Podcasts about human first

Send us Fan MailA car overheats on a scorching Sunday in 1969. No phones, no call boxes, no easy way out. What happens next is the kind of true story that quietly rewires your brain: a young cowboy pulls over, tows a stranded father and son into town, recruits a mechanic after church, and turns a miserable breakdown into one of the best days of their lives. That's the heart of my conversation with Neal Foard, one of the most trusted modern voices in heartfelt storytelling. We get into why this message hits so hard right now, when social media and the news can make it feel like everyone is angry and nothing is safe. Neil shares practical ways to curate your algorithm, avoid rage bait, and treat your information diet like your food diet. We also talk about the strange backlash hopeful stories can trigger and why some people use them to argue for nostalgia instead of empathy. Then we zoom out into the craft and power of storytelling itself: how stories teach us what a good life looks like, how tiny gestures like a simple compliment can have an outsized impact, and why sincerity cuts through the noise. Neal also explains Story Fire, his approach to using storytelling and clear communication as a real career skill, from running tighter meetings to earning trust in high-stakes rooms. Make sure to follow Neal on his social media platforms Instagram, Tik Tok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.If you finish this conversation feeling more hopeful, help us spread that ripple: subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a quick review or comment so more people can find Kindness Matters.You can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our merch store, picking up a copy of my book, or joining us on Buy Me a Coffee. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.“Intro music: ‘Human First' by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRXqkYVarGA  | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com”Support the show

I grew up shy, introverted, and terrified of public speaking.A bookworm in Hong Kong. A wallflower who couldn't hold a room. A kid who went into investment banking because that's where smart people were supposed to go, not because it was right for me.So I walked away.Professional football. BBC radio. The Premier League. A microphone. A stage.And somewhere along the way, the worst public speaker in the room became one of the most sought-after communication coaches in the world.But here's what I'll tell you: it wasn't talent. It was never talent.It was one conversation with a stranger every single day, for years.What I discovered through football, banking, 15 years on stage, and six years coaching some of the most senior executives on the planet is this: communication is not a gift. It is a skill. And most leaders are operating at seven out of ten of their potential without even realizing it.The expertise is there. The knowledge is there. The years of experience are there.But if you can't make people feel something, none of it lands.I sat down with Nick Day, CEO of JGA Recruitment Group and host of the HR L&D Podcast, for one of the most honest and wide-ranging conversations I've had on communication, leadership, and influence.We go deep on public speaking, the art of listening, why preparation is the only thing that separates great communicators from average ones, and why in a world flooded with AI-generated content, the human touch has never been more valuable.Nick and I unpack the real reason most presentations fail, why following your passion is terrible career advice, what every great leader he's ever interviewed has in common, and the one question you should ask before you build your next deck.This is one of the most practical and honest conversations I've been part of on communication and leadership.I hope it changes the way you speak.Apply to work with me: https://www.michaelxcampion.com/Connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelxcampion/This episode is from the HR L&D Podcast hosted by Nick Day.Connect with Nick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickday/Learn more about JGA Recruitment Group: https://jgarecruitment.com/I'm a Hong Kong-born, UK-based professional speaker, executive coach, and corporate trainer with over 15 years of experience on the global stage. Before stepping into this world, I worked in investment banking and played professional football, representing the Hong Kong national team and competing in the Premier League.Today, I help senior leaders and high-performing teams unlock their communication potential. I'm also a Partner and Head of Corporate Training at Quinlan and Associates, working with organizations across Hong Kong, Singapore, London, and the Middle East.My one-line thesis is simple: talent is practice in disguise.(00:00) Why Communication Is the Skill Every Leader Is Missing(01:26) Human First, Not Resource First(02:23) From Banking to Professional Football, Michael's Story(07:56) Talent Is Practice in Disguise(09:35) Curiosity Beats Chasing Passion(15:58) The Communication Gap Most HR Leaders Don't Know They Have(21:07) Preparation Is the Only Thing That Earns Confidence(23:41) The Art of Listening on Stage(40:09) AI and the Rising Value of Human Connection(44:38) Design Emotion, Not Slides

Send us Fan MailThe moment you realize “the system” can't carry this for you is the moment you become your child's advocate. I sit down with Ashlyn Thompson, co-founder and executive hope director of Parent Empowerment Network, to unpack the kind of courage that gets built in hospital rooms at 2 a.m. Ashlyn shares the story of her daughter Emery's rare congenital condition, bladder exstrophy, and what it's like to hold joy and grief at the same time on the day your child is born. We talk through the realities of complex pediatric surgery, extended hospital stays, and the terrifying medical crises that forced Ashlyn to trade blind trust for informed partnership. She explains why parent advocacy is not about fighting doctors, it's about collaboration, clear communication, and treating a caregiver's observations as meaningful data for care decisions like pain management and medication changes. If you've ever felt the pressure of making a choice that could shape a child's entire future, you'll recognize the weight she names so honestly. Then the story takes a turn that will stick with you: a single comment in an online parent support group leads Ashlyn to Great Ormond Street Hospital in London and a bladder neck reconstruction option not available to her in the United States. We dig into research, intuition, second opinions, and what “solution seeking” looks like when the stakes are lifelong. Ashlyn also shares how connection counters isolation, and why Empowered by Hope and Parent Empowerment Network exist to move parents from emotional crisis to advocacy readiness across any diagnosis. If this conversation helps you, subscribe, share it with a caregiver who needs hope, and leave a review so more families can find it. What part of Ashlyn's journey hit closest to home?You can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our merch store, picking up a copy of my book, or joining us on Buy Me a Coffee. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.“Intro music: ‘Human First' by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com”Support the show

Ron Books on Human-First AI & Arizona Becoming a Health Tech Hub Ron Books, CEO of Net Health, talks about how he believes that AI is the only thing that can save the human element in healthcare, examples from the wound care and rehab therapy spaces, and how Arizona is becoming a health tech hub.  All that, plus the Flava of the Week about the CMS Health Tech Ecosystem's First Wave event. How significant was it to see demos from more than 50 companies that are making good on their pledge to create a fully digital, patient-centered health system, and what's your part in helping consumers understand and trust what's possible now? Find all of our network podcasts on your favorite podcast platforms and be sure to subscribe and like us. Learn more at www.healthcarenowradio.com/listen/

AI adoption in higher education is moving faster than institutional change models were built to handle. Students are already using AI at high rates, while many institutions are still trying to decide where AI belongs, who should lead it, and how much change is required. In this episode of the Changing Higher Ed® podcast, Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with Nikki Barua, serial entrepreneur and founder of FlipWork, about why higher education's traditional change management playbook will not work in the AI age. Drawing on her work with Fortune 500 companies and AI implementation, Barua explains why AI should be treated as institutional infrastructure, not an IT project. She discusses the growing gap between technology adoption and human readiness, why many AI pilots fail, and how institutions can move from slow, episodic transformation to shorter, people-centered reinvention cycles. This conversation is especially relevant for presidents, boards, provosts, CIOs, and senior leadership teams trying to prepare students, faculty, staff, and institutional systems for an AI-driven future. Topics Covered Why incremental change management cannot keep pace with AI How AI differs from previous technology disruptions like the internet and mobile Why AI should be treated as infrastructure across the institution What the AI readiness gap means for higher education leaders Why many AI pilots fail when organizations focus on tools instead of people How AI may reshape entry-level jobs and the graduate talent pipeline Why skills-based hiring is changing what students need from higher education How faculty roles may shift from content delivery to mentorship, ethics, and judgment Why liberal arts and human skills may become more valuable in the AI age How human-in-the-loop design can improve AI use in enrollment, advising, and student support Why AI literacy must become a core institutional capability Real-World Examples Discussed AI adoption among students far outpacing institutional readiness Corporate AI pilots failing because organizations did not prepare people to use the tools effectively Entry-level jobs shrinking or changing as AI takes over early-career tasks Employers moving toward skills-based hiring and project-specific teams AI tutors, teaching assistants, adaptive learning tools, and student support applications Enrollment chatbots that create frustration when they replace rather than support human interaction Human-in-the-loop workflows that know when to hand a student or prospect to a person Ethics in AI as a foundation for preparing graduates to use powerful tools responsibly Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Leadership AI is an opportunity for reinvention, not an IT project. Institutions should treat AI as a strategic leadership issue that affects competitive position, culture, academic delivery, student support, and institutional agility. Students are already ahead of many institutions. Without governance, ethical guidelines, and structured leadership, AI use can become unmanaged shadow AI across the institution. The cost of waiting grows exponentially. AI is advancing week by week, and institutions that delay action will face a widening readiness gap that becomes harder and more expensive to close. This episode offers a direct look at why higher education cannot rely on its traditional pace of change in the AI age, and why institutional leaders must rethink what they offer that AI cannot replicate. Read the transcript: https://changinghighered.com/closing-higher-educations-ai-readiness-gap/ #AIinHigherEducation #HigherEducation #HigherEducationPodcast #WorkforceReadinessGap

