The Workplace Therapist Show: Recent Episodes
Brandon Smith
Curing Dysfunction from the Cubicle to the Corner Office.
Got a bad boss? Struggling with what’s next in your career? Work/life balance out of whack? Making your job and your life better is what “The Workplace Therapist Show” is all about. I promise to bring you some of the best ideas, experts and life hacks. And most importantly, I promise not to hold back. There will be no sugar-coating or avoiding the tough conversations. My commitment to you is to always be real, honest and a little bit irreverent.
Excited for my conversation with Erin Diehl on this episode of the podcast. We talk improv in the workplace for helping team members feel seen, heard and valued. Plus, Erin shares her MOVE ON method for mental and physical healing.
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with “The Sacred Meaning of Everyday Work” author, Robert Tribken. Robert is such a cool guy--with an MBA and a theology background he has a unique perspective about work. We continue our theme of purpose and discuss how to see the value in everyday tasks. It’s a powerful conversation. I hope you’ll listen in!
For President’s Day, we’re revisiting Brandon’s most recent episode with Licensed Counselor, Mazi Robinson on strengthening our resiliency muscle. Anxiety levels are at an all time high…. Mazi notes that our anger is often unaddressed anxiety. But take heart, Mazi walks us through how to build resiliency and turn things around.
Fair promotions, well-matched managers and fewer meetings. Inc. columnist, author and friend of the show, Jeff Haden returns to share three things you, as a leader must do in 2023 to set your team - and the business as a whole - up for success.
It’s official! My latest book, “The Author vs. Editor Dilemma: The Leadership Secret to Unlocking Your Team, Your Time, and Your Impact" is now available in audiobook format. In celebration, we’re releasing a sneak peek of the book as I read Chapter 1. You’ll meet Carlos, a new CEO doing his best to learn about his team and lead them in the right direction. You’ll get an intro to urgency, the hero trap and “two seats” (Author and Editor)… but that’s just the start! Head over to Audible and begin your journey through all eight chapters after the episode.
Today’s episode is the perfect follow-up to our show last week on gaining visibility. While your good works catch the eye of your boss, they also catch the eye of fellow employees. Potentially toxic employees who are seeking the same promotion as you. Berta Aldrich, author of “Winning the Talent Shift”, shares how to navigate this new challenge.
Today’s Workplace Therapist Show is all about building confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome and fostering a culture of safety. My guest, Susan Barber, shares 3 ways to increase your visibility factor. It’s a great conversation and I know you’ll take lots of notes just like I did.
If you’re like me, you’ve set new goals for 2023. But how do we make those changes stick? It’s the first new podcast release of the new year and my guest, Stan Ward, is bringing us the perfect topic. Today, he shares the tips and tricks for creating positive, sustainable change. Listen in as he explains “small experiments” and pairing the change we want with something that’s already working in our lives.
Merry Christmas! While the team is on holiday celebrating the season with family, we hope you enjoy this special episode from sister show, The Leadership Foundry Podcast. Brandon co-hosts the discussion on leading self featuring past guests, Ken Keen, Ashley Freeman and Darren Virassammy. May you find encouragement, inspiration and practical ways to better yourself as a leader as you listen. And if you haven't already, subscribe to "The Leadership Foundry Podcast" for new episodes on how you can be a better leader in 2023!
Excited to have my friend and mentor, Len Leritz, back on the show to discuss how to have better conversations. (It’s all about focusing on the other person, folks!)
Super excited about my conversation today with friend, colleague and returning guest, David Papa. Listen in as we discuss authenticity, fear, control and how to be your best self.
Today we’re releasing our 250th show celebration episode featuring:
Rick Gilkey
Ken Keen
Saundra Dalton-Smith
Steve Robinson
Mazi Robinson
… and a very special co-host, my daughter, Abby Smith!
Listen in to hear timeless highlights on how the brain works, leading under pressure, the rest you need, building culture, managing anxiety and more.
I had a lot of fun recording this episode and I know you’ll find value in listening. Enjoy!
Always love revisiting the RAPKG podcast with my dear friend and business partner, Randy Hain, the week of Thanksgiving.
RAPKG means showing Random Acts of Praise, Kindness and Gratitude - an action which we can always use reminding of. An action which should always be in practice.
As we get intentional this week, spending time in conversation with family and friends - let’s remember to both talk about it and show it… even beyond the dinner table.
Today on the Workplace Therapist Show, we’re talking about “The Secret Lives of Customers” with author, David Duncan. The word “customer” can have many definitions… customers can be internal or external. Listen in as David and I talk collecting the right data, working from home vs. the office and where vulnerability comes into play.
Today, I’m honored to have my friend and mentor of 20 years, Len Leritz, join me for an episode of The Workplace Therapist Show. Len takes us on a deep dive into the framework of how we think about how we process the world. It’s that internal communication - the lens we look through - that can cause problems for us especially if we’re reading from old scripts and beliefs. Listen in - I know you’ll find this episode as helpful and insightful as I did!
October marks Emotional Wellness Month and if you’re listening to this on the release date of October 10, today specifically is World Mental Health Day. Emotional well-being is an important topic. Today, we’re revisiting Brandon’s conversation with The Mental Health Comedian Frank King.
Over our last few episodes, we’ve discussed navigating through conflict, managing anxiety, building resiliency and self-awareness. In essence: we’ve learned about showing more kindness to others and ourselves. Another way we can take this a step further is to place ourselves in the shoes of others. We never know the battles someone else is facing, but with a little empathy, we can be better fellow human beings. I’m excited to be joined on a new episode today by Rob Volpe to share “Five Steps to Empathy”.
