals to designate a trusted agent to make decisions if they can't. These sessions encourage individuals to reflect on their desired care, spiritual needs, and pain management, even considering who they'd want by their side in the final moments. Preparing in advance offers peace of mind and relieves family members of difficult decision-making burdens.
In this conversation, Phil Brown interviews Amy Climer about her new book, 'Deliberate Creative Teams.' They discuss the importance of creativity in teams, the misconceptions surrounding creativity, and the role of education in stifling creative potential. Amy shares insights on how to facilitate creativity within teams, the concept of creative abrasion, and the creative spectrum that teams can navigate to enhance their innovative capabilities. The discussion emphasizes the need for structure in creative processes and the potential for individuals and teams to elevate their creative output. Amy's book is based on her PhD research on creativity in teams. Creativity is often misunderstood; it's about problem-solving, not just artistic ability. Education systems can diminish creativity by promoting standardized answers. Creativity can be learned and developed over time. Facilitators play a crucial role in creating environments for creativity. Creative abrasion allows for healthy conflict and idea generation. Group think can stifle innovation and should be avoided. Teams can be categorized on a spectrum from destructive to scalable in terms of creativity. Setting clear expectations and structures can enhance creative processes. The ultimate goal is to help teams and individuals reach their full creative potential. Get Amy's Book - https://a.co/d/3FzEwtq Learn more about the book - https://climerconsulting.com/book/ Connect with Amy - amy@climerconsulting.com Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/ Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com
Behrens et al. document how facilitators vary when handling student emotions during simulation—some adjust, some let emotions run, others debrief after. They explore how beliefs about learning shape responses and what can be done to optimize learning. Read the accompanying article here: https://doi.org/10.1111/medu.15554
In this episode, Jerónimo Mazarrasa joins to discuss how to interpret visions and insights disclosed during ayahuasca journeys more effectively. Jerónimo is Program Director at ICEERS, founder of ICEERS Academy, and creator of AyaSafety, an online course for people interested in increasing the safety of ayahuasca ceremonies. To start, Jerónimo emphasizes that answering the question of whether ayahuasca visions originate in the plant medicine itself or if these are just disclosures of one's own subconscious is actually not what's most important. Instead, he suggests that in either case, what is crucial is spending time carefully considering how one should respond to these disclosures. Jerónimo shares insights from expert facilitators on how one can best go about interpreting and responding to such experiences, suggesting that an important aspect of this process is that participants feel comfortable taking personal responsibility for whatever decisions they eventually decide to make rather than thinking of these major life changes as necessary consequences of the psychedelic experience itself. In closing, Jerónimo discusses the tension between externalization and psychologization of psychedelic experiences and why both of these can lead to issues. In this episode, you'll hear: The common experience of feeling as though the ayahuasca has communicated something to you Examples of where taking an ayahuasca vision literally can lead to problematic outcomes The “three confirmations” one should look for before making a major decision based on a psychedelic experience The metaphor of ayahuasca as a microscope How skilled ayahuasca facilitators ensure proper psychological hygiene with participants Judging the validity of potential repressed memories that seem to surface during psychedelic experiences Quotes: “The way that ayahuasca becomes useful for people, I think, is that it shows you—it amplifies and shows you—what is already inside of yourself. Now, this is very useful for certain things but one has to understand the nature of the language.” [9:23] “Facilitators should instruct their participants that one rule is that you shouldn't make any decisions during an ayahuasca ceremony—unless they are decisions related to taking yourself out of danger.” [14:42] “Ayahuasca is not a shortcut for personal development—it's just a flashlight that can help you shed some light on some darker parts of [your] issues and problems, but it is not a shortcut.” [35:47] “The main contraindication of psychedelics is not wanting to take psychedelics. You should absolutely never ever ever ever ever take psychedelics if you don't want to because it is going to be horrible. It's like a kiss—when you want it, its beautiful, intimate, gorgeous; when you don't want it, it's the most intrusive, disgusting, blech thing ever.” [50:27] Links: Jerónimo on Instagram Jerónimo on Facebook ICEERS Academy website ICEERS Academy on Instagram AyaSafety course Previous episode: Guruism and Cult Dynamics in Psychedelic Practices with Joseph Holcomb Adams Previous episode: Can Psychedelics Lead to False Beliefs? with Hugh McGovern, PhD Psychedelic Medicine Association Porangui
Send us a textDelivering experiences that drive change, Moe Poirier is the masterful facilitator best known for his work upskilling training teams around the world to level-up their impact on the people and organizations they serve. Founding Partner at Shift Facilitation Inc.,Moe is a facilitator, speaker, author, and instructional designer specializing in train-the-trainer. Before Shift was born in 2015, Moe spent the better part of 20+ years as a contract facilitator delivering leadership, coaching, and team performance programs. He has worked with leaders from across the world, from Canada to Saudi Arabia.A frequent speaker at industry conferences since 2016, Moe has presented at the Institute for Performance and Learning (I4PL) annual conference; and ATD's International Conference & Expo, Core4, and on the global stage at both the Asia Pacific Conference & Expo, and Southeast Asia Summit. He is also no stranger to delivering sessions at virtual conferences, webinars, and public sessions via partners including the International Association of Facilitators, Mid-Atlantic Facilitators Network, and Human Resource Professionals Association.Hit play for this