Growth is a collective development. We should grow as a community. We should grow as a humanity, we cannot succeed individually.In a world already obssesed with growth, and AI bringing speed that we've never seen before, understanding how to intentionally design for human centred growth strategies is so important. Systems only work when the humans inside the systems are seen, valued, and allowed to grow.Bala and I discuss the fact that building effective systems—engineering, organizational, or community—is fundamentally a human design problem, and how AI makes this more urgent. Bala shares invaluable insights from advising startups to teaching coding in public schools.We dive into redesigning organizations around AI without losing the human element, ethical AI as a design principle, and building human-centered communities when tools change faster than people. Many see AI as a tool for efficiency, a way to move faster. But if you purely optimise with AI without deeply examining your organizational structure and culture, you're merely moving the bottleneck, not solving it. AI accelerates discovery, highlighting existing issues, especially in low-trust environments. Introducing AI into a low-trust culture doesn't magically build trust. It automates around the lack of it, potentially exacerbating issues and inciting the use of 'shadow AI'. The foundational element for any successful team remains trust.As leaders, we must focus on fostering environments where trust is built proactively, before the pressure of AI-driven decisions.The main insights you'll get from this episode are :Systems only work when the humans inside are seen, valued and allowed to grow; humans are also the meta point in organisations, so it is vital to understand what motivates them (before they decide to leave).Building a team in a fast-scaling company requires first and foremost the right environment and culture, i.e. how people interact, how things are set up; AI acts like an x-ray machine, quickly showing what is broken and mirroring what is happening.Any team success requires trust and in the AI age, this entails trusting (or not) in AI as a system, trusting (or not) the output I produce (direct), and trusting (or not) others to use AI properly (indirect).The human aspect is about making things come together; AI requires fast decisions from leaders so leaders must trust their people, not identify or label them by their mistakes.AI governance is both a legal and human/behavioural issue – everyone should be involved in the conversation as AI is not an entity in itself; we give it life/power, which gives rise to ethical issues.New generations have access to tools/power and are already thinking about impact (moving away from the conventional leadership model) and the need for community, factoring this into decision-making to make it easier to create new tools quickly.Growth is a collective development, and success is not possible individually because access is now decentralised; the infrastructure must be a community as a living thing, helping others unbidden and building networks of trust.Leaders must intentionally make time for and ‘invest' in community, taking off their leader ‘hat' in an informal setting, for example; it all starts with objective communication, removing the subjects to change the perspective.AI is an opportunity to revamp organisational design with humans as the connective tissue in the system; in future, governments, education/industry, and economies must come together to include everyone and work for humans.Being curious is good enough and will guide us to the next step; we should get our hands dirty and humbly remember that our day jobs are creating a world for the next generation.Find out more about Bala and his work here :https://balamuthiah.com/

In this episode of Horse First, Lockie Phillips explores the idea that truly centring the horse automatically changes the human. Horse First is not human last, it's the reciprocal path to becoming more regulated, more accountable, and more skilled, because horses respond to our nervous systems, our timing, and the space we take up, not our intentions. In a world that already centres humans by default, focusing on the horse becomes a rare correction that benefits both species at once. A grounding episode on selflessness, proportion, and the kind of human horses invite us to become. The EH School is a quiet place in a loud industry. A low-cost, high-value membership where horse people come to slow down, think clearly, and build real skill with horses at the centre. With a deep video library, an off-social discussion space, and live calls with Lockie, you'll have support that feels steady, practical, and refreshingly human. Not a system to obey. A craft to practice. https://emotionalhorsemanship.com/eh-school-sign-up Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us Fan MailA lot of us know the feeling: you're doing your best, your kid needs you, and inside your own head the weather turns. I sit down with Kendall Consini Moore, the writer behind Cloudy Day Chronicles and the author of Mom's Cloud and the Beach Adventure, to talk about a simple idea that can change family communication: giving big feelings a name kids can actually use.We get specific about how her “cloud” metaphor was born from a bedtime story and a real parenting worry, and how the beach became the perfect setting to explain difference without blame. We also unpack what kindness looks like when you're not okay, including the self-kindness move that helps parents stop turning one rough moment into the whole story of the day. Kendall shares practical, at-home language tips inspired by Montessori-style narration, plus a refreshing stance on praise: make it real so it stays meaningful.We also talk about mental health boundaries and miscommunication, especially how “I have a cloud” can work as shorthand with a partner or friend when you don't have the emotional capacity for a long explanation. The conversation goes beyond parenting into anxiety, support groups, chronic illness flare-ups, and the surprising way hard seasons can grow our capacity for kindness, both toward ourselves and others.If you care about mental health, emotional intelligence for kids, and practical kindness you can use on your worst days, hit play. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs a little sunlight, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.You can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our merch store, picking up a copy of my book, or joining us on Buy Me a Coffee. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.Intro music: ‘Human First' by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.comSupport the show

In this Workday Playdate, Erin explores what human-first leadership actually looks like in a workplace shaped by AI, uncertainty, and nonstop change.If you've ever wondered how to lead when technology is evolving faster than your team can adapt, this episode is your reminder that human skills are the future-proof skills.Inside This Episode:Human-First Leadership Isn't Soft, It's Strategic: Why leaders who prioritize connection, curiosity, and psychological safety are outperforming those who rely on authority alone.AI Can't Replace Human Trust: As automation increases, employees are craving authenticity, communication, and leaders who know how to create belonging.The Best Leaders Create Space, Not Pressure: Why innovation happens when teams feel safe enough to experiment, fail, and speak honestly.People Support What They Help Build: Collaborative leadership creates stronger buy-in, better ideas, and more resilient teams.Adaptability Is the New Leadership Superpower: The leaders who thrive aren't the ones pretending to have all the answers — they're the ones willing to evolve in real time.Burnout Doesn't Build Better Teams: Sustainable performance comes from leaders who understand energy, trust, and human motivation — not constant hustle.What to Do Now:Audit Your Leadership Style: Ask yourself whether your team feels managed or genuinely supported.Create One Moment of Psychological Safety: Invite honest feedback this week without defensiveness or fixing.Prioritize Human Connection: Schedule one conversation this week that isn't about productivity, but about the person behind the role.Your FreebieWhat's your leadership style and next business move? Find out by taking a fun little quiz here.And thank you to our sponsors Intuit Quickbooks Payroll.To learn more visit:   https://quickbooks.intuit.com/workforce/Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it!Leadership Playground online membership communityErin's websiteErin's InstagramErin's TikTokErin's LinkedInimprove it!'s websiteimprove it!'s InstagramFor more information on improve it! visit www.learntoimproveit.com.

What happens when the biggest innovation in housing isn't a luxury tower or another short-term rental app, but a platform built specifically for everyone caught in between? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sat down with Ezra Gershanok, co-founder of Ohana, to unpack how his team is quietly reshaping the overlooked middle-term housing market. For years, people relocating for internships, new jobs, temporary projects, or extended travel have faced two bad choices. Either pay eye-watering hotel and Airbnb rates for months at a time or lock themselves into inflexible long-term leases they never really wanted. Ezra experienced this firsthand while relocating during his time at McKinsey, while his co-founder faced similar frustrations at Apple. Instead of accepting the problem as unavoidable, they built a marketplace around trust, flexibility, and human connection. What struck me throughout our conversation was how Ohana sits at the crossroads of technology, real-world problem solving, and changing work culture. The company has already processed more than $37 million in payments over the past year, with average booking values around $8,000 and average stays approaching 80 nights. Those numbers completely change the economics and psychology of online marketplaces. These are no longer casual weekend bookings. These are high-trust decisions involving real money, real relocation stress, and real human relationships. We explored how Ohana uses AI behind the scenes while deliberately keeping the customer experience deeply human. Hosts and guests are introduced on live match calls. Security deposits are held in escrow. Support teams actively facilitate trust between both sides. Ezra shared how the company uses AI to scale communication and operational workflows without replacing human interaction, something that feels increasingly rare in today's race toward automation. The conversation also touched on how employer partnerships with companies like OpenAI, Palantir Technologies, and Oracle are creating predictable housing demand for interns and new hires moving into expensive cities like New York City and London. Ezra explained why the platform initially gained traction among Chinese international students and how those same network effects are now accelerating growth in London. We also discussed the practical side of building a startup with no-code tools like Bubble, scaling globally with a tiny core team, balancing community standards with rapid growth, and why execution still matters more than ideas. Ezra offered refreshingly honest insights about persistence, operational discipline, and why solving an underserved problem often matters far more than building flashy technology. This episode is a fascinating look at how AI can actually support more meaningful human experiences instead of replacing them. It is also a conversation about trust, housing, modern mobility, and the growing realization that the way we live and work no longer fits neatly into old systems. So how will platforms like Ohana shape the future of temporary living as work becomes increasingly global, flexible, and distributed?   Please check the partners of the Tech Tech Talks Network Learn more about the NordLayer Browser Visit Denodo.com

Stop letting self-criticism ruin your family business dynamics. Leadership coach Massimo Backus explains how self-compassion and emotional intelligence create a more resilient succession plan. Why do so many family business leaders feel like they have to choose between being a "strong boss" and a "loving family member"? Often, the pressure to maintain a multi-generational legacy leads to a culture of overcontrol and self-pressure that actually stifles growth. In this episode of Safe Space, we sit down with leadership strategist and author of Human First, Leader Second, Massimo Backus. With a deep background in organizational psychology, Massimo helps us dismantle the internal narratives and inherited behaviors that often plague family enterprises. We move past the technical side of governance to look at the "inner work" required to sustain a healthy family office. In this conversation, we solve for: The "Overcontrol" Trap: Why founders struggle to delegate and how to shift from controlling the work to developing the people. Emotional Resilience: Using mindfulness and self-awareness to navigate high-stakes family dynamics without burning out. Building a Flourishing Culture: How replacing self-criticism with self-trust allows the next generation to step into their own leadership with confidence. Whether you are navigating a difficult succession or simply trying to improve family relationships within the business, Massimo's story-driven approach offers a practical roadmap. It's time to stop doing the work for your people and start leading with the clarity and humanity that your legacy deserves. Connect with me here: • https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-fea-496a7966/ • https://www.facebook.com/VeritageFamilyOffice • https://www.youtube.com/@VeritageInternational • https://veritage.ca

On this episode, we dive into the reality that athletes and coaches face beyond the spotlight. From social media criticism to the constant demand to win, we discuss why it's important to remember there are real people behind every headline and stat line. We also break down the latest Cyclone basketball commit, what they bring to the program, and how the future of Iowa State Cyclones men's basketball continues to take shape.