“In all drama, there’s always a lack of clarity.”
Such insight from today’s podcast guest, Marlene Chism. We have a great conversation filled with tips for guiding you through difficult conversations and moderating conflict.
I hope you'll listen in!
“In all drama, there’s always a lack of clarity.”
Such insight from today’s podcast guest, Marlene Chism. We have a great conversation filled with tips for guiding you through difficult conversations and moderating conflict.
I hope you'll listen in!
Happy Labor Day! I hope you’re off enjoying some time with family and friends. You know, we only have 4 months left in 2022. As things begin to rev back up for the fall season, it’s a great time to examine where our focus lies. To help us on this journey, we’re revisiting my podcast conversation with Andy Storch, Author of "Own Your Career, Own Your Life" on mindset.
Happy Labor Day! I hope you’re off enjoying some time with family and friends. You know, we only have 4 months left in 2022. As things begin to rev back up for the fall season, it’s a great time to examine where our focus lies. To help us on this journey, we’re revisiting my podcast conversation with Andy Storch, Author of "Own Your Career, Own Your Life" on mindset.
Last month, Emily and I had the pleasure of traveling to Las Vegas for the 2022 NAPA Expo. I spoke to over 18,000 regional managers and store owners about how to master urgency when everything is urgent.
Today, we’re sharing takeaways from our time at the Expo, including some key challenges I see many leaders facing on a new episode.
“The only thing that frees us from anxiety is doing the thing you are afraid to do.” So many nuggets of advice for facing anxiety head-on today in a new episode of The Workplace Therapist Show with Licensed Counselor, Mazi Robinson. Mazi notes that our anger is often unaddressed anxiety. And folks, today we talk about how we’ve entered “next level” anxiety in post-pandemic times. But take heart, Mazi also walks us through how to build resiliency and turn things around.
“The only thing that frees us from anxiety is doing the thing you are afraid to do.” So many nuggets of advice for facing anxiety head-on today in a new episode of The Workplace Therapist Show with Licensed Counselor, Mazi Robinson. Mazi notes that our anger is often unaddressed anxiety. And folks, today we talk about how we’ve entered “next level” anxiety in post-pandemic times. But take heart, Mazi also walks us through how to build resiliency and turn things around.
Thanks so much for being a loyal follower of The Workplace Therapist Show! With your support, we’ve had over 115,000 all-time downloads!
Did you know we also have a new podcast called The Leadership Foundry Podcast where we take a deeper dive into issues and roadblocks impacting leaders in today’s hybrid workplace?
We talk about things like “why good leaders fail” - an episode featuring Jim Wetrich, “Three Core Principles for First-Time CEOs” with Chad Costley and this episode you’re about to hear with Sam Horn on “How to Talk to the Decision-Maker Who Doesn’t want to Talk to You).
Check out The Leadership Foundry Podcast on iTunes and MyLeadershipFoudry.com where you can catch up on past episodes.
Now - enjoy this special edition with host, Brandon Smith and Guest, Sam Horn, Founder and CEO of The Intrigue Agency.
Why does it feel like we’re experiencing more conflict in today’s workplace? My guest Leslie Nydick, The Conflict Strategist, says: “we’re talking about the conflict instead of running from it.” In this episode, we discuss ways to resolve friction with toxic co-workers and minimize conflict altogether in the workplace.
We hope you’re enjoying some REST and relaxation this 4th of July! The podcast team is off today, so we’re revisiting this fantastic episode with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith on the 7 Types of Rest You Need.
Excited to have my eldest son, Noah, with me on today’s Workplace Therapist Show! We talk about life as a working teenager, balancing school and career goals, managing both employees and customers and why he recommends “don’t always follow the money” (#prouddadmoment!). Listen in!
With my new book “The Author vs. Editor Dilemma” officially available and in your hands this Thursday (6/23/2022), be sure to catch today’s special “Ask the Workplace Therapist” edition of The Workplace Therapist Show! Creative Director, Emily Smith, joins as we answer questions from our listeners. I’m sharing specific examples of how to “author up” and “edit down” in the workplace. We discuss how to be more proactive as a direct report and ways to encourage your team to embrace the “Author vs. Editor” workflow so they get excited about work, feel involved and appreciated.
It’s an exciting podcast day because producer, Whitney, and I are back in front of the mics to talk about my new book, “The Author vs. Editor Dilemma: The Leadership Secret to Unlocking Your Team, Your Time, and Your Impact" launching Thursday, June 23, 2022!
In this book, I explain how to “author up” and “edit down” so you can reclaim control of your life and win back hours in your week. Listen in to learn more!
Today, I’m reflecting on this special episode of The Workplace Therapist Show where producer, Whitney, and I discuss why I wrote “The Hot Sauce Principle” and how we can apply it to our working relationships today. While it’s a fun episode, it’s a great reminder that life is not meant to be an endless sea of to-dos. It’s a reminder that, taking control of our schedules, projects and other forms of urgency in our lives is a form a self-care - because that means more time for doing other things we enjoy.
“The greatest opportunity you have in your career is when you’re happy in it.” I’m excited to have Dr. Benjamin Ritter with me on today’s episode of The Workplace Therapist Show to talk about authoring a career you love. Together, we cover how to retain talent and the three buckets where leaders need to live for their teams.