riveting conversation focusing on the humanist side of facilitation[02:42s] The Engineer, Entrepreneur, Educator [16:08s] The Facilitator[31:30s] Evolution of facilitation over the years, use of AI [44:02s] His upcoming book ‘A Facilitator's Gift'[50:31s] RWL: Read ‘The Art of Gathering' by Priya Parker; ‘Practice Perfect' by Doug Lemov, Erica Woolway, and Katie Yezzi; ‘Nimble' by Rebecca Southerns; ‘Unlocking the Magic of Facilitation' by Meg Bolger and Sam Killermann Follow Moe's work at www.shiftfacilitation.com Connect with Moe on LinkedInConnect with Vinay on X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn What did you think about this episode? What would you like to hear more about? Or simply, write in and say hello! podcast@c2cod.comSubscribe to us on your favorite platforms – Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Tune In Alexa, Amazon Music, and more. This podcast is sponsored by C2C-OD, your Organizational Development consulting partner ‘Bringing People and Strategy Together'. Follow @c2cod on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook
In this engaging conversation, Phil and Eugene Banks explore the profound impact of education, the journey of becoming an educator, and the art of teaching. They discuss the importance of connection, positive reinforcement, and authentic engagement in the classroom, emphasizing that teaching is not just about content but about the context and relationships built with students. Eugene shares his personal journey into education, highlighting the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way, and the strategies he employs to foster a dynamic learning environment. They also explore the importance of embracing mistakes in education, setting clear expectations, and fostering a growth mindset among students. Eugene shares his teaching strategies, including the 'We Do' approach, which emphasizes collaborative learning. They discuss the need to challenge traditional educational practices and the significance of inspiring young minds through literature. Eugene also highlights the urgency of pursuing dreams and the impact of his books aimed at empowering young black children. Positive reinforcement can significantly impact student engagement. Finding your teacher voice takes time and experience. Education requires a long-term commitment to improvement. Teaching is an art form that evolves with practice. Authenticity in teaching resonates with students. Student voice should dominate over teacher voice in the classroom. Engagement strategies are crucial for maintaining student focus. Mistakes in teaching are opportunities for growth. Building relationships with students enhances the learning experience. Mistakes are part of the learning journey. Setting clear expectations minimizes room for error. The 'We Do' strategy encourages collaborative problem-solving. Facilitators guide students rather than dictate learning. Growth mindset is essential for overcoming challenges. Education should prepare students for real-life situations. Rewards should be earned, not given for mere participation. Challenging traditional practices can enhance learning. Books can inspire and empower young minds. Acting with urgency can lead to fulfilling dreams. Eugene on Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/youngblackscholarbook/ Learn more about Eugene and his books; https://www.eugenebanks.com/ Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com
Let us know if there's a topic you'd like us to cover! Welcome back to Green Industry Perspectives! In this episode, Jay Worth welcomes Scott Harrison to the show! Scott's an unusual guest for Green Industry Perspectives; he's not in the Green Industry. Rather, he's a professional negotiator. With a background in the oil and gas industry, Scott had to learn (and master) the art of negotiation to be successful. In his career, he's led negotiations for over 25 years in over 40 countries around the world. Today, he runs Apex Negotiations. He trains executives around the world on how to conduct their own high-stakes negotiations. He is a member of the Association of International Energy Negotiators, co-lead of the Entrepreneur's Mentoring cohort for Asia Professional Speakers Singapore, and a member of both the International Association of Facilitators and the International Coaching Federation. In addition to all this, he volunteers his time with Babseacle, a pro-bono organization that trains lawyers and other government officials throughout Southeast Asia, where he now resides. In this episode, Scott walks us through the keys you need to keep in mind to succeed in every negotiation: preparation, keeping a relationship-focus, and strategic flexibility. ---Check Out the SingleOps Events Page!Check Out the LMN Events Page!---Sign Up for Scott's NewsletterFollow Scott on LinkedInFollow Apex Negotiations on LinkedIn
What’s next for Agile coaching? Brian Milner and Andreas Schliep dive into the shifting landscape of Agile coaching, the differences between Scrum Masters and Agile Coaches, and how to carve out a sustainable career in a changing industry. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner and Andreas Schliep explore the evolving role of Agile coaching, the challenges coaches face in today’s market, and the skills needed to thrive in a shifting industry. They break down the differences between Scrum Masters and Agile Coaches, discuss how to develop a personal coaching style, and emphasize the importance of integrity and resilience. From navigating layoffs to redefining what it means to be an Agile leader, this conversation offers valuable insights for anyone looking to grow in their Agile career. References and resources mentioned in the show: Andreas Schliep Certified ScrumMaster® Training and Scrum Certification Certified Scrum Product Owner® Training Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Andreas Schliep is a Certified Scrum Trainer and executive partner at DasScrumTeam AG, helping organizations navigate complex projects with agile methodologies. A thought leader and co-author on Enterprise Scrum, he empowers teams—from startups to Fortune 500 companies—through high-impact coaching, training, and a passion for continuous learning. Auto-generated Transcript: Brian Milner (00:00) Welcome in Agile Mentors. We are back here for another episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast. I'm here as always, Brian Milner, and today I have someone we've been trying to get on here for a little bit, and I'm excited to have him here. Mr. Andreas Schliepp is with