Send us Fan MailSilence can feel like a conversation killer, but what if it's the fastest path to trust? We sit down with John Nepper, a speaker, educator, and leadership trainer with 35+ years of experience, to unpack a practical approach to kindness and leadership that works in real workplaces, not just on posters.We talk about why storytelling in leadership matters, how small talk becomes meaningful when you're intentional, and what John calls the Story Formula for Extraordinary Retention. The big idea is deceptively simple: everyone's story matters. When leaders learn to listen without hijacking the moment, they build psychological safety, reduce the “us versus them” vibe, and keep great people from walking out the door because they don't feel heard.John also challenges the habits that derail difficult conversations: “I don't know what to say,” “It's not my job,” and the urge to fix. We get concrete about the power of waiting, how silence gives people room to choose their words, and why trust grows when we make the conversation about the other person. From quick three-minute check-ins to rebuilding broken trust, this is empathy at work with clear next steps.We close with John's “Be Someone For Someone” initiative, a movement-level mindset that starts with one decision each morning: show up for someone on purpose. If this sparked something in you, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find this kindness-first leadership work.You can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our merch store, picking up a copy of my book, or joining us on Buy Me a Coffee. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.“Intro music: ‘Human First' by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com Support the show

What if the reason your team isn't performing has nothing to do with strategy and everything to do with leadership? In this episode of Wickedly Smart Women, host Anjel B. Hartwell welcomes Kathy Eastwood, CEO and creator of the human-first E3 Leadership Code and a leadership strategist with over thirty years of executive experience across EY, Hewlett-Packard, high-growth startups, and private equity-backed companies. This conversation dives into the real reason most teams struggle, why emotional intelligence is the missing link in leadership. If you've ever questioned your leadership environment, your next career move, or how to build a business that aligns with your values, this episode will challenge how you think about success and performance. What You Will Learn: How misaligned leadership directly impacts culture, performance, and team engagement. What signals indicate it may be time to leave a corporate role and explore something new. How emotional intelligence influences leadership effectiveness and team results. What the E3 Leadership Code is and how it creates sustainable high performance. Why fear-based leadership fails and what to do instead to motivate teams. How to navigate the financial uncertainty of leaving corporate and starting a business. What it really takes to build a people-first organization that drives profit and retention.   Connect with Kathy Eastwood E Equals Why https://marketing.eequalswhy.com/e3-leadership-code   Connect with Wickedly Smart Women® Wickedly Smart Women Wickedly Smart Women on X Wickedly Smart Women on Instagram Wickedly Smart Women Facebook Community Wickedly Smart Women Store on TeePublic [5X Award-Winning Book] Wickedly Smart Women: Trusting Intuition, Taking Action, Transforming Worlds Email: listeners@wickedlysmartwomen.com  

Send us Fan MailKindness can sound like a soft idea until you meet someone who survived because other people refused to look away. I'm joined by Betsy Ronel, host of Heavens To Betsy: Let's Talk Midlife, and her story is as heartbreaking as it is human: she lost her husband suddenly in a car accident, right as they were growing their family, and her life changed overnight. What happened next wasn't a miracle cure. It was something more believable and more repeatable: strangers showing up with meals, flowers, books, phone calls, and steady presence when she had nothing left to hold on to.We talk about what choosing kindness looks like when you're angry, exhausted, and shattered, and why community support matters for grief healing and mental health. Betsy shares one moment that still stops me in my tracks: a young woman who worked at the national cemetery called Betsy after a false rumor hit the newspaper, simply to defend her husband's character and explain how he once talked her out of taking her own life. It's a reminder that compassion can travel farther than we'll ever know, and that small words can become someone's lifeline.We also get practical about resilience. Betsy explains her nightly gratitude practice of naming five things, even when the best you can do is “thanks to the person who held the door” or “thanks to the driver who let me merge.” We dig into the idea of being grateful for the problems you have, not as denial, but as perspective that keeps you moving. If you're looking for a powerful conversation on kindness of strangers, grief, gratitude, and midlife reinvention, this one will stay with you. Subscribe, share with someone who needs it, and please leave a review so more people can find this kindness community.You can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our merch store, picking up a copy of my book, or joining us on Buy Me a Coffee. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.“Intro music: ‘Human First' by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com Support the show

Dr. Akbar Herndon, CTO of Grace Church School and a founder of the NEET conference, discusses his unique journey from professional jazz violinist to technology leader. He shares strategies for building highly diverse IT teams through a culture of belonging and explains why a "human first protocol" is essential when integrating AI into the independent school classroom.Akbar's LinkedIn ProfileGrace Church SchoolNYSAIS Education, Information, and Technology (NEIT) ConferenceBlack Swan Quartet, Akbar's jazz group and recordingWeather Report, jazz fusion bandMax Roach, jazz drummer and composer

Send us Fan MailWhat if generosity were as simple as pressing play? We sit down with Dave Lewis, a San Diego accountant and solo pianist who built Playing To Pitch In, a project that routes 100% of streaming royalties directly to six vetted charities. No tip jars, no detours—just music funding impact through automated splits to organizations like the Against Malaria Foundation, Helen Keller International, Best The Book Bus, a local food bank, the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, and disaster relief groups.Dave walks us through the moment that sparked it all—discovering “earning to give” during 2020—and how he engineered a transparent system where artists and listeners collaborate. We dig into the why behind his charity choices, leaning on GiveWell research for high-impact outcomes: bed nets that prevent malaria, vitamin A supplements that save sight and lives, and literacy programs that build home libraries and confidence. Dave shares a moving story from Tampa, where he helped children pick books right off the bus, and then zooms out with the “drowning child” thought experiment to reframe distance and duty: saving a life far away is no less urgent than saving one next door.Along the way, we explore music's quiet power to bridge divides, the joy of returning to a shelved passion, and the many small ways anyone can help—time, skills, or simple daily habits like choosing a playlist. Playing To Pitch In has grown beyond Dave, welcoming tracks from other pianists so listeners can support causes while enjoying calm, reflective music on Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, Amazon, and more under “Playing To Pitch In.”Join us as we turn attention into action and art into aid. If this story moves you, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a quick review. Then press play on kindness—and tell us which cause you'll stream for today.This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you're just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit maydaymedianetwork.comYou can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our merch store, picking up a copy of my book, or joining us on Buy Me a Coffee. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.“Intro music: ‘Human First' by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com”Support the show

Drop us a message!This week, we're kicking off our REWIND series, where we dive into our back catalogue of episodes to bring you interesting insightful conversations you can't miss.In this week's REWIND episode, we cover topics such as growing a strong community online, and how you can turn passive followers into active community members.Plus, we talk with our team about the development of Human First Marketing: The Art of Being Seen, Trusted, and Remembered - the invaluable book published by Giraffe Social CEO Phil Treagus-Evans.Special guests for this episodes include Aleksandra Pawlowska, Freelance Strategist Director, as well as Kane (CFO) and Ben (Paid Media Manager) from the Giraffe Social team.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Graham, Kevin, and Phil discuss Phil's new book "Human First Marketing", which aims to address issues like ad desensitisation, homogenised content, and the modern consumer's desire for authenticity. Phil explains his motivation for writing the book and the key principles behind the "human first" approach.Summary of PodcastComparing old vs. new marketing tacticsGraham, who has been in marketing since the 1970s, acknowledges that some of the issues Phil raised have been around for a long time. The group discusses how marketing has evolved, with AI and automation playing a bigger role, and the need to find the right balance between efficiency and maintaining a human touch.Implementing "human first" marketingPhil outlines three key steps for implementing a "human first" marketing approach: 1) Deeply understanding the target audience, 2) Making the company's leadership and team more visible and accessible, and 3) Deploying an "employee advocacy" program to leverage the reach and influence of a company's own employees.Debating the marketing "funnel" vs. "pinball" modelThe group debates the merits of the traditional marketing funnel model versus Phil's "pinball" concept, where customers bounce around non-linearly. They discuss the pros and cons of each approach and how to best adapt to the reality of modern, fragmented customer journeys.Recap and next stepsThe group wraps up the discussion, acknowledging the value of the "pinball" concept and the importance of challenging assumptions. They express interest in exploring the ideas further, potentially by bringing in other marketing experts like Flint McLaughlin.The Next 100 Days Podcast Co-HostsGraham ArrowsmithGraham founded Finely Fettled in 2014 to provide data from The UK High Net Worth Database to marketers targeting affluent and high-net-worth customers. He's the founder of MicroYES, a Partner for MeclabsAI, creating lead generation AI Agents & Workflows and introducing the MeclabsAI Platform. Graham also provides an Answer Engine Optimisation solution to get your website in shape to be found by LLMs.Kevin ApplebyKevin specialises in finance transformation and implementing business change. He's the COO of GrowCFO, which provides both community and CPD-accredited training designed to grow the next generation of finance leaders. You can find Kevin on LinkedIn and at kevinappleby.com

