Podcasts about I See You

In today's episode of Workday Playdate, Erin unpacks one of the most game-changing skills in work and life: confidence. Whether you're pitching a new idea, speaking on stage, or leading a meeting, Erin shares how to turn every presentation into a moment that sticks.Through humor, improv-infused insights, and real-life stories, Erin reveals the secrets to building self-trust, authenticity, and audience connection. She'll show you how confidence is mostly about being present.If public speaking makes your palms sweat or you've ever blanked mid-pitch, this episode is your playbook for showing up and staying memorable.Inside This Episode:The Truth About Confidence: Why it's not the absence of nerves—it's the presence of trust.Prep Like You Play: How to make preparation fun, creative, and confidence-boosting (yes, improv helps!).Authenticity Wins: Embrace your quirks—they're your connection superpower.Shift the Spotlight: Move your focus from self to service for unforgettable audience impact.Presentation Energy Hacks: Simple ways to channel nerves into powerful presence.Who This Episode Is For:Leaders who want to command the room.Professionals ready to turn fear into fuel.Anyone who wants to speak with impact—and actually enjoy it.Tune in to learn how confidence, trust, and a little play can make you magnetic in any presentation.You've outlined your slides, practiced your intro, and told yourself this time you won't wing it—but when it's go time, your nerves still take the mic.Enter The 3-Step Presentation Guide: your go-to roadmap for crafting, practicing, and delivering a talk that lands. With this simple system, you'll calm your nerves, sharpen your message, and step on stage (or into that conference room) with real confidence.Download it now and turn “I hope this goes well” into “I nailed that.”No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting)Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy.Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode.Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.”Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back.Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here.Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it!Erin's websiteErin's InstagramErin's TikTokErin's LinkedInimprove it!'s websiteimprove it!'s InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

SCREEN THAT CALL FROM BEYOND…THE GRABBER IS BACK IN BLACK PHONE 2!Blumhouse pictures looks to break its poo-poo streak (Exorcist:Believer, The Wolf Man, M3G4N 2.0, The Woman in the Yard, Drop) with Black Phone 2, the sequel to the wildly successful first film. Based on a short story by Stephen King's son Joe Hill, the sequel is directed by genre friendly director-writer Scott Derrickson who also helmed the Sinister films and Doctor Strange. Starring returning actors Mason Thames (who is on a hot streak as the current IT actor), Madeleine McGraw, Miguel Mora, and Ethan Hawke, is this sequel a worthy expansion of the Grabber storyline/universe or is it just silly “bigger, bolder, better but more of the same”?                  ACCEPT THE CALL AND MASK UP FOR THE NEW WATCH SKIP PLUS!!!!October is still “Spooky Season”, and Mike has capsule reviews of horror films - John Carpenter's Prince of Darkness, VHS Halloween, I See You, and spotlights director Brandon Christensen whose Shudder exclusives have become WillDaBeast must see's. Cupcake talks the little seen Marrowbone with its incredible and devastating twist ending and the skipped YA thriller that deserves your watch - Down a Dark Hall. TIMESTAMPS00:00 Teaser02:03 Intro06:26 Black Phone 2: Below the Line / The Crew16:20 Black Phone 2: Above the Line / The Cast29:13 Spoiler Free Thoughts51:41 SPOILERS AHEAD01:04:17 Mike's Plus01:14:02 Jose's Plus01:23:03 Outro- - - - - - - - - -WE ARE WATCH SKIP PLUS! FOLLOW/LIKE/SUBSCRIBE/REVIEW/LOVEEmail us: WatchSkipPlus@gmail.com#BlackPhone2 #scottderrickson #masonthames #madeleinemcgraw #ethanhawke #jeremydavies #demianbechir #miguelmora #crobertcarghill #joehill #atticusderrickson #parmekberg #pattipodesta #jasonblum #blumhouse #crookedhighway #ontariocreates #universalpictures

In Episode 313 of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with global leadership coach Sabina Nawaz to unpack an idea that feels counterintuitive in a world obsessed with doing: the power of doing nothing.From radical presence to redefining productivity, this conversation explores how creating “blank space” can unlock creativity, clarity, and calm. Erin and Sabina dig into what it means to show up with every cell in your body, why pressure often corrupts our best intentions, and how stillness can be a bold leadership strategy.If you've ever felt guilty for slowing down or struggled to find space to think, this episode is your permission slip (and push) to pause.Inside This Episode:Radical Presence: Why being fully engaged—body, mind, and spirit—changes how you lead and connect.Blank Space as Strategy: How creating moments of “nothing” can spark creativity and better decisions.Redefining Productivity: Moving from busyness to meaningful progress.Managing Pressure: Recognizing when intensity turns habits destructive—and how to reset.Reflection Culture: Practical ways to build team rhythms that value pausing, processing, and presence.Who This Episode Is For:Leaders craving calm in the chaos.Teams tired of mistaking motion for momentum.Anyone ready to replace burnout with balance and busyness with breakthroughs.Tune in to learn why sometimes the most productive thing you can do is nothing at all.You've outlined your slides, practiced your intro, and told yourself this time you won't wing it—but when it's go time, your nerves still take the mic.Enter The 3-Step Presentation Guide: your go-to roadmap for crafting, practicing, and delivering a talk that lands. With this simple system, you'll calm your nerves, sharpen your message, and step on stage (or into that conference room) with real confidence.Download it now and turn “I hope this goes well” into “I nailed that.”No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting)Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy.Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode.Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.”Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back.Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here.Connect with Sabina NawazSabina's LinkedInSabina's websiteSabina's book, You're the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be (and Others Need)Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it!Erin's websiteErin's InstagramErin's TikTokErin's LinkedInimprove it!'s websiteimprove it!'s InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever considered that your subconscious is running the same program of thoughts and beliefs - on repeat? These are your ‘thought habits' as described by Amy Kemp - and they have a huge (yet often ignored) impact on how you're running your business. Maybe you can sense there's something holding you back, but you can't quite put your finger on it. Maybe you've tried to do more, try new tactics, change offers… yet nothing shifts your results? Well, strap yourself in, we're tackling this one head on: why you can't simply outwork your thought habits! I invited Amy onto the show because she's an absolute expert in this space. Amy Kemp is a Certified Habit Finder Coach, author of “I See You”, and someone who has helped countless entrepreneurs and leaders uncover what's happening inside their minds and how that's affecting their results - without them even realizing it. She's got a wealth of inspiring stories and practical wisdom that will seriously make you rethink what's really getting in your way. Here's a taste of what we unpacked in this episode: Why you can't just hustle your way to the next level - and what might be happening under the surface that's stopping your growth. What subconscious thought habits actually are (hint: most of us have no idea we're even running them) and how they show up in our business and life. How changing your automatic thought patterns can unlock new results, and how Amy's unique assessment tool can help you spot your hidden habits. Why high-achieving women often fall into patterns of overwork, perfectionism, or people-pleasing, and the personal story behind Amy's own wake-up moment. How to know if it's time to explore your own thought habits - and some simple ways to start catching them in action. If you've ever wondered, “Why do I keep getting stuck here?” or “What needs to change for me to create more ease and success?” then this conversation is one you don't want to miss. Curious? Tune in and let's see what your brain's really been up to! About our guest: Amy Kemp is the Owner and CEO of Amy Kemp, Inc., a growing company dedicated to helping leaders and business professionals transform their thought habits to improve both their work and personal lives. As a certified Habit Finder coach, Amy has guided over 300 female business leaders through Encounter, a four-month small group program designed to replace unhealthy thinking patterns with empowering and productive ones. Beyond this, she has coached hundreds of leaders one-on-one and worked with leadership teams from both small and large organizations, helping them align mindset with purpose and performance. Amy also offers two engaging online courses each year, in the fall and spring, that challenge participants to explore self-awareness and personal growth. These courses provide an accessible way for clients to experience her coaching philosophy. Popular topics include “Money Is a Mirror” and “A Boundary Is Not a Wall.” In addition, Amy is the author of I See You: A Guide for Women to Make More, Have More, and Be More—Without More Work (released February 29, 2024). Through her book, Amy invites readers to discover the same transformative principles that have empowered her clients to think differently, live intentionally, and lead with confidence. Connect with Amy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykempinc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-kemp-7842a1a6/ Website: https://amykemp.com/ Take the Habit Finder for FREE: https://habitfinder.com/coach/amykemp/ ................................................... ARE YOU TIRED OF CHASING CLIENTS? Join me for my most popular FREE training where I uncover the exact things you need to attract a stream of quality clients! In the Magnetic Formula you'll get the 5 part blueprint that doesn't require you to learn yet another social media method. Instead you'll discover how to strategically position your premium offers so the right clients seek YOU out! Register: https://www.jessicaosborn.com/tmf ...................................................... Loving this podcast? Please drop a 5 star rating to help others find it too! If you have a spare 30 seconds we would be so grateful if you would leave a short review. Simply hit the 5 stars and add a few words of your own about your experience listening to She's The Business Podcast. You might be chosen as the review of the month and featured on an upcoming episode! .................................................... She's The Business Podcast Website: https://www.jessicaosborn.com/podcasts/she-s-the-business-podcast-with-jessica-osborn DID YOU KNOW we also publish episodes on YouTube so you can watch them? >> She's The Business on YouTube > https://www.youtube.com/@Jessica.osborn Apply to be a guest on She's The Business Podcast Do you have a story or relevant expertise to share with our global audience of female entrepreneurs? Apply to be a guest on She's The Business with Jessica Osborn here: https://jessicaosborn.com/podcast ......................................................... About your host: Jessica Osborn is a strategic business coach who helps online experts step into authority and attract premium clients with ease. Drawing on 25 years in marketing and 15 years as a successful entrepreneur, she teaches women how to design signature programs and position themselves powerfully in their niche - building profitable, sustainable businesses that deliver multiple six-figure years without sacrificing their lifestyle. Learn more & book an intro call: https://jessicaosborn.com Instagram or Threads: https://instagram.com/jessica.osborn LinkedIn: Https://linkedin.com/in/jessicaaosborn Facebook: https://facebook.com/jessicaosborn.bxcoach