us. Andreas, thank you for being on. Andreas Schliep (00:17) Thank you for inviting me. Brian Milner (00:19) Yeah, very excited to have Andreas on here. Andreas has been in the community here for a long, time. He's been just really generous with his time and he's mentored a lot of people. He's a CST, a Scrum trainer. He's also a certified enterprise coach. So he has kind of those dual high level certifications with the Scrum Alliance. But he mentioned to me earlier, he's kind of always considered himself a Scrum trainer. But he's also a coach in this group called the Leadership Gift, or there's also another name here that they've used recently, Responsibility Immersion. So that might come to play in our conversation here because we wanted to talk about sort of the future of agile coaching and agile coaches in general. There's a lot of turmoil, there's a lot of upheaval and things that are shifting and changing every day in our profession. So I guess, you know, let's just dive into the topic here. Andreas, how do you see things currently? And, you know, in a broad sense, where do you see them going? Andreas Schliep (01:18) Yeah, so first of all, why am I concerned? So typically I say that I kind of, train coaches and I coach trainers. So most of my work is centered around the path of scrum masters and how they can kind of acquire the necessarily skills and insights to become actual coaches themselves. Or scrum coaches as I would prefer to say it. And that includes a lot of stuff like we want to equip them with facilitation, with training skills, with coaching skills, with systemic observations and other methods. And we've been doing that for a couple of years. And so of course we came across lots of good people, good coaches and good trainers, good consultants out there. And we kind of kept our community open. So it's not like people attend our classes and then we forget them or we only have closer relationships to our corporate customers. It's like we kind of managed to build some kind of little community. People keep coming back and we keep chatting about what's going on, what's happening in their environment. And as a mainly training focused company, one of the first effects that we notice is that our classes are getting emptier and emptier. So what's going on, especially advanced classes are not that well. So we still have some, well, yeah. basic attendance, but it's not as it used to be. well, a couple of years ago, we had like full classes and everything, and then COVID hit and we could say, okay, so COVID kind of reduced the demand for edutraining. And then the next crisis came and the next catastrophe and the next disaster. But there have also been some structural changes. I think that we are currently experiencing two effects that happen at the same time. So the one thing is that, well, Diana Larsen put it that way, Agile has won. So there's no doubt that organizations employ Agile methods and want to use Agile practices, some of them with, some of them without any clue about what that even means or what Agile thinking or Agile attitude behind it is, but still, there's no shortage on like the use of Agile or the, but there's also no shortage of the Agile basic training or educational videos, content or whatever. So people get lots of more resources than we used to get back then when we had like this one scrum book by Ken Schwabe. So read this and then you went out and said, how do I do that? So. And then came the second book by Mike Cohen and the third book and so on. had to, had all these puzzle pieces coming together where we needed to find our own way and build our proficiency. And now you get a flood of books and stuff going on, which is fine. So the one thing is that of course our profession is developing and it's kind of natural that you will notice some kind of within that. But there's another effect and this is one thing where we scrum trainers can kind of take responsibility for our own contribution. It's the fact that organizations can hire an unlimited number of low-level agile coaches nowadays. There's been no quality control. Anyone who went through a two-day CSM class could call themselves agile coaches and they got hired for lots of money and eventually produced nothing. some of them, some agile coaches or people who call themselves agile coaches even caused chaos. So, and the systems. that they were affecting started to kind of fix themselves and heal themselves from the Agile coaches by expelling those. So, and of course, maybe you have a third effect, which is sometimes it just doesn't work and you blame the Agile coaches. So if you just lay on your couch and you do nothing and your doctor tells you, you have to get moving, you have to get up and get moving and say, yeah, it's a bad doctor because... I still lie on my couch and my health is deteriorating and this doctor doesn't help me. He doesn't give me what I want. What do you want? Yeah, I want just, I would just want a pill that I can swallow that I'm healthy. It doesn't work that way. And then we had those people who were selling those pills, yeah, who were telling people, here we got a, we got a safe way that you can do this. All you need to do is implement this process, hire our consultants. Brian Milner (05:26) Yeah. Andreas Schliep (05:43) We kind of made all the thoughts and the heavy thinking ourselves beforehand and you just need to install it. Here's the roadmap, here's the process manual, here's the 300 page guide. Just do it this way. And this is also detrimental. now we have, I've been talking to many people, many great people, you've been laid off, who are looking for a new orientation. Brian Milner (06:05) Yeah, yeah, I agree. I mean, I think you laid that out really, really well because there's I think you're right. It's kind of a multi effect scenario. There's a lot of things affecting it. And I know I've had conversations with with friends and colleagues about this. And, you know, we've talked a lot about the I think more kind of the second thing that you're talking about, just that and It's sort of a chicken and egg thing because the industry has built up and spread agile concepts through offerings of usually two day classes. You and I both do those quite regularly. And I think we probably both would say that's a very valuable thing. to go through sort of that immersion kind of a couple of days to learn it and get a foundation in it. But there may have been sort of a misconception or it may have been sold incorrectly to say, now you're ready to lead an organization and transforming from zero to 60 in Agile. when