More than 70% of us feel like pretenders; we feel like everyone around us has their life together while we continue to swing and miss. My guest today on The Workplace Therapist Show, Dr. Carolyn Goerner, has gone great lengths to combat imposter syndrome, including trying out for Broadway! While the feelings of imposter syndrome never fully go away, we can give such thoughts less power. We can learn to embrace our authentic self! On the podcast, Carolyn shares her three steps to do just that.
To celebrate the upcoming release of my book, The Hot Sauce Principle, on Audible, I'm sharing the first chapter on today's episode of The Workplace Therapist Show.
When the world shut down in March 2020, I was in the final editing stages of the book and felt a momentary sense of panic: had the book I spent all these months writing suddenly become obsolete? But still, two years after we first shut down, the urgency epidemic is as prevalent as ever.
So, I invite you to revisit and review The Hot Sauce Principle: How to Live and Lead in a World Where Everything is Urgent All of the Time.
Dive into the first chapter now!
If you're yearning for some learning, you've come to the right place. Today's Workplace Therapist Show guest is the World's Fastest Reader and holds the Guinness Book of World Records title (for reading more than 25,000 words a minute and writing more than 100 words a minute!) to match! Howard Berg joins me to explain the value of schema, comprehension and EQ for faster learning.
I've got an inspiring conversation with Michael Unbroken for this edition of the podcast. Michael is a coach and advocate for adult survivors of childhood trauma and, while his story can be hard to hear, he has turned his own journey around serving as a guiding light for others today. We talk about clarity being key to self-discovery and how to avoid growth derailers.
Ed Frauenheim joins me on today's Workplace Therapist Show to take a deep dive into gender roles. Specifically, he breaks down the 5 C's needed to make a shift in the way we view masculinity. In his findings, Ed explains how the best leaders are perceived as being the most open... and that's leading with heart!
A common theme I've noticed spanning across our recent podcasts is the concept of self-care. While it may seem counterintuitive, a leader's ability to show up for their team (through things like eating well and sleeping soundly) puts us in a better place to serve. Terri Lonowski of Soulful Listening joins me to share her secrets for becoming a better communicator. Two key takeaways? Listen more than you speak... and take care of yourself. It all comes together folks!
This show is the GOAT! (And if you're not sure what that means, you definitely need to revisit this "Generational Communication" episode with my daughter, Abby Smith.
If your boss can trust you to get work done and take care of any fires that arise, you'll give them the ability to work ON their business (instead of IN the business). And that's what every boss wants this year for Christmas.
To understand our strengths, we must be vulnerable to recognize our weaknesses. Today on the podcast, CANDOR Founder and CEO, Tish Squillaro joins me to discuss the seven emotions. Specifically, we tap into three steps for leaders to overcome thoughts of insecurity.
It's no secret that our careers look different at 50 than they do at 25. On the podcast today, John Tarnoff joins me to share tips for bulletproofing your career and three factors you need to understand to face this new set of challenges. John is an Executive & Career Transition Coach, Career Strategist for Mid-Late Career Professionals and author of "Boomer Reinvention: How to Create Your Dream Career Over 50." I know you'll take as many notes as I did!
With the pandemic still in force and year-end holidays approaching, we're discussing a heavier topic on The Workplace Therapist Show today. To bring hope and humor, 7x TED Talk speaker and Tonight Show writer, Frank King - The Mental Health Comedian joins me to talk about suicide and depression. We discuss signs you or a loved one might be struggling, the necessity of a self-care plan and how we can better handle mental health in the workplace.
In honor of the holiday week, I'm pulling one of my favorite shows on gratitude from the vault. My friend and business partner, Randy Hain, explains RAPKG (Random Acts of Praise, Kindness and Gratitude) and shares ways we can communicate this in the workplace and at home.
I'm excited to be joined by Rusty Chadwick, Director at WinShape Teams and Co-Author of the book, TEAM WORK. Rusty and I discuss the two characteristics of a high performing team and the role leaders play in both forming teams... and keeping them together. This is important information in today's hybrid workplace! I took a lot of helpful notes and know you will too.
When working from home, it can be easy to feel undervalued at work. "Out of sight, out of mind" - right? We're sharing tips for handling unappreciative co-workers and answer your other workplace relationship questions on this Ask the Therapist edition of The Workplace Therapist Show.
Do the pandemic and a hybrid work schedule still have you feeling a little... lost? We're talking purpose, lazy co-workers, and how to deal with that suspected office romance on this "Ask the Therapist" edition of the podcast.
"Fear can be a driver or a barricade". What is fear to you? Today on a new episode of The Workplace Therapist Show, Jacqueline Wales, Author of The Fearless Factor and The Fearless Factor @ Work, shares how to thrive through fear and build trust in a distrustful world. A topic we could all learn more about!
On this episode of the podcast, I’m excited to welcome back my good friend and business partner, Randy Hain, as we discuss his new book: Essential Wisdom for Leaders of Every Generation. Randy explains candor, clarity and communication (three ingredients he says form the compass for leaders and aspiring leaders), along with tips for protecting the “air” in your calendar.
How can we make ourselves stand out in a company? Today, my good friend John Kim returns to the show to discuss the world of consulting and how to ask the right questions in your business.
From leading Haiti earthquake relieve efforts, to working in Pakistan after Osama bin Laden was killed, Ken Keen has seen just about everything. He joins me today to discuss leading through crisis and how you can apply some of these concepts in your own workplaces.
How do show up for our team as a whole leader? Today on the show, Rob McKenna joins me to discuss how to build up your team and become the leader your were meant to be!