In Episode 312 of Workday Playdate, Erin unpacks the not-so-secret sauce behind every unforgettable presentation: research. Whether you're delivering a keynote, leading a team meeting, or pitching a new idea, understanding your audience is what turns a talk into a transformation.Erin walks you through her playbook for audience research — a repeatable process that helps you craft keynotes that actually land. You'll learn how to decode your audience's language, tailor your stories to their world, and design an experience that feels less like a lecture and more like a moment.If you've ever wondered why some presentations click while others fizzle, this episode is your roadmap to relevance, resonance, and results.Inside This Episode:Research is Key: Why understanding your audience's needs and challenges is the foundation of every great talk.Speak Their Language: How mirroring your audience's words builds instant rapport and credibility.Tailor Your Stories: Tips for customizing examples that feel authentic and deeply relatable.Interactive Formats: How to use improv-inspired techniques to read the room and adapt on the fly.Close the Loop: End with actionable insights tied to what your audience actually cares about — their KPIs.Who This Episode Is For:Keynote speakers who want to move beyond cookie-cutter content.Talent development pros crafting workshops that land with impact.Leaders looking to make every presentation more engaging, relevant, and human.Tune in to learn how doing your homework can turn any presentation from “fine” to phenomenal — and why audience research might just be the most generous thing you can do as a speaker.Blocked time, made lists, promised yourself this time will be different—and yet by 5 PM, the work that actually matters is still staring back at you.Enter The Ready-Made 90-Minute Focus Kit: your done-for-you reset for ditching distractions and finally making progress on what matters most. With this simple framework, you'll reclaim your brainpower, protect your energy, and actually finish the work you care about. Download it now and turn “Where did the day go?” into “Wow, I crushed that.”No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting)Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy.Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode.Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.”Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back.Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here.Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it!Erin's websiteErin's InstagramErin's TikTokErin's LinkedInimprove it!'s websiteimprove it!'s InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Actor/Director Helen Hunt & Actor singer/songwriter psych/mythology PHD phd Helen Slater discuss a deep friendship and love, growing up in art, the beginning of their friendship on a trip to russia, Winnie The Pooh,, growing beyond your first dream, parenting, parenting artists, Helen H. introducing Helen S. to her husband, improv, acting styles, baseball, French Fries, & clown school.Bio: Helen Hunt has enjoyed a distinguished career not only as an award-winning actor, but as an accomplished writer, director, and producer. As an actress, her extensive and diverse body of work includes roles in film, theater, and television.      Hunt enjoyed a residency at The Old Vic Theatre in EUREKA DAY, a story about parents on the Executive Committee of a progressive private school in Berkeley, California. While taking pride in their ability to accept everyone, a public health scare erupts, testing their tolerance and revealing their true colors. Written by Jonathan Spector and directed by Katy Rudd. It was the European premiere of a multi award-winning story. Hunt performed alongside Kirsten Foster, Mark McKinney, Ben Schnetzer and Susan Kelechi Watson. In television, Hunt can most recently be seen as Winnie Landell in HACKS, created by Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello, and Jen Statsky. She can also be seen as Rainey in Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal's BLINDSPOTTING, a show based on the film with the same title. In 2022 it was nominated for a Film Independent Spirit Award for Best New Scripted Series. The second season was released in April 2023. Hunt returned to the stage this February in Susan V. Booth's major revival of Pinter's famed masterwork BETRAYAL at Chicago's Goodman Theatre. The Oscar, Emmy, and Golden Globe Award winner currently stars in the play alongside Tony nominee and Outer Critics Circle Award winner Ian Barford, respectively playing Emma and Robert. In 2019, Hunt revived her role as Jamie Buchman for another season of the hit show MAD ABOUT YOU opposite Paul Reiser. The show returned as a limited series on Spectrum Originals with all episodes available on demand.    In 2012 Hunt's performance in THE SESSIONS earned her an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female and notations in the same category by the Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, SAG Awards, Broadcast Film Critics' Awards and the BAFTA Awards.  The film premiered in competition at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival and took home the Audience Award as well as the jury prize for Best Ensemble.  Other film credits include: Netflix's Comedy CANDY JAR, RIDE (which Hunt also co-wrote, produced, and directed), DECODING ANNIE PARKER, SOUL SURFER, EVERY DAY, BOBBY, THEN SHE FOUND ME (which Hunt again also co-wrote, produced, and directed), AS GOOD AS IT GETS, WHAT WOMEN WANT, CASTAWAY, A GOOD WOMAN, Woody Allen's THE CURSE OF THE JADE SCORPION, Robert Altman's DR. T AND THE WOMEN, PAY IT FORWARD, and TWISTER. Hunt can last be seen in HOW IT ENDS, Michael Cristopher's THE NIGHT CLERK and Adam Randall's thriller I SEE YOU. Early career film credits are: THE WATERDANCE, KISS OF DEATH, MR. SATURDAY NIGHT, PEGGY SUE GOT MARRIED, NEXT OF KIN, GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN, PROJECT X. and MILES FROM HOME.     Additional television credits include “MAD ABOUT YOU” and the critically acclaimed HBO Miniseries EMPIRE FALLS. For her role as Jamie Buchman in MAD ABOUT YOU, Hunt garnered four Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards (three as lead actress and one as Producer for Best Comedy), and a Screen Actors Guild Award.  She was also named “Best Actress” for her role in the film AS GOOD AS IT GETS for which Hunt won a Golden Globe Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and an Oscar.     Helen Slater is an American actress and singer-songwriter. In 1982 she was cast in the title role of the film Supergirl (1984) opposite Peter O'Toole and Faye Dunaway. Other credits include The Legend of Billie Jean (1985), Ruthless People (1986), The Secret of My Success (1987), City Slickers (1991), Sticky Fingers (1988), Lassie (1994), No Way Back (1995), The Steal (1995), Seeing Other People (2004) and most recently, Confetti (2021). Slater starred in the Fox original movie 12:01 (1993), Hallmark Hall of Fame's Best Friends for Life (1998), Toothless (1997) and Lifetime's The Good Mother (2013). She was also a part of the all-star ensemble cast of Showtimes guided improvisational films Chantilly Lace (1993), Parallel Lives (1994) and most recently completed filming the sequel Chantilly Bridge (2021). In series television, Helen starred in ABC's The Lying Game (2011-2013), Gigantic (2010-2011) and the CW series Supergirl (2015-2022). As a guest star, she has appeared on such series as Seinfeld, Caroline in the City, HBO's Dream On, CBS' Michael Hayes, Will and Grace, Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice, Supernatural, Smallville and the series finale episode of Madmen. Slater appeared in the off-Broadway plays Almost Romance (1987), Responsible Parties (1988), and starred in the Pasadena Playhouse's world premiere production of The Big Day (1990). She is a co-founder of the theatre group The Naked Angels and one of the founding members of the Los Angeles improvisational group, The Bubalaires, and SHPLOTZ!   She is also a member of Turbine Arts Collective  (https://www.turbine-arts.org/), a non-profit arts organization dedicated to the exploration of creativity.

John Hull is joined by Dr. Terence Lester to discuss their work with people experiencing homelessness. They share stories about the unhoused population, highlight the importance of proximity and listening to the community, and share practical ways we can love our neighbors who don't have an address.Learn more about Dr. Lester's new book, From Dropout to Doctorate at ivpress.com/from-dropout-to-doctorate. And make plans to join us at the CCDA Conference this November at ccda.org/conference.Terence Lester (PhD, Union Institute and University) is a storyteller, public scholar, speaker, community activist, and author. He is the founder and executive director of Love Beyond Walls, a nonprofit organization focused on raising awareness about poverty, homelessness, and on community mobilization. He also serves as the director of public policy and social change and as a professor at Simmons College of Kentucky (HBCU). He is the author of I See You, When We Stand, and All God's Children, and he coauthored with his daughter, Zion, the children's book, Zion Learns to See. He and his family live in Atlanta.John Hull serves as CEO of Everett Gospel Mission, Snohomish County's largest Christ-centered organization serving people experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since joining the Mission in 2006, John has held leadership roles across development, shelter operations, and strategic initiatives before becoming CEO in July 2024. Known for his innovative, relationship-based leadership, John has championed low-demand stabilizing shelter models, expanded holistic support services, and spearheaded initiatives like the Faith and Finances program and the Transformational Bed System “StepUp Beds”, now used by shelters nationwide. He co-leads EGM's Poverty 101 workshop to challenge stereotypes and strengthen community understanding of how to help without hurting. At the heart of his leadership is an unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. John is committed to declaring and demonstrating God's love through every aspect of the Mission's work. His vision is clear: “Together, we can alleviate poverty, impact people's lives, and share God's love.”Connect with CCDA on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Follow CCDA on YouTube.

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with John Kenney What if embracing your vulnerabilities could be the key to unlocking your dreams? Join us as we welcome John, an inspiring writer whose remarkable journey from a copywriter to a published author in The New Yorker is a testament to the power of persistence and passion. John opens up about facing years of rejection and self-doubt before finding success, and how taking risks, like moving to France, transformed his path. His story is a powerful reminder that true fulfillment comes from the joy of pursuing what you love, not just from accolades. We also explore life's deeper connections, revealing how understanding our mortality can enrich our appreciation for the present. Through heartfelt discussions about friendships, love, and the beauty of everyday moments, we consider the essence of living fully. This episode also introduces Bud Stanley, an obituary writer whose journey through attending strangers' funerals offers profound insights into self-discovery and gratitude. Filled with thought-provoking reflections, this episode encourages listeners to embrace life's transitions and find peace in the simplicity of each moment.   (00:02) Journey to Becoming a Writer (12:50) Reflections on Life and Death (22:57) Exploring Life and Death Through Stories    Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here  Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE  Or visit our website here!  GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here     Meet our guest: John Kenney New York Times Best-selling Author, longtime contributor to The New Yorker Magazine - Shouts & Murmurs Instagram: @johnkenneywriter Get a copy of his latest book here > I See You've Called in Dead: A Novel     Please Share!   Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker? Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience.    Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube       JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE   This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education Join Here: 4491664174178077   ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑ If you want to do great things you need to have a great environment. Create the life you want by surrounding yourself with positivity and watching daily.  Click here to subscribe!   ツ  CONNECT WITH ME  ツ Leave a comment on this video and it'll get a response. Or you can connect with me on different social platforms too: Instagram Facebook TikTok Website Podcast   #deathdoula #deathdoultraining #dyingwell #death #life #deatheducation #doulagivers #hospice #hospicecare #hospicenurse #deathdoula #soulmidwife #deathmidwife #endoflifeplanning #healthcareproxy #funerals #fearofdeath #endoflifedoula #thegooddeath #hospice #grief #deathawareness #birth #endoflife #deathpositivity #consciousdying #dying #advanceplanning #deathpositive #gooddeath #consciousliving #endoflifedirective #palliativecare #advancedirective #livefully #suzannebobrien. #lifecafe #consciousness #awarenes

