Podcasts about mattering

How can we grow into our full potential?—living up to what we know is the best version of ourselves, actualizing our goals, and expressing our deepest purpose in a life of impact and love?Grounded in cognitive science and psychology, best-selling author, podcaster, educator and researcher Scott Barry Kaufman believes that we need to redefine our understanding of greatness and excellence to include our whole selves—our emotions, dreams, failures, and gifts—all to live a life that is fully human, fully yourself.In this conversation with Scott Barry Kaufman, we discuss:Education and formation for the whole person, not just our intellect but our bodies, emotions, and spiritualityMaslow's hierarchy of needs and the journey that leads to self-actualizationThe difference it makes to see the world through growth rather than our deficienciesWhat it means to thrive even in the midst of mental illnessThe horizontal dimensions of transcendenceAnd how to connect and align with your deepest valuesEpisode Highlights“You can be mentally ill and thriving.”“Self-actualization is bringing your whole self to the table—not just one part of you.”“Real transcendence is about becoming one with the world—not being more enlightened than others.”“People are far more likely to demand respect than to give it.”“Only you can walk the path.”Helpful Links and ResourcesVisit scottbarrykaufman.comThe Psychology Podcast with Scott Barry KaufmanChoose Growth Workbook by Kaufman & Feingold*Transcend: The New Science of Self-Actualization,* by Scott Barry KaufmanScientific American: Spiritual NarcissismThe Lights Triad Personality TestSensitive Men Rising DocumentaryMaslow's Hierarchy of Needs Reimagined – Big ThinkCorey Mascara Podcast on ValuesShow NotesOrigin Story and Human ComplexityScott shares his journey from being labeled “ungifted” with an auditory disability to becoming a cognitive scientist.A pivotal teacher asked, “What are you still doing here?”—sparking self-belief and ambition.“I was a champion for the quirky kids from the start.”His work has shifted from an early obsession with greatness to a lifelong pursuit of self-actualization.“Greatness is tied up in power and status. Self-actualization is about bringing your whole self.”Reimagining Maslow & The Sailboat MetaphorKaufman replaces the hierarchy of needs with a dynamic sailboat metaphor.The boat represents safety (security, connection, self-esteem); the sail represents growth and transcendence.“Unless we open our sail and become vulnerable to the wind, we can't move toward what matters.”Adds collective dimension: “There are other boats in the sea. Some people forget that.”Contrasts “horizontal transcendence” (connection) with “spiritual narcissism” (superiority).Mental Illness, Creativity, and ThrivingChallenges the binary between wellness and illness: “You can be mentally ill and thriving.”Cites research showing creative strengths in children of those with mental illness.“They get the goodies without the baddies—the imagination without the psychosis.”Dismantles false dichotomies in psychiatry: labels vs. lived experience.Encourages integration rather than repression of neurodivergence and emotion.Alignment, Identity, and Individual GrowthAlignment—not perfection—is the goal of self-actualization.“Self-actualization coaching isn't about judgment. It's about helping people align with their values.”Different people prioritize different values: connection, power, freedom, meaning.Encourages reflection: What roles do you cherish most? What do you say yes and no to?“Ask: What's my reason for being? What legacy do I want to leave?”Moral Psychology and MatteringDiscusses mattering and the perils of performative self-importance.“Some people matter too much… they take up so much space, there's no room for others.”Proposes a “mattering ecology” for shared dignity and contribution.On moral flexibility: “People who scream loudest often don't like themselves.”Calls for emotional regulation, reflection, and collective moral grounding in a polarized world.Relationships, Whole Love, and SpiritualityIntroduces the concept of “whole love”—where all parts of the self are seen, accepted, and growing together.“It's as simple and as hard as that.”Critiques spiritual narcissism and “dark empaths” who use others for ego validation.Real empathy requires asking: “Am I helping this person for their sake—or because I need to be needed?”“Good character doesn't need an excuse.”Practical Takeaways & Coaching ToolsDirects listeners to Choose Growth, a practical workbook co-authored with Dr. Jordan Feingold.Reflection prompts: What am I proud of? What do I wish to change? What's my legacy?Encourages clarity around values and meaningful roles.Offers self-coaching questions to foster personal development and alignment.Provides listeners with tools for discernment, purpose, and sustainable growth.Pam King's Key TakeawaysScience and spirituality work together as an integrated pursuit of truth.Intelligence is so much more than a thought-process.Self-actualization leads us well beyond the self.Life is like a sailboat: so let the wind fill your sails as you dance on the waves toward our most valued harbor—and may the tides rise for all of us.To be a whole-person means resting in a loving compassion for ourselves and others—an openness and oneness with the world.“Many people could carry you across the bridge, but only you can walk the path.”About Scott Barry KaufmanScott Barry Kaufman is a cognitive scientist, author, and humanistic psychologist exploring the depths of human potential. He is the founding director of the Center for Human Potential and a the best-selling author, speaker, and podcaster. He hosts The Psychology Podcast. And he is author and/or editor of numerous books, including his celebrated *Transcend: The New Science of Self-Actualization, Ungifted: Intelligence Redefined*, as well as his latest books, Choose Growth: A Workbook for Transcending Trauma, Fear, and Self-Doubt and Rise Above: Overcome a Victim Mindset, Empower Yourself, and Realize Your Full Potential. If you're interested in more from Scott, visit scottbarrykaufman.com. About the Thrive CenterLearn more at thethrivecenter.org.Follow us on Instagram @thrivecenterFollow us on X @thrivecenterFollow us on LinkedIn @thethrivecenter About Dr. Pam KingDr. Pam King is Executive Director the Thrive Center and is Peter L. Benson Professor of Applied Developmental Science at Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy. Follow her @drpamking. About With & ForHost: Pam KingSenior Director and Producer: Jill WestbrookOperations Manager: Lauren KimSocial Media Graphic Designer: Wren JuergensenConsulting Producer: Evan RosaSpecial thanks to the team at Fuller Studio and the Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy.

This week on the Seeds of Success Podcast Dottie & Orly discuss the critical importance of making employees feel valued and recognized in the workplace. They explore insights from the book 'The Power of Mattering' by Zach Mercurio, emphasizing how feeling valued can significantly impact employee engagement and retention.

John R. Miles, former Fortune 50 executive and military officer, discusses his transformation from corporate success to purposeful living. After experiencing burnout and personal trauma, he developed the "Passion Struck" framework to help people move from lives they "should" be living to lives they "could" be living. He emphasizes that workplace disengagement stems from a "mattering crisis" rather than just workload issues, advocating for intentional leadership focused on helping employees feel valued and significant. TAKEAWAYS The Real Problem: Workplace burnout is less about workload and more about "worth load" - people feeling invisible and that their work doesn't matter to others. Mosquito Audit: Identify and address the three types of "mosquitoes" in your life - invisible suffocators (negative people), bloodsuckers (boundary destroyers), and energy drains that prevent intentional living. Gardener Leadership: Leaders should be "eyes on, hands off" - providing clear vision and goals while empowering employees to find creative solutions without micromanagement. A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST

Zach Mercurio joins us to discuss the power of mattering—why it's a foundational human need and how it can be cultivated through small but meaningful interactions. From leadership strategies to personal stories, we explore how feeling seen, heard, and valued changes everything. Topics [0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Zach Mercurio [3:31] Why Mattering Matters [11:29] Purpose, Meaning, and Mattering: What's the Difference? [16:21] Mattering as a Survival Instinct [26:14] “If It Wasn't For You…” [35:22] The Importance of Mattering in Leadership [40:55] The Role of Mattering in Organizational Culture [45:37] The Impact of Mattering on Employee Engagement [49:50] Desert Island Music Picks [52:42] Grooving Session: Mattering is Common Sense, Not Common Practice ©2025 Behavioral Grooves Links More About Zach The Power of Mattering by Zach Mercurio Join the Behavioral Grooves community Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube Music Links Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - Won't Back Down Foo Fighters - The Pretender