Today on the podcast I’m welcoming back Jennifer Kahnweiler, speaker, researcher and author of several leadership books including “Quiet Influence” and “The Introverted Leader.” Jennifer and I discuss how the “new normal” work environment affects both the extroverts and introverts on your team. If you’re wondering how, as a leader, you can support your people to be their best, Jennifer suggests the answer involves getting curious and listening.
In this conversation we chat about:
- The benefits of an out-of-office workplace experience in its ability to allow focus and promote productivity
*How a hybrid workplace affects the introverts and extroverts on your team
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How to run a virtual meeting where everyone participates
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How to promote community for the introverts and extroverts on your team.
Books, Articles, Tools & Resources mentioned on this episode:
Check out Jennifer’s latest research and the article she wrote about the advantages of working from home.
Introverts Working From Home: How to Make Them Thrive
Do you wonder how conducive your workplace is to introverts’ success? Use Jennifer’s assessment tool to find out!
Creating An Introvert-Friendly Workplace Quiz
In our conversation, Jennifer mentioned a recent HBR article about the considerations companies need to take in determining what the future of work should look like for their organization. You can read that at How to Do Hybrid Right.
Jennifer’s Life Hack for Better Conversations in the Workplace and Beyond:
Take time apart from those you’re with. Make sure you take breaks from people; get outside and take time away to allow yourself a chance to reset. Outside is a healthy SPACE, use it for your good!
What makes a Whole Person Workplace? Today’s guest, Scott Behson, author of “The Whole Person Workplace” and Professor of Management and the Silberman Global Faculty Fellow at Fairleigh Dickinson University has just written a book to help us answer the question. Scott explained the title of his book came from a quote from one of the people he interviewed as part of his research. He says, “The person told me, ‘We have to recognize we get the whole person through the door. We get their hands, back, heart and mind. And they’re at all different places in their lives. We have realize we have to do our very best to take care of them.'" If you’d like to learn more about Scott, check him out at his website. And if you’d like a copy of his latest book or any of his previous ones, you can order them at amazon or wherever books are sold!
There’s no doubt that after 18 months of living during the COVID pandemic, there’s a pervading sense of weariness and low-level anxiety. As my guest, Jason Wasser describes it, we’re living in a state of “Present Traumatic Stress Disorder which creates a mid-level of daily stress before our day has even begun. If you’re feeling exhausted, you’re not the only one. So, should you be taking a Mental Health Day to re-set? Perhaps, though most of us won’t. Today Jason and I dive in to explore the beliefs and stories we tell that keep us from giving ourselves the care we need.
We talk about reverse-engineering the lives we want and the questions to ask in order to get there.
I love these questions Jason presents: What are you here to do? How do you get your stakeholders rallied around a common cause?
What’s the most important thing to do for you?
What beliefs do you have that prevent you from feeling like you have a choice?
Why do you feel GUILTY for taking self-care?
What makes you feel like you’re being selfish?
What are the should’s and supposed to's that are keeping you from doing it?
What are you afraid to ask for?
As always, Jason and I have a great conversation, I hope you’ll listen in. If you want to learn more about Jason, check him out at Jason Wasser or listen to his podcast at The You Winning Life Podcast.
It’s an Ask the Therapist segment on the podcast this week! Listen in as my favorite producer and I take on some of your toughest questions from when you think you might be bad at your job to your boss’s social media, to remote team motivation. We have some great conversations—I hope you’ll #listenin!
Do you or does someone on your team struggle with ADHD? Dyslexia? Sensory dysfunction? How can you and those around you create a better environment so that everyone can do their best work? Today my guest is Alex Golden Gilbert, founder of Cape-able Consulting, who specializes in assisting clients who have learning challenges discover the tools to thrive in the workplace and beyond. It’s an important conversation to have with yourself as well as the members of your team and even your boss. Alex does a great job providing ideas of how to successfully approach these conversations. If you’d like to learn more about Alex’s work and all the great stuff she does in the world, check her out at Cape-Able Consulting. You can also find her on LinkedIn at Alex Gilbert on LinkedIn.
Post-pandemic has been a perfect time for some self-reflection and to ask ourselves “what is it I really need?” This week’s guest, Jette Stubbs host of the “Happy Career Formula” Podcast and I talk about applying this as a career question in order to find career bliss. There’s a lot to consider—I hope you’ll #listen in!
When we think of the workplace, fun isn't one of the first words that come to mind for many of us. But my guest today, Dr. Bob Nelson is on a mission to change that! Dr. Bob and I discussed how we can reinforce good behavior in fun ways and what people can learn in his newest book!
Today I’m excited to introduce my guest, Andy Storch, author, speaker and host of the “Own Your Career Own Your Life” podcast. Today Andy and I discuss the Power of Perspective and Mindset. Andy shares some great insight about how to practically shift your focus in a way that benefits and empowers us to change it’s powerful stuff. Want to learn more about Andy and all the Great work he’s doing in the world? Buy a copy of his book: “Own Your Career, Own Your Life.” Wanna find out more about Andy’sThree Questions? Check out his materials at ownyourcareerownyourlife.bonus And listen in on his podcast, Own Your Career Show.
What we don’t do well at work, we often don’t do well at home. Challenges in our personal life are often challenges in our professional life. This week’s guest is Dr Ian Brooks, founder of Rhodes Smith Consulting and author of the recently published book “Intention: Building Capabilities to Transform Your Story”. We discuss how to make changes in our daily lives, from identifying what needs to be different, to achieving it. It’s a great conversation—I hope you’ll #listenin!