In Episode 311 of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Paula Davis — former lawyer, author of Beating Burnout at Work, and founder of the Stress and Resilience Institute — to unpack why burnout isn't an individual failure, it's a team dynamic. Together, they explore how leaders can prevent burnout by fostering empathy, connection, and intrinsic motivation. Paula introduces her powerful concept of TNTs (Tiny Noticeable Things) — small, intentional actions that spark trust, boost morale, and improve workload management across teams. If you've ever wondered how to build a culture where people actually thrive, this episode is your blueprint for leading with empathy and resilience — and creating a workplace that energizes rather than exhausts. Inside This Episode: Burnout, Reframed: Why burnout prevention starts with team dynamics, not just individual stress management. Meet the TNTs: How Tiny Noticeable Things can transform connection, communication, and collaboration. The ABC Framework: The three psychological nutrients every thriving team needs — Autonomy, Belonging, and Challenge. Empathy as Strategy: Why emotionally intelligent leadership is your best defense against burnout. From Surviving to Sustaining: How to create resilient teams that adapt, connect, and stay motivated. Who This Episode Is For: Leaders who want to prevent burnout before it starts. HR and people pros focused on workplace well-being. Teams looking to strengthen connection and intrinsic motivation. Tune in to learn how to lead like you give a damn — and build teams that are calm, connected, and resilient enough to handle whatever the workday throws their way. Blocked time, made lists, promised yourself this time will be different—and yet by 5 PM, the work that actually matters is still staring back at you. Enter The Ready-Made 90-Minute Focus Kit: your done-for-you reset for ditching distractions and finally making progress on what matters most. With this simple framework, you'll reclaim your brainpower, protect your energy, and actually finish the work you care about. Download it now and turn “Where did the day go?” into “Wow, I crushed that.”   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Paula Davis Paula's LinkedIn Paula's company website Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

Death in a Police Battle, Trauma as a Combat Veteran and Childhood.“From surviving horrific childhood abuse to fighting wars overseas, and later facing tragedy in uniform, Joe Smarro's life is a story of trauma, transformation, and a relentless drive to heal.” This episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on our website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and most podcast platforms. Joe Smarro, a former San Antonio Police Officer and decorated U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran, has walked through some of life's darkest battles, both internal and external. His story begins in a childhood marked by extreme abuse, physical, emotional, and sexual. “I experienced things no child ever should,” Joe shares. “I left home at 15 just to survive.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. By 17, he was a father, a role that forced him to grow up even faster. With the responsibilities of parenthood and the desire to build a better future, Joe joined the United States Marine Corps. He deployed twice to Iraq, serving in both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, earning recognition for his bravery and service. But like so many others, Joe came home from war carrying invisible wounds. Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . After leaving the military, Joe found a new sense of duty in law enforcement, joining the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) in 2005. However, his time as an officer would soon test him in ways he could never have imagined. While still a probationary officer, Joe was involved in a violent confrontation that ended in a death in a police battle. “It was the moment everything changed,” he recalls. “The fight, the death, the silence afterward, it all forced me to confront the trauma I'd been burying since childhood and combat.” Death in a Police Battle, Trauma as a Combat Veteran and Childhood. That moment became a turning point. Joe began to realize that his struggles, his pain, guilt, and emotional turmoil, were not weaknesses but warning signs. Signs that he, like many others, was carrying deep trauma as a combat veteran and as a police officer. Instead of running from it, Joe made a choice, to face it head-on and help others do the same. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Joe became one of the founding members of the SAPD Mental Health Unit (MHU), a groundbreaking program created to improve how police respond to individuals in crisis. What began as a small initiative grew into a nationally recognized model for compassionate policing, earning national and international awards for excellence. “We wanted to change the narrative, to bring empathy back to policing,” Joe explains. For more than 11 years, Joe served in that unit, developing training and protocols that have since influenced departments across the United States. His work, both on the streets and behind the scenes, showed that when law enforcement meets mental health with compassion, lives are saved, and trust is rebuilt. Joe's story gained national attention through the Emmy Award-winning documentary, Ernie & Joe: Crisis Cops, which follows two officers as they work to change how police respond to mental health calls in San Antonio. The film, supported by the IDA Enterprise Fund, Fork Films, and The Lovell Foundation, has been shown worldwide, sparking critical conversations about mental health, policing, and reform. Death in a Police Battle, Trauma as a Combat Veteran and Childhood. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. He also took his message to the stage, delivering a powerful TEDx San Antonio talk titled “I See You,” where he shared his belief in the power of empathy, understanding, and human connection. “We all want to be seen,” Joe said during that talk. “We all want to know we matter.” In 2017, Joe founded SolutionPoint+, a company dedicated to bridging the gap between criminal justice and behavioral health systems. As CEO, he leads a team that provides training, consulting, and speaking engagements nationwide, helping police departments, healthcare providers, and organizations create trauma-informed, emotionally intelligent workplaces. Joe's personal mission has evolved into a powerful national movement. His “big, hairy, audacious goal” is to eradicate suicide among all first responders, starting with law enforcement officers. “No one should have to carry their trauma alone,” Joe says. “Not a child, not a combat veteran, and not a cop.” His work has been featured across major News outlets, on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast Social Media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where he continues to reach new audiences through interviews and advocacy work. The full podcast episode is streaming now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Through his ongoing journey of healing, Joe Smarro reminds the world that trauma does not define you, what you do with it does. From a broken childhood to battlefields and beyond, his story is one of redemption, purpose, and service. Death in a Police Battle, Trauma as a Combat Veteran and Childhood. “I've lived through death, war, and despair. But I've also seen hope, healing, and the human capacity for change. That's why I share my story, because someone out there needs to know they're not alone.” Joe Smarro Follow Joe's work and mission through SolutionPoint+ and connect on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Apple, Spotify, and across the Internet. His story is a testament to courage, compassion, and the power of transforming pain into purpose. Be sure to follow us on MeWe , X , Instagram , Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin and other social media platforms for the latest episodes and news. You can help contribute money to make the Gunrunner Movie . The film that Hollywood won't touch. It is about a now Retired Police Officer that was shot 6 times while investigating Gunrunning. He died 3 times during Medical treatment and was resuscitated. You can join the fight by giving a monetary “gift” to help ensure the making of his film at agunrunnerfilm.com . Background song Hurricane is used with permission from the band Dark Horse Flyer. You can contact John J. “Jay” Wiley by email at Jay@letradio.com , or learn more about him on their website . The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. Get the latest news articles, without all the bias and spin, from the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on Medium , which is free. Find a wide variety of great podcasts online at The Podcast Zone Facebook Page , look for the one with the bright green logo. Be sure to check out our website . Death in a Police Battle, Trauma as a Combat Veteran and Childhood. Attributions Solution Point + Ernie & Joe: Crisis Cops SAPD Mental Health Unit Wikipedia Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this solo episode of Workday Playdate, Erin breaks down a five-step, improv-inspired framework to help you calm your nerves in real time whether you're stepping on stage, leading a meeting, or speaking up in front of a room. From understanding how your amygdala triggers fight-or-flight to learning simple techniques that regulate your nervous system, Erin shares practical tools to transform performance anxiety into focused, confident energy. If public speaking makes your heart race or your mind go blank, this episode proves that calming nerves is a skill you can build with the right mindset and methods. Inside This Episode: Your Brain on Nerves: Why the amygdala sends you into fight, flight, or freeze — and how to interrupt the cycle. Breath Is Your Superpower: How box breathing can instantly cool your body's stress response. Anchor With Intention: The simple positivity exercise that shifts your energy before you speak. From Me to We: How focusing on your audience transforms anxiety into purpose. Confidence as a Practice: Why calming nerves isn't a talent — it's a trainable skill. Who This Episode Is For: Professionals who dread public speaking but want to build confidence. Leaders, facilitators, and presenters who want to deliver with clarity and calm. Anyone ready to turn nervousness into energy that serves rather than anxiety that sabotages. Tune in to learn how to regulate your nervous system, reframe your mindset, and show up as the most confident version of yourself — no matter how big the room. Blocked time, made lists, promised yourself this time will be different—and yet by 5 PM, the work that actually matters is still staring back at you. Enter The Ready-Made 90-Minute Focus Kit: your done-for-you reset for ditching distractions and finally making progress on what matters most. With this simple framework, you'll reclaim your brainpower, protect your energy, and actually finish the work you care about. Download it now and turn “Where did the day go?” into “Wow, I crushed that.” No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

We are now in the first days of autumn, and there isn't a better time to be in New England. When I first moved to Boston, one person told me that spring was the best time in New England. I never again trusted anything that person ever told me. Fall is the best time, and perhaps September is the best month in the fall. Not that I don't like the winter, because I do (as long as there is snow to Nordic ski on). But when things get a bit cooler and the leaves change, the sweaters and hoodies some out, it is a pretty fantastic time of the year.Another part of autumn is the fall sports season. The general sport of cultural choice in the US is of course football. My daughter plays field hockey, which is another great fall sport. I have no clue about the rules or the strategy, but it is fun to watch. And there is something great in seeing teams of young people do something else other than be on their phones. Sport definitely gives them a sense of self and structure and camaraderie that much of contemporary society can take apart, especially for young women. Additionally, I can say that my daughter is lucky enough to have great coaches as well, as the type of coach you have can dictate the type of season you have.As the father of three daughters, one of my main goals as a parent is to give them a sense of confidence and worth that comes from inside of them, and isn't dependent on external affirmation. I'm not a woman, so I don't know what it is like to be a woman in society. But I am aware enough to know that there can be challenges unique to women who live in a culture that has been molded around patriarchal foundations. Those traditions can be hard to overcome given how embedded they are in explicit and tacit ways, often giving to the notion “That's just the way things are because that's how they've always been.”My guest today is a woman and a former athlete, who also is a leader who helps others (especially women) realize the leadership potential they already possess. Amy Kemp started her career in education before shifting to sales, where she began to appreciate her leadership abilities. Both fields share in common the need to motivate people through leadership. Also, both areas can present challenges to women who exhibit those leadership qualities. These experiences led her to write the book “I See You”, which she describes as a guide for women to make more, have more, and be more - without more work. We talk about the challenge of teaching Shakespeare and why discomfort is vital to growth. We explore how bureaucracy can be the enemy of innovation, and how processes can override creativity. Amy talks about the presence of “yelling culture” in leadership, and the need to shift that dynamic. Finally, Amy shares the origin of her book's title, "I See You," which was inspired by a meaningful conversation with a woman who felt unappreciated, misunderstood, and generally not seen. This connects to broader themes of visibility and judgment, particularly in social media, and how these concepts relate to the book's title and its broader implications for women in the workplace. Through her coaching work, Amy helps clients receive pay raises, acquire high-paying clients, and achieve work-life balance. She emphasizes that her role is not about telling people what to do, but rather creating a space where they can find clarity and make their own decisions about income, quality of life, and purpose. Amy Kemp LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-kemp-7842a1a6/Amy Kemp: https://amykemp.com/