you're not, right? I mean, you've got a good grounding. You're ready to begin learning with a team, but it's the first step. There's gotta be some sort of ongoing support system that when you come up against something that you don't really know how to handle, that you have someone to ask. You have somewhere to go to get help and get answers. Even the, you I work with Mike Cohn, I think he's a great trainer. But even a two day class with Mike Cohn, I don't think is gonna make anyone an expert that now you're ready to, you know, take on the huge challenge of cultural change within the organization, you know? Andreas Schliep (07:53) Yeah, yeah, it's like with anything agile, these classes are a starting point or a waypoint and not a designation. It's not the goal. So when I made my driving license, my driving instructor told me, and in Germany you have to spend lots of hours with your driving instructor. And my driving instructor told me gladly, now you can get to practice on your own. He was happy that he didn't have to co-practice with me any longer because I wasn't the best driver. So I actually aced the theory test, but the practical driving was a little more difficult and kind of probably was bad for the blood pressure of my driving instructor. yeah. And that way, but I never thought about this. So the idea was I get the permission or I get the next level to the next step. And the next step will be, I want to learn proper driving. And that's something that you need to do on your own. And with this understanding, we try to kind of provide a path for people to become better scrum masters and agile coaches by kind of revamping the CSP path, the scrum aligns and other things. A glorious project that also failed gloriously. I'm still not entirely sure why, but probably because the Scrum Alliance and many other people failed to understand the similarities between Agile Coach as a profession and the Scrum Master as a role. So they claimed that there were two different things. And I think that's also a structural issue in organizations. Brian Milner (09:16) Yeah. Andreas Schliep (09:25) that they see Scrum Masters and Edge of Coaches as different things. So the Scrum Masters work on the team level and they just know their Scrum and they facilitate the meetings and then they come up with nice cookies for the retrospective so that everybody on the team is happy. And occasionally they take one of the team members aside when they have some issues and help them go through that. That's totally fine, but the Edge of Coaches do the real stuff. release train engineers and the others, do the organizational thing and they don't bother with what's happening on the team level because they need to do the important things on the higher level. And with this attitude somehow fueled by some decisions by Scrum Alliance and other organizations like, yeah, in order to become a certified team coach or certified enterprise coach, you have to kind of prove that you're... had coached like 2000 hours or 2500 hours. But by the way, the scrum master worked. It doesn't count towards this coaching, which is totally ridiculous. So that means the misunderstanding of the role is a structural problem. Another structural problem is that the organizations that would need the most experienced scrum masters, they attract all the rookies. Brian Milner (10:16) you Andreas Schliep (10:34) because they don't even know what a good scrum master would cost like. They have those two day or even less day. I heard about a transformation at a large automobile builder in Germany. They had something like a half day class for scrum master training within the safe environment. And they wonder why they fail. They wonder why they're failing. Brian Milner (10:53) Ha Andreas Schliep (10:54) On the other hand, we have organizations, even here in Germany, they have great leadership and coaching concepts. So they develop the Scrum Masters. They have the finest Scrum Masters ever on such a high level that the teams actually don't need them because the teams also evolved by taking care and taking responsibility for themselves and paying attention to the work. So they're kind of over-coached. So like, I think it was at Rally 10 or 15 years ago. There was a period when the external rally coaches didn't get so many contracts. And so they went inside and coach all the software teams and rallies at Rally. And after three or four months, the software team said, please, please give us a timeout, give us a break. We over coach. It's just too much. We just want to do some work and maybe not get better for like a month or two before we, because it's Brian Milner (11:42) Yeah. Andreas Schliep (11:47) It's hard always to get better and even better and you're so excellent coaches, cut us some slack. So that's so, but this is the structure. So on the individual level, it's just the same as with any major shift in any kind of industry. If your current profession or your current job title doesn't fit any longer, focus on what you're good at and see that you Brian Milner (11:54) Yeah, yeah, yeah, right. Andreas Schliep (12:13) become excellent at that. So that's, it's an old formula. It's an old formula and it can be different things. So I know about some scrum trainers who go and went into software development again, because they said, actually, I'm passionate about software development. I can understand that. I have a developer background as well. So sometimes I'm not that unhappy about taking care of a website and other stuff. It's a nice distraction. But some are really great facilitators. But if they only go out with a label, agile coach, and do not let the facilitation skills and experience shine, then they might get a mis-hired. So we have great personal coaches in there. So people with various skill sets. And if you take a look at the agile coaching growth, we have Biomark, some of them others. Brian Milner (12:37) Right. Andreas Schliep (13:00) You see that it's a vast field. So you cannot expect anyone, maybe the two of us, but you cannot expect anyone to be, not even me, so anyone to be excellent in all these knowledge areas and to be such a light and catalyst in everything. So the idea is to find your own way how you can contribute best. and then collaborate with others in their fields. So for me, the most interesting areas in that field are training and facilitation. Because I think that's the main thing that agile coaches or scrum masters can shine in. Brian Milner (13:41) Yeah, I've always loved, know, Lisa Atkins has that kind of different aspects of a coaching stance. And