When Heather Avis says she's one of “the lucky few,” she means it. In this episode, we talk about growing up with our children with Down syndrome, what it means to delight in our kids, and how all of us can participate in shifting the narrative around disability toward love and belonging. Our conversation highlights her new children's book, I Like You So Much, and focuses on:Proclaiming the worth of our childrenThe role of children's books in shifting disability narrativesUnderstanding identityExploring mutuality in relationshipsThe importance of spaces of belongingDelight and celebration in parentingMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:I Like You So Much by Heather AvisMore of Heather's booksThe Lucky Few podcastSmall Talk by Amy Julia BeckerHeather's SubstackReimagining the Good Life WorkshopSubscribe to Amy Julia's Substack newsletter_WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. READ the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:Heather Avis is a New York Times bestselling author, public speaker, podcaster, and a Down syndrome advocate. She is the founder of and chief visionary officer at The Lucky Few, an advocacy organization dedicated to shouting worth, shifting narratives, and reimagining what it looks like when we create spaces of belonging. She lives in Southern California with her husband Josh and three kids, Macyn, Truly, and August and two Goldendoodles, Maeby and George Michael.Website: https://www.heatheravis.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theluckyfewofficial/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLuckyFewOfficial/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC99_OFh29y9lVqZyHY2XztwPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lucky-few/id1349646917New Book, I Like You So Much: https://www.amazon.com/Like-You-So-Much-Celebrating/dp/0310166594/Photo Credit: © Camilynne Photography___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.We want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

“Mattering,” is  one of the most underrated superpowers in the workplace!. Not "I got a cupcake on my work anniversary" mattering—but the real, gut-level kind where you feel seen, valued, and essential. Turns out, this isn't fluff. According to Crina, It's fuel. Now, let's clear something up: mattering isn't the same as belonging. Belonging says, “You're one of us.” Mattering says, “You're essential to us.” It's not just about being invited to the meeting—it's knowing your presence changes what happens in the room. We explore how leaders can make mattering happen through one simple (but wildly uncommon) practice: noticing. It's seeing your team for more than their output. It's remembering that Ava's prepping for a big client meeting or that Margaret is quietly holding the team together. As an example, it is the lovely leader who wrote down one meaningful detail about each employee every Friday and followed up on Mondays. No grand gestures—just consistent, personal attention. Her team was consistently the most engaged in the building. And it's not just about seeing—it's about hearing. We go beyond the nod-and-smile version of active listening to something deeper. It's listening for total meaning—what people say, how they say it, what they don't say, and what they're feeling underneath. It's following up. It's asking, “What did you mean by that?” or “How did that feel?” or “Tell me more” and being ready to actually hear the answer. We also talk about how to affirm people without sounding like a motivational poster. True affirmation is personal and specific. It's not “you're amazing”—it's “your attention to detail really added to the quality of our work product.” When people feel their unique strengths are noticed, they show up stronger, take feedback better, and stay longer. Ease. Meaning. Joy. They're not nice-to-haves. They're what happens when people know they matter. Let's get after creating some mattering! More to read: The Power of Mattering at Work

Ambition is the air we breathe—but what is it costing us? In this episode, Amy Julia Becker and theologian Miroslav Volf discuss his latest book, The Cost of Ambition. They unpack the hidden damage of a culture obsessed with competition and invite us to imagine a new way of being, for ourselves and our society, rooted not in achievement, but in love, mutuality, and genuine abundance. They explore:  Striving for superiority in American cultureThe dark side of competitionLonging for what we haveStriving for excellence vs. striving for superiorityThe illusion of individual achievementPractices for embracing love and generosityReimagining human relationships beyond superiority__MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:The Cost of Ambition: How Striving to Be Better Than Others Makes Us Worse by Miroslav VolfAbundance by Ezra KleinThe Sabbath by Abraham HeschelLuke 18:9-14, Philippians 2, 1 Corinthians 12:21-26, Mark 10:35-45The Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55)Works of Love by Søren KierkegaardSubscribe to Amy Julia's newsletter_WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. READ the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:Miroslav Volf (DrTheol, University of Tübingen) is the Henry B. Wright Professor of Theology at Yale Divinity School and founding director of the Yale Center for Faith and Culture in New Haven, Connecticut. He has written or edited more than two dozen books, including the New York Times bestseller Life Worth Living, A Public Faith, Public Faith in Action, and Exclusion and Embrace (winner of the Grawemeyer Award in Religion and selected as among the 100 best religious books of the 20th century by Christianity Today). Educated in his native Croatia, the United States, and Germany, Volf regularly lectures around the world. CONNECT with Miroslav Volf on X at @miroslavvolf.Photo Credit: © Christopher Capozziello___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.We want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

What does it mean to truly matter, and how can focusing on this concept transform your performance and fulfillment? In this powerful episode of the Mental Training Lab, I sit down with professional mountain biker and positive psychology expert Sonya Looney to explore how she transformed from being driven by external validation to finding deeper purpose and joy in her career.Sonya shares profound insights on why intrinsic motivation often outperforms extrinsic goals, how recognizing your strengths can reduce perfectionism, and why focusing on the impact you have on others is more meaningful than any trophy or accolade. We dive into practical strategies for enhancing "mattering," utilizing character strengths, and savoring achievements to build resilience and lasting success.Whether you're an athlete struggling with self-criticism, a coach aiming to foster deeper motivation in your team, or anyone seeking greater fulfillment and impact in your life, this conversation offers transformative tools and insights to help you thrive.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

In this compelling episode of The Brand Called You, leadership expert John R. Miles shares his transformative journey from naval officer to corporate executive to founder of the Mattering Revolution. Discover how emotional intelligence, intentional culture, and a sense of mattering are reshaping leadership and unlocking human potential.00:32- About John R MilesJohn is the founder of the Passion Struck.He's a leadership and workplace culture expert.He's also the founder of the Mattering Revolution. 

In this incredible episode we're discussing The Power of Mattering with Zach Mercurio. We admire Zach's work, so much so he's officially our first repeat guest on We Are Human Leaders! His poignant new book The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance is arguably one of the most needed in the world right now!In this conversation Zach shares with us the damning data on the state of work–despite the billions of dollars of investment made in employee engagement, retention, wellbeing, belonging, you name it–we're more disengaged and unhappy than ever before. Why? Well because despite it all, we still don't feel like we truly matter. And this is an innate human need that can't be overlooked.Zach shares that “honing the skills to create a culture of significance is at the heart of revitalizing the health of our workplaces and workers.” We couldn't agree more. Mattering is much more than a means to create productivity and engagement at work. It's a way of making sure everyone knows that they are innately needed, unique and what they do matters to others. Mattering is a fundamental human needs for all of us, and for that reason alone should be motivation to prioritise it.Learn more about Zach Mercurio, and find his latest book here:Find Zach Mercurio on LinkedIn.Get your copy of The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance from Harvard Business Review Press here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Above the Business, host Bradley Hamdier speaks with Zach Mercurio, author of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance." They dive deep into the practical skills leaders need to make team members feel valued, especially in small businesses with 2-25 employees where every person's contribution is crucial.Zach Mercurio is a researcher and consultant who studies what makes work meaningful. He spends 30% of his time conducting research at the Center for Meaning and Purpose and the rest learning from leaders and teaching others how to create cultures where people matter.In this episode, you'll hear Bradley and Zach discuss...The Foundation: Caring About vs. Caring ForThe Critical Difference: Many organizations say they care about their people, but caring for someone requires getting up close and truly understanding themThe Trust Connection: It's nearly impossible to care about anything if you don't feel cared for firstNo Shortcuts: There are no shortcuts to building trust, engagement, or motivation - it requires time and attentionThe Three Core Skills for Making People Matter1. Noticing PeopleBeyond Knowing: You can know someone well but fail to notice when they're strugglingPractical System: Write down one thing you heard each team member talk about on Friday, then follow up on Monday with a 3-minute check-inBetter Questions: Instead of "How are you?" ask "What has your attention today?" or "What have you been thinking about?"2. Affirming PeopleMore Than Appreciation: Affirmation shows people how their uniqueness makes a unique differenceSpecific Evidence: Give indisputable evidence of their significance rather than general praiseThe Four Unique Gifts: Every person brings strengths, purpose, perspective, and wisdom to your organization3. Showing People They're NeededEnsure every person knows how their work is indispensable and non-disposableConnect individual contributions to the bigger vision and impactThanks to our sponsors...BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we're just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we've got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see...

"Mattering' describes an approach to help support young people grappling with depression or suicide. It centers on making them feel seen and heard.

On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Zach Mercurio, a researcher, author, and leadership development facilitator specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, meaningful work, and positive organizational psychology. His latest book, The Power of Mattering, is available now.  Zach is an expert in the importance and implementation of mattering in the workplace, but it's a path he had to carve out for himself. The desire to explore this topic was sparked in him after his first job out of college. Working in advertising sales, he noticed the jarring fact that he and his team treated their clients as a resource rather than people with their own lives and interests. When he went on to complete his PhD research, he befriended the custodians who were in the school buildings late at night like him. This led him to focus his research on people in overlooked (and often underinvested in) professions like cleaning, and how they experience meaning in their work.  Listen to this episode to learn Zach's practical methods for scaling mattering in the workplace, the difference between mattering and belonging, and why Zach sees now as a time when people want to feel that they matter at their work more than ever.   Show Notes: 2:35 - What is mattering? 9:27 - “Work was always an act of community” 14:37 - Early influences & Zach's PhD research 24:40 - “Common sense is not common practice” 39:00 - How to scale mattering

Mattering isn't "touchy-feely" - it's as fundamental as eating or sleeping. And in our current challenging times, people need to feel they matter more than ever. In the latest episode of The Workplace Podcast, William Corless sits down with Zach Mercurio to dive deep into his powerful book "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance." Zach is a researcher, leadership development facilitator, and speaker who specialises in purposeful leadership and meaningful work. He holds a PhD from Colorado State University and serves as a senior fellow at the Centre for Meaning and Purpose. Episode Highlights: What is Mattering? It's feeling significant to those around you - knowing the team wouldn't be complete without you The NAND Model: Notice, Affirm, and show people they're Needed - three powerful behaviors that make people feel they matter The Traffic Light Check-in: A simple red/yellow/green system that led to 50% reduction in attrition and higher engagement scores The Noticing Book: A brilliant practice of writing down one thing about each team member and following up - "there's magic in being remembered"

On this Live Greatly podcast episode, Kristel Bauer sits down with Zach Mercurio, author of The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance. Kristel and Zach discuss actionable things that can support meaningful relationships and tips to make the people in your work and life feel valued.  Tune in now!  Key Takeaways From This Episode: What is mattering and why is it important Actionable things that can have a big impact around making people feel valued Why being intentional and even scheduling ways to make people feel valued is so important  A look into Zach's book, The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance ABOUT ZACH MERCURIO Zach Mercurio is a researcher, leadership development facilitator, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, and meaningful work. He is the author of The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance. Zach advises leaders in organizations worldwide on practices for building cultures that promote well-being, motivation, and performance. He holds a Ph.D. in organizational learning, performance, and change from Colorado State University, where he serves as a senior fellow at the Center for Meaning and Purpose and as an instructor in the Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change program. Connect with Zach: Order  The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zachmercurio/  Website: https://www.zachmercurio.com/  About the Host of the Live Greatly podcast, Kristel Bauer: Kristel Bauer is a corporate wellness and performance expert, keynote speaker and TEDx speaker supporting organizations and individuals on their journeys for more happiness and success. She is the author of Work-Life Tango: Finding Happiness, Harmony, and Peak Performance Wherever You Work (John Murray Business November 19, 2024). With Kristel's healthcare background, she provides data driven actionable strategies to leverage happiness and high-power habits to drive growth mindsets, peak performance, profitability, well-being and a culture of excellence. Kristel's keynotes provide insights to “Live Greatly” while promoting leadership development and team building.   Kristel is the creator and host of her global top self-improvement podcast, Live Greatly. She is a contributing writer for Entrepreneur, and she is an influencer in the business and wellness space having been recognized as a Top 10 Social Media Influencer of 2021 in Forbes. As an Integrative Medicine Fellow & Physician Assistant having practiced clinically in Integrative Psychiatry, Kristel has a unique perspective into attaining a mindset for more happiness and success. Kristel has presented to groups from the American Gas Association, Bank of America, bp, Commercial Metals Company, General Mills, Northwestern University, Santander Bank and many more. Kristel has been featured in Forbes, Forest & Bluff Magazine, Authority Magazine & Podcast Magazine and she has appeared on ABC 7 Chicago, WGN Daytime Chicago, Fox 4's WDAF-TV's Great Day KC, and Ticker News. Kristel lives in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida area and she can be booked for speaking engagements worldwide. To Book Kristel as a speaker for your next event, click here. Website: www.livegreatly.co  Follow Kristel Bauer on: Instagram: @livegreatly_co  LinkedIn: Kristel Bauer Twitter: @livegreatly_co Facebook: @livegreatly.co Youtube: Live Greatly, Kristel Bauer To Watch Kristel Bauer's TEDx talk of Redefining Work/Life Balance in a COVID-19 World click here. Click HERE to check out Kristel's corporate wellness and leadership blog Click HERE to check out Kristel's Travel and Wellness Blog Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast are intended for informational and educational purposes only. Always seek the guidance of your physician for any recommendations specific to you or for any questions regarding your specific health, your sleep patterns changes to diet and exercise, or any medical conditions.  Always consult your physician before starting any supplements or new lifestyle programs. All information, views and statements shared on the Live Greatly podcast are purely the opinions of the authors, and are not medical advice or treatment recommendations.  They have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration.  Opinions of guests are their own and Kristel Bauer & this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for statements made by guests.  Neither Kristel Bauer nor this podcast takes responsibility for possible health consequences of a person or persons following the information in this educational content.  Always consult your physician for recommendations specific to you.

What if the perfect family doesn't exist—and never was supposed to? Theologian Emily McGowin, PhD, joins Amy Julia Becker to explore family life in America and what the Bible really says (and doesn't say) about family life. They discuss:the idealized version of the American familythe misconceptions surrounding a biblical blueprint for familycreating a home centered on love, not expectationsapprenticing ourselves to love through daily household practices___MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Households of Faith: Practicing Family in the Kingdom of God by Emily Hunter McGowin, PhDAmy Julia's episode with Matthew Mooney about families, disability, suffering, and "the good life'Small Talk: Learning from my Children about What Matters Most by Amy Julia Becker__WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. READ the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:Emily Hunter McGowin (PhD, University of Dayton) is associate professor of theology at Wheaton College. She is the author of Quivering Families and Christmas, and coeditor of God and Wonder. Her articles have appeared in Christianity Today and The Week. She is a priest and canon theologian in the Anglican diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others. She and her husband, Ron, also a priest, live in Chicagoland with their three children. Follow her on Twitter: @EmilyMcgowin and visit her website at: emilymcgowin.com.___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.We want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