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Lareina Yee, Director at McKinsey Global Institute, to explore how women can thrive at the intersection of time management, technology, and radical empathy. From the promise of AI to the power of experience capital, Lareina shares data-driven insights and practical strategies for navigating the barriers women face in tech and beyond. Whether you're wrestling with the “broken rung” in career advancement or wondering how AI can open new doors, this conversation is packed with both inspiration and actionable takeaways. Inside This Episode: AI as Opportunity: Why it's a tool for everyone, no matter your starting point. Experience Capital: How 50% of lifetime earnings are tied to the skills you build along the way. The Broken Rung: Why women face slower promotions and what to do about it. Sponsorship Over Mentorship: Why finding advocates early matters more than advice alone. AI as Equalizer: How tech is democratizing access and reshaping workplaces. Who This Episode Is For: Women in tech (or aspiring to be) looking for tools to rise and lead. Leaders who want to foster equity, empathy, and innovation. Anyone curious about how AI and experience capital shape the future of work. Tune in to learn why AI is an opportunity, why experience capital is crucial, and how radical empathy can change the game for women in leadership.   More about Lareina Yee: Lareina Yee is a McKinsey Global Institute director leading the technology agenda and the global head of Tech Alliances. Based in San Francisco, she is a senior partner whose client works focus on technology and AI. She served as McKinsey's first Chief Diversity Officer and, in 2015, co-founded Women in the Workplace, an annual research study that has worked with more than 1,000 companies and surveyed nearly half a million employees to understand the barriers to women's advancement in corporate America. She is the author of THE BROKEN RUNG: When the Career Ladder Breaks for Women--and How They Can Succeed in Spite of It with fellow McKinsey senior partners Kweilin Ellingrud and María del Mar Martínez. Blocked time, made lists, promised yourself this time will be different—and yet by 5 PM, the work that actually matters is still staring back at you. Enter The Ready-Made 90-Minute Focus Kit: your done-for-you reset for ditching distractions and finally making progress on what matters most. With this simple framework, you'll reclaim your brainpower, protect your energy, and actually finish the work you care about. Download it now and turn “Where did the day go?” into “Wow, I crushed that.”   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Lareina Yee Lareina's LinkedIn Lareina's McKinsey & Company profile, research, and experience Lareina's book, The Broken Rung Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 31 Episode Overview:Welcome back to Becoming Preferred, the podcast for professionals and entrepreneurs who are ready to build their expertise and dominate their industry. Have you ever felt like you're doing all the right things, but still not getting the results you want? What if the key to unlocking your next level of success isn't about working harder, but about understanding the invisible habits of thought that are running the show?Our guest today is a world-class expert on this very topic. She is a best-selling author of the book I See You. Her work is all about helping individuals and organizations achieve more without burning out by aligning their thoughts with their goals. She is on a mission to help people get out of their own way so they can build a life and a business they love. Please join me for my conversation with Amy Kemp.Guest Bio: Amy Kemp is the owner and CEO of Amy Kemp, Inc. In her work within this growing company, Amy helps leaders and business professionals understand how deeply “thought habits” impact every part of their work and lives.As a certified Habit Finder coach, Amy has led over 400 female business leaders through a four-month small group engagement called Encounter. This experience is designed to help clients replace subconscious thought habits that are no longer serving them with more healthy ones. She has worked through the Habit Finder curriculum with hundreds of leaders in one-on-one settings and with leadership teams at small and large companies.In addition, Amy teaches two engaging online courses each year in the fall and spring that are designed to challenge and expand her clients' understanding of themselves and to welcome new, curious people into the scope of her work. Some of the most popular topics in her library of offerings are “Money Is a Mirror” and “A Boundary Is Not a Wall.”Finally, with the launch of her first book, I See You: A Guide for Women to Make More, Have More, and Be More – Without More Work, on February 29, 2024, Amy has created an opportunity for everyone to learn and engage with her and the principles that guide her coaching. Resource Links:Website: www.amykemp.comProduct Link: https://amykemp.com/habit-finder-assessment/ Insight Gold Timestamps:03:47 Nobody in here is smarter than anyone else07:24 Your work really revolves around the idea fundamentally that thought creates habit, and habit creates results09:30 We're hardwired to survive10:35 In the title of your book, I See You, A Guide for Women to Make More, Have More and Be More...Without More Work12:04 The core message of the book is that you can't outwork your thought habits12:51 Women generally still carry the absolute majority weight of the unpaid labor in our world14:40 If in fact you're choosing to do the unpaid labor...16:40 I think families are businesses18:50 There has to be an intentional division of that labor that isn't just falling on one person21:23 Your work with the Habit Finder Assessment is really the cornerstone of your coaching23:25 Everyone has a wall when you first encounter them24:50 You need to have more guilt free play27:11 That's the kind of energy that grows a business or that grows your leadership31:20 If you want to sustain any kind of discipline in that way, it has to be connected to a deeper value or a deeper purpose31:35 Playtime is an investment in growing my income and...

In this solo episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles one of today's biggest workplace challenges: overwhelm. With 66% of employees reporting burnout, it's clear we're all carrying too much and running on empty. But here's the good news: a reset doesn't have to be complicated. Erin shares her simple, science-backed 10-Minute Time Reset Hack to help you recharge your energy, sharpen your focus, and calm your nervous system without overhauling your entire schedule. Through real talk and practical strategies, Erin shows you how just 10 intentional minutes a day can shift your mindset from frazzled to focused. Inside This Episode: Overwhelm is Universal: Why burnout is more common than you think—and nothing to be ashamed of. The 10-Minute Reset Hack: Erin's go-to practice for stepping away from the chaos and resetting your brain. Science-Backed Benefits: How movement reduces cortisol, boosts dopamine, and fuels creativity. Personalize Your Reset: From walking to stretching to dancing—how to make this hack work for you. Community and Sharing: Why spreading the reset hack could help your colleagues (and your culture) thrive. Who This Episode Is For: Professionals drowning in endless tasks and notifications. Leaders who want simple tools to support their teams' mental health and productivity. Anyone who feels like “just one more thing” might tip them over the edge. Tune in to learn how to give yourself a reset in just 10 minutes—and if you know someone stuck in the overwhelm cycle, share this episode with them. Feeling awkward, overthinking your small talk, or wondering if you should've just stayed home? Grab our free Networking Without Feeling Weird toolkit. It's your two-part confidence boost for before and during the event, packed with simple, human strategies that help you walk in clear, grounded, and ready to connect. Download it now and turn “Ugh, networking…” into “That was actually… fun?” No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

Today on the show, I am joined by two magical women whose work has woven into my world in a special way. In the first half of the show I get to speak with Odeya Nini, a Los Angeles based interdisciplinary vocalist and composer. At the locus of her interests are performance practices, gesture, textural harmony, tonal animation, and the illumination of minute sounds, in works spanning chamber music to vocal pieces and collages of musique concrète. Her solo vocal work extends the dimension and expression of the voice and body, creating a sonic and physical panorama of silence to noise and tenderness to grandeur.Odeya's work has been presented at venues and festivals across the US and internationally, such as The LA Phil, Merkin Concert Hall, The Broad Museum, and MONA from Los Angeles to Australia, Mongolia, Madagascar and Vietnam. Her solo performance of I See You was included in the The New Yorker's 10 notable performances of 2021. Odeya is also a member of the 3 time Grammy nominated ensemble Wild Up and is the founder of Free The Voice, leading vocal sound meditations, workshops and retreats exploring the transformative and healing qualities of embodying the voice.Odeya holds a BFA from the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music and an MFA in composition from California Institute of the Arts. She's joining me by way of Zoom today for our talk, but she'll be in Kingston soon, September 24th actually and offering HEALING VOICE OF DEEP RELEASE: A VOCAL EMBODIMENT WORKSHOP prior to Kelli Scarr's Greater Mysteries Cave Experiences at the Widow Jane Mine September 26 and 27.Then in the second half of the show, I am joined by Tanya Himeji Romero, a multi-disciplinary artist and energetic alchemist whose vision for over a decade has materialized in her work and devotional practices as a forest farmer, plant steward and intuitive culinary herbalist. While she believes any medium can be used to communicate our creativity, reverence and inherent connection, she is especially devoted to the realms of nourishment inspired by that which activates and attunes the inherent potential of our bodies as instrument, vessel and channel.She has worked as a creative director in the fashion industry, as a team manager for the world's largest wild simulated ginseng farm, in botanical product development and manufacturing, as well as a farmer and as a cook. The guidance of nature has led her home to her calling as a conduit for plant medicines to be regeneratively utilized in this world. All being is relatedness and at heart, we all desire to be heard, seen and respected. This is the reality she communicates and cultivates within her work.Amongst other offerings here in the Hudson Valley, she is also a collaborator to Kelli Scarr's Greater Mysteries Cave Experiences and will be offering an opportunity to nourish oneself and connect with EATING FROM THE TREE OF KIN - AN INTEGRATION NOURISHMENT EXPERIENCE on September 28th at The Bridge in Kingston. An intimate gathering of intentional co-nourishment to bridge and create greater integration in our relational field. Next up Tanya is offering sacred conscessions at the Misery Mother music and more gathering at The Local on October 24th.Today's show was engineered by Ian Seda from Radiokingston.org.Our show music is from Shana Falana!Feel free to email me, say hello: she@iwantwhatshehas.org** Please: SUBSCRIBE to the pod and leave a REVIEW wherever you are listening, it helps other users FIND IThttp://iwantwhatshehas.org/podcastITUNES | SPOTIFYITUNES: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/i-want-what-she-has/id1451648361?mt=2SPOTIFY:https://open.spotify.com/show/77pmJwS2q9vTywz7Uhiyff?si=G2eYCjLjT3KltgdfA6XXCAFollow:INSTAGRAM * https://www.instagram.com/iwantwhatshehaspodcast/FACEBOOK * https://www.facebook.com/iwantwhatshehaspodcast

Erin Diehl's innovative approach to professional development leverages improvisational training to enhance team dynamics, leadership skills, and effective communication within organizations. By fostering a culture of collaboration and open communication, Diehl encourages participants to engage in activities that promote active listening and the principle of Yes, And…. This methodology not only helps break down silos but also cultivates an inclusive atmosphere where creativity can flourish, ultimately driving better outcomes for teams and organizations. Diehl emphasizes the importance of play in the workplace, demonstrating how integrating playful elements into training sessions can create a more engaging and enjoyable learning experience. By reframing failure as an opportunity for growth, she empowers professionals to adopt a resilient mindset, allowing them to take risks and explore new ideas without fear. This transformative approach leads to enhanced morale, increased productivity, and a more positive workplace culture, where employees feel connected and motivated to contribute meaningfully. To learn more about Erin Diehl's impactful work and explore the resources she offers, visit her website. Check out her book, I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team Through Radical Empathy, and enjoy valuable insights for leaders looking to foster empathy within their teams. For further inspiration and practical strategies, tune into her podcast, Workday Playdate with Improve It!, where she shares actionable tips and engaging discussions on enhancing workplace culture and performance. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/work For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We're happy you're here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when you mix grief, comedy, and a brutally honest take on life's hardest moments? You get John Kenney's new book, I See You've Called in Dead. In this episode, I (i.e., me–Paul–the host) sit down with John Kenney—award-winning author and longtime New Yorker contributor—for a candid and sometimes very funny conversation about writing, death, and living imperfectly, a topic we all know something about. I first learned of John 20 years ago when someone gave me a copy of his book Truth in Advertising and said, “this author is smart, wicked funny, and a little dark - you'll love it.” I did. So I was thrilled to get the chance to talk to him about the new book and to hear a first-hand account of his journey from Ogilvy & Mather copywriter to getting published in the New Yorker and eventually becoming an award-winning novelist. One of six boys in a big Irish family, John dedicates the book to his late brother, a firefighter who died of pancreatic cancer, potentially related to his work at Ground Zero, starting the afternoon of 9/11/01. I just re-listened to this conversation, and I am grateful to John for being so open about his career, his family, and his admiration for the father who became a widower far too soon. I hope you enjoy it as much as i did. . Learn more about John: https://www.instagram.com/johnkenneywriter/?hl=enFollow Paul: https://words.paulollinger.com/