Send us Fan MailWhat if kindness isn't a bonus trait but the backbone of how we build, lead, and create? We sit down with Minneapolis-based multidisciplinary artist Joe Charley—model, actor, musician, choreographer—to explore how empathy becomes skill, how structure unlocks flow, and why tenderness is a form of courage in high-stakes spaces.Joe traces his journey from child performer to intentional creator, sharing the moment he stopped trying to outgrow his past and started forgiving it. That self-empathy, he says, saved him from shame and freed him to practice with focus. He explains how acting taught him that every character believes they're right, a lesson that transformed how he argues and collaborates: listen first, find the missing piece, then move together. Along the way, we dive into community care as three working parts—structure, joy, and accountability—and how he turns that into real opportunities for young people through organized troupes, deadlines, and stages that treat them like teammates, not tokens.We also talk about curiosity as fuel: not just travel, but everyday exploration—new foods, neighborhood conversations, the stories behind small businesses—that becomes choreography, melody, and story on stage. Joe critiques spaces that perform progress without tenderness and shares a sharper frame: compassion isn't optional; compassion is infrastructure. Without it, systems collapse. He opens up about projects on the horizon, from singing the national anthem in St. Paul to a summer of new music, and names his north star for audiences: leave feeling seen, energized, and less alone, like you just spoke with someone not trying to win.If this conversation moved you, tap follow, share it with a friend who leads with heart, and leave a review so more people can find us. What's one limit you'll set this week to become limitless?This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you're just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit maydaymedianetwork.comYou can support the show in a few different ways—by grabbing something from our merch store, picking up a copy of my book, or joining us on Buy Me a Coffee. Every bit of support helps keep the podcast going and also helps us give back to nonprofits doing good in the world.“Intro music: ‘Human First' by Mike Baker – YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying | Website: www.mikebakerhq.com”Support the show

Stefanie Beach is an award-winning digital marketing executive and the Founder and CEO of The Marketeer Group (formerly SMB Media Consulting). A veteran of the ad tech world with over 15 years of experience, she is widely recognized for her leadership in programmatic strategy and her advocacy for flexible, expert-led talent models.Under Beach's leadership, the firm rebranded from SMB Media Consulting to The Marketeer Group to reflect its expansion into a full-funnel marketing partner.Model: The agency is built on a "flexible talent" framework, providing brands and publishers with high-level media expertise (all staff are Director-level or above) without the overhead of a traditional large agency.Specialization: Beach oversees a team that specializes in Paid Search, Social, Programmatic, and Retail Media Networks (RMNs). In 2026, she has focused the firm on the transition from "GenAI hype" to "Agentic AI," prioritizing AI tools that drive measurable business outcomes.Growth: The firm's rapid trajectory earned it a spot on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America.Beach is the host of the industry-leading podcast The Digital Marketeer. On the show, she interviews top CMOs and founders about the evolving landscape of performance media, data privacy, and the "Movable Middles" growth framework. Recent episodes have focused heavily on navigating the fragmentation of retail media and improving the post-purchase consumer experience.Corporate Roots: Before founding her own company, Beach held senior roles at major ad tech and media firms, including PubMatic, MediaMath, Conversant, and Initiative (IPG).Work-Life Balance: A vocal proponent of "Human-First" leadership, she founded her agency specifically to challenge the rigid structures of the 9-to-5 world. She frequently speaks on her decision to refuse venture funding in favor of independence and her commitment to being a present parent while scaling a multi-million dollar business.Awards: She has been honored as a Stevie Award winner for Female Executive of the Year and received the Enterprising Women of the Year award for her contributions to the marketing community.The Marketeer Group & Professional LeadershipThe Digital Marketeer PodcastBackground & Advocacy

Is AI a threat or a tool for liberation? In episode 607 of Marketing with Russ, we challenge the fear of automation and explore how artificial intelligence can actually make us more human.Guest Tammy J. Cohen joins us to discuss the "Human-First" approach to the digital revolution. Discover how to leverage AI to handle the mundane tasks, freeing you to focus on what truly matters: empathy, creativity, and deep connection.Stop trying to out-work the machines. Learn how to let AI do the work so you can get back to living.#MarketingWithRuss #AI #FutureOfWork #DigitalTransformation #HumanConnection #Automation #ArtificialIntelligence #TechTrends

Tune in to hear: Where do people consistently misperceive their own behaviors and their own financial tendencies? Also, what are the forces that drive those blindspots? Why do so many financial planning tools optimize for all the wrong things and how can we make client services better center the client and their goals? What are Marla's hopes for the world of tech when it comes to minimizing the “knowing-doing gap?” Do people need more financial literacy or self-literacy/self-awareness? In the medium term, how does Marla see the role of the financial advisor changing with respect to AI? What's the place of behavioral coaching in this new world? How does Marla think about the “creep factor” in her own business and how can we see clients for who they are without overreaching? What lessons, as an entrepreneur and business owner, has Marla learned from introspection about how to uplift herself after a hard day? Links Marla Sofer on LinkedIn Knowing Me, Knowing You Podcast Knomee Connect with Us Meet Dr. Daniel Crosby Check Out All of Orion's Podcasts Power Your Growth with Orion Compliance Code: 1005-U-26086

Let's just say it: the AI conversation is getting loud, and a lot of what you are hearing is flat-out wrong. Is AI destroying creativity? Is it stealing jobs? Is it guzzling all the water? My dear friend and AI powerhouse Callan Faulkner is back on the show to cut through the noise and give it to you straight.Callan is the founder of The Uncommon Business, where she runs a multi-million dollar company with a team of seven, a 48% profit margin, and zero sales staff. Her secret is not hustle. It is how she orchestrates AI. In this episode, she breaks down the real difference between someone who uses AI and someone who architects it, and why that gap is the competitive edge creative entrepreneurs cannot afford to ignore.We also get into the truth about AI and the environment, why Callan thinks an MBA is one of the worst investments you can make right now, and what the future of work actually looks like for humans who are paying attention.In this episode, you will learn:00:01 Why the AI conversation has reached a new level of urgency in 202606:22 Callan's background and how she built a multi-million dollar company with no sales team08:13 The real role of humans in an AI-powered business world14:49 Why Callan believes an MBA is one of the worst investments right now18:16 The $5M job offer she turned down and what it revealed about purpose21:53 The actual data behind AI's environmental impact26:56 What happens to people who get AI training after a layoff30:18 What a fully AI-powered business actually feels like day to dayResources Mentioned:Follow @callanfaulkner on Instagram!Callan Faulkner's AI Bootcamp (April 21)Superhuman Work recorded courseDesire AIThe Wealthy Creative SocietyAre you enjoying the podcast? We'd be so grateful if you gave us a rating and review! Your 5 star ratings help us reach more businesses like yours and allows us to continue to deliver valuable content every single week. Click here to review the show on Apple podcast or your favorite platformSelect “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”Share your favorite insights and inspirationsIf you haven't done so yet, make sure that you subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and on Apple Podcast for special bonus content you won't get elsewhere.xo, Tracy MatthewsFollow on Social:Follow @Flourish_Thrive on InstagramFollow @iamtracymatthews  InstagramFollow Flourish & Thrive Facebook

I sit down with Juliana Miller — an artist manager, A&R at Classicks Never Die, DJ, and member of The Recording Academy — to talk about what it really takes to guide artists through the highs and lows of music. From discovering talent to helping creatives find their rhythm, Juliana shares lessons on building trust, protecting your energy, and staying grounded in purpose while moving through the industry.Follow Juliana:Instagram: julianamillerTwitter: julianavmiller#julianamiller #classickstudios #artistmanagement #artistmanager #themattshow #mattsmith #chicago

In a marketing world increasingly driven by AI-generated content and data dashboards, it's easy to start treating customers like data points instead of people. Phil Treagus-Evans — founder of UK social media agency Giraffe Social and author of Human First Marketing: The Art of Being Seen, Trusted and Remembered — makes a compelling case for why human-first marketing isn't just a philosophy. It's a competitive advantage.In this episode, Phil and I dig into what it really means to understand your audience (hint: it goes well beyond the customer avatar), why Phil believes the traditional marketing funnel is built on a fiction, and what a pinball machine (for those that remember what one is!) has to do with the modern buyer journey. You'll also hear Phil's take on where AI helps marketers — and where it quietly undermines everything they're trying to build.Whether you're a solopreneur, a corporate marketer, or an agency owner, this episode will give you a new mental model for how customers actually move toward a purchase — and what you can do about it.KEY TOPICS DISCUSSEDWhy Phil started a social media agency "by accident" and what Giraffe Social does todayDefining human-first marketing and why it's gaining urgency in the AI eraThe EMPATH framework: a customer understanding model that goes beyond the personaA quick, free exercise for mapping customer emotions using reviews and AI analysisThe problem with the traditional marketing funnel — and the Pinball Method that replaces itPersonal branding as a company growth engine, not just a vanity playEmployee advocacy: why "employee hostage" doesn't work, and what doesWhere AI is genuinely useful in a human-first marketing strategy — and where to draw the lineWhy Phil wrote a 92,000-word book as an agency founder, and who Giraffe works withRESOURCES & LINKSBuy Human First Marketing: The Art of Being Seen, Trusted and RememberedConnect with Phil on LinkedInCheck Out Phil's Agency Giraffe SocialLearn More:Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreadsamazonBuy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinamazonJoin My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/ Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmoDownload My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/books/Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschafferAll My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