one of the ones that she had there that I've always loved is the idea of having a signature presence. And I remember when I first kind of encountered that, was, when it kind of sunk in, it was a very freeing idea for me. Andreas Schliep (13:49) See you. Brian Milner (14:01) to, you know, kind of like you're describing there, there's so many different aspects that you could, you know, try to do and you could do well, but it's too much for any one person to do all of it. So that signature presence to me, one of the things that I really kind of took away from that was know what you're good at, right? I mean, there's something about you that you bring from your own personality and your history and and everything that's made you who you are that is unique. And when you can find what that is, then it's almost like prior to that recognition to me, I was almost even a little ashamed that that was where my strength was. And I felt like I had to make up on these other areas that I struggle with or I didn't do as well. But that concept to me, Andreas Schliep (14:47) Mm-hmm. Brian Milner (14:52) kind of help me see, no, there's something that's really unique about how you approach things. And if you recognize that, lean into it because nobody else can offer that, right? Nobody else brings that to the table because that's uniquely you. Andreas Schliep (15:06) Yeah. Yeah. I have to admit, well, we're both with Scrum Alliance and I've been with Scrum Alliance for more than 20 years now. But some of the biggest insights about Scrum and the role of Scrum Master were some things that I actually learned by looking through the Scrum.org certification parts. So just out of curiosity, I started digging into the... Professional Scrum Master Series by Scrum.psm1. Okay, PSM1 is a walking part, so that's no big deal. 50 minutes without preparation, A's are done. Okay, next thing, PSM2, was a little more chilling. Okay, there are some different concepts in the way they address Scrum. And I completely faded PSM3. So that's interesting. So I should have known that. And the point is that... Brian Milner (15:52) Huh. Yeah. Andreas Schliep (15:58) There are differences in the message and the Scrum Master and the Scrum.org framing of Scrum is far more of a leader. So they take far more responsibilities. They are much closer to a sports team coach actually, even taking care of the crew and even throwing people out of the team if necessary. Then the fluffy Scrum Master social worker thing. with no real responsibility always in the background that we appear to propagate sometimes that I even have propagated lots of times. And I see this in my own style as well. So I'm rather strong at the facilitation part and working from the side of the background of people. But sometimes I see, and I think that's a big challenge for many agile coaching scrummers out there. Brian Milner (16:32) Yeah. Andreas Schliep (16:48) When it comes to the situation where I should take the lead, I'm still reluctant when I say, okay, yeah, somehow I don't want to step under the feet of others. I want to give them room. I want to be in my facilitator stance because I love that stance and that's my personal brand or whatever. The calm way and listening to people and integrating all voices. But all of a sudden, I encounter situations where say, my voice first. So, yeah. So let's do it that way. this week, I kind of stopped the client workshop in the middle. I said, so yeah, what is that? here you booked me for the entire day, but I noticed that you're very upset about important stakeholders missing. Brian Milner (17:19) Yeah. Andreas Schliep (17:39) I also noticed that you don't see the point in reiterating some other concepts that I prepared. you could use these methods and then talk to your stakeholders, but you rather want me in this room with your stakeholders and have this discussion together. So let's just stop this now. And I offer you a gift. I will come back for another half of days. So we stop this half day. You can use your time for something else. I can use my time for something else. And then I come back, but only if you have your manager in here. So if you bring your boss, I will come for another half day and then we finish this and deal with these questions. And they were kind of impressed that I was offering them. But where's the point? I needed to change the mode. I couldn't stay and I think this is something Brian Milner (18:20) you Yeah. Andreas Schliep (18:29) which is another great opportunity for Scrum Masters or agricultural coaches to say, what if I stepped into this leadership role? Brian Milner (18:37) Yeah. Yeah, that's a great kind of approach to it. And I know we've had some similar things at Mountain Goat as well, where we've worked with some clients and you kind of show up and you start to get into the things. Or even sometimes in the kind of just pre-work calls where you're trying to arrange things and talk through what is it you want to get out of this. And you sort of get that feedback and understanding that this is really just checking a box, right? They wanna check the box that they did this, but really making the change. No, they really don't wanna make the change. They really don't wanna have to change what they do on a day-to-day basis. you kind of are, as a coach or a trainer, you kind of get to that decision point where you have to say, at what point do I call this out? At what point do I say, you know what? You're gonna waste your money. Right? mean, I can come and do this. I can take your check. I can go away, but it's not going to make any difference. And you're not ready for it yet. and, that's, that's always a really hard decision. When you get to that point, when you realize, you know what? It's not serving your needs for me to, move forward here. You know, it's, it's, you're not going to be happy with me. Andreas Schliep (19:48) Yeah. I think it's important to maintain the personal integrity. the whole point about resilience is that you kind of are able to change while you maintain your own identity. So the path that you are trying to. And this change can mean a lot of things. So if someone would tell me, you've got to stop with Scrum now because Scrum is now forbidden everywhere. I would kind of dig into the facilitation. So I joined the IAF, the International Association for Facilitators. I don't have a credential there yet, but this is something if I would go into more facilitation gigs, this would be very interesting for me. I also became a coach in the responsibility program with Christopher Avery. First of