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Amy Green Smith—life coach, hypnotherapist, and boundary-setting powerhouse—to explore the fine line between being kind and being a doormat. If you've ever found yourself saying “yes” when every cell in your body was screaming “no,” this conversation is your wake-up call to stop people-pleasing and start leading with self-worth. Through raw insights and actionable strategies, Amy reveals how to reclaim your personal power, communicate with confidence, and finally set the boundaries you've been avoiding without burning bridges. Inside This Episode: The Worthy Method: A proven framework to help leaders embrace their intrinsic value and prevent burnout. Decide, Deliver, Enforce: Amy's 3-step formula for setting boundaries that stick (and don't crumble under pressure). Emotions as Messengers: How recurring negative feelings point to the boundaries you've been neglecting. The Fawn Response: Why people-pleasing is both a survival tactic and a self-sabotage trap—and how to break the cycle. Courage & Fear: Why fear isn't the enemy, but the first step toward authentic leadership. Who This Episode Is For: Professionals who say “yes” too often and feel stretched too thin. Leaders ready to foster healthier, more empowered workplace dynamics. Anyone craving the confidence to set boundaries without guilt. Tune in to learn how to swap people-pleasing for powerful communication—and if you know someone who needs this nudge, share this episode with them. Feeling awkward, overthinking your small talk, or wondering if you should've just stayed home? Grab our free Networking Without Feeling Weird toolkit. It's your two-part confidence boost for before and during the event, packed with simple, human strategies that help you walk in clear, grounded, and ready to connect. Download it now and turn “Ugh, networking…” into “That was actually… fun?”   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Amy Green Smith Amy's LinkedIn Amy's website Amy's Instagram Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's solo episode, Erin pulls back the curtain on how she went from chaotic multitasking to a calmer, more productive workday without adding more hours to her week. If your calendar feels like a game of Tetris you never signed up for, this episode is your permission slip to stop the scramble and start managing your time with intention. Through real-talk stories and proven strategies, Erin shares the exact methods that helped her reclaim her focus, prevent burnout, and design a schedule that works for her (not the other way around). Inside This Episode: The Power of Time Batching: Why grouping tasks by type can skyrocket focus and energy. Creating Theme Days: How dedicating days to specific types of work slashes context-switching fatigue. Intentional Planning for Success: Erin's five-step time management framework and how to test it in just 30 days. Embracing a Four-Day Work Week: What happened when her team trimmed their schedule (spoiler: productivity improved). Setting Boundaries: The underrated skill that keeps burnout at bay and balance within reach. Who This Episode Is For: Professionals tired of juggling endless to-dos with zero breathing room. Leaders craving a more focused, less frantic culture for their teams. Anyone ready to reclaim their calendar and do more by doing less. Tune in to learn how to batch your time like a baddie—and if you know someone whose workweek could use a serious glow-up, share this episode with them. Feeling awkward, overthinking your small talk, or wondering if you should've just stayed home? Grab our free Networking Without Feeling Weird toolkit. It's your two-part confidence boost for before and during the event, packed with simple, human strategies that help you walk in clear, grounded, and ready to connect. Download it now and turn “Ugh, networking…” into “That was actually… fun?”   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Dr. Zach Mercurio—researcher, author, and leading voice on meaningful work—to unpack a quiet crisis in today's workplaces: anti-mattering. If you've ever felt invisible at work or noticed your team going through the motions, this episode will give you the language and tools to change that. Instead of brushing past the small moments, Dr. Mercurio shows how everyday interactions shape whether people feel seen, valued, and significant. With research-backed insights and practical strategies, you'll learn how to build psychological safety, boost employee engagement, and create a culture where everyone knows they matter. Inside This Episode: What Is Anti-Mattering? Spot the subtle (and sometimes toxic) signals that leave employees feeling invisible. The Primal Need to Matter: Why being seen, heard, and valued drives everything from morale to performance. Psychological Safety in Practice: How leaders can create environments that invite risk-taking and authentic expression. The Power of Micro-Moments: Small, intentional acts that turn disengagement into dedication. Skills for Real Connection: The authentic leadership traits that make significance stick. Who This Episode Is For: Leaders and managers who want to foster real connection, not just compliance. Teams struggling with disengagement, low morale, or quiet quitting. Anyone curious about how to build a workplace culture where people want to show up and contribute. Tune in to learn how to make mattering a leadership habit. And if you know someone who's ready to shift their culture from invisible to invaluable, share this episode with them. Feeling awkward, overthinking your small talk, or wondering if you should've just stayed home? Grab our free Networking Without Feeling Weird toolkit. It's your two-part confidence boost for before and during the event, packed with simple, human strategies that help you walk in clear, grounded, and ready to connect. Download it now and turn “Ugh, networking…” into “That was actually… fun?”   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Dr. Zach Mercurio Zach's LinkedIn Zach's website Zach's book, The Invisible Leader Zach's book, The Power of Mattering Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

JOE SMARRO, a Marine Corps veteran, former police officer, and nationally recognized mental health advocate who is transforming crisis intervention and suicide prevention—especially for first responders. Joe co-founded the San Antonio Police Department's Mental Health Unit, reshaping how law enforcement handles mental health crises with empathy, connection, and calm solutions. His groundbreaking work has been featured in the Emmy-winning HBO documentary Ernie & Joe: Crisis Cops and his TEDx talk, I See You, has inspired thousands. Now, as the founder of SolutionPoint+, Joe trains organizations, first responders, and leaders nationwide on mental wellness, crisis intervention, and resilience. His bestselling book,Unarmed, teaches how courage, compassion, and connection can save livesWe discuss Mental Health in Public Safety – Transforming crisis response and intervention Empathy as a De-escalation Tool – How compassion leads to better outcomes Suicide Prevention & Resilience – Helping first responders and communities stay strong Understanding Human Behavior in Crisis – Turning high-stress moments into opportunities    for connection Building Stronger, Safer Communities – Strategies for fostering trust and collaboration Joe's message is simple: leading with empathy saves lives.  www.joesmarro.com  

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin shares her five-step play process that flips networking from “ugh” to actually fun. If the thought of walking into a room full of strangers makes you want to hide by the snack table, this is your permission slip to try networking a whole new way. Instead of dreading it, Erin shows you how to treat networking like an improv game: playful, curiosity-driven, and connection-first. With tips that blend practical strategy and improv magic, you'll learn to leave a lasting impression without feeling salesy, stiff, or stuck in small talk. Inside This Episode: Reframe the Room: Collect stories, not just business cards, by shifting from anxiety to curiosity Play the Yes And Game: Use improv's golden rule to keep conversations engaging and flowing The Silly Name Game: A memory hack to help you remember names and make people feel seen Become the Compliment Fairy: Spark joy and build trust with genuine compliments Set a Fun Networking Goal: Turn events into a scavenger hunt for laughter, stories, and shared interests Who This Episode Is For: The professional who feels awkward or drained at networking events The leader who wants to connect with authenticity, not pretense The team player who loves building relationships but hates small talk Anyone ready to turn networking into something fun, human, and actually energizing Tune in to learn how to network with curiosity, creativity, and confidence—and if you know someone who dreads networking, send this their way. Let's make connection playful again. Feeling awkward, overthinking your small talk, or wondering if you should've just stayed home? Grab our free Networking Without Feeling Weird toolkit. It's your two-part confidence boost for before and during the event, packed with simple, human strategies that help you walk in clear, grounded, and ready to connect. Download it now and turn “Ugh, networking…” into “That was actually… fun?”   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Steffani LeFevour—speaker, coach, and conscious creation educator—to unpack the surprisingly radical act of living on purpose. If you've ever felt like you're coasting through your days, stuck in default mode, or quietly settling in a career, relationship, or mindset that no longer fits, you're not alone and you're not stuck. This episode is your permission slip to snap out of autopilot and into alignment. From rewiring your inner dialogue to redefining networking as a tool for service, Erin and Steffani deliver soul-deep insights with zero fluff and all the realness. Inside This Episode: Why most people create their reality by accident, and how to shift into conscious creation The invisible ways we tolerate too much and end up stuck in jobs, relationships, and routines that drain us A service-first approach to networking that actually builds real relationships The S + S + S = R Formula that will change the way you think about goal-setting What it means to be unapologetically positive, even when life tests your patience This one's equal parts mindset, motivation, and meaningful strategy, and it's your sign to live less on default and more by design. Who This Episode Is For: The dreamer ready to become a doer The leader who knows their vibe shapes the team The overachiever stuck in a loop of “shoulds” Anyone who feels like they're settling and is ready to shift Tune in to learn how to consciously create your reality one state, story, and strategy at a time. And if you have a friend who's feeling stuck, send this their way. Let's break the cycle of settling, together. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It's a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you'll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off.   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Steffani LeFevour Steffani's LinkedIn Steffani's Instagram Steffani's book: You Are a Badass Mom Steffani's website Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