Are you a new manager feeling technically competent but completely unequipped to lead a team?Do you worry that you lack the "executive presence" needed to thrive in high-pressure leadership roles?Are you curious about how AI can actually support your human growth rather than just automating your tasks?In this episode, I'm joined by Benjamin Husser, CEO of Ignitus, to discuss how AI is being used to democratise high-level coaching. We dive into the gap many new managers face when transitioning from technical experts to people leaders and explore how "real-time augmentation" can provide the support you need at the exact moment you need it.Ben shares the journey of building an AI coaching platform rooted in human expertise, explaining why AI should never replace traditional coaching, but how it can serve as a powerful "accelerator" for the 90% of managers who currently don't have access to professional development support.Ben Husser is Ignitus' CEO, and a former Chief of Staff to tech CEOs (ex-Tripadvisor, ex-Euronews). Over a decade advising senior leaders, he's run executive committees, led strategic initiatives across three continents, and helped raise £100M+ from investors. Now, drawing on the mentorship that shaped his career, he's on a mission to make great mentoring accessible to all.What You'll learn:The "Human-First" AI Approach: Why effective AI coaching must be trained on the frameworks of real-world experts (like hostage negotiators and executive coaches).Real-Time Augmentation: How AI can analyse your digital workflow to give you situational advice before a difficult conversation or a big board meeting.The Promotability Stat: Why managers with coaches are 5x more likely to be promoted and how AI bridges that gap.Critical Thinking in the Age of AI: Ben's "Golden Rule" for using AI without losing your own unique professional style or critical thinking skills.Invest in Yourself and Your Career:Community - Join our brand new Network for mid-career women redesigning what's next in their careers Coaching - Join the Career Navigator Coaching Programme: My high-touch, 1-to-1 experience to help you build a career aligned with your life. Book a Career Clarity Call to discussConnect with BenExplore Ignitus: Visit ignitus.app to learn more about AI-powered leadership growth.Get 1 month free trial of Ignitus! Send us Fan MailConnect with me!Website: careerchangemakers.comEmail: podcast@careerchangemakers.comLinkedIn:  Janine EsbrandInstagram: @careerchangemakerspodcastCareer Change Makers on Apple Podcasts

The Brands That Win Care More. In baseball, you can feel when a team cares. You walk into the clubhouse… You watch how players treat the equipment manager… You see the energy in batting practice. You know immediately. The same thing happens in business. Customers can feel when a company actually gives a damn. And when they do… they become your biggest promoters. In this episode of WINNERS FIND A WAY, Trent Clark sits down with Justin Ricklefs, founder of Guild Collective and author of Give a Damn, to talk about the real competitive advantage in business today: human connection. Justin shares how brands win when they stop shouting about their products… and start telling stories that connect with people. This conversation covers: • Why your brand story matters more than your marketing budget • The biggest mistake companies make when communicating with customers • Why Chick-fil-A, Nike, and Apple dominate through emotional connection • How great leaders build companies that people actually care about • The power of customer delight in a noisy marketplace As Justin says: "Your brand is the story people tell about you when you're not in the room." Winners Find a Way_ Guest-Justi… The question every leader should ask is simple: What story are people telling about your company? ABOUT THE GUEST Justin Ricklefs is the Founder and CEO of Guild Collective, a Human-First brand agency helping organizations grow through clarity, connection, and creativity. Before launching Guild Collective, Justin spent years working in sports organizations including the Kansas City Chiefs, helping build partnerships and revenue through strategic storytelling. Justin is also the author of Give a Damn: The Catalyst for Caring Companies, a book that challenges businesses to rediscover the power of caring about customers, employees, and community. He lives in Kansas City with his wife Brooke and their five children. RESOURCES MENTIONED Justin Ricklefs Website: https://guildcollective.com Book: Give a Damn Connect with Justin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinricklefs/ WATCH / LISTEN TO THE EPISODE

First up, a massive move in the early-career space. upGrad, Asia's integrated skilling and workforce development leader, has officially acquired Internshala, the world's largest internship platform. https://hrtechfeed.com/upgrad-acquires-worlds-largest-internship-platform/ Moving from early career to global staffing—ManpowerGroup is making a major bet on AI interviewing. They've announced a global partnership with AI pioneer Hubert to scale structured, chat-based interviews. We've all heard the "AI is taking over" headlines, but Manpower is calling this a "Human-First" approach. The AI handles the initial 24/7 screening—meaning candidates can interview at 2:00 AM if they want—but the final hiring decision stays with the human recruiter. The Takeaway: In a world where 75% of employers struggle to find talent, speed is everything. Manpower claims this moves candidates through the pipeline five times faster. By using the "STAR" method for its AI questions, they're aiming for fairness and consistency over gut feelings. https://hrtechfeed.com/manpowergroup-adding-ai-interviewing-strategy/ Next, one of the giants of the ATS world is sporting a new look. iCIMS has officially unveiled a brand refresh, featuring a vibrant new purple logo and the tagline: "Powering Exceptional Hiring." But this is more than just a logo change. They've launched iCIMS Coalesce AI, which is now the unified name for their entire intelligence layer. The Strategy: iCIMS is moving away from "AI as a feature" and toward "Agentic AI." We're talking about autonomous agents that don't just suggest things, but actually take action throughout the hiring journey. It's a clear signal to the market: iCIMS wants to be seen as the "responsible AI" leader for the enterprise, balancing automation with high-level governance. https://hrtechfeed.com/icims-unveils-new-logo/ Speaking of AI Agents, ADP Marketplace just opened up a whole new wing of their digital storefront dedicated specifically to them. They've curated a group of partners—names like G-P, Employ, and Salary.com—to offer AI agents that integrate directly with ADP. These agents can orchestrate workflows, navigate global compliance, and even generate real-time workforce insights. https://hrtechfeed.com/adp-marketplace-adds-ai-agents-from-partners/ The February ADP National Employment Report is out, and it's a bit of a mixed bag. The private sector added 63,000 jobs—the strongest month since last summer. But here's the kicker: the "pay premium" for job-switchers has hit a record low. While job-stayers saw a steady 4.5% pay increase, those who jumped ship only saw gains slow to 6.3%. The gap is narrowing fast. Also, the growth is hyper-concentrated; almost all the gains came from Education, Health Services, and Construction, while Professional and Business Services actually shed 30,000 roles. https://recruitingheadlines.com/private-sector-adds-63000-jobs-in-february-as-pay-premium-for-job-switchers-hits-record-low/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a world of constant change and advances in technology, Artificial Intelligence is also raising the bar on Emotional Intelligence. Jason Barger explains. Jason explores the critical intersection of high-tech and high-touch, explaining why the rise of Artificial Intelligence makes human Emotional Intelligence more valuable than ever before. Please rate and review the podcast to help amplify these messages to others! Summary: As we move toward a future where AI handles our data, our schedules, and even our strategic analysis, what remains for the human leader? In this episode of The Thermostat, Jason V Barger deconstructs the "AI" of Authentic Interaction. He argues that rather than making leaders obsolete, technology is actually raising the bar for corporate culture and leadership in teams. Drawing from recent Forbes predictions for 2030 and current workforce trends, Jason identifies why the "scarcity premium" of the next decade will be placed on empathy, transparency, and genuine human connection. This conversation moves beyond the "scary" or "exciting" headlines of automation to address the core mechanics of how elite leaders build high-trust ecosystems. Essential listening for C-Suite executives and managers navigating the technological tide, this episode offers a strategic framework for doubling down on the traits that AI cannot duplicate: vulnerability, motive transparency, and authentic purpose. Episode Notes & Timestamps: [00:00] Intro: Jason welcomes listeners to Season 10, reflecting on over 300 episodes dedicated to calibrating the leadership thermostat. [00:03] The AI Paradox: Why artificial intelligence is the most discussed topic in boardrooms today and the spectrum of fear and excitement surrounding it. [00:06] Predictions for 2030: A breakdown of the Forbes forecast—from AI therapists and accountants to the normalization of humanoid robots in the workplace. [00:08] The Authentic Interaction (AI) Framework: Jason introduces his thesis: The more advanced technology becomes, the more humans crave authentic interaction. [00:09] Authenticity as a Trust Driver: Revisiting the three pillars of trust (Authenticity, Logic, and Empathy) and why showing up genuinely is now a competitive advantage. [00:10] Pillar 1: Genuineness: The importance of leaders admitting imperfections and sharing their vision to attract and retain top talent. [00:11] Pillar 2: Transparency: How proactive sharing of information and motives prevents the "manipulation" trap and drives engagement. [00:12] Pillar 3: Connection: Addressing the fundamental human need to belong to a mission greater than oneself, which no algorithm can satisfy. [00:13] Closing Questions: Jason leaves leaders with a challenge to evaluate how they are valuing the human experience in a technological age. Key Takeaways for Leaders: The Scarcity Premium: Recognize that as tasks become automated, human-centric leadership traits (EQ) become your most valuable assets. Motive Transparency: Build trust by being radically transparent about the "why" behind strategic shifts and technological adoption. Culture as an Ecosystem: Focus on building a "Human-First" culture that uses technology to enhance, not replace, human connection. Listen to the full episode and access show notes at: https://jasonvbarger.com/podcast/ai-raises-the-bar-on-eq/ Bio: Jason Barger is a husband, father, speaker, and author who is passionate about business leadership and corporate culture. He believes that corporate culture is the "thermostat" of an organization, and that it can be used to drive performance, innovation, and engagement. The show features interviews with business leaders from a variety of industries, as well as solo episodes where Barger shares his own insights and advice. Connect: Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonVBarger Make Your 2026 Effective! Book Jason with your team at https:/ /www.jasonvbarger.com Like or Follow Jason

Tamara Whilden is the founder of Behind the Screens, an operations partner for online CEOs ready to scale smarter with leaner systems, stronger teams, and more time to lead. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. AI is not the competitive advantage; your people and how you empower them are. 2. Efficiency without intention leads to burnout, churn, and loss of trust. 3. Human-first leadership creates higher retention, better performance, and real freedom for founders. Check out Tamara's website and take the 2-minute bottleneck assessment - Are you the bottleneck? Sponsors HighLevel - The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies. Learn more at HighLevelFire.com. Cape - A privacy-first mobile carrier, built from the ground up with security as the priority. If you care about protecting your digital life without giving up your smartphone, Cape makes that possible. Visit Cape.co/fire and use code FIRE for 33% off cape for 6 months today!    

Reflections from host Sarah Olivieri ... Fundraising Should Feel Like the Most Enjoyable Thing We Do - But I Bet You Don't Feel That Way

I like dancing and I like seeing people get along. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the future of leadership isn't about choosing between people or technology, but learning how to lead both with intention? In this episode, you'll hear from Gena Hoxha, PhD, Chief People & AI Officer at Ignitium, who is helping organizations embrace AI in a way that strengthens—not replaces—the human side of work. You'll discover how Gena's own leadership journey shaped her belief that AI transformation must be human-first, grounded in trust, clarity, and shared values. She explains what AI leadership really looks like in practice, how leaders can address fear and uncertainty with honesty, and why developing human skills like emotional intelligence and strategic thinking is more important than ever as AI becomes part of everyday work. Gena is an organizational strategist and leadership expert focused on shaping a future where AI doesn't just automate what we do, but elevates who we become. Her work is grounded in a simple belief: AI is here to stay, and if we want it to benefit humanity, we have to design for it on purpose. Originally from Albania and now based in San Francisco, Gena has built her career at the intersection of leadership, transformation, and technology. Her work at Ignitium ensures that AI is implemented responsibly and strategically, while empowering people to stay skilled, connected, and inspired. You'll discover:What it truly means to lead AI with foresight, not fearHow to connect AI initiatives to your organization's valuesWhy transparency builds trust during AI transformationThe human skills leaders must strengthen alongside AIHow proactive leadership can shape your career pathLearn more about Gena Hoxha, PhD on LinkedIn. Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn

In this solo episode of Chat By The Pitch, Ian Babcock reflects on years of learning as a soccer parent, coach, and constant student of the game. This episode challenges the obsession with early results and reframes success around development, environment, communication, and joy.Ian explores what youth soccer is getting right, where it's falling short, and what parents, coaches, and clubs can do—starting today—to create healthier, more sustainable experiences for young athletes. This conversation is for families who care about long-term growth, not just the scoreboard.Key Talking Points1. Why development matters more than early wins2. The danger of overscheduling and athlete burnout3. Creating safe environments for learning and failure4. Why kids need space to be kids—not mini professionals5. The importance of emotional connection between coaches and players6. How communication breakdowns damage player development7. Culture as the foundation of healthy teams and clubs8. The realities and consequences of pay-to-play youth sports9. How sideline behavior shapes athlete confidence and creativity10. Redefining success as lifelong love of the game, not outcomesQuotes from Ian Babcock1. “Our job isn't to push kids toward greatness. It's to walk beside them so they can define what greatness means for themselves.”2. “Winning early doesn't create better players. It usually creates burned-out ones.”3. “Kids don't fall out of love with sports all at once. They drift—from joy to obligation, from play to performance.”4. “If a child feels safe enough to fail, they'll be brave enough to grow.”5. “We're raising humans first. Athletes second. When we get that order right, everything else gets easier.”6. “Development isn't about today's score. It's about who the athlete becomes over time.”7. “Overscheduling doesn't build commitment—it slowly erodes joy.”8. “Culture isn't about winning at all costs. It's about creating an environment kids want to stay in.”9. “When parents, players, and coaches aren't aligned, development breaks down fast.”10. “If a kid still loves the game at 25—or 80—we've done our job.”Connect with Chat By The Pitch

In this conversation, Kelly Sinclair (self-proclaimed “accidental tech nerd”) pulls back the curtain on what happens when your business strategy doesn't match your actual energy — and how human-first AI can become a tool for regulation, clarity, and sustainable visibility (without feeding the algorithm or burning yourself out).We talk about grief, hustle conditioning, generator energy, and the shift from performative marketing to strategic visibility — plus the 10-minute-a-day habit that helps you build momentum one simple action at a time.TOPICS WE EXPLORE:The difference between performative visibility vs. strategic visibilityHow human design can change the way you make decisions in businessUsing AI as an interactive tool for momentumWhy “trying harder” is often the biggest energetic leakHow unprocessed grief and suppressed emotions eventually show up in your workProtecting your energy by getting off the content hamster wheelThe 10-minute-a-day visibility habit (and why consistency matters more than intensity)Building trust in business in an AI-saturated world“AI to help you human better” — the integrity-first approach to using AIPOINT OF THE EPISODE: AI isn't here to help you do more faster, it's here to help you protect your energy so you can show up more intentionally, build trust, and take strategic action without living in urgency. Visibility doesn't require burnout, and momentum doesn't require the algorithm.MENTIONED:Kelly's 90-Day Visibility Sprint Starter Kit (30+ strategic visibility moves + tracking tools)Kelly's websiteInstagramKelly's podcast: Entrepreneur SchoolAre you loving it? Send Ash a text! MORE ABOUT ASHI am the definition of duality — I swear like a sailor and break rules like it's my job, but I also hold incredible space for my clients and work my ass off to help them achieve the success they're after. But I'm also here for the non-preneur woman, too. My background in counseling gives me a unique perspective on what it means to show up, serve, & create connection for those who feel like they've never belonged before. LINKS: Become the Regulated Woman Get emails that feel like your best friend (if your best friend was a therapist and actually told you the truth). Use code BB20 to get The Burnout Breakthrough for only $7 Follow me on IG (dropping in once a quarter for updates & gossip) Website: ashmcdonaldmentoring.com Work with me 1:1 Therapeutic Mentorship Business Therapy (therapy + strategic mentorship) ...

What if AI could help you write better emails without making you sound like a robot? In this Empire Exclusive episode, Allison Hardy chats with AI expert Kinsey Soderberg about how to use AI tools (like ChatGPT) in a way that actually amplifies your authenticity, without sacrificing your voice.Kinsey breaks down the exact ways she uses AI to boost email engagement, open rates, and connection with her audience, all while keeping things human-first, creative, and actually fun! If you're even a little AI-curious, but you don't want to lose the human-ness in your emails, this episode's going to blow your mind (and possibly overhaul your inbox strategy).TAKEAWAYS:You don't have to choose between using AI and sounding like yourself. Kinsey shares how her “human-first” approach ensures every email reflects your voice, not ChatGPT's.Kinsey's “Quick Grab Prompts” are fun, swipeable prompts that she uses in her emails that skyrocket engagement and get your email list excited to hear from you.Kinsey reveals her sneaky-smart “Scrolly Box” trick for delivering long prompts without cluttering up your emails, and how ChatGPT helped her build it.Discover why “Catch the Latest” sections might just outshine the classic PS (!) and how short, punchy CTAs are outperforming wordy end-of-email pleas.Kinsey gives tactical tips to ditch the dreaded em-dash, beat the cliches, and make ChatGPT sound more you than you might on your own.LINKS YOU MIGHT FIND HELPFUL: Check out the blog post that accompanies this podcast episode for more details and resources.Hang out with Kinsey on InstagramVisit Kinsey on her websiteWant to learn how to host a Bundle that grows your email list with qualified buyers? Snag a spot in the upcoming Bundles That Don't Suck Masterclass.Snag 1 of only 12 VIP Days in 2026. Email subscribers nurtured with strategic emails spend 47% more than non-nurtured leads, which means you need an email funnel that does more than sit pretty. Let Allison build your entire email nurture and pitch sequence in just one day, packed with personality-driven, sales-focused emails designed to sell. Your email funnel will become your best-selling salesperson, on autopilot. Click here to claim your VIP Day before all 12 spots are gone!Know you need email marketing support, but not sure what offer works best for you? Fill out this form, and Allison will be back in your inbox with a few options that fit you, your business, and your budget best.CONNECT WITH ALLISON:Follow Allison on InstagramDID YOU HAVE AN 'AH-HA MOMENT' WHILE LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE?If you are ready to take action from listening to this episode, head to Apple Podcasts and help us reach new audiences by giving the podcast a rating and a review. Music by: www.bensound.comLicense code: 8G1GJZZDCLKGU9NRArtist: : Benjamin Tissot

Book a guest spot on the Podcast: https://www.drchrisloomdphd.com/_paylink/AZpgR_7fBook a 1-on-1 coaching call: https://www.drchrisloomdphd.com/booking-calendar/introductory-session Become a member of our community: https://www.drchrisloomdphd.com/membershipSubscribe to our email list: ⁠https://financial-freedom-podcast-with-dr-loo.kit.com/⁠Click here to join PodMatch (the "AirBNB" of Podcasting): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/drchrisloomdphdClick here to purchase my books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2PaQn4pClick here to purchase my audiobooks, visit: https://www.audible.com/author/Christopher-H-Loo-MD-PhD/B07WFKBG1FTo help support the show:CashApp- https://cash.app/$drchrisloomdphdVenmo- https://account.venmo.com/u/Chris-Loo-4Buy Me a Coffee- https://www.buymeacoffee.com/chrisJxDisclaimer: Not advice. Educational purposes only. Not an endorsement for or against. Results not vetted. Views of the guests do not represent those of the host or show.  

Special Guest: Dylan Bost   Welcome to Podcast Profits Unleashed, the show that helps coaches and consultants grow their business through the power of podcasting—both as standout guests and magnetic hosts. I'm your host, Karen Roberts, and today's episode is all about breaking the cycle of burnout and building a business that aligns with who you are—human first. I'm joined by Dylan Bost, a coach and entrepreneur who helps purpose-driven service-based business owners simplify their systems, reconnect with their core mission, and build aligned, scalable businesses that actually last. If you've ever felt pulled between burnout and growth, this conversation will help you reset your vision, realign your systems, and reclaim your energy.

Send us a textA single kind gesture can flip an entire day—and sometimes an entire town. That's the spark behind this heart-forward conversation with musician and photographer Cathy Catterson, where we explore how small, visible acts of care become a neighborhood's safety net. From a local pizza shop offering slices to anyone who's hungry to little free libraries turning into little free pantries, we trace the real-world ways generosity scales at the community level long before it trends online.We dig into the practical side of compassion: how to support small businesses so they can keep serving as hubs for connection, why paying in cash can ease fee burdens, and what happens when a town rallies to keep doors open. Cathy shares stories from her life—a bumper crop of tomatoes, childhood memories of shared garden plots, and the simple power of a sincere compliment—to show how micro-kindness improves mental health, reduces conflict, and fuels civic pride. We don't dodge the hard questions either. Yes, a few people may misuse help, but the cost of withholding aid from those in need is far higher. The takeaway is clear: better to feed ten and risk one extra than to starve the nine who depend on you.You'll leave with concrete ideas you can try today: restock a pantry, offer a ride to a food shelf, compliment a stranger, or spend intentionally at a family-owned shop. Kindness is a practice, and practice builds culture. Listen to hear how creativity, empathy, and action intersect—and why your smallest gesture might start the next ripple of change.If this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe for more stories of everyday goodness, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. Your support keeps these ripples going.This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network — your go-to hub for podcast creators. Whether you're just starting a podcast and need professional production support, or you already host a show and want to join a collaborative, supportive podcast network, visit maydaymedianetwork.com to learn more. Enjoyed this episode? Stay connected with us! Follow our podcast community on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok for uplifting, inspirational, and feel-good stories. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for monthly updates, behind-the-scenes insights, and more content designed to brighten your day. Intro music: “Human First” by Mike Baker – YouTube: https://youtu.be/wRXqkYVarGA | Podcast: Still Here, Still Trying: https://open.spotify.com/show/1iE5t5Nrbs0MyLORJpfiYu?si=f5b71d45b182448b | Website: https://www.mikebakerhq.comSupport the show

Send us a message!In this episode, Alex & Annie sit down with Frank Bosi, Senior Director of Partnerships at Hostfully, to unpack what it really takes to build a tech company that people trust.Frank's journey began in luxury hotels long before short-term rentals became a professionalized industry. That hospitality foundation now shapes how he approaches partnerships, leadership, and growth inside one of the most culture-driven PMS brands in the space.This conversation explores why culture scales faster than software, how AI can actually bring hospitality back into operations, and what property managers should be focusing on as expectations rise across the industry.You'll also hear a behind-the-scenes look at Hostfully's approach to partnerships, onboarding, and product development, including how real user feedback influences what gets built next.Episode Chapters:00:00 – Welcome to Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals05:00 – Frank Bosi's role at Hostfully and his focus on partnerships, education, and industry visibility09:40 – Frank reflects on his hotel background and why consistency, care, and service still define great guest experience21:17 – Inside Hostfully's day-to-day culture, trust, flexibility, and leadership principles15:14 – Why Hostfully feels different to operators and how people shape the product experience10:43 – Using AI intentionally to preserve brand voice, personalization, and hospitality40:28 – The biggest challenges operators are trying to solve right now16:36 – Collaboration, ecosystem thinking, and why relationships still matter in tech36:28 – How Hostfully supports operators at every stage of growth26:00 – Hostfully's funding story and choosing partners aligned with long-term valuesFrank also shares his perspective on industry consolidation, rising professionalism among operators, and why modern property management systems have become the backbone of scalable operations.This conversation explores what happens when technology is built around people, not the other way around.Connect with Frank:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-bosi-375a5817/ Connect with Hostfully:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hostfully-inc-/ Website: https://www.hostfully.com/ ✨ Exclusive Offer to Alex & Annie Listeners:Streamline your short-term rental operations with Hostfully.Mention the Alex & Annie Podcast when you sign up and get free onboarding ($1000 value).

Matt and Ryan ring in the new year by blending reflection, realism, and a little sci-fi sparkle. Returning fan-favorite Melinda Anderson sets the tone with a powerful, compassionate conversation about navigating burnout, redefining expectations, building personal capacity, and leading through uncertainty. No fluffy resolutions here. Matt and Ryan then go full Adventures in Advising by interviewing not one, but two AI voice companions from Sesame: Miles and Maya. Together, they explore what AI can (and cannot) do for academic advising, higher education, ethics, student support, and the future of the profession. Expect thoughtful insights, lightning-round questions, Star Trek debates, and moments where you briefly forget you're listening to a machine

In this episode of The Digital Marketing Podcast, Daniel Rowles speaks with Phil Treagus-Evans, author of the new book Human First Marketing, to explore why now, in a world dominated by AI, automation, and synthetic content, marketers must rediscover their humanity. As generative AI reshapes how content is produced, and digital channels become flooded with bland, algorithmically generated material, brands risk losing the very thing that makes them relatable: their people. Phil offers a timely and practical guide for putting humans back at the heart of your marketing strategy, from customer research to team culture and executive presence. Drawing on his work at Giraffe Social, Phil breaks down a four-part framework for building trust, fostering connection, and standing out in a sea of sameness. If you've ever felt like your content is just noise, or you're posting because you're "supposed to", this episode will help you hit reset. In This Episode: Marketing isn't working like it used to Phil opens with a bold claim, and backs it up with data on ad saturation, trust erosion, and content homogenisation due to AI. What is Human First Marketing? A new approach that prioritises people over platforms, empathy over efficiency, and purpose over vanity metrics. The four pillars of Human First Marketing People: Deep customer understanding and employee advocacy Authenticity: Real voices and honest content Connection: Interactions over transactions Purpose: Strategy that means something — and gets results Why you should ditch customer avatars Phil introduces his EMPATH framework for audience research that avoids reductive stereotypes and leans into emotional understanding, patterns of behaviour, and real team insight. The power of visibility and vulnerability From CEOs posting on LinkedIn to sharing the full journey of writing his book, Phil explains how authenticity builds trust, and drives results. Why trust is the new marketing currency In an era of deepfakes and automated outreach, being seen as real, consistent and trustworthy is the ultimate competitive edge. AI isn't the enemy, lazy AI is Phil and Daniel agree: AI is a fantastic tool, but it's the human decisions around how, when and why we use it that matter most. How Human First Marketing improves SEO As Google leans into E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trust), human-centred content becomes not just ethical, but algorithmically rewarded. Key Takeaways: Human content performs better - Whether it's lo-fi video or founder-led storytelling, people trust people more than brands. Leaders must be visible - Exec comms and internal advocacy aren't optional anymore, they're how culture scales and trust grows. Culture comes first - You can't fake authenticity. If your team doesn't believe in what you do, neither will your audience. Strategy before content - Don't just post because you should. Post with intent, empathy, and impact. There's power in transparency - Sharing your struggles, your processes, and your people builds emotional equity. Use AI as a creative partner - Not a content machine. Challenge your thinking, spark ideas, don't outsource your voice.

On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome repeat guest Jeff De Cagna, AIMP, FRSA, FASAE, and Executive Advisor at Foresight First LLC,  for a deep dive into the challenges and considerations involving AI and association boards. We discuss the Future of Association Boards (FAB) Report, which De Cagna curated and edited, touching on the importance of creating a better future for association boards. Jeff stresses the need for ethical reflection in adopting AI, the concept of stewardship over traditional leadership, and fostering humanity within organizational purposes. The conversation also covers practical approaches for boards, board readiness, and actions association leaders can take to effectively navigate the evolving landscape.FAB Report

AI search adoption is accelerating at breathtaking speed across all major platforms. Brian Stempeck, co-founder and CEO of Evertune, explains how consumers are already experiencing AI-powered results through Google's AI Overviews, Amazon's Rufus, and voice assistants, even without actively seeking AI tools. The discussion covers strategic positioning opportunities for retailers like Walmart's early ChatGPT partnership and how the mainstream integration of AI search is creating new competitive dynamics in e-commerce discovery.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us a textI had the best conversation with Kelly Sinclair about something that's been on my mind (and probably yours too): how to actually use AI without losing the human connection that makes your business YOU. We dive deep into why social media might not be the lead generator you think it is, how to build visibility strategies that don't rely on the algorithm, and how AI can actually help you show up MORE human, not less.In this episode you'll hear:Why taking a break from social media might be the best business decision you makeHow to flip your AI mindset from "polish my work" to "support me first"The three ways to monetize AI in your businessResources mentioned in this episode:90 Day Visibility Sprint Starter Kit https://kellysinclair.thrivecart.com/the-90-day-visibility-sprint-podcast/?coupon=SERENAPODValerieBrand CalibratorNotebook LMChatGPTMindPalManyChatZapierQuickBooks OnlineMeet KellyKelly Sinclair is a visibility strategist, AI-powered marketing expert, and host of Entrepreneur School. An accidental tech nerd and professional mom taxi, she helps entrepreneurs ditch random acts of marketing, build visibility habits that actually work, and grow through intentional visibility—not by selling their soul to social media.Connect with KellyPodcast: https://entrepreneurschool.ca/podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksco_kelly/Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven't left a review yet it's super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>>

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with Dylan Bost, founder of SunnyHQ and a former creative agency owner who hit rock bottom after years of burnout and addiction. Dylan openly shares how an existential crisis (“What is this all for?”) led to the collapse of his multimillion-dollar agency, years of deep healing, and the birth of a radically aligned, human-first WordPress hosting company. This is a raw conversation about turning breakdown into breakthrough and building a business that honors life instead of sacrificing it. Key Takeaways: Burnout rarely announces itself — it's the slow erosion of joy, identity, and meaning while everything looks “successful” on the outside. The most dangerous question an entrepreneur can ignore: “What is this all for?” If left unanswered, it leads to emptiness even at the peak of achievement. Rock bottom can become the foundation: Dylan's collapse forced years of stillness, embodiment work, plant medicine journeys, and nervous-system repair — the true rebuilding started there. You are not your story, you are the storyteller. Letting go of past achievements and identities is scary but essential for real transformation. Simple daily embodiment starts with 5-minute meditation — not to empty the mind, but to become aware of thoughts and let them pass. Awareness is the most powerful “drug”: once you see a destructive habit (endless scrolling, overworking, numbing), it becomes nearly impossible to keep doing it unconsciously. Alignment in business means designing the company around your desired life, not the other way around. SunnyHQ was built on clarity, simplicity, and genuine human support — no bots, no ticket queues, no chaos. True customer service is human connection: fast fixes + warm empathy = customers who feel genuinely cared for (and team members who love their work). Ask for help early. Vulnerability is strength, not weakness. You are not the first entrepreneur to struggle — and you don't have to solve it alone. Rebuilding yourself is the ultimate business strategy. Connect with Guest Dylan Bost SunnyHQ: https://sunnyhq.io Special podcast page: https://sunnyhq.io/podcast Upcoming book: The Seven Mirrors (on memory, leadership, and transformation) Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatchDM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik DisclaimerThis video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. About Healthy Mind By AvikHealthy Mind By Avik is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it has become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, this channel brings you powerful podcasts and grounded conversations across mental health, emotional well-being, mindfulness, holistic healing, trauma recovery, and self-empowerment. With over 4,400 episodes and 168.4K global listeners, we are committed to amplifying stories and breaking stigma worldwide.Subscribe and be part of this healing journey. ContactBrand: Healthy Mind By AvikEmail: join@healthymindbyavik.com | podcast@healthymindbyavik.comWebsite: www.healthymindbyavik.comBased in: India and USAOpen to collaborations, guest appearances, coaching, and strategic partnerships. CHECK PODCAST SHOWS & BE A GUESTPodcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavikBe a guest: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/beaguestVideo Testimonial: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/testimonialsCommunity: https://nas.io/healthymindNewsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ OUR SERVICESBusiness Podcast Management: https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/corporatepodcasting/Individual Podcast Management: https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/Podcasting/Share Your Story: https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/shareyourstory STAY CONNECTEDMedium: https://medium.com/@contentbyavikYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@healthymindbyavikInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.pod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthymindbyavikLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster/Twitter: https://twitter.com/podhealthclubPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Avikpodhealth/ SHARE YOUR REVIEWGoogle Review: https://www.podpage.com/bizblend/reviews/new/Video Testimonial: https://famewall.healthymindbyavik.com/ Because every story matters and yours could be the one that lights the way. #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #HealthyMindByAvik #MentalHealthAwareness #podcastformentalhealth #wellnesspodcast #mentalhealthpodcast #selfcare #mindfulness #growthmindset #burnoutrecovery #entrepreneurmentalhealth #healingjourney #humanfirst #podcastlife #bestpodcast #podcasthost #newpodcastalert  

We chat with dan Haylett about what it means to plan a human first retirement. Too often, we get the math right but the psychology wrong. How do we have a happy retirement? Dan's new book: The Retirement You Didn't See Coming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Interview Date: June 1st, 2025Episode Summary:Menina sits down with Tara-Jean Popowich—winner of So You Think You Can Dance Canada Season 2—for an inspiring look at resilience, self-belief, and adventure. From moving out at 15 to chase training, to struggling with $5/hour jobs in L.A., to the heartbreak of being cut from SYTYCD Season 1 and the comeback that won her the crown, Tara-Jean shares how grit, heart, and community shaped her career.She reflects on the whirlwind that followed—international tours, Bollywood, Dancing with the Stars India, and performing across 74 countries. We hear how she built longevity in an unpredictable industry, the challenges of visas and branding, and her passion project Human First, Dancer Second. Tara-Jean's honesty about comparison, mindset, and mental health is a gift to young dancers navigating their own journeys.This episode is perfect for dancers chasing professional careers, teachers mentoring students with big dreams, and anyone curious about building a life in the arts that balances adventure, resilience, and authenticity.Show Notes(0:00) - Welcome & intro to Tara-Jean Popowich (9:02) - Starting in small-town Alberta; cruise ships as “only dream” (10:59) - Moving out at 15; juggling work, school, and dance (13:20) - First LA move; cleaning studios to train (16:09) - Cut from SYTYCD Season 1; comeback mindset (20:49) - Winning Season 2; confetti, cash prize, new doors (23:42) - Life after SYTYCD; global whirlwind of jobs (24:05) - India chapter: Bollywood, DWTS, love & challenges (30:21) - Years abroad: London, Costa Rica, NY base (32:02) - New focus: creative direction & Human First convention(34:57) - Advice to younger self: believe earlier, avoid comparison (36:01) - Q&A: mindset, favorite projects, navigating LA (42:30) - The power of personal brand & social media (45:00) - Visa realities: O-1s, green cards, legal path (49:00) - Q&A: favorite country, advice for young dancers (56:13) - Balancing passion vs. career; finding other outlets (57:53) - Final advice: stop comparing, find joy, trust your pathBiography:Tara-Jean Popowich is most known for winning "So you think you can dance"-Canada Season 2. Since the show she has been based out of NYC, LA, London, and India. During her time in NYC she was "Carly Rae Jepsen's" Choreographer and dancer seen on "Jimmy Fallon" and "Live with Kelly". Tara-Jean is also seen in Pharrells music video "Happy", "Turn it up" American tour, "Groove Street productions" , “Excel” guest faculty, choreographer for "So you think you can dance" Ukraine and special guest performer, choreographed and performed for Ballet Africa, IDS instructor in Madrid Spain, yearly performer with "SYTYCD" USA All-stars in China,  Dove Cameron's new video with Disney, is 1 of 6 featured dancers in a feature film based in Scotland, with choreographer Stacey Tookey. TJ was living in India and made top 6 as the celebrity on "Dancing with the stars"-season 7.  TJ was named one of the "hottest top 12 convention teachers" in the U.S. Tara-Jean is seen in Calvin klein's, "Dance in my calvin's" campaign. More recently on tour with VORTEX around South America and Europe. Check out Tara-Jean dancing for Shania Twain “swinging with my eyes closed” video. Also An official judge for “world of dance” in Poland. Tara-Jean is also an official ambassador for “MOVE IT” the biggest dance event in the UK. 28,000 dancers from around the world. Where Tj will be teaching, performing, autograph sessions, and photo sessions.Tara-Jean directed and choreographed for the famous hand to hand acrobat's “Charolette an Nicolas” from France's got talent. Keep your eye out for her dancing in the hit TV series “What we do in the shadows” FX network. Connect on Social Media:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tarajeanpopowich/Website - www.tara-jean.com

You know her from Precious and Empire, but Gabourey Sidibe is even more real off-screen. She talks with Deborah Joy Winans Williams about Hollywood myths, shutting down colorism, and why learning to love yourself is the ultimate act of resistance. Funny, raw, and inspiring. #GaboureySidibe #ChoosingJoyPodcast #DeborahJoyWinans #SelfLove #Colorism #HollywoodTruths #BlackMotherhood #BlackWomenInFilm #IVFStory #Precious #EmbraceJoy #ConfidenceJourney #BlackExcellence #WomenInHollywood #ActressInterviewGo Premium: https://www.theblackguywhotips.com/premium/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.