all, I think that was a nice addition to my training or to my work with leaders. But then I also discovered that this is kind of navigation aid for myself. So whenever I do something, I start with what do I want? So what do I want? How do I want the situation to evolve? What is the outcome that I want to achieve? And how am I blocking myself from that? So what is kind of my inner blocker that prevents me from getting what I want? Brian Milner (21:03) Yeah. Andreas Schliep (21:04) So I could also talk about external blockers, but these external blockers are sometimes just things on my path that I choose to say, okay, I can't go there because there's this blocker. And when I found these two things, so what do I really want and what is blocking me? I can go and make a decision. I can confront myself. And with this ability, I'm pretty sure that I'm able to respond to any kind of situation. So, and... whether I pursue the facilitator part further or whether I go into the coaching way. I love to work with groups so that just the one-on-one coaching is not so interesting for me. But these are kind of independent from what I'm doing now, but also based on what I'm doing now. So I can derive lots of good skills and insights and approaches from what I did as a scrum trainer so far, what I have done as a scrum trainer. Brian Milner (21:58) Yeah. Well, I think when I'm hearing and tell me if I'm misquoting this or saying it or misunderstanding, but it feels like there's sort of an element here that, you know, I think a lot of us sometimes, have some kind of a title that we've earned. and we, we sort of inherit from that, set of, activities or things that we feel empowered to do. based on that title. And what it sounds like I'm hearing from you is it should kind of be the reverse. You should think about what you do well and the titles may come and go. They may change the descriptors that people use to describe what you do, it might change, but what you love to do with the activity, what you're good at, that can shift and change a little bit and don't be so concerned with the title. Andreas Schliep (22:45) Yeah, so edge-hired coaches still can keep this kind of title for the tribe to identify a peer group. And I've also joined edge-hired coach camps even as a scrum trainer. because this identification is important to say, okay, I know a couple of people who have different skills or different things who are some more similar to me, but I don't think we should stick to Agile Coach as a job title and only look for Agile Coach offers. But rather go out and see what's out there, what opportunities do we see. Apply for weird stuff. So at the beginning of this year, I applied as a facilitator for United Nations volunteer program and even made an extra language proficiency exam before that because I had to kind of prove that I'm at least at level C1. for this job. I just did it because it was there because this opportunity came through the International Association for Facilitators. I just said, okay, I don't know. They didn't even throw me back. I don't have anything, but I just, I want to apply for this. I want to get this material together. I want to show that I'm potentially able to do this. I will be far too expensive with my current rate, but yeah. And I think anyone currently in the situation as an edge on coach being laid off or looking for another job should kind of step back and go through these steps. So what do I want? What are the activities that I'm really passionate about? Brian Milner (24:13) Yeah. Andreas Schliep (24:13) And the answer might be surprising. So sometimes, it's actually coding. Maybe we'll get back to the basics. Brian Milner (24:19) Yeah, yeah, you're right. I've known a lot of people or I've known several people, I guess I should say, that have kind of maybe migrated backwards. If you think of it in that way, I don't know that's backwards, but migrated to their roots a little bit more, you know, and maybe left training, but went back to doing, you know, managing software teams or even coding just because they enjoy it. And I think that's a great thing if that's... Andreas Schliep (24:41) Yeah. Brian Milner (24:45) brings them happiness, you know? Andreas Schliep (24:47) Yeah, you know, when the whole agile thing started, they came up with a little website and the website says something like, we're discovering better ways to sort fire customers or so. I don't have a probably and helping others to do it. And if even if you go back or if you go to actually start working as a developer again. You still bring the edge of spirit and you still bring the ideas and methods of collaboration. It's going to be so helpful in your environment. Especially with new technologies, AI stuff and remote work and all these things kicking in. Everything looks like it's making your work more difficult. Massive layers like even media firing developers now, not only edge of coaches. So we have... so many disruptions to deal with. And I think that, well, kind of resilient HR coaching tribe stance is helpful in whatever role you fulfill afterwards. Brian Milner (25:43) That's really good. Yeah. Well, this has been great. I really enjoyed the conversation. Sometimes you're not really quite sure where we're going to end up and where we're going to travel, but I've really enjoyed all the directions we've taken here, Andreas. So I can't thank you enough. Thank you for making time and coming on and sharing your experience and wisdom with everyone. Andreas Schliep (26:00) Mm-hmm. Yeah, was great fun and thanks for the opportunity and I hope that this will help some people find little more guidance, least a little more confidence if they don't find guidance yet. Brian Milner (26:13) Yeah, I agree. Thank you very much. Andreas Schliep (26:15) Thank you.
“For me, my research, I can sum it up in eight words in four steps: Sit less; move more; feel better; live longer.”In observance of Black History Month, Dr. LaTerica Thomas, an HBCU alumna and author of “Facilitators and Barriers to Performing Workplace Physical Activity to Relieve Stress at the Florida Department of Health.” Dr. Thomas shares the context and priorities regarding her dissertation study, which led to this publication, her first in Health Promotion Practice. Tips for those who oversee worksite health promotion programs, supervisors, and employees are divulged in this episode.This episode references the article “Facilitatorsand Barriers to Performing Workplace Physical Activity to Relieve Stress at the Florida Department of Health” by LaTerica Thomas and colleagues.
@almabean23 @huutransuperman @gothedistance49.... it is trade deadline 2025... the Jazz have been active... the NBA has gone crazy... What will the Jazz do next (if they do anything at all). The Jazz come back from an 11-point deficit with less than 3 to play to stun the Warriors
Ben and Vic are back for 2025, reviewing the latest healthcare simulation literature in the February episode of the journal club. A call to honour SPs, saving $90million though simulation testing, cognitive biases in simulation debriefing and inspiring simulation-based improvement work from Tanzania. The papers Clark, L., et al (2024). Call to Action: Honoring Simulated Participants and Collaborating With Simulated Participant Educators. Simulation in Healthcare. Colman, Net al. (2024). The Business Case for Simulation-Based Hospital Design Testing: $90M Saved in Costs Avoided. Pediatric Quality and Safety, 9:e775. Meguerdichian, M. J., et al. (2024). When Common Cognitive Biases Impact Debriefing Conversations. Advances in Simulation, 9:48. Kamala, B. A et. al. (2025). Practice, Experiences, and Facilitators of Simulation-Based Training During One Year of Implementation in 30 Hospitals in Tanzania. SAGE Open Nursing, 11, 1–13. Another great month on Simulcast. Happy listening
In this episode, guest host Anne Louise Wagner and Honor Woodrow (Winston Prouty Center) discuss the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, emphasizing the importance of viewing children as capable and competent learners. They explore how the environment plays a crucial role in facilitating learning and how educators can create engaging spaces that promote exploration and play. The conversation also touches on the challenges educators face in adopting child-led learning approaches within structured educational systems, highlighting the need for balance between freedom and structure in teaching. This conversation explores the themes of trust, risk, empowerment, and conflict resolution in education. The speakers discuss the importance of allowing children to take risks in their learning, the biases educators may hold, and the concept of 'lighthouse parenting' as a guiding philosophy. They emphasize the value of conflict as a learning tool and the emotional aspects of education, advocating for a supportive environment where all emotions are valid and children have the right to learn and express themselves. The Reggio Emilia approach emphasizes children's capabilities from birth. Learning is co-constructed through play and exploration. The environment should be intentionally designed to foster learning. Facilitators must be responsive to children's interests and needs. Child-led learning does not mean a lack of structure. Cultural context influences educational practices and philosophies. Educators face challenges in letting go of control in the classroom. Documentation of learning processes is essential for reflection. Building relationships is key to effective learning environments. The goal is to support children in becoming healthy members of society. Trust is essential in educational settings. Risk-taking is a crucial part of learning. Educators must be prepared for potential risks. Children need to experience challenges to learn effectively. Biases can be positive and aligned with values. Empowerment and autonomy are key in education. Lighthouse parenting offers a balanced approach. Conflict can be a valuable learning opportunity. Emotional experiences are integral to learning. All children have the right to learn and express emotions. Connect with Honor - honor@winstonprouty.org Connect with Anne Louise - alwagner@high5adventure.org Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/ Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com
In this episode, host Sarah Olivieri is joined by Michael Randel, an experienced organizational change practitioner and founder of Randall Consulting Associates. Michael shares his career journey, particularly his experience with nonprofit organizations in South Africa, and discusses the importance of lifelong learning and leadership coaching. The conversation delves into the distinctions between mentors, coaches, and advisors, and provides practical insights on when and why nonprofit leaders should seek coaching. Sarah and Michael also touch on the benefits of coaching for high-potential leaders, newly promoted leaders, and those facing new organizational contexts. Lastly, Michael shares his approach to coaching, emphasizing the need for confidentiality and the importance of personalized, developmental support. Tune in to gain valuable strategies for overcoming challenges and maximizing your impact as a nonprofit leader. Episode Highlights The Importance of Lifelong Learning Defining Leadership Coaching When to Seek Coaching The Coaching Process The Power of Dyadic Coaching Meet the Guest Michael Randel is an experienced organizational change practitioner who has worked with clients in more than 30 countries, supporting organizations through change and growth. Michael supports leaders and teams as they work through the cycle of change, developing coherence, and building capacity to address complex problems and achieve results together. As a result of his work, his clients are stronger, more successful, and better positioned for future growth. Michael founded Randel Consulting Associates in 2010 where he and a team of associates work with leaders from philanthropic foundations, non-profit organizations, corporations, and public sector agencies. He uses the RCA Cycle of ChangeTM to support them in navigating the complex challenges they face as the organization develops the capacity to work with impact. Michael uses his skills as a change consultant, facilitator, and coach to work with individuals and teams to support transformation across groups and organizations. He works with a wide variety of companies across many industries and organizational forms; his clients include Amnesty International, AstraZeneca, Brady Campaign, NASA, United Nations, and the World Bank. Foundations that have engaged his work include the Buffett Early Childhood Fund, S.D. Bechtel Jr. Foundation, Susan Crown Exchange, and the Trust for Learning. The influence and impact of Michael's work has been recognized with multiple global awards (including, most recently, the 2021 Platinum Facilitation Impact Award from the International Association of Facilitators). Michael is a graduate of the prestigious International Gestalt Organization and Leadership Development (iGOLD) program and integrates Gestalt approaches to change in his work with individuals and groups. Michael is based in Washington, D.C. He works with clients across the United States and, periodically, further afield. Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn. Connect with Sarah: On LinkedIn>> On Facebook>> Subscribe on YouTube>>