You're listening to Voices of Your Village, and today I get to hang out with Deborah Farmer Kris, who is a child development expert and the author of Raising Awe-Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive, the I See You board book series, and the All The Time picture book series. Her bylines include CNN, PBS Kids, NPR's Mind Shift, the Washington Post, the Boston Globe magazine, and Oprah Daily. She's currently an expert advisor for the PBS kids show Carl the Collector and spent 20 plus years as a K to 12 educator. Mostly she loves sharing nuggets of practical wisdom that can make the parenting journey a little easier. I loved hanging out with Deborah and it's such a rich conversation because awe is something that I don't think we talk enough about. The power of awe for us is huge for our mental health, and we can do so many things in the every day to find awe, and to raise tiny humans who are awe seekers. All right, folks. Let's dive in. Connect with Deborah: Instagram: @parenthood365 Website: https://www.parenthood365.com/ Order the book: Raising Awe-Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive Podcast: Raising Awe-Seekers Connect with us: Instagram: @seed.and.sew  Podcast page: Voices of Your Village Seed and Sew's NEW Regulation Questionnaire: Take the Quiz Pre-order Big Kids, Bigger Feelings now!  Order Tiny Humans, Big Emotions  Website: seedandsew.org Music by: Ruby Adams and  Bensound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles the career skill most of us dread but desperately need: networking. If you break into a cold sweat at the words “elevator pitch” or feel like networking is just performance in business casual, this one's for you. Forget awkward small talk and robotic intros. Erin's here to flip the script with her Simple, Sticky, Stress-Free Networking Rule that makes connecting with people feel more like improv night and less like a corporate casting call. Inside This Episode: Why most networking advice makes you sound like a LinkedIn bot The “YES, AND Handshake” that instantly sparks connection The memory trick that ensures you never forget someone's name again How to leave every convo with a laugh, a compliment, or a reason to reconnect One playful challenge to help you actually enjoy meeting new people this week This episode is packed with practical tips, playful energy, and permission to be your full, human self, because people don't connect with perfect. They connect with real. Who This Episode Is For: The conference cringer The early-career pro tired of “networking feels fake” The team leader who wants to build better rapport Anyone who wants to feel excited instead of awkward at their next work event And if you've got a teammate who really needs this, send it their way. Let's make networking suck less, together. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It's a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you'll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off.   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin gets real about one of the toughest career skills no one really teaches you: managing up with confidence. Because let's be honest, trying to figure out what your boss actually wants can feel like decoding emoji hieroglyphics at 11 PM. Enter Melody Wilding: therapist-turned-career-coach, emotions researcher, and author of Managing Up. Named one of Insider's “most innovative career coaches,” Melody is here to help you stop overthinking every Slack message and start building a relationship with your boss that's rooted in clarity, confidence, and collaboration. Whether you're a new grad navigating your first 1:1, an early-career professional trying to stand out without burning out, or a sensitive striver who struggles to speak up, this episode will help you transform anxiety into action and guesswork into game plans. Inside This Episode: What managing up really means (and why it's the fastest way to build trust and grow) The 3 toughest conversations to have with your boss — and how to start them Why “sensitive strivers” are actually management superstars (with the right mindset shift) How to protect your boundaries without damaging your reputation One simple step you can take today to feel more confident in every manager conversation Who This Episode Is For: Early-career rockstars. Career changers. Anyone tired of reading between the lines of vague emails and ready to build real, human, mutually beneficial relationships at work. Stop guessing what your boss wants. Start showing up like the leader you're meant to be. Listen now and share this episode with a friend who's stuck in the “do they hate me?” spiral. Let's make managing up feel less like a guessing game and more like a playdate. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It's a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you'll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off.   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Melody Wilding Melody's LinkedIn Melody's website Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's snack-sized dose of Workday Playdate, Erin's flipping the “fear your boss” script and serving up an improv-inspired reframe that'll help you manage up with confidence, not chaos. Spoiler: It starts with a Slack message and ends with you owning your power. The Problem: You get a vague “Let's chat” from your boss and spiral. Are you getting fired? Forgotten something? Turns out, you're not alone. Gallup says 70% of team engagement depends on your manager... but only 30% of early-career pros feel confident talking to theirs. Most of us are winging it. Badly. The Improv Hack to Try: Play the Status Shift In improv, every scene has a status dynamic, and you can shift it. So instead of acting like a nervous squirrel asking for approval, show up like a grounded scene partner. Sit tall. Pause before you speak. Lead with thoughtful questions like: “Does this align with your priorities?” You're not pretending to be the boss. You're showing you're a partner in progress. That small shift builds trust, signals self-assurance, and makes managing up feel human. Wednesday Tease: Episode 301 — “Real Talk: How to Stop Guessing What Your Boss Wants” Get ready for a career-changing convo with Melody Wilding: human behavior expert, executive coach, and author of Managing Up. She's bringing real talk, hilarious insights, and zero fluff to help you navigate tough convos and lead from where you are. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It's a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you'll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off.    No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

We've lost Luke in the woods of Nelson BC for the Summer so it's a very special two-person episode of Nothing to Fear!Alex and I talk about the surprising little Thriller from 2019, I See You. Twists, Turns, Possible Fearmongering from an Alarm company, and so much more inside the episode! Give us a listen and a follow!

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles one of the trickiest parts of professional growth: keeping your mentor relationship alive and thriving. Finding a mentor is like landing the perfect avocado - rare, precious, and you don't want it to spoil. This episode is packed with improv-inspired strategies to help you nurture that connection, create a two-way relationship, and turn “one coffee chat” into long-term mentorship magic. Whether you're a new grad navigating your first job, a career changer looking for guidance, or a freshly promoted manager wondering how to level up, this conversation is your roadmap for building relationships that last, without awkwardness or ghosting. Inside This Episode: Why mentorship is about clarity, not coffee (and how to define your “why”) The calendar hack to keep your mentor connection alive How to give back and create a two-way street (yes, even as a mentee!) Why celebrating small wins keeps mentors invested in your growth The improv-inspired mindset shift — how “yes, and” transforms your mentorship Who This Episode Is For: Mentees. Mentor-seekers. Professional growth enthusiasts. Anyone ready to stop treating mentorship like a one-off event and start building meaningful, thriving relationships. Listen in and share this one with your fellow mentee MVPs. Let's make mentorship feel less like a chore and more like a playdate. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It's a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you'll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off.   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's snack-sized dose of Workday Playdate, Erin's flipping the mentorship script and serving up a strategy that'll make your mentor want to shout your name from the rooftops. Spoiler: It's not about being the smartest in the room. It's about showing up with intention. The Problem: We all say mentorship matters, but too often mentees treat it like a vending machine: insert question, get answer, disappear. That's not how real relationships (or career growth) happen. The truth? Mentees who bring energy, curiosity, and follow-through are the ones who win every time. The Improv Hack to Try: The Callback Technique Ready to become a mentee your mentor brags about? Start here: Call. Back. Something. The next time you meet, reference a tip or insight your mentor gave you and share what you did with it. Show you were listening and taking action. This tiny move builds massive trust and shows you're not just in it for advice, you're in it for growth. Why it works: Improv callbacks create connection and continuity, and the same is true in mentorship. When you “call back” something from a past interaction, you're not just remembering, you're reinforcing. This keeps mentors invested and mentees unforgettable. Wednesday Tease: Episode 300: “You Found a Mentor—Now Here's How to Keep the Relationship Thriving.” Your next step? Don't miss this milestone episode! Erin goes deep on how to nurture the mentorship beyond the first coffee, with more improv-inspired tips to keep the momentum going. Because mentorship is a relationship, not a transaction. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It's a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you'll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off.     No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

Lately, I've been sitting with what it means when your love & medicine isn't received.When the fullness of who you are can't be held by someone else and how that has nothing to do with your worth.⠀In this episode, I open the door to the messy middle:The return of old wounds.The paradox of loving people who've hurt you.The spiral of healing that brings you back to the same place... only to love it deeper this time.⠀I talk about what happens when we create from alignment versus force, how your energy imprints itself into your creations, and why detaching from the outcome might be the most powerful thing you can do.⠀This is for anyone who's ever felt like their love landed on deaf ears.For the ones who are still learning how to hold their own heart when someone else can't.For the creators, the feelers, the ones healing in real time.⠀It's your time to WAKE UP.Thank you for walking this one with me.I See You. I Honor You. I Love You.*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚

For the past few years, I've been living in the space between what was and what's still becoming. A liminal place where the old no longer fits, and the new hasn't quite fully landed. ⠀ In this episode, I reflect on what it means to be in the middle.The discomfort. The clarity. The surrender.The knowledge I've been integrating into wisdom in my body. Awareness that goes from stuff I "know" to a way I "AM".Let's talk about the real magic of why you're in this space, and what to do with it.This is a sacred invitation to meet yourself right here, right Now because NOW  is where your next chapter begins. ⠀ If you're also in your in-between era, unsure of what's coming but feeling it rise within you—this one's for you. ⠀ It's your time to WAKE UP.Thank you for Being Here with me!I See You, I Honor You, & I Love You!*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin unpacks what employee engagement really looks like in today's world with Dr. Angela Jackson, founder of Future Forward Strategies. Forget the ping pong tables and perk-loaded culture decks. This is about centering worker voice, listening with intention, and designing workplaces that actually work, for everyone. Whether you're leading a team, managing up, or trying to make your 9–5 feel more like a “want to,” this conversation delivers bold, strategic insights for building motivated, mission-aligned teams in the modern workplace. Inside This Episode: Why real engagement starts with ownership, not office snacks The overlooked ROI of actually asking your people what they care about How data and feedback loops can drive meaningful culture change Post-pandemic playbooks: what's working now (and what's not) How to bring contractors and non-traditional workers into the mission Who This Episode Is For: People leaders. Culture builders. Curious employees. Anyone who's ready to leave behind surface-level engagement and create work that feels worth showing up for. Listen in and then share it with your team. Let's turn every workday into a playdate. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It's a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you'll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off.   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Dr. Angela Jackson Dr. Angela's company website Dr. Angela's personal website Dr. Anglela's LinkedIn Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's snack, Erin's busting the myth that a mentor is just going to magically appear and fix everything. The Problem: We've all heard it—“You need a mentor!” But asking for one feels like proposing after two dates. We freeze, wait, and convince ourselves no one has time for us. The Improv Hack to Try: The Spotlight Flip Instead of waiting for someone to spotlight you, flip the light on THEM. Next time you meet someone you admire, ask: "I love how you [specific thing]. If you were giving a TED Talk to your younger self, what would it be about?" No pressure, just pure curiosity. Why it works: In improv, making others look good builds trust. Spotlighting someone makes them more likely to engage with you, so mentorship might follow naturally. Bonus Tip: Mentorship isn't always formal. Keep a list of “unofficial mentors” to learn from passively. Wednesday Tease: Catch Episode 298 this Wednesday: Stop Waiting for a Mentor to Magically Appear—Start Here Instead. Don't miss it! Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource—The Clarity Under Pressure Toolkit—a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most.     No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin flips the mentorship script. No more waiting for a career fairy godparent to swoop in with the perfect job offer—this is about building real relationships that actually move the needle. Whether you're fresh out of school, mid-pivot, or just tired of one-sided networking coffee dates, Erin delivers a refreshingly practical (and improv-inspired) five-step framework to help you find the right mentor and become the kind of mentee they want to invest in. From staying close to your current circle to building your own career Avengers-style “board of advisors,” this episode is packed with tools to help you stop wishing for mentorship magic and start building it. Inside This Episode: Why being “mentee material” matters more than having a polished pitch How to spot potential mentors hiding in plain sight Ways to offer value before asking for guidance Why mentorship is a long game (and how to play it well) How to build your own personal board of advisors Who This Episode Is For: If you're craving career guidance, but don't know who to ask (or how) this episode is for you. Perfect for early career pros, mid-level pivoteers, or anyone ready to stop networking and start connecting. So close the LinkedIn tab, put down that awkward DM, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It's a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you'll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's snack, Erin's busting the myth that a mentor is just going to magically appear and fix everything. The Problem: We've all heard it—“You need a mentor!” But asking for one feels like proposing after two dates. We freeze, wait, and convince ourselves no one has time for us. The Improv Hack to Try: The Spotlight Flip Instead of waiting for someone to spotlight you, flip the light on THEM. Next time you meet someone you admire, ask: "I love how you [specific thing]. If you were giving a TED Talk to your younger self, what would it be about?" No pressure, just pure curiosity. Why it works: In improv, making others look good builds trust. Spotlighting someone makes them more likely to engage with you, so mentorship might follow naturally. Bonus Tip: Mentorship isn't always formal. Keep a list of “unofficial mentors” to learn from passively. Wednesday Tease: Catch Episode 298 this Wednesday: Stop Waiting for a Mentor to Magically Appear—Start Here Instead. Don't miss it! Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource—The Clarity Under Pressure Toolkit—a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most.     No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram  