“There’s no such thing as work-life balance.” If you’re struggling to find the ever-elusive work-life balance, you’re not alone. Today’s guest is Jen Fisher, Deloitte Consulting’s Chief Well-Being Officer in the United States. In this role, she drives the strategy and innovation around work-life, health, and wellness. She empowers Deloitte’s people to prioritize their well-being so they can be at their best in both their professional and personal lives. Fisher frequently speaks and writes about well-being at work and hosts WorkWell, a podcast series on the latest work-life trends. This week her new book, “Work Better Together,” which she co-authored with her colleague, Anh Phillips, debuts on Amazon and wherever else you buy books. Check it out here!If you liked listening to Jen or want to find out more about what she does, check out her podcast WorkWell, or find her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-fisher-7403868
How would you act differently if you had to live with your customers 24-7? What about if you had to live with your co-workers 24-7? That’s the experience of today’s guest, Paul Rutter. Paul has had over 40 years in the Hospitality/Travel/Cruise industries. Having served as Cruise Director onboard some of the largest and most luxurious cruise ships in the world, Paul has enjoyed a unique experience. He’s author of "Repeat Business Inc: The Business of Staying in Business" and his new upcoming book "You Can't Make This Ship Up: Business Strategies, Life Lessons and True Stories from 40 Years at Sea" will be available on Amazon later this month.
This week’s podcast guest is Nicole Tschierske, a scientist-turned-career coach who is passionate about helping women in science and tech get noticed in their companies. Her goal is to help them gain the recognition they deserve so they can achieve their career goals with ease. Nicole and I talk about a number of topics, including how the unhelpful labels "impostor syndrome" and "lack of confidence" sabotage our career growth and the secret to building senior-level credibility. Nicole also shares what she calls “the last advice you’ll ever need to build your expert credibility.” It’s a great conversation—I hope you’ll listen in! Want to learn more about the work Nicole is doing in the world? You can check out her website intoactioncoaching.de or follow her on LinkedIn under Dr. Nicole Tschierske.
Emotionally intelligent people have more success with their teams, build better networks, and even get promoted more frequently. Want to improve your own EQ? Today’s guest, Irvine Nugent, author, speaker and EQ expert shares with us how to do it. So curious, ask better questions, discover your personal “triggerprint” & more!
With all the competing priorities of life, do you find you have trouble focusing? Today’s show guest is Penny Zenker, Focusologist, consultant, author, and host of the “Take Back Time” podcast. Penny shares with me her ingenious formula for prioritizing to get things done and makes a great point about leading with accountability versus ownership. Penny is smart, witty and lots of fun. Hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!
Do you think a corporation’s recent ban of non-work conversation on the company’s interoffice communication system was “Off Base”? On this week’s podcast I chat with Liger Partners Production intern, and my favorite daughter Abby Smith, about workplace distractions and questioning: what’s the workplace for?
This week I’m happy to share my recent appearance on “The Expert Authority World” Podcast with host Mario Fachini. I had a great time talking to Mario about determining your team’s priorities, leading in uncertainty and having healthy feedback conversations with your people. We have a great dialogue; I hope you’ll tune in!
Today I’m answering listener questions on the podcast!Wondering how to manage at home teams while you’re in the office? Need to know how to strategically take a vacation or are you wondering exactly what “psychological safety” is and if you’re doing it right? Then this is your show! We’re unpacking a lot. Listen in!
Sheryl Crow’s not the only one with a favorite mistake. Today my podcast guest is Mark Graban, author, consultant, and host of the “My Favorite Mistake Podcast.” Mark asks all his guests to describe their favorite mistake they’ve made in their careers and how it grew them. We have a great conversation about the value of working in a mistake-embracing culture.
Disruptive co-workers lurk in dark places—but only if we let them! Today’s podcast guest, Phyllis Quinlan, and I discuss how to shed light on “chronically uncivil behavior” and workplace bullies to rid of their unwanted conduct once and for all. It’s a great conversation—listen in!
This week’s podcast guest is Jena Viviano, Career Strategist, CEO and Host of the Recruit the Employer Podcast. Jena is passionate about helping others thrive in their careers and today she explains the power of networking and how to do it in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling slimy! Jena shares her wit and humor as well as her best tips for this great conversation. I hope you’ll listen in!
He’s not quite a super hero, but this week on the podcast, I ask my good friend and business partner, Randy Hain, what behaviors in teams alert his spidey senses that they may be struggling? Randy identifies three indicators that a team is struggling and shares what team leaders can do TODAY to address it. It’s a great conversation; I hope you’ll listen in.
In a world of uncertainty, how can you be sure you’re making the right decision? If you struggle with decision fatigue, you’re not the only one. Today my guest Jodi Hume, Decision Making Strategist and co-host of the “So, Here’s My Story" Podcast, and I discuss the power of resilience, hope, and agency in the decision-making process.
After a year of WFH (working from home), how are you doing? How is your team doing? How well have you been able to focus on the “employee experience” for your team and direct reports? What are the questions you should be asking them on a regular basis? That’s the topic of today’s conversation with my guest Rachel Cooke, Founder of Lead Above the Noise and host of “The Modern Mentor Podcast.” We have a great conversation, I hope you’ll listen in.
What better way to kick off the week than with a little “Motivation Conversation”? My guest is Jeff Haden, prolific Inc. writer, speaker, and author of the recent book “The Motivation Myth: How High Achievers Really Set Themselves Up to Win.” Listen in as Jeff shares insights from his work with greats like Venus Williams, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and Mark Cuban. This conversation is inspirational, motivational, and just plain fun! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I had so much fun appearing on Allan Draper’s podcast “The Business Growth Podcast” last week! We talked about leadership, partnership, and managing the “hot sauce” in our urgent lives. I hope you’ll give it a listen!