Syria's new leaders vowed to create unity, but also hold to account the people who facilitated a half-century of Assad rule. Those calls for revenge added to the unease of many Syrian minorities, including U.S. partners in the fight against Isis who had to give up hard-won territory. Nick Schifrin reports. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders
Lazy. It's one of the most shameful things you can be. And it's largely a title or accusation we make of ourselves. Why do we so frequently feel utterly drained, craving time to unwind and escape reality? Is there a way to not just reclaim that time, but to structure our days more intentionally to prevent fatigue from building and spiraling into a never-ending cycle? What can we do to finally experience relief and regain control? In today's episode, Brett provides a framework to identify the warning signs, uncover the deeper issues at play, and ensure these feelings don't erode your self-worth. In this episode, we explore: Psychological insights explaining why we feel so depleted How to prioritize and structure your week to optimize work and rest Mini retreats, transition rituals, and other tools to mentally reset during the day Strategies for filling your cup and consistently showing up for YOURSELF Today's episode comes from a listener request! If you have a topic or question, submit it at artofcoaching.com/question. For deeper discussions and practical advice on this topic and more, join our private community—where you can connect directly with Brett, our Facilitators, and other like-minded individuals. OUR BLACK FRIDAY SALE IS STILL ON! Visit artofcoaching.com/blackfriday to take advantage of these limited-time deals: 30% OFF COURSES – Build your skills in leadership, communication, and more at your own pace. 20% OFF MENTORING – Get personalized coaching tailored to your specific goals. 10% OFF LIVE EVENTS – Join us for hands-on workshops and connect with like-minded professionals. These are the largest discounts we offer all year. This sale won't last long—check it out now and save big! Are you an avid listener or consumer of our content but haven't yet read the foundational book at the heart of what we do? Purchase a signed edition of Conscious Coaching, and proceeds will support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Foundation and the Alzheimer's Association. We are a small business and your support helps us continue our mission, and we're grateful to have you in our community. Related Episodes: E76 | Getting Out of Your Own Way E133 | Taking Responsibility For Your Own Growth E144 | Tips For “Balancing” Work And Family Life E149 | 5 Big Lies We Tell Ourselves That Hinder Our Progress E151 | How To Ask For Help E259 | Understanding And Overcoming Perfectionism E331 | Dontari Poe: Mental Toughness Myths And Life TipsFollow Us: Website: ArtofCoaching.com Instagram: @coach_brettb X: @coach_brettb
Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode, recorded via Zoom on October 22nd, 2024, we are joined by Becky Tolnay, a Vistage Chair and Professional Facilitator based in Tallahassee, Florida. This episode is titled, "From Five-Star Service to Executive Excellence: A Vistage Chair's Quality-Driven Leadership Journey." With over 30 years of experience in performance improvement, primarily from her distinguished career at the Ritz Carlton Hotel Company, Becky Tolnay brings deep insights into fostering customer-centric culture and driving continuous improvement within teams. As a certified professional facilitator through the International Association of Facilitators, she has mastered core facilitation competencies that enhance her ability to guide and develop business leaders. Throughout the conversation, Tolnay shares her remarkable journey from starting as an accounts receivable clerk at the Ritz Carlton Buckhead to becoming an Area Director of Performance Improvement and Quality. Her career trajectory was shaped by a pivotal moment when she accepted a role as Director of Quality in 1994, despite initial hesitations about public speaking. This "happy accident," as she calls it, led to a transformative career in quality management and facilitation. After 25 years with Ritz Carlton, Tolnay established Tolnay Team Solutions and became a Vistage Chair, where she creates confident environments for business leaders to gain diverse perspectives and accelerate their growth. Her unique approach to group facilitation, influenced by her extensive background in quality management at Ritz Carlton, demonstrates how excellence in hospitality principles can enhance executive coaching and peer advisory group management. The episode reveals powerful insights about the intersection of quality management and executive coaching. Tolnay's approach to group facilitation, shaped by her Ritz Carlton experience, emphasizes the importance of creating intentional cultures through clearly defined values and consistent reinforcement. Her implementation of core values - integrity, communication, commitment, growth mindset, courage, creativity, effectiveness, and relationships - provides a framework for building high-performing peer advisory groups. A significant takeaway is Tolnay's emphasis on observation and diagnosis before action. Drawing from her father's veterinary practice and her quality management background, she demonstrates how careful observation and thoughtful questioning lead to better problem-solving outcomes. This approach challenges the common tendency among executives to jump to conclusions based on past experiences, instead encouraging deeper exploration and understanding. The episode also highlights the importance of creating systematic approaches to excellence while maintaining flexibility and authenticity. Tolnay's implementation of the "Best B" recognition system and her method of anchoring group values at the beginning and end of meetings shows how simple yet consistent practices can reinforce desired behaviors and create lasting cultural change. This systematic approach to group dynamics, combined with genuine care for individual growth, exemplifies the balance between structure and humanity in effective executive coaching. The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io. This episode was recorded via Zoom on October 22nd, 2024. Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.