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin throws out the five-year plan, the “dream job” myth, and that tired advice to just “follow your passion.” Instead, she's joined by creative powerhouse and Mighty Forces founder Amanda Hirsch to help you rethink what career ownership actually looks like today. From office misfit to author, storyteller, and mom, Amanda shares the real talk behind taking back your path when no one else is handing you a roadmap. This episode is for anyone stuck in career limbo, burnt out on job titles, or wondering what's next (without needing a full reinvention). Whether you're pivoting, plateauing, or plotting your next move, Erin and Amanda remind us: life is more improv than plan, and you're more ready than you think. Inside This Episode: Why waiting for “clarity” might be keeping you stuck The high cost of chasing the perfect job How to take action even when you don't have it all figured out The power of storytelling in reclaiming your career narrative What Amanda learned from being a misfit—and why that might be your superpower One small step you can take this week to start owning your path Who This Episode Is For: Anyone navigating a pivot, questioning what's next, or tired of pretending their LinkedIn headline tells the whole story. If you're ready to choose your career—not just chase it—this episode is for you. So pause the inbox scroll, close that half-written cover letter, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader's Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Amanda Hirsch Amanda's website Amanda's LinkedIn Mighty Forces website Amanda's Instagram Amanda's TikTok Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's Workday Playdate Snack, Erin's busting one of the biggest myths in the career playbook: that the “perfect job” will just... show up and fix everything. Spoiler: It won't. And waiting for it? That can keep you stuck. The Problem: 52% of workers are eyeing a career change. 70% feel disengaged. Why? Because they're waiting. For the dream job. For clarity. For permission. But it's important to remember one crucial truth: you are the plan. The Improv Hack to Try: Tag Yourself In When improv scenes stall, someone jumps in and shifts the energy. In your career? That someone is you. Pick one stuck spot Ask: “If I were directing this, what would happen next?” DO. THAT. THING. Apply. Pitch. Rewrite your bio. Start the damn thing. Why it works: Gets you out of wait-mode Sparks momentum fast Reframes your mindset: You're not lost, you're in charge Coming up Wednesday: Don't miss Episode 297: The Perfect Job Doesn't Exist: How to Stop Waiting and Start Choosing Your Path featuring writer/performer Amanda Hirsch. Get real talk, big laughs, and a permission slip to choose yourself. Because the best career move is the one you actually make. Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource—The Clarity Under Pressure Toolkit—a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most.     No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles the awkward elevator small talk, the lukewarm return-to-office bagels, and the actual leadership challenges of hybrid work. From re-establishing team rituals to defining the “why” behind your office days, this episode is a field guide for anyone trying to rebuild connection in a flexible work world without burning out. Whether you're managing Zoom fatigue, leading a team that's half-in, half-out, or just trying to make Tuesdays feel less like a ghost town, Erin's giving you 10 practical, human-first ways to lead with empathy, adaptability, and a little playfulness. Because team culture doesn't build itself, and your people notice when it's missing. Inside This Episode: The secret to getting buy-in on hybrid? Define purpose, not policy. Why empathy beats mandates every time. How to spot (and respond to) those “awkward but honest” moments like a pro. Flexibility isn't a perk—it's the new standard. Why spontaneous hallway convos still matter (and how to make them happen). How modeling wellness creates psychological safety. Training teams for change so the next curveball doesn't throw them. Rituals, celebrations, and why your team actually wants them—even if they roll their eyes. Who This Episode Is For: People leaders, HR pros, team managers—or anyone navigating the weird, wonderful world of hybrid work. If you want your people to show up (and stay), this episode is your blueprint for building trust, boosting engagement, and creating a workplace that feels good to be in. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Here is your link to download the free 100 Non-Cheesy Icebreakers that Erin mentioned in the episode. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader's Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's Workday Playdate Snack, we're tackling the hybrid work headache—and no, we're not talking about the flickering office lights or the ancient coffee machine no one remembers how to clean. We're talking about the emotional fog that creeps in when your team is half-on-Zoom, half-in-person, and 100% disconnected. The Problem: You've asked your team to return to the office a few days a week. Some show up with smiles. Others show up with...resentment. And some just show up for the snacks. Hybrid work isn't just a scheduling issue—it's a culture shift. And if you're the one coordinating who's in, who's out, and whether “Taco Tuesday” counts as strategy… we see you. Why It Matters: According to Gallup, only 28% of employees feel connected in hybrid environments. Connection isn't a luxury—it's the glue. Without it, collaboration and morale fall flat. The Improv Hack to Try: The Wrong Name Game In your next meeting, have everyone make up a goofy name and fake job title. “Hi, I'm Tater McSnazzle, Chief Glitter Strategist.” “I'm Rufus Bucket, Senior Cloud Fluffer.” Yes, it's weird. But it works. Play cuts through awkwardness and builds connection fast—whether you're face-to-face or floating in the Zoomverse. Why it works: Breaks the ice in a low-stakes, high-fun way Sparks laughter and lowers tension Creates a sense of shared experience—even virtually Coming up Wednesday: Ready to go deeper? Don't miss Episode 296: Hybrid Headaches? Here's How to Make the Office Return Less Awkward & More Awesome. You'll get practical tools to rehumanize your hybrid culture, one joyful moment at a time. Because rebuilding connection isn't about forcing people back to desks—it's about helping them find each other again. Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource—The Clarity Under Pressure Toolkit—a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most.     No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin explores what every team—at work and at home—needs more of: play. Joined by real-life partners and improv powerhouses Greg Tavares and Amber Nash, this episode dives into how playful communication can defuse tension, deepen connection, and make conflict feel a whole lot less... combative. Greg, an improv teacher and facilitator with decades of experience helping teams collaborate more creatively, joins forces with Amber, a voiceover actor best known as Pam on Archer, to unpack how the tools of improv aren't just for the stage—they're for the conference room, the kitchen, and everywhere in between. From mismatched communication styles to stuck-in-a-rut dynamics, this episode is a fresh take on resolving conflict without losing your cool—or your connection. Whether you're managing workplace drama or relationship tension, this one's packed with practical wisdom and plenty of laughs. Inside This Episode: Why “Yes, And” is more than an improv cliché—it's a relationship game-changer How to argue less by listening more (and differently) The science behind play and its impact on emotional regulation Spotting your partner's “bids” for connection—and not missing them How to fight in ways that are productive, not punitive Real-world exercises to bring more curiosity and humor into conflict Why improv-trained teams collaborate better—and how to borrow their tricks Why laughter really is the best medicine for tension What makes couples and coworkers more resilient together Who This Episode Is For: This one's for anyone tired of the same old arguments—whether with your partner, your teammate, or your boss. If you want to replace reactivity with creativity, and tension with trust, tune in. Whether you're leading a team or living with one, this episode is your permission slip to play more, fight less—and have way more fun doing it. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader's Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Greg Tavares and Amber Nash Connect with them at improvforcouples@gmail.com Greg's LinkedIn Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's Workday Playdate Snack, we're talking about the kind of conflict resolution that doesn't involve a six-part text thread or passive-aggressive dishwasher loading. We're diving into how playfulness—yes, even mid-fight—can be your secret weapon for stronger, happier relationships. Whether it's your partner, roommate, or that one family member who treats the group chat like a TED Talk… this snack is for you. The Problem: You're crushing deadlines at work—but stuck in a weird silence at home. Maybe it was about socks. Or the dishes. Or nothing at all. And now you're trying to lead a team while low-key simmering with resentment. Spoiler: unresolved tension doesn't stay home. It follows you to Zoom. Why It Matters: Research shows emotional residue from personal relationships impacts performance, presence, and psychological safety at work. You can't be fully present in the boardroom if you're still replaying last night's kitchen argument. The Improv Hack to Try: The Silent Scene Yes, it's as ridiculous—and effective—as it sounds.  Next time things get tense with your partner, skip the serious convo and act out a mundane task (like folding laundry) with exaggerated mime and facial expressions. No words. Just play. Why it works: Interrupts the fight-or-flight cycle Sparks laughter and connection Rebuilds rhythm and sync—without a 45-minute processing session It's improv for intimacy. Lucille Ball meets couple's therapy. Coming up Wednesday: Ready to take this playful practice even deeper? Don't miss Episode 295 — Play More, Fight Less: The Secret to Happier Relationships featuring improv power couple Greg Tavares and Amber Nash (yep, Pam from Archer). Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader's Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles one of the toughest parts of leadership: layoffs. When budgets shrink and change feels unavoidable, how do you show up with empathy, clarity, and integrity? Spoiler: it's not just about delivering the news—it's about leading through uncertainty with heart. From the emotional toll of workforce reductions to the ripple effects on culture and trust, Erin shares what leaders often get wrong—and how to get it right. With seven actionable tips, this episode is a masterclass in human-first leadership during hard times. Whether you're facing tough decisions, navigating team transitions, or simply want to lead with more care and clarity, this conversation is a must-listen reset for today's evolving workplace. Inside This Episode: Why layoffs require more than just logistics—they require emotional intelligence The power of early, frequent, and honest communication How to acknowledge emotions without losing momentum Why direct managers need to be involved (not just HR) The lasting impact of how you treat employees on the way out How to retain trust and morale in the wake of change Why team check-ins matter more than ever during uncertainty How to empower your team to co-create what's next Why self-care is a leadership strategy, not a luxury Who This Episode Is For: This one's for the leaders in transition, the HR pros in the hot seat, and anyone who's had to make the hard calls. If you're navigating layoffs, reorgs, or any kind of change—and you want to do it without losing your team's trust or your own sense of self—this episode is your guide to leading with empathy, communication, and courage. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader's Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's Workday Playdate Snack, we're talking about the kind of trust fall that doesn't involve closing your eyes and hoping Linda from Accounting catches you. Nope—we're talking about the invisible, emotional kind. The one that happens during reorgs, layoffs, and those delightfully vague “strategic shifts” when your team is quietly wondering, “Are we safe? Can we trust you? Or should I start updating my LinkedIn headline to ‘Open to Work'?” If you're leading through change (or just trying to survive it)—this snack is for you. The Problem: Here's the situation: Your company is “reimagining,” “realigning,” or “restructuring”—aka, no one knows what's actually happening. And while the all-hands slides say “exciting opportunities ahead,” your team is refreshing their résumés and watching your every move. Why? Because trust doesn't disappear in a reorg—it falls. And someone's gotta catch it. That someone? You. Trust isn't built through promises—it's built through presence. Through honesty. Through leaders who are willing to say: “Here's what I know. Here's what I don't. And here's what I do know—we'll figure it out together.” The Improv Hack to Try: The “Yes, And… But Also” Technique Here's how to lead when everything's unclear—without pretending to have all the answers.Use this structure when delivering change or uncertainty: “Yes, and…” to validate what's real and open space for what's possible “But also…” to acknowledge fears and bring humanity into the room  Try this: “Yes, we're going through changes, and I know that can feel unsettling. But also—I believe in this team's ability to stay connected and support one another.” It's not spin. It's not sugarcoating. It's leadership that's rooted in reality and hope. Try it at your next team meeting. Watch what happens when trust stops falling—and starts rising. Coming up Wednesday: If this snack hit home, don't miss Wednesday's full-length episode: Episode 294 — Layoffs Ahead? Here's How to Stay Human (and Keep Your Team's Trust). Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader's Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).     No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In this powerful episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Reshma Saujani—founder of Girls Who Code, CEO of Moms First, and author of Pay Up—for a no-holds-barred conversation about what it really takes to thrive as a woman in today's workplace. Spoiler: it's not just about negotiating harder or leaning in. It's about rewriting the entire playbook. From the impossible pressures of pandemic parenting to the unspoken challenges of midlife, Reshma and Erin talk truth about uncertainty, burnout, and the myth of “having it all.” This episode is equal parts validation, empowerment, and a rally cry for change. Whether you're a working mom, a leader in transition, or someone searching for more meaning at work, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, fired up, and ready to reclaim your power—with purpose and play. Inside This Episode: Why “having it all” is a trap—and what to pursue instead How the pandemic exposed cracks in how we treat working moms The truth about aging, ambition, and midlife power Why self-care isn't selfish—it's strategic How imposter syndrome steals your voice (and how to get it back) What men can do to support real gender equity at work Why presence matters more than perfection The role of purpose in career clarity and fulfillment How to lead with empathy, advocacy, and aligned communication Who This Episode Is For: This one's for the moms, the mentors, the midlifers, and anyone feeling stuck between burnout and big dreams. If you've ever questioned your worth, struggled to speak up, or wondered whether you're allowed to want more—this episode is your permission slip. And if you've been searching for new ways to lead, live, and rise? Reshma's wisdom is the reset button your soul's been waiting for. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader's Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Reshma Saujani Reshma's LinkedIn Reshma's website Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