What if could upgrade performance at work, build deep relationships at home and in the workplace, heal loneliness everywhere by communicating 3 simple things?We're facing a crisis that's hiding in plain sight.It's not just loneliness or disengagement - it's what researcher Zach Mercurio calls a "mattering deficit." Despite our hyper-connected world, people simply don't feel seen, heard, and valued in their everyday interactions.The statistics are striking: one-third of people report persistent loneliness, 70% feel emotionally uninvested in their work, and half of students don't believe anyone would notice if they were absent. But Mercurio reveals that these aren't separate problems - they're symptoms of our collective failure to make each other feel significant.Why now?Since the early 2000s, digital communication has allowed us to bypass situations that once developed our human connection skills. We can respond to someone's bad news with a sad emoji rather than sitting with them, truly listening, and showing compassion. Zach Mercurio introduces a powerful framework - Notice, Affirm, Need - that transforms how we interact. Through compelling stories and research, Dr Mercurio demonstrates how small interactions can have profound impacts.A supervisor who keeps notes about team members' lives, a facilities manager who shows his team photos of people enjoying their work, or simply telling someone "if it wasn't for you..." can transform an ordinary exchange into one that fosters significance.Your next great act will happen in your next interaction. Don't overthink it. Instead of searching for the next big program or initiative, focus on optimizing how you notice, affirm, and need the people around you.Join the mattering movement and discover how making others feel significant creates a virtuous cycle that enriches everyone's lives.  _____________________Dr Zach Mercurio: https://www.zachmercurio.com/  Mattering Assessment for leaders and more book resources: https://www.zachmercurio.com/mattering/"The Power of Mattering" book equips leaders to unleash the hidden superpowers in each individual by addressing the fundamental human need to feel significant: https://www.zachmercurio.com/the-power-of-mattering/  Connect with Dr Zach Mercurio on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/  More about Dr Zach Mercurio:  Dr Zach Mercurio is an author, researcher, and leadershipdevelopment facilitator specializing in purposeful leadership,mattering, and meaningful work. He advises leaders inorganizations worldwide on practices for building cultures thatpromote well-being, motivation, and performance.  Zach holds a Ph.D. in organizational learning, performance, andchange and serves as one of Simon Sinek's Optimist Instructors,teaching a top-rated course on creating mattering at work. Hisnew book is "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create aCulture of Significance." His previous book is "The InvisibleLeader: Transform Your Life, Work, and Organization with ThePower of Authentic Purpose.”  He's been featured in The Harvard Business Review, Forbes,Psychology TText Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever wonder why feeling valued and significant at work (and in life!) matters so much? This week, I'm thrilled to welcome researcher, author, and purposeful leadership expert Zach Mercurio to Grow the Good. Zach dives deep into the critical concept of mattering—the foundational human need to feel significant, seen, and valued by others.Drawing from his latest book, The Power of Mattering, Zach shares compelling insights on why feeling significant isn't just nice to have; it's essential for our mental health, resilience, and overall performance. We discuss authentic purpose, how digital life impacts meaningful connection, and practical strategies anyone can use to foster mattering in their relationships and workplaces.Key takeaways include:Why authentic purpose must benefit others, not just ourselves.How feeling insignificant contributes to loneliness and decreased performance.Practical strategies for creating meaningful interactions that communicate value.Why care and hurry can't coexist—and how to slow down to truly see others.The critical role leaders play in shaping a culture where everyone feels they matter.This episode is packed with stories, research, and actionable advice you can apply immediately to your own life and leadership. Because when people know they matter, amazing things happen.LINKS:- Connect with Zach- Read The Power of Mattering- Finding Meaning and Mattering with Andrew Soren- Purpose is the Compass--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Kelly speaks with Zach Mercurio, a positive leadership and organizations researcher and Honorary Fellow of Psychology in the Center for Meaning and Purpose at Colorado State University. He has a new book: The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance. “We can't have healthy organizations with unhealthy people.”  “Noticing is an ongoing […]

In this podcast, I talked with Dr Gordon Flett about the psychology of mattering, a topic in which he has been a leader in the field. Mattering is a core component of one's self concept which refers to a genral sense of being significant, and valued in our relationships. A felt sense of mattering is a strongly protective factor against a variety stressors. Conversely, the absence of mattering has been associated with depression and suicidal ideation. A sense of mattering becomes especially relevant  during the adolescent years as fitting in with peers becomes so important The importance of mattering is an idea that immediately resonates with many people and is the  theme in movies such as It's a Wonderful Life and Mr Holland's Opus. Unfortunately, in keeping with the crisis in youth mental health, survey data suggest that about 30% of adolescents do not feel or are not certain that they matter to anyone. So this is obviously an important topic for us to consider Dr Flett has written two books on the psychology of Mattering: Mattering As A CORE Need in Children and Adolescents  and The Psychology of Mattering: Understanding the Human Need to be Significant In an earlier podcast  on 9/13/22, I also talked to Dr Flett about his book he coauthored with Paul Hewitt Perfectionism in Childhood and Adolescence: A Developmental Approach The Mattering Movement website is an excellent source of information https://www.thematteringmovement.com/ see also https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/27/well/mind/mental-health-mattering-self-esteem.html  

IN EPISODE 229:Making others feel like they matter is no small matter - and it doesn't require big gestures. In Episode 229, Zach Mercurio shows how leaders can help others experience greatersignificance at work. We discuss practical ways to notice, affirm and make people feel needed, how to ask questions that foster trust, and what organizations can do to create more supportive workplaces. ABOUT ZACH MERCURIO:Zach Mercurio is a researcher, leadership development facilitator, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, and meaningful work.  He's a senior fellow at Colorado State University's Center for Meaning and Purpose, where he's also an instructor in the Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change program. His new book is,  The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance.

Zach Mercurio is a researcher, author, and speaker specializing in leadership, mattering, and meaningful work. He is the author of the books The Invisible Leader and The Power of Mattering, and some of his clients include the U.S. Army, J.P. Morgan Chase, Delta Airlines, Marriott International, The Government of Canada, and The National Park Service. Zach also serves as one of Simon Sinek's “Optimist Instructors,” teaching a course with Simon on how leaders can show everyone how they matter. Zach earned a Ph.D. in organizational learning, performance, and change from Colorado State University, where he now serves as a Senior Honorary Fellow in the Center for Meaning and Purpose. In this episode we discuss the following: To show people they matter we can ask them, “When you feel that you matter to me, what am I doing?” And then do more of those things. We can show people they matter by providing evidence (e.g., pictures) of how their work benefits others. We can show people we need them by pointing out what wouldn't get done without them. Just because something is common sense, doesn't mean it's common practice. But by taking simple steps to notice and affirm people, even scheduling our good intentions, we can help people know that they matter and close the knowing / doing gap.   Connect on Social Media: X: https://twitter.com/nate_meikle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natemeikle/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nate_meikle/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nate.meikle

In this heart-centered episode of Aspire to Lead, I'm joined by globally recognized speaker, educator, and author Angela Maiers to explore the movement that changed everything—#YouMatter. Angela shares the powerful story behind the origin of this global initiative and how a simple affirmation can shift mindsets, unlock potential, and ignite lasting change in students, educators, and communities. We unpack how leaders can go beyond surface-level praise to cultivate environments where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered. Angela also reveals how her workshops help people rediscover their purpose and reignite their passion for contribution, and we dive into her latest project—M is for Mattering, a science-based picture book designed to embed the language of significance in learners from the start. This episode is less of a conversation and more of a call to remember what we too often forget: that real leadership begins with seeing, hearing, and believing in the people right in front of us. Tune in, take a breath, and get ready to lead like you truly mean it. About Angela Maiers: Futurist. Innovator. Educator. Entrepreneur. Change Maker. Angela Maiers is on a relentless mission to disrupt the status quo and empower individuals everywhere to transform their own world—and the world around them. As the founder of the global movement Choose2Matter, Angela's singular focus is to help people realize their value and potential contribution to creating change, whether in their personal lives or the world at large.   It is fair to say, she leaves no room unchanged. Angela's journey began in 2011 when she delivered a TEDTalk on the power of two simple words that went viral—You Matter!—which catalyzed the creation of Choose2Matter in 2014. What followed was a movement that ignited over a million children across 78,000 classrooms in 100 countries, encouraging them to launch 170 social enterprises and pass 117 laws. As one of the most influential thought leaders in education and transformative thinking, Angela is celebrated for helping businesses, organizations, and industries tackle the global $15 trillion employee engagement crisis. Her work with Fortune 500 companies such as Apple, Microsoft, IBM, and global entities like the U.S. Air Force and West Point have set new standards for creating purpose-driven cultures of motivation and inclusion. Angela's visionary approach has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of Forbes' Top 5 Edupreneurs to Watch, one of IBM's Top 20 Global Influencers, and one of the Top 100 Women in Technology by Onalytics. She has also been recognized as one of the Top 20 Education Thought Leaders by TrustEd. Angela is the author of nine books, including Genius Matters and Classroom Habitudes, and the forthcoming M is for Mattering. Angela is a much  sought-after keynote speaker, consultant, and researcher who brings a unique blend of education, neuroscience, and innovation to help individuals and organizations cultivate purposeful leadership, meaningful work, and transformative change. Angela's work is grounded in the belief that everyone is built for purpose, deserves dignity, and can create meaningful impact. She has worked with over 50 global companies, educational institutions, nonprofits, and military organizations to implement practical tools for cultivating positive team cultures and igniting the genius within every...

Is disability a tragedy? Is it a gift? What place is there for grief and for joy in this story of disability so many of us are living within our families? Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently portrayed disability as tragic, as something that needs to be fixed, in his comments about autism. In response, Matthew Mooney, co-founder of 99 Balloons, joins Amy Julia Becker to share a better and truer story of disability. They explore: Societal perceptions of disabilityHow relationships change the story of disabilityRecognizing the inherent worth of every individualNavigating grief, loss, and sufferingCultivating the beauty found in communityMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:99 BalloonsAmy Julia's Vox essay: My daughter has Down syndrome. Would I “cure” her if I could?NYT Essay by Emily May: Kennedy Described My Daughter's RealityI Corinthians 12, Exodus 4, and John 9:3Hans ReindersRFK Jr.'s statements about autism_WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. READ the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:When Matthew and his wife Ginny were 30 weeks pregnant, they learned their son Eliot had trisomy 18. Eliot was born eight weeks later and lived for 99 days. The Mooneys founded 99 Balloons, a nonprofit supporting individuals with disabilities locally and globally. Matthew now serves on the 99 Balloons Board and lives in Fayetteville, Arkansas, with Ginny and their three children—Hazel, Anders, and Lena. A writer, speaker, and consultant on disability and inclusion, Matthew is also an attorney and a PhD candidate in Theological Ethics at Aberdeen University. His work has taken him to Haiti, Mexico, Ukraine, Uganda, India, and beyond.Websites: 99 Balloons :: matthewlylemooney  Social: insta ___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone mWe want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

Episode 300 brings back one of our favorite guests, Dr. Zach Mercurio, a leading expert on purpose and meaning in our lives. Focusing on the transformative concept of "mattering"—the profound need for individuals to feel significant and valued in their communities.Connect with Zach at zachmercurio.com, Instagram @zachmercurio. Get his latest book, The Power of Mattering!Thank you to our sponsors.TacticalHarmony.comBrenda Rice RealtorErie Coffee Roasters - use promo code On Purpose to save 10% on your first order!Want more The On Purpose Podcast?Find full episodes and more!Connect with Jerrod!Linkedin, InstagramGet My Book!

Click here to read the episode highlights.    The "Living with Heart" Podcast is brought to you by Chip Dodd Resources (www.chipdodd.com) and The Voice of the Heart Center (vothcenter.com). Contact Bryan Barley for coaching at bryan@vothcenter.com.    Primary Need to Belong and Matter A woman and a man each have the same need to belong and matter.  Each person is equally responsible for affirming the need to belong and matter of the other person.   Belonging and Mattering differ for a Woman and a Man  Their need to belong and matter is met in different ways. A woman's need to belong and matter is primarily met through security. A man's need to belong and matter is primarily met through appreciation.   A Woman Needs to Feel Secure in order to Appreciate a Man While each person is equally responsible, the man's initiation of security is crucial to create a healthy relationship. For the man to experience appreciation, the woman must first experience security.   Feeling Chosen Creates Security in a Woman The woman's primary security need is met through knowing, feeling, and having faith in experiencing herself as chosen. She is chosen above all other women.  She has confidence in knowing it, feeling it, and having faith in the future related to it.  To be chosen is to know that she has: A Redeemer: a man who can relate to her, grasp her needs, desire the full expression of how God created her, and treat her with gentleness, availability, and vulnerability. Episode #64   A Protector: a man who can create a place of safety and stability that is based on her trust in his integrity, allowing her to focus on being able to love without fear or demand.  A Provider: a man who can provide for her the necessities that quell the fear of her essential needs not being attended to.   This order is very important: It establishes a foundation of what a woman needs most.   It expresses a man's trustworthiness, his capability of relational intimacy, and his integrity. He is known as one who “says what he means and means what he says,” with an inner-focus on bringing his best to who he loves. He has a sense of his own dignity and self-respect.   This description is not about perfection; it is about growth and focus for a man. He cannot be more than perfectly imperfect. He can, though, live inspired to be the man God created him to be, by remaining dependent on God, and by relying on “growth-aid” from other men.    Click here to continue reading the episode highlights.

For some of us, Christian summer camp is where we felt most at home. But for campers at white Evangelical church camps in particular, camp was also often the place to inherit an image of God—and of each other—that was incomplete at best and toxic at worst. Author Cara Meredith joins Amy Julia Becker on the podcast to explore belonging, betrayal, and new beginnings as they talk about Cara's latest book, Church Camp: Bad Skits, Cry Night, and How White Evangelicalism Betrayed a Generation. They examine:Personal experiences of church camp, including joy, exclusion, and betrayalComplexities of faith and belongingEmotional manipulationReconstructing faithDeciding if church camp is right for your child_MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Amy Julia's Live, In-Person Workshop on May 3: Reimagining Family Life with DisabilityFree resource: 5 Ways to Experience God's Love and Practice PeaceSurprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church by N.T. Wright_WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. READ the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:Cara Meredith is a speaker, public theologian, and development director who found home at a church camp in the Santa Cruz Mountains. After serving in various roles, she continued as a speaker for two decades at camps up and down the West Coast. With a master of theology (Fuller Seminary) and a background in education and nonprofit work, she is also the author of The Color of Life. Her writing has been featured in national media outlets such as The Oregonian, The New York Times, The Christian Century, and Christianity Today, among others. She lives with her family in Oakland, California. CONNECT with Cara on her website (carameredith.com) or on Facebook and Instagram. ___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.We want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

Forget what you've been told about what's driving division, disengagement, and dysfunction. It's not woke and DEI. It's not remote work. It's not Gen Z or political affiliations. According to Dr. Zach Mercurio, it's something far more primal: the deep, unmet need to matter. In this gut-punch of an episode, Zach and host Ira S Wolfe rip into why belonging programs fall flat, expose the myth about soft skills, and reveal why making someone feel seen isn't a nice-to-have—it's survival. You'll never look at leadership, work, or human connection the same way again. Perks don't create a vibrant culture. They're distractions from the fact no one feels like they belong. Ping-pong tables and catered lunches won't fix your toxic culture. Start with making people feel like they matter.  If you give a damn about your people—this is required listening. Order the book: The Power of Mattering (https://www.zachmercurio.com/the-power-of-mattering/) Download "Mattering" resources: https://www.zachmercurio.com/mattering/ Connect with Zach: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/

Do you matter? Do the people you work with feel that they matter? Employee engagement, despite becoming a $1 billion industry, is at a 10-year low. Only 39% of employees say someone cares for them.My good friend and fellow PhD student Zach Mercurio joined the Greatness Podcast to share research-based insights from his latest book, The Power of Mattering. Sixty-percent of people are in what Zach calls "front line, low choice occupations", and leaders help all people find meaning in their work by "adding rigor to caring". "We expect people to care before they feel cared for." We also create systems that reward for things other than caring. Caring is a skill that can be learned and Zach shares specific actions leaders take that make people feel they matter, such as "schedule good intentions".

“We talk a lot in the workplace about belonging and connection,” says the author. “Mattering goes deeper because you can belong to a group and not know how much you really matter to that group.” Host: Greg Bartalos. 

How do we redefine success, community, and family when parenting a child with disabilities? In this conversation, Amy Julia Becker and Adrian Wood, PhD, creator of the vlog Tales of an Educated Debutante and co-author of Autism Out Loud, discuss community, belonging, autism, and the ways they have grown up with their children. They explore:Cultural perceptions of family life with disabilityNavigating family dynamicsCommunication Building community connectionsCollaborating with schools for better outcomesRedefining success_MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthood by Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, Adrian WoodAmy Julia's Reimagining Family Life with Disability workshopAmy Julia's Live, In-Person Workshop on May 3_WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. READ the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:Adrian Wood is the creator of the vlog Tales of an Educated Debutante. She has a PhD in Educational Research and contributes to Today Parents, The Today Show, and the Love What Matters blog. She lives in rural eastern North Carolina with her family.CONNECT with Adrian on her website (talesofaneducateddebutante.com), Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.___We want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

What does it really mean for people to feel like they matter in the workplace?In this episode, Zach Mercurio unpacks why mattering is the missing piece in most workplace cultures and how leaders can foster it. He also explores how a sense of value and contribution drives engagement, innovation, and retention. Zach is on a mission to make work and life more meaningful. As an author, researcher, and speaker, he helps leaders create environments where people feel valued. Topics explored in this episode: (02:15) The Science of Mattering* How mattering influences employee performance and well-being.* Why recognition alone isn't enough to make people feel valued.(10:40) Workplace Disconnection* The hidden costs of employees feeling like they don't matter.(18:55) The Role of Leaders in Creating Mattering* Mattering shouldn't be just an HR initiative—it's a leadership responsibility.(28:30) Purpose vs. Mattering* Why having a sense of mattering is more foundational than purpose.* Case studies of companies that have built cultures of mattering.(47:20) Building a Mattering-Centric Culture* The three key components of a workplace where people feel they matter.Thanks to Zach Mercurio for being on the show! Learn more about Zach: https://www.zachmercurio.com/Get Zach's book: The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8XMWCLJ Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio Bill Gallagher, Scaling Coach and host of the Scaling Up Business podcast, is an international business coach who works with C-Suite leaders to achieve breakthrough growth. Join Bill in the Growth Navigator Coaching Program: https://ScalingCoach.com/workshop Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/BillGallBill on YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@BillGallagherScalingCoach Visit https://ScalingUp.com to learn more about Verne Harnish, our team of Scaling Up Coaches, and the Scaling Up Performance Platform, which includes coaching, learning, software, and summit. We share how the fastest-growing companies succeed where so many others fail. We help leadership teams with the biggest decisions around people, strategy, execution, and cash so that they can scale up successfully and beat the odds of business growth. Did you enjoy today's episode? If so, then please leave a review! Help other business leaders discover Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher so they, too, can benefit from the ideas shared in these podcasts.Subscribe via Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PGhWPJSubscribe via Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3PKe00uBill on Facebook:

In large and small ways, mattering is essential. Self esteem depends on our ability to contribute to the lives around us. You may know Jennifer B. Wallace from her stints on morning television or her journalism in the Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post. She and Kelly discuss her first book: Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic—And What We Can Do About It. (Previously aired) Please note: In this episode, Kelly and Jennifer discuss the high cost of having a child see a private neuropsychologist for an evaluation. However, every parent/guardian is legally entitled to refer their child to Special Education.  Schools typically have a procedure in place.  For example: the parent(s) might need to meet with the principal and psychologist to discuss building level interventions. If the parent decides to go through with the referral, the school has 45 school days to complete an evaluation and determine eligibility - if the child has a disability that adversely impacts their learning the child is classified and an IEP is created.  Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) guarantees access to all. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How does language, both careless and careful, shape our world? What's the connection between social status and the words we choose? How does technology influence our understanding of culture and control? Amy Julia Becker and special guest Andy Crouch examine these questions in a conversation about language, culture, and culture making. They also ask:What does the recent rise of the r-word tell us about our culture?  In what ways are technology and vulnerability interconnected?  How can we show up with care in our relationships and creative endeavors?_MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:SUBSCRIBE to Amy Julia's weekly emailPraxisCulture Making by Andy Crouch“Where the Magic Doesn't Happen” by Andy Crouch“The Trump administration's rhetoric about disability diminishes us all” by Amy Julia Becker“Embracing the Mystery (more than the magic) of Christmas” by Amy Julia BeckerBreaking Ground essay | “Wrestling with Sovereignty in a Kairos Year” by Amy Julia BeckerKen Myers and Mars Hill AudioPlaying God by Andy CrouchStrong and Weak by Andy CrouchThe Tech-Wise Family by Andy CrouchPhilippians 2: 5-8Marc Andreessen: The Techno-Optimist Manifesto_CONNECT with Andy Crouch on his website: https://andy-crouch.com/_WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. READ the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:Andy Crouch is partner for theology and culture at Praxis, a venture-building ecosystem advancing redemptive entrepreneurship. His writing explores faith, culture, and the image of God in the domains of technology, power, leadership, and the arts. He is the author of five books (plus another with his daughter, Amy Crouch).___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.We want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

Consciousness Mattering (Bloombury, 2023) presents a contemporary Buddhist theory in which brains, bodies, environments, and cultures are relational infrastructures for human consciousness. Drawing on insights from meditation, neuroscience, physics, and evolutionary theory, it demonstrates that human consciousness is not something that occurs only in our heads and consists in the creative elaboration of relations among sensed and sensing presences, and more fundamentally between matter and what matters. Peter Hershock argues that without consciousness there would only be either unordered sameness or nothing at all. Evolution is consciousness mattering. Shedding new light on the co-emergence of subjective awareness and culture, the possibility of machine consciousness, the risks of algorithmic consciousness hacking, and the potentials of intentionally altered states of consciousness, Hershock invites us to consider how freely, wisely, and compassionately consciousness matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/buddhist-studies

Consciousness Mattering (Bloombury, 2023) presents a contemporary Buddhist theory in which brains, bodies, environments, and cultures are relational infrastructures for human consciousness. Drawing on insights from meditation, neuroscience, physics, and evolutionary theory, it demonstrates that human consciousness is not something that occurs only in our heads and consists in the creative elaboration of relations among sensed and sensing presences, and more fundamentally between matter and what matters. Peter Hershock argues that without consciousness there would only be either unordered sameness or nothing at all. Evolution is consciousness mattering. Shedding new light on the co-emergence of subjective awareness and culture, the possibility of machine consciousness, the risks of algorithmic consciousness hacking, and the potentials of intentionally altered states of consciousness, Hershock invites us to consider how freely, wisely, and compassionately consciousness matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/psychology

Consciousness Mattering (Bloombury, 2023) presents a contemporary Buddhist theory in which brains, bodies, environments, and cultures are relational infrastructures for human consciousness. Drawing on insights from meditation, neuroscience, physics, and evolutionary theory, it demonstrates that human consciousness is not something that occurs only in our heads and consists in the creative elaboration of relations among sensed and sensing presences, and more fundamentally between matter and what matters. Peter Hershock argues that without consciousness there would only be either unordered sameness or nothing at all. Evolution is consciousness mattering. Shedding new light on the co-emergence of subjective awareness and culture, the possibility of machine consciousness, the risks of algorithmic consciousness hacking, and the potentials of intentionally altered states of consciousness, Hershock invites us to consider how freely, wisely, and compassionately consciousness matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/neuroscience

In this episode of The Future of Teamwork, Dane Groeneveld sits down with Pete Schramm, CEO and founder of Lattitude and author of Pathfinders, to discuss the power of career mapping, building a personal board of advisors, and mentorship to optimize your team. Pete shares his journey from growing up on a farm in Pennsylvania to founding Lattitude, how he discovered the power of mentorship, and how mentorship can foster a culture of learning and belonging for teams. Listen in for insights on helping your team grow and succeed.Key Takeaways:00:00 Introduction to the Future of Teamwork Podcast01:27 Meet Pete Schramm: Entrepreneur and Mentor02:41 Pete's Journey: From Farm to Founder03:50 The Power of Mentorship Networks04:42 Building a Personal Board of Advisors10:45 From Mentorship to Keynote Speaking16:10 The Importance of Human Connection21:33 Creating a Structured Mentorship Platform22:27 Grandpa's Wisdom and the Power of Writing Things Down22:45 Creating Energy and Connection in Organizations23:22 Measuring Success and Career Mapping24:52 Mentorship and Internal Growth27:41 The Importance of Mattering in the Workplace29:23 Challenges and Misconceptions in DEIB36:43 Career Mapping Explained43:08 The Future of Teamwork and Career Development

What happens when we step into silence? Author Pico Iyer joins Amy Julia Becker to discuss his book Aflame: Learning from Silence. He reflects on his time spent in monasteries and how he grounds the ethereal idea of silence in the very earthy realities of everyday life—filled with deadlines, relationships, and the unexpected, like the wildfire that consumed his home in southern California. Pico and Amy Julia examine:the profound lessons that arise from moments of crisishow practices of silence transform lives and relationshipsthe importance of community and servicethe essence of a good life_Women's Conference 2025 | Greenwich, CTMeet Amy Julia in person!_Free Resource/PDF Download:5 Ways to Experience God's Love and Practice Peace_MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Aflame: Learning from Silence by Pico IyerIyer's 1990 Time essay: "California: In The Blazing Eye of the Inferno"_CONNECT with Pico Iyer on his website (www.picoiyerjourneys.com)._WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. READ the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:Pico Iyer is the author of fifteen books, translated into twenty-three languages, and has been a constant contributor for more than thirty years to Time, The New York Times, Harper's Magazine, the Los Angeles Times, and more than 250 other periodicals worldwide. His four recent talks for TED have received more than eleven million views. ___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.We want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

In this episode, we're diving into the 5 Essentials for Workplace Mental Health and Well-Being as outlined by the U.S. Surgeon General. These five pillars—Protection from Harm, Connection & Community, Work-Life Harmony, Mattering at Work, and Growth Opportunities—are key to creating a work environment where people don't just survive, but truly thrive.  Whether you're an employee, a leader, or just someone looking for ways to feel more supported at work, this episode will give you actionable insights to build resilience, prevent burnout and compassion fatigue, and create a healthier, happier work life.  Here's the link to my episode #81 that I did on the Languages of Appreciation. 

When U.S. foreign aid is frozen, what happens to the people who depend on it? In this episode, Dr. Matthew Loftus and Amy Julia Becker dive into the effects of USAID cuts, including:The life-or-death consequences for HIV patientsThe difficult choices clinics and hospitals now faceThe political and religious divisions driving the debateWhat it means to be pro-lifeHow concerned Americans can respondMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Amy Julia's Substack email newsletter about USAID: Caring for Humans is Slow, Messy, and BeautifulNYT opinion essay by Leah Libresco Sargeant, Matthew Loftus, Kristin M. Collier, and Kathryn Jean Lopez: “As Fellow Pro-Lifers, We Are Begging Marco Rubio to Save Foreign Aid”ProPublica article:"The Trump Administration Said These Aid Programs Saved Lives. It Canceled Them Anyway."Washington Post articleMatt's thesis: Discipline and FlourishAfrican Mission HealthcareSubscribe to Amy Julia's weekly email_WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. READ the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:Matthew Loftus lives with his family in East Africa, where he has taught and practiced Family Medicine since 2015. He is especially passionate about Family Medicine education and mental health care in mission hospitals. He grew up in a family of 15 children and did all of his medical training in Baltimore. He also holds an M.A. in Theology from St. Mary's Ecumenical Institute in Baltimore and has written for several publications, including Christianity Today, Mere Orthodoxy, First Things, and The New York Times. You can learn more about his work and writing at www.matthewandmaggie.org___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.We want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

In the work of reimagining, religion can play a significant part. What does it mean to be human? Does God exist? Is the universe good? Is there order and purpose to human life? These are the types of questions that help to shape our imagination about our individual lives and our life together. New York Times columnist Ross Douthat joins Amy Julia Becker to discuss his latest book, Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious. They explore:the current cultural landscape of religion in Americathe rise of secularism and the existential angst many face in a post-religious worldthe importance of engaging with religious questionsthe relationship between religion and politicshow individuals can begin their journey of seeking meaning and purpose__RESOURCES:Amy Julia's Lenten Daily DevotionalAmy Julia's To Be Made Well Lenten Bible Study—Small Group Video Series__MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious by Ross DouthatMere Christianity by C.S. LewisThe Weight of Glory by C.S. LewisPaul KingsnorthJ.R.R. TolkienLooking for Faith? Here's a Guide to Choosing a Religion. by Ross Douthat__CONNECT with Ross on X (@DouthatNYT).__Watch this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. Read the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast.__ABOUT:Ross Douthat has been a New York Times Opinion columnist since April 2009. Previously, he was a senior editor at the Atlantic. He is the author of The Deep Places; The Decadent Society; To Change the Church; Bad Religion; Privilege; and, with Reihan Salam, Grand New Party. He is the film critic for National Review. He lives with his wife and five children in New Haven, Connecticut.___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.We want to hear your thoughts. Send us a text!Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

"If you think ENTREPRENEURIAL education is expensive, try ignorance." - Daniel Louzonis Check out the new Naples, Florida Einstein Blueprint Academy ! Pre-Order my new hardcover book -> https://www.zerogravitykids.com/ Order my rebellious hs'ing book -> https://www.homeschoolsecrets.com/

Send us a textRecent political changes and executive orders have polarized the complex conversation around diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). David M. Bailey, the Founder and CEO of Arrabon, joins Amy Julia Becker to discuss: the consequences of dismantling DEIA initiativesthe implications of colorblindness and meritocracythe role of the church in advocating for justicethe importance of maintaining hope and engagement amidst societal polarizationthe need for critical thinking and compassionpractical steps for hope and community involvement_Amy Julia's Lenten Daily DevotionalAmy Julia's To Be Made Well Lenten Bible Study—Small Group Video SeriesArrabon Lenten Resources: available soon at arrabon.com__MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Arrabon: a spiritual formation ministry that equips Christ-followers to actively and creatively pursue racial healing in their communities. David Bailey previously on the podcast: S6 E12 | How to Cultivate Racial HealingS3 E1 | Waking Up to PrivilegeS3 E19 | Loving Our Enemies in a Nation DividedS5 E4 | What's So Controversial About Critical Race Theory? President Trump's Executive OrderBarbara Newman_CONNECT with David Bailey at @wearearrabon and @davidmbailey on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn._MORE: Watch this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. Read the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:David M. Bailey is a public theologian, culturemaker, and catalyst focused on cultivating reconciling communities. David is the Founder and CEO of Arrabon, a spiritual formation ministry that equips the American Church to actively and creatively pursue racial healing in their communities. He is the co-author of the study series, A People, A Place, and A Just Society. David is an ordained minister rooted at East End Covenant Fellowship, serving on the preaching team, and his greatest honor is to be married to his wonderful wife, Joy.___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters.Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

Send us a textIs disability a tragedy? Are disabled people “inspiring”? The language we use often reveals our assumptions about disability. Carrie Hahn, a pediatric speech-language pathologist and mother, joins me on the podcast to talk about her book Beyond Inclusion: How to Raise Anti-Ableist Kids. Maybe you feel like our culture is too full of language police and that we should just move on to more important things. Or maybe you worry that you'll never get your words right. Whether you feel cynicism or despair, this conversation is for you.Carrie's stories and suggestions offer ALL of us a way to put a reimagined life into practice. We discuss:The complexities of navigating ableismHow to cultivate inclusion and belonging one word at a timeWays to respond when we get the language wrongWhy recognizing individuality mattersSimple tips to make spaces more welcoming and accessible _REIMAGINING FAMILY LIFE WITH DISABILITY WORKSHOPFREE RESOURCE: From Exclusion to Belonging__ON THE PODCAST:Beyond Inclusion: How to Raise Anti-Ableist Kids by Carrie HahnStella YoungA Disability History of the United States by Kim E. NielsenREIMAGINING FAMILY LIFE WITH DISABILITY WORKSHOP_CONNECT with Carrie Hahn on her website (informdisability.com), Facebook (@informspeechandlanguage), and Instagram (@carriecch80)_WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. Read the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT:Carrie Hahn is a pediatric speech-language pathologist and mother. She has served children of a variety of ages in a variety of settings and has taken on additional endeavors of interest, such as an autism support group for caregivers, the distribution of a parent education newsletter, and giving talks at conferences for family advocacy groups. She creates and shares content related to disability and neurodivergence on her website and social media and uses her platform to promote education and advocacy. Hahn is the mother of two neurodivergent children, one of whom also has physical disabilities. Her book ‘Beyond Inclusion: Raising Anti-Ableist Kids” came out in July of 2024. Carrie's professional and personal lives have intensified her passion for making a safer and less ableist world.___Let's stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

What if “you matter” wasn't just a feel-good phrase but a leadership superpower? In today's Predictive Index special episode, Angela Maiers, renowned educator and change-maker, joins Matt Poepsel to explore how leaders can ignite purpose and performance by meeting the most basic human need. Packed with stories, insights, and actionable tips, this episode will change the way you lead. Tune in—you matter too!   From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Mattering is Fundamental: Mattering is a core human need, as vital as food or water, and leaders must intentionally nurture it. Crisis of Meaning: The pandemic has exposed a “crisis of meaning,” where workers are prioritizing purpose over routine. Actionable Leadership: Small acts like acknowledging someone's name or work can create profound impacts on engagement and culture. Business Impact: Cultures of mattering lead to increased productivity, better performance, and ultimately, higher profitability.

Send us a text"Just try harder. Work harder. Think harder." But what if the key to creativity, whether that's in our art or in the art of our daily lives, isn't more effort but surrender? Carey Wallace, artist and author of The Discipline of Inspiration, joins Amy Julia Becker to talk about:How discipline and spiritual practices nurture inspirationThe role of surrender in the creative processHow all humans can explore their creative potential and embrace the joy of creationArt as a communal experienceHow the discipline of inspiration empowers meaningful change in our world that is good and mutually beneficial_REIMAGINING FAMILY LIFE WITH DISABILITY WORKSHOP_ON THE PODCAST:The Discipline of Inspiration by Carey WallaceImage Seminar: The Discipline of Inspiration (a five-week craft workshop)Slow Productivity by Cal NewportJon Batiste interview on Fresh AirOnce a Queen: A Novel by Sarah ArthurOnce a Castle by Sarah Arthur _CONNECT with Carey Wallace on her website (disciplineofinspiration.org), Instagram (@disciplineofinspiration), or Facebook (@disciplineofinspiration)._WATCH this conversation on YouTube by clicking here. Read the full transcript and access detailed show notes by clicking here or visiting amyjuliabecker.com/podcast._ABOUT THE GUEST:Carey Wallace is the author of The Discipline of Inspiration (Eerdmans), The Blind Contessa's New Machine (Penguin), and The Ghost In The Glass House (Clarion). She works to help people from all walks of life find inspiration and build strong creative habits to sustain a lifetime of creation. She performs as a songwriter, exhibits her own fine art, and has spoken on art, faith, and justice with students at Princeton, Julliard, Emory, Pratt, and Yale. Her articles and poems have appeared in Time, Detroit's Metro Times, and America. She is the founder of a retreat for artists in Michigan, and the Discipline of Inspiration creative habit formation program, which has been in operation for over a decade across the US and internationally. She grew up in small towns in Michigan, and lives and works in Brooklyn. _Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Thanks for listening!

Let's talk about the debt ceiling not mattering.... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/beau-of-the-fifth-column/support

In this compelling episode of the Passion Struck podcast, Dr. Zoe Chance, Yale professor and author of Influence Is Your Superpower, joins John R. Miles to uncover the science behind winning hearts and minds through ethical interpersonal influence. Dr. Chance dives deep into the ways we can harness influence to create meaningful change—not just in our personal lives but in the world around us.The conversation explores how influence, when used ethically, becomes a tool for connection rather than manipulation. Dr. Chance shares research-backed strategies on how to negotiate confidently, build trust, and align with others to achieve positive outcomes. Listeners will walk away with actionable insights into how to use influence to elevate relationships, inspire others, and drive real-world impact.Whether you're leading a team, managing relationships, or simply looking to improve your communication skills, this episode provides powerful tools to win hearts while staying true to your values.Full show notes and resources:  https://passionstruck.com/zoe-chance-apply-the-science-of-winning-hearts/SponsorsBabbel: Unlock the power of learning a new language with Babbel's innovative system. Passion Struck listeners can get 60% off their subscription at Babbel.com/PASSION.Hims: Regrow your hair before it's too late! Start your free online visit today at Hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.Quince: Experience luxury for less with Quince's premium products at radically low prices. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at Quince.com/PASSION.For more information about our sponsors and promo codes, visit: passionstruck.com/dealsIn this episode, you will learn:The importance of reaching out to individuals at the right time to influence their decisions effectively.Insights from Dr. Zoe Chance on interpersonal influence and how it can be used ethically and effectively.The significance of social support in the writing process and the challenges authors face in getting their work recognized.The impact of influential teachers and mentors on personal growth and resilience.The role of behavioral science in understanding consumer behavior and decision-making.The concept of "moments of truth" in customer experience and how timing affects influence.The distinction between System 1 (unconscious, instinctive) and System 2 (conscious, analytical) thinking and their relevance in influencing others.Connect with Dr. Zoe Chance: https://www.zoechance.com/Order Passion StruckUnlock the principles that will transform your life! Order my book, Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life. Recognized as a 2024 must-read by the Next Big Idea Club, this book has earned accolades such as the Business Minds Best Book Award, the Eric Hoffer Award, and the Non-Fiction Book Awards Gold Medal. Order your copy today and ignite your journey toward intentional living!Catch More Passion StruckMy solo episode on How Your Environment Influences Who You BecomeCan't miss my episode with Alison Fragale on Master the Science of Status for SuccessWatch my episode with David S. Yeager on the Science of Inspiring Young MindsDiscover my interview with Finnian Kelly on How You Recode Your Mind and Manifest YouCatch my interview with Amanda Slavin on How to Change Lives By Inspiring ChangeIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review! Even one sentence helps. Be sure to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can personally thank you!