How can you create a daily routine in today’s non-routine world? Better yet, why should you? It’s about building boundaries to protect your time, relationships, and mental health. Important stuff! Don’t miss my conversation with Katherine Crowley, host of the “My Crazy Office” podcast and co-author of “Working for You Isn't Working for Me."
When friends and colleagues expressed despair at the state of political discord within their community, Tania Israel set out to facilitate healthy conversations to close the divide. Her book “Beyond Your Bubble: How to Connect Across the Political Divide, Skills and Strategies for Conversations That Work” was the result of her work. She encourages all of us to reach out to those on the other side—no matter which “side” you’re on. I was so grateful to get to sit down and talk with Tania and hope you find this conversation meaningful as well.
This week on the podcast, Jeff Sanders, host of the 5AM Miracle podcast promises to help us “dominate our day before breakfast.” If you’ve struggled with your morning routine or want to create better habits to focus on your work, listen in as Jeff and I share a productive conversation about being intentional and setting goals.
Today on the podcast we’ve got 2 listener questions to address! First, what to do when your arch nemesis gets promoted to your boss? Also, how do you keep your corporate offices from squabbling with each other? You probably won’t be surprised when I tell you “clarity” is key to all of it!
What if there were just four questions you needed to ask in order to figure out the perfect hire for your team? Today’s guest, Allan DeNiro, says that’s the truth! Curious to know what they are? Join us as we discuss how to have better conversations during your interviews so that you can hire better-fitting candidates!
Many leaders struggle with focus, prioritizing and communication. If you work with one or you are one yourself, today’s Leadership Therapy Episode is about how to clarify roles and expectations with your ADD boss so that your team thrives.
So excited to have leadership guru John Baldoni as a guest on this week’s podcast! We discuss leading with empathy and grace and John details how to provide your team focus and clarity while you give them space and the resources to not only survive, but thrive. SO many nuggets!
How do we bring more joy to our lives and the way we operate in the world? As we close the days of 2020, a year where fear was pervasive and overwhelming, we look ahead to finding a way to live life more joyfully.
Today’s guest is Maureen Sweatman, Chief JOY Officer and Certified Career & Life Coach at Joyful Living. In addition to her Coaching Certification, Maureen holds an M.Div & MBA from Emory University. She explains that people come to her when they’re unhappy or struggling in their careers and usually want her help in finding a better job or employment path. But she says her real job is “holding people accountable to choosing joy.” We often think that joy is just going to one day descend upon us, but that’s not how we actually achieve joy.
Maureen Offers us 5 Steps To Creating More Joy in Your Life.
First, we must debunk the myth that Joy is a destination. The truth is that joy is within you right now, but you have to choose it. And the work is the choosing.
Need a positive, upbeat 2020 Transformation story? Here ya go! Tune in for my conversation with Dr. Shayna Smith who shares how she found the courage this year to take the plunge to go after what she’s always wanted and build her own practice. Way to go, Shayna!
It’s been a trying year, leaving many struggling with a sense of loss and grief. How can leaders help their team—or, in some cases, themselves—cope and get through the grieving process? That’s what my guest Anthony Casablanca, co-author of The Dying Art of Leadership: How Leaders Can Help Grieving Employees Excel at Work and I discuss on this week’s show.It’s a meaningful conversation.
I’ve heard countless tales that 2020 has inspired many to make changes in their careers and beyond. Today I’m kicking off a series to share some of these awesome stories. Tune in to hear how Scott Raven and Wayne Hutchison made transformations in their careers and lives this year.
Difficult conversations: What makes them successful? How should you prepare? When should you do them? Just a few of the questions I asked Jason Wasser, LMFT and host of the You Winning Life Podcast this week on the show. It’s a great conversation for the workplace and beyond.
The greatest blessing and curse of remote working is that we can do our job any time, anywhere. Are you having trouble turning “off” work? You’re not the only one! Today Wayne Turmel of the Remote Leadership Institute provides practical advice for creating work/life boundaries in a virtual workday workspace.
Combining passion for therapy and entrepreneurship, this week I was a guest on You Winning Life, a podcast where I discussed healthy, productive, fulfilling and dysfunctional-free leadership. Enjoy the podcast!
Today more than ever, it’s imperative that our team and work culture—even our culture at home reflects the mantra of “We’re All in this Together.” This week’s guest, author/speaker/consultant, Mike Robbins recently released a book by that title and in our conversation described the tenets, what he calls “the 4 Pillars of creating a team culture of high performance.”
Mike describes his life growing up playing baseball and how he observed the power of team chemistry. He noticed sometimes he was on teams with lesser talent that could win against more talented teams simply because they worked better together. Working in the corporate world after baseball, Mike was surprised to learn team chemistry and culture isn’t just a sports thing, it’s a human thing. He’s been on the quest to solve the puzzle of how do we create a winning environment of positive team culture for our teams ever since.
Today the game has changed completely as we’re working from home. We’re more challenged, but team culture is more important than ever.
What can help us create team chemistry better? Mike shares the ideas behind the 4 Pillars:
1. Create Psychological Safety: Group Trust comes from how the leader of the team operates. How do you actually behave when things go wrong or someone makes a mistake? It’s how we respond sets the tone for the team. As a leader, if you don’t operate in a way that allows for error or ask for forgiveness or accept a mistake, then your team definitely won’t. The more a leader is willing to share their humanity with their team then the more likely the team will be to trust their leader.
2. Embrace Sweaty Palm Conversations
“You know what stands between you and the relationships you really want to have with other people? It’s probably a ten minute sweaty palm conversation you’re too afraid to have. If you get good at having those conversations, you’ll build trust, resolve conflict, and you’ll get to know other people who are different than you. If you lean in, you’ll build incredibly strong relationships, but it’s a practice.” – Mike Robbins
Difficult conversations are more like fish than wine—they don’t age well.
Start with the truth—begin with authentic place.
Tell the truth when having a difficult conversation. Be transparent. Own how you’re feeling; address it. It makes sense to say something like “I really don’t want to have this conversation because it’s difficult. However, my relationship with you/the team is more important than how I feel.”
Being a leader means choosing courage over comfort when it really matters.
I’m feeling really uncomfortable, but I want better for us.
Own how you are feeling using “I” statements/“I feel upset because…” I own how I am feeling and I don’t blame you for how I feel.
If we can lead with vulnerability, we’re likely to incite empathy from the other person.
3. Care about and challenge each other—I had a Coach at Stanford who told me that he always believed as a coach. “I have to love you hard so I could coach you hard can we care about each other so that we can push each other to the next level? Care a lot and challenge a lot, but the care has to come first.
We all know what challenging others looks like, but what does it look like to care about people?
Listen to them. Ask them how they are and actually listen.
Appreciate—distinct from recognition—valuing people for who they are, even when they fail. Being curios and interested. You don’t have to like someone to care about them. You don’t have to know about them intimately, it’s about finding that common ground humanity.
Life Hack: How to have better conversations or healthier relationships at work or home? Ask for FEEDBACK—Ask our spouse/kids/co-workers what could I start doing that I’m not doing? What could I stop doing that I’m doing? What should I continue doing?
Learn more about Mike or buy one of his five awesome books at mike-robbins.com.
After the Georgia governor lifted the COVID-19 shelter in place order in May, Jackson Healthcare President, Shane Jackson and his leadership team began putting in place protocols to get the company’s employees back in the office in a safe way. From changing cleaning procedures, cafeteria guidelines and elevator logistics, Jackson Healthcare had countless considerations to make before re-opening its doors. Jackson describes the importance of transparency, about motives and allowing people time to consume the decisions made has been crucial. With so much difficulty in getting people back in the office, Jackson says others told him not to bother. Jackson believes it is important as a leader to have in-person work available for the company because of the mental toll working alone can have on people. Jackson says, “I believe at a minimum one of the kindest things I can do for our associates right now is to provide a safe place for them to socialize and collaborate with their colleagues. Working from home alone made me realize how much I missed people; I didn’t realize what it was doing to me and I’ve had associates tell me the same thing. There is power in being together.” Jackson concludes the ultimate decision of whether a company should go back in person depends on “knowing your people and knowing what’s best for them and the business.” Jackson’s tip for building better conversations and better relationships? “I don’t think you can be present with someone with a phone in your hand.”
On this week’s episode Brandon has a conversation with author, consultant, and host of the Badass Women at Any Age Podcast, Bonnie Marcus. They discuss the ways in which any employee should engage in their organization’s politics, and how women are uniquely challenged in getting ahead in the workplace. Bonnie emphasizes that “playing politics” is really about creating relationships where others understand your values, trust you, and are willing to be your champion. Brandon and Bonnie discuss the adage that “the three most important conversations about your career happen when you’re not in the room” and what you can do to make sure the outcomes are in your favor. In order to do this well, one must be a pro at self-advocating? Bonnie emphasizes that everyone, especially women, need to understand how to do it in a way that’s authentic and effective and clearly demonstrates how their work leads to positive business outcomes for their organization.
Ever wonder what top leader-coaches say to their teams that other leaders don’t? My guest, Bill Eckstrom did. After thousands of studies, he ID’d 4 behaviors that separate the good from the great. It’s a fantastic conversation: listen in!
Feeling anxious? You’re not the only one these days. Wondering how to cope well and get through these unprecedented times like a champ? My guest, Licensed Counselor Mazi Robinson, offers some great insight and ideas we can do today to make it better.
“How do I keep my team motivated?” This is the most commonly asked question that I’ve gotten recently and the focus of our show this week! Whether your team is virtual or a front-lines-in-person essential service, keeping them motivated these days is especially challenging. Listen in for some great tips and tricks!
Today’s podcast is one I recorded with Jeff Myers, Senior Pastor of Roswell Presbyterian Church the week before the pandemic struck. Though the world has changed, the tenets of great leadership have not. Jeff and I discuss how great leaders relate to their audience, train up their people, and provide a non-anxious presence. It’s a great conversation; I hope you’ll listen in!
Are you the “know it all” or the “learn it all”? Your answer reveals a Fixed or Growth Mindset approach to the world. Today I’m talking to Beth Egan about why it matters and the 4 Behaviors that propel us into the Growth Mindset.
Continuing our mission to help you improve your conversations and relationships at work is this week’s guest, Hermence Matsotsa. We discuss cross-cultural communication and the details we might be missing when we interact with others of different cultures. Fascinating!
What would it look like if instead of our performance we sought to measure our effectiveness by our state of inner peace? Is that even possible? Amy Balog thinks so. She teaches it every day. Listen in on how it can be done.
What do you do when you discover that others consider your leadership style aggressive (or passive aggressive)? Hopefully, you decide to make some changes! Today’s guest Krister Ungerbock, author and communication expert, can help. Listen in!
Leadership vs. Louder-ship. Who gets listened to, encouraged, and promoted in your workplace? Today’s guest Jennifer Kahnweiler explains how your organization can create introvert friendly workplaces so that everyone thrives and succeeds.
There’s a fine line between speaking candidly and being a jerk. How skilled are you at staying on the side of respectful candor? Today Randy Hain and I discuss how to have more candid conversations — and why. Looking to promote greater creativity? Increase productivity? Host more efficient meetings? Listen in.
Today we’re talking about my new book, The Hot Sauce Principle: How to Live and Lead in a World Where Everything Is Urgent All of the Time. Whitney and I have a great conversation on how we can better manage urgency in our lives. Listen in!
Today’s Leadership Lunch conversation is a broadcast of my recorded session with Kanyatta Walker, VP of Global Product and Technology at ADP. I hope you’ll tune in for some valuable insights to the conversations required to shape a stellar career. Good stuff!
Wondering how you’re going to break the news to your boss or how to say that awkward thing to your co-worker? Today’s Leadership Lunch is an “Ask the Therapist” segment all about difficult conversations.
Dr. Rob McKenna, author of COMPOSED and Founder and CEO of WiLD Leaders, returns to the show to share what a "composed" leader looks like.
On the hunt for a job or even a new career? What should your tactics be right now? Are there different Do’s & Don'ts in quarantine? Job Search Strategist Hallie Crawford helps us figure it out on the next Leadership Lunch!
Best networking tips as we work from home? My guest, Chi Chi Okezie has the tips you need on this edition of Leadership Lunch!
How's quarantine life for The Smith Kids? Listen in as Abby, Noah and Aaron share what they miss, what keeps them filled with hope and what they're looking forward to most in the future on this edition of Leadership Lunch.
Ash Merchant joins me to share about the lessons he learned living in close quarters with his family during his year long cross-country RV trip and how he made changes in his career when he returned.
The week before the pandemic created a world-wide shut-down, my good friend Angela Raub and I were in-studio discussing the career lessons she’s learned that led her to her spot as Leadercast President and CEO. While the world may look a little different today than it did the day we recorded, the lessons she shares are as relevant as ever.
Tom Smith, Economics Professor at Emory University Goizueta Business School, joins me for Leadership Lunch to talk about the current state of our economy and what “recovery” might look like.
It's all about the strategery on today's Leadership Lunch edition of The Workplace Therapist Show as John Kim, my friend and Emory University Goizueta Business School professor, joins me live! We discuss higher education during COVID, planning for the future and, of course, share the positivity we've witnessed this week!
David Papa joins me during this quarantine edition of the show to talk meditation, mindfulness and how to discover which "new normal" matches you.
How would you feel if you were a High School Senior and having your senior year “taken away?”
Check out my interview with my high school senior, Abby Smith, as I ask her about how she’s coping with the loss of prom, graduation and even the challenge of making a college decision without the ability to visit campuses.
As we enter Week 3 of the Virtual Workplace, how are you doing? On this special Leadership Lunch / quarantine edition of the show, Whitney and I keep the positive vibe alive with tips for safe Zoom meetings and fun family time ideas.
This week on a special edition of The Workplace Therapist Show, we're reviewing Week 2 of the Virtual Workplace and sharing ways to remain positive.
How is tele-working going for you and your team? My producer, Whitney and I go live to answer your questions and provide tips on working from home.
How do you lead restless, tech savvy, entrepreneurial people who want to change the world? On this week’s podcast Growing Leaders President, Tim Elmore, talks about developing the emerging generation and his latest book on GenZ.
Love it when awesome guests make a return to the studio! Today I’ve got Howard Flint, Ghost Partner Expert back to discuss the challenges, triumphs, and lessons of entrepreneurship.
Always a great conversation with this guy!
This week I am on the other side of the interview as I join Frank Bria on the 6 to 7 Figures Show! We discuss my work as the Workplace Therapist and how leaders can eliminate workplace dysfunction and create a positive and productive work environment.
Listen in to the Anthony Constantino, co-founder & CEO of Sticker Mule talk about his journey creating “the internet’s most kicka$$ brand.”
This week’s podcast guest is Shane Jackson, President of Jackson Healthcare. Listen in as we talk values, leadership, and insights from his book “Fostering Culture: a Leader’s Guide to Purposefully Shaping Culture.”
It’s an Ask the Therapist segment of The Brandon Smith Show!
Quarreling departments, lazy leaders, and non-descript job descriptions sound familiar?
Listen in as I coach others through their daily workplace dysfunction!
First episode at our new air time! Today it’s the “Do’s and Don’ts of Hiring” with Talent Consultant Lori Howell. We talk crafting job descriptions, getting team buy-in on your candidate and the ever-elusive “personality fit.”
How can you keep your energy, happiness, creativity and relationships thriving in the midst of never-ending daily stress and family and career demands?
That’s what Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith discusses today. It’s about REST!
Building an inclusive culture where your people “belong” is different than finding a place where they “fit.” Want to foster a more diverse, yet inclusive working environment? Melanie Miller, Inclusion Specialist tells you how.
Ever made a $2 million mistake at work? Today’s guest Steve Robinson did in his early days as CMO of Chick-fil-A. He talks about what he learned, how it changed his career and more. We’ll chat til, ya know, the cows come home!
Kicking off the New Year with one of my favorite recurring guests, Ret. Lt. General Ken Keen.
Goizueta’s Assoc. Dean of Leadership, Ken discusses “What you need to learn at each promotion.” Listen in!
As the year ends, it's a great time to reflect on lessons learned. Today on the podcast my good friend Randy Hain and I discuss our Client's Top 3 Career Challenges in 2019 and the strategies used to overcome them.