In today's Workday Playdate Snack, we're serving up some truth for anyone who's ever screamed into their steering wheel after a one-on-one like, “How does Brad STILL make more than me?” If you've ever been underpaid, undervalued, or under-celebrated—this snack is for you. The Problem: Here's the tea: Women are doing the absolute most. More emotional labor. More coordinating. More everything. And yet—less recognition, less pay, and fewer opportunities. We've been fed a narrative that if we just negotiate better or manifest harder, things will change. But let's be honest: the system wasn't built for us. So, we end up overachieving and under-receiving—and wondering why we're so exhausted. Here's a stat to file under “rage fuel”: Women still earn 82 cents to every dollar a man makes. And for women of color? The gap only grows. If you've ever thought, “Why does this feel so hard?”—you're not imagining it. You're experiencing a system designed to burn you out and keep you quiet. But here's the good news: We may not have built the system—but we sure as hell can break it. And rebuild it in our image. The Improv Hack to Try: The Reverse Résumé Game Here's how it works: Partner up with a trusted friend, or just hit record solo. Pretend you're your own agent. You've got 60 seconds to pitch yourself for a dream gig. The twist? You can't mention anything from your actual résumé. No titles. No companies. Just the real you.  Think: The time you calmed a furious client with zero drama. How you led a team through layoffs with compassion. That week you juggled three deadlines while your kid had the flu—and still delivered. Those stories? They're your power. This improv hack rewires your brain from “Do I deserve this?” to “Damn right I do—and here's why.” Coming up Wednesday: Feeling fired up? Then don't miss Wednesday's full episode—Episode 293: Pay Up with Reshma Saujani (yes, the founder of Girls Who Code + CEO of Moms First). If you're tired of overworking and under-earning, this episode is your invitation to burn the old rules and build new ones. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader's Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).    No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram  

If every hard conversation feels heavy, it's time to change the script. In this episode, speaker and author Erin Diehl shares how joy, empathy, and humor can transform even the most uncomfortable interactions. Whether you're negotiating with a client, giving feedback to a teammate, or bracing for a tense talk at home, Erin explains how to shift your mindset, calm your nervous system, and lead with radical presence—without losing your edge. You'll learn: The real reason most difficult conversations go wrong How to rewire negative thinking using simple mental “interrupts” Why humor is a leadership tool—not a distraction How to access your frontal lobe (instead of flipping out) What improv teaches us about negotiation, empathy, and trust This isn't fluff—it's neuroscience-backed, results-driven communication reimagined through joy. If you've been holding your breath through every tough talk, this episode is your exhale. Connect with Erin www.itserindiehl.com Buy the book: I SEE YOU! Listen to The Workday Playdate Podcast Contact ANI ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠negotiateanything.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!

In Episode 196, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 12 new releases they shared in the Spring 2025 Book Preview, now that they've read them. They share their reading stats, chat about what worked — and hash out which books didn't work and why.  This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Our Printable Cheatsheet for the 2025 Summer Reading Guide is available to anyone who signs up for either a 7-Day FREE TRIAL of our Patreon Community (sign up here) OR a 30-day FREE TRIAL of our paid Substack Community (sign up here). We offer the same bonus content on both platforms for just $7 per month. Sign-ups for our Free Trials (and access to the Summer Reading Guide Cheatsheet) will close on Friday, May 23. Get the Cheatsheet from Patreon Get the Cheatsheet from Substack Highlights Catherine is rocking a 100% success rate for spring! Sarah had another barbell season with two 5-star books and 3 DNFs with a 50% success rate. Catherine has a mix of darker and lighter books from spring, leaning into what is currently working. Now that Sarah doesn't have to balance reading for the 2025 Summer Reading Guide and the Spring Preview, Sarah hopes her summer reading will fare better. They name the best and worst books picks for spring! Books We Read Before the Preview [3:37] April Sarah's Picks The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (Apr 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:04] Spring 2025 Circle Back [5:27] April Sarah's Picks The Family Recipe by Carolyn Huynh (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:38] I See You've Called in Dead by John Kenney (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[15:40] The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (Apr 22) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:14] Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (Apr 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:27] Catherine's Picks Cat's People by Tanya Guerrero (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:32] Heartwood by Amity Gaige (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:12] Other Books Mentioned The Fortunes of Jaded Women by Carolyn Huynh (2022) [8:48]  Talk to Me by John Kenney (2019) [15:58]   About a Boy by Nick Hornby (1998) [17:26] I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin (2023) [24:24]  May Sarah's Picks Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle (May 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:57] Catherine's Pick Home of the American Circus by Allison Larkin (May 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:16] The Man Made of Smoke by Alex North (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:35]  Abigail and Alexa Save the Wedding by Lian Dolan (May 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:23] Storybook Ending by Moira Macdonald (May 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[42:02] Other Books Mentioned The Angel Maker by Alex North (2023) [26:44] Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler (2016) [41:02]  Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) [41:08]  Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (2020) [41:13]  Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune (2021) [41:19]  The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (2020) [41:23]    

Today, we're talking about awe and wonder and all the incredible benefits that these simple and accessible emotions can have in terms of learning and child development. And I have the perfect guest here to talk about it — Deborah Farmer Kris, a child development expert, longtime educator, and author of the wonderful new book Raising Awe-Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive. In this conversation, we talk about how and why awe is such a powerful tool for emotional regulation, learning, and resilience for our kids. Deborah shares some of the neuroscience behind wonder and walks us through how simple moments of awe, like listening to music, walking outside, or witnessing a small act of kindness, can lower stress, spark curiosity, and build deeper connections for our kids. She also offered strategies for cultivating awe with your child, even during the most challenging seasons of parenting. This episode is a beautiful reminder that we don't have to add one more thing to our to-do lists to make a meaningful shift. Sometimes, it's about slowing down, noticing what's already here, and inviting our kids into that sense of wonder with us. And I think what I love about this so much is that awe is something that's available to all of us, and experiencing it, even for little moments, not only feels wonderful (pun intended), but it has very real, positive benefits. About Deborah Deborah Farmer Kris is a child development expert and the author of "Raising Awe-Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive,” the I See You board book series, and the All the Time picture book series. Her bylines include CNN, PBS KIDS, NPR's Mindshift, The Washington Post, the Boston Globe Magazine, and Oprah Daily. Deborah is currently an expert advisor for the PBS KIDS show, “Carl the Collector,” and spent 20+ years as a K-12 educator. Mostly, she loves sharing nuggets of practical wisdom that can make the parenting journey a little easier.   You'll learn: How the powerful emotion of awe builds resilience and supports well-being Why curiosity and wonder spark internal motivation and deeper learning How to tap into nature, art, music, and kindness as everyday sources of awe for children Why experiencing awe can lower stress, improve memory, and support emotional regulation How parents can nurture awe by modeling curiosity and slowing down with their kids Ideas for creating small, shared moments of wonder strengthen connection and support family wellness  Resources: Deborah Farmer Kris' website Parenthood 365 Raising Awe-Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive by Deborah Farmer Kris Raising Awe-Seekers Podcast Deborah on Instagram Deborah on LinkedIn You Wonder All the Time by Deborah Farmer Kris You Are Growing All the Time by Deborah Farmer Kris I Love You All the Time by Deborah Farmer Kirs You Have Feelings All the Time by Deborah Farmer Kris Dr. Dacher Kelter Dr. Michele Borba Mindshift (KQED / PBS) Pub Choir Robert Waldinger Hope for Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness by Jamil Zaki The Happiness Study at Harvard Challenge Success I Love N.Y.E. (Badly Drawn Boy song) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices