Building Thinkers: Accessible Blueprints for Learning & Life: Recent Episodes
Tracy Clark
Building Thinkers is based on the realization that there is exponential impact in the things we build, from mindsets and behaviors, to resumes and meal-plans, but sometimes insights and impact seem out of reach or overly complex. In the Building Thinkers podcast we will explore a wide range of topics (business, education, organization, habits, therapy, finances, research to name a few) unpacking the design, strategy, and details behind the things we build to create accessible blueprints for you to explore and apply to your own learning and life. There is no limit to what you can learn.
Ever struggled to get your message across with someone from a different culture?
On this episode of Building Thinkers, I’m sitting down with Anita Anthonj, the founder of Talaera, a platform that helps professionals communicate confidently and effectively across languages and cultures. We dive into why active listening is one of the most underrated skills, how language learning and cultural nuances go hand in hand, and what it actually looks like to build confidence when you’re not a native English speaker.
We also talk about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, including the myth of “having it all,” and why small wins (and even mistakes!) are such powerful tools for growth.
Key Takeaways
Effective communication goes beyond perfect grammar.
Active listening is crucial for building connections.
Understanding cultural nuances can enhance communication.
Mistakes are valuable learning opportunities.
Empowerment comes from recognizing choices in life design.
Asking for help can open new opportunities.
Cultural differences in parenting can provide valuable insights.
Connect with Anita:
Website: https://www.talaera.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitaanthonj/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
What if design isn’t just about making things look good, but about holding everything together?
I’m joined by Nick Cawthon in this week’s episode of Building Thinkers to talk about something that impacts all of us whether we realize it or not.. design. Nick has such a unique way of framing design as the glue that holds organizations together, and we dig into what that really looks like in practice.
We also talk about the fear that comes with change (because let’s be real, we’ve all felt it), and why keeping humans in the loop matters more than ever in a world that’s moving fast with AI. Nick shares his thoughts on what we hope our kids are learning, the value of trying and failing, and how our definitions of success shift over time.
This conversation left me thinking about how I define success for myself, and I think it’ll do the same for you.
Key Takeaways:
Building consensus is crucial in design processes to mitigate risks and enhance collaboration.
Fear can hinder adaptation to new technologies and processes in design.
The human element in design is essential for understanding emotions and user experiences.
Learning agility is vital for adapting to rapid changes in the design landscape.
Success is not just about big names but also about personal fulfillment and boundaries.
Creation should be prioritized over consumption to foster critical thinking and innovation.
Resources Mentioned:
Take the AI Maturity Assessment Here: https://retrain.gauge.io/
Connect with Nick:
Website: gauge.io
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickcawthon-ux-digital-agency-product-design-leadership/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
What if your business could actually help save the planet instead of just chasing profits?
In this episode, I sit down with Josh Dorfman, a seasoned entrepreneur focused on sustainability and real climate impact. We get into why integrating sustainability into business isn’t just good for the planet, it’s smart business, too.
Josh shares his journey from his early career in China to founding companies like Planted and Supercool, showing what it takes to build companies that prioritize environmental responsibility. We also dive into education, unlocking your potential, and why self-awareness can be a total game-changer for leaders.
If you care about building businesses that make a difference, or just want to understand what it really takes to lead with purpose, this episode is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways:
Sustainability should be integrated into business from the start.
Building a sustainable company requires clarity of vision and execution.
Sustainability is about living well on a finite planet.
Solutions to climate change can enhance business profitability.
Self-awareness is key in knowing when to pivot in business.
Hiring should be based on financial stability and market fit.
Education should focus on interpersonal skills and critical thinking.
Resources Mentioned:
Soundtracks by John Acuff
Connect with Josh:
Website: https://getsuper.cool/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorfmanjosh/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getsupercool
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4IUql4twk6OLOl8FTIwN5Z
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
What if the secret to a happier, more productive life isn’t doing more, but designing your day differently?
I chat with Bruce Stanley about day crafting, the art of intentionally shaping your daily routines to support personal growth and well-being. Bruce takes us through his journey from graphic design to adult education and coaching, and why he believes that chasing big goals isn’t the way to create meaningful change.
We dig into the challenges of modern productivity, how the nine-to-five grind can drain your energy, and why paying attention to your energy and connections throughout the day matters more than hitting “peak performance” once in a while. Bruce shares practical ideas for experimenting with your daily routines, prioritizing self-care, and creating small, memorable moments that enrich life.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in your routine or overwhelmed by big goals, this episode will give you a fresh, practical way to rethink your day and your life, one small step at a time.
Key Takeaways:
Day crafting focuses on designing your day intentionally.
The good life is a daily practice, not a future goal.
Energy management is crucial for effective daily routines.
Small experiments can lead to significant changes in daily life.
Breaking free from the nine-to-five mindset can enhance creativity.
Play and innovation are interconnected in daily practices.
Creating memorable moments enriches our life stories.
Resources Mentioned:
Daily Rituals by Mason Curry
Day Crafting Workbooks
Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
Connect with Bruce:
Website: https://www.daycrafting.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucestanley/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/day_crafting_/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
What if you didn’t have to start from scratch to spark real innovation?
In this episode, I talk with Natasha Munshi, a former cancer researcher turned strategist and business school dean, now driving impact through executive education. With roots in science and strategic leadership, she’s reshaping how leaders learn and innovate by blending social impact with smart business thinking. From her early work in breast cancer research to launching programs for minority women entrepreneurs, Natasha’s journey shows what’s possible when purpose meets creativity and resourcefulness.
We unpack what social innovation looks like, and it’s not limited to nonprofits or large-scale initiatives. Natasha shares how using existing resources, forging unlikely partnerships, and thinking creatively can lead to sustainable, meaningful change. We explore cross-sector collaboration, the value of generalists, and how even tools like sketch-noting and doodling can unlock big ideas.
This conversation is full of insights on rethinking potential, the future of education, and the deeply human traits that still matter most in an AI-driven world.
Key Takeaways:
Social innovation isn’t just for nonprofits.
Cross-sector partnerships are powerful.
You don’t need to start from scratch to be innovative.
Education should meet people where they want to go.
Both generalists and creative thinkers are crucial in today’s fast-changing world.
Human traits like empathy, curiosity, and emotional intelligence are more valuable than ever.
Resources Mentioned:
Thinkertoys: A Handbook of Creative Thinking Techniques by Michael Michalko: https://www.amazon.com/Thinkertoys-Handbook-Creative-Thinking-Techniques-2nd/dp/1580087736
Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World: https://www.amazon.com/Range-Generalists-Triumph-Specialized-World/dp/0735214484
Connect with Natasha:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-munshi/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
If you’re doing all the things in your business and still feel stuck, this one’s for you.
I sat down with Andrea Liebross, a powerhouse business coach who helps women entrepreneurs build businesses and lives they love. We went deep on what it really takes to delegate well, not just the systems and processes (though we talk about those too), but the mindset shift that has to happen first.
Andrea breaks down the 5 levels of delegation, why letting go feels so uncomfortable, and how to move forward even when you don’t feel ready. She also shares her acronym T.R.U.S.T., which is such a game-changer if you’ve been white-knuckling your to-do list.
We also talk about what to do when delegation doesn’t go as planned, and how clear communication is everything when you’re building a team or scaling your work.
If you're growing a business and constantly find yourself thinking, “It’d be faster if I just did it myself,” this conversation is for you. Andrea brings the perfect mix of strategy and mindset, and you’ll walk away with real, practical steps to start thinking bigger and leading with more clarity.
Key Takeaways:
Entrepreneurship is a journey in personal development.
Delegation is essential for business growth.
Clear communication is key to successful delegation.
Embracing the unknown can lead to greater opportunities.
Mindset plays a crucial role in delegation.
Delegation can be practiced and improved over time.
Having a vision makes delegation easier.
Resources Mentioned:
Turn That Ship Around by L. David Marquet
Connect with Andrea:
Website: https://andrealiebross.com/links/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
If you think creativity is just for artists, this episode will absolutely change your mind.
I sat down with Cyndi Burnett, an incredible creativity specialist, to dig into the real power of creativity, not just in art, but in how we solve problems, lead teams, educate others, and even take care of our own well-being. We talked about how science and art intersect in the creative process, how AI can be a partner in creativity rather than a threat, and why the environments we create (at home, at work, in schools) matter so much for innovation.
Cyndi also walked me through her five-step framework for bringing creativity into organizations, and let me tell you, it’s both practical and inspiring. Whether you think of yourself as creative or not, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to tap into a powerful tool we all have access to.
Key Takeaways:
Creativity is a mindset and approach to life.
Bridging the gap between research and practice is essential.
Creativity is vital for problem-solving in complex situations.
Mindfulness and being present enhance creativity.
Tolerating ambiguity is a teachable skill.
AI can complement human creativity, not replace it.
Creating a supportive environment is crucial for creativity.
Integrating creativity into daily routines enhances engagement.
Resources Mentioned:
Infusing Creating Thinking Into Higher Education by Cyndi Burnett & John Fitzgerald Cabra: https://creativityandeducation.com/product/infusing-creative-thinking-into-higher-education/
My Sandwich is a Spaceship by Cyndi Burnett & Michaelene Dawson-Globus: https://www.amazon.com/My-Sandwich-Spaceship-Creative-Thinking/dp/0984979557
More books: https://creativityandeducation.com/our-books/
Connect with Cyndi:
Website: https://creativityandeducation.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyndi-burnett/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cyndi.burnett/
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7b8fknEEI242RotQeKG1aA?si=7a3060c874f2444c
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDvd6niIwmsf1Lce8V8jfXg
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
You’ve been thinking about productivity all wrong, this episode will change that.
I sat down with Steven Puri, a former Hollywood exec turned venture capitalist. Our conversation will change the way you think about creativity, leadership, and what it actually means to be productive.
In this episode, we dive into everything from intelligent failure in entrepreneurship to the surprising role physical spaces play in innovation. Steven opened up about his company, Sukha, which is all about helping people find fulfillment and effectiveness in their work, and let me tell you, the way he breaks this down is incredibly powerful.
We also explore how technology (yes, even AI!) can become your creative partner, how pain can shape character, and why community and openness are essential to any meaningful work.
If you've ever felt like you're doing "all the right things" but still not finding flow, this conversation is the reset you didn’t know you needed. I walked away rethinking not just productivity, but how we show up for ourselves and others, and I think you will too.
Key Takeaways:
Productivity is about the effect you have towards a goal.
Leaders need to trust their teams to be productive remotely.
Creativity often flourishes when individuals are allowed to monotask.
Physical spaces can significantly impact creativity and productivity.
The goal of work should be personal fulfillment, not just output.
Focusing on three tasks increases productivity by 77%.
AI should enhance human creativity, not replace it.
Everyone has something great inside them waiting to be expressed.
Community support can significantly boost individual success.
Resources Mentioned:
Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi: https://www.amazon.com/Flow-Psychology-Experience-Perennial-Classics/dp/0061339202
Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299
Deep Work by Cal Newport: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0349413681/?bestFormat=true&k=deep%20work%20cal%20newport&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_de_k1_1_9&crid=2AQG78SS0ZYBF&sprefix=deep%20work
The Net and the Butterfly by Olivia Fox Cabane: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0735216770/?bestFormat=true&k=the%20net%20and%20the%20butterfly&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_de_k0_1_15&crid=1PUJ3YOMYZLUC&sprefix=the%20net%20and%20the
Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well by Amy Edmonson: https://www.amazon.com/Right-Kind-Wrong-Science-Failing/dp/1982195061
Connect with Steven:
Email: Steven@TheSukha.co
Website: https://www.thesukha.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-puri
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
Podcast growth and longevity don’t happen by accident, they happen by design.
I’m especially excited about this episode because I’m introducing you to someone who’s been behind the scenes of this show, our podcast manager, Alexis Archuleta.
If you’ve ever thought about starting a podcast, or want to make yours feel more aligned, you’re going to love this conversation. Alexis shares how she went from TV news to building a business helping entrepreneurs and creatives launch and manage sustainable, intentional podcasts.
We talk about what really goes into making a podcast work long-term: asking the right questions upfront, building systems that support creativity, and letting go of perfectionism. Alexis gives great insights on starting with what you have and how podcasting evolves with you.
Plus, she shares simple, actionable strategies that helped her clients grow and how small changes can lead to big results.
Key Takeaways:
Follow your curiosity; it keeps your spark alive.
Recognizing the right time to hire a podcast manager is crucial.
Perfectionism can hold you back from sharing your voice.
There's room for your unique experiences in the podcasting space.
Having a structured plan can ease the content creation process.
Small changes can lead to significant improvements in engagement.
Consistency and care in podcasting lead to success.
Resources Mentioned:
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Magic-Creative-Living-Beyond/dp/1594634726
Connect with Alexis:
Website: https://alexisarchuleta.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/archuletavirtual/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archuletavirtual/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
Ever feel like your story needs a rewrite?
In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Kristin Hiemstra, and wow, what a conversation. Kristin's career journey is anything but linear, and she brings such a refreshing perspective on self-leadership and embracing the full spectrum of who we are. We talked about rewriting the stories we tell ourselves, moving through imposter syndrome, and owning our unique strengths, especially for those of us who consider ourselves multi-potentialites.
What I loved most about our conversation is how honest and empowering it was. Kristin dives into how trial and error is not just okay but essential in discovering what truly lights us up. We also explored big, meaningful themes like creativity, regret, and parenting, how our childhoods shape the way we express ourselves, and how we, as adults, can help the next generation build agency and emotional intelligence.
Kristin is working on an exciting initiative focused on personal power in education, and I think you’re going to be inspired by her vision.
Key Takeaways:
The stories you tell yourself elicit emotions.
Nothing is a failure unless you fail to learn from it.
You need to lean into your unique value proposition.
Creativity from childhood influences learning experiences.
Regret can serve as a valuable teacher.
Empowering children fosters independence and decision-making skills.
Teaching emotional management is crucial for student success.
Agency in learning leads to higher motivation and success.
Resources Mentioned:
How Children Succeed by Paul Tough
The Case for Emotional Intelligence Education | TEDx Talk
The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor
The Power of the Myth by Bill Moyers and Joseph Campbell
Think and Grow Rich by Dale Carnegie
Letters of a Scattered Brotherhood
Thank and Grow Rich Pam Grout
E2 (energy squared) by Pam Grout
Connect with Kristin:
Website: https://www.kristinhiemstra.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinhiemstra/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachkristinh/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Mario Varvoglis, whose journey from Greece to becoming a thought leader in creativity and innovation is anything but ordinary. What really stood out to me, and what I think will speak to you, is Mario’s belief that creativity isn’t just this magical, spontaneous thing. It actually requires structure. That might sound counterintuitive, but trust me, the way he explains it will make you rethink how you approach your own creative process.
We also dug into some big, personal questions about potential, timing, and the stories we tell ourselves. Mario shares why potential isn’t limitless and why that’s not a bad thing. There’s urgency to how we use our time, and embracing our limits can actually lead to more clarity and deeper transformation.
We talked about perfectionism (hello, recovering perfectionists), the value of intentional pauses, and how to keep showing up creatively, even when life feels chaotic and AI is changing the landscape faster than we can keep up.
Key Takeaways
Creativity requires both divergent and convergent thinking.
Structure is essential for implementing creative ideas.
Potential can grow but is also limited by time and biology.
Accepting limits can lead to greater clarity and urgency.
It's important to balance ambition with an understanding of our limits. There's an optimal timing for actions in life.
Introspection is key to understanding personal direction.
Resources Mentioned:
Flourish by Martin Seligman
Out of Our Minds by Sir Ken Robinson
How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan
Real Magic by Dean Radin
Why You Should Define Your Fears Instead of Your Goals by Tim Ferriss | TED
Do Schools Kill Creativity by Sir Ken Robinson | TED
Connect with Mario:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-varvoglis-3885853
Website: https://mariovarvoglis.com/ , https://designdevie-dyl.fr/en/b2b/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
If you're looking for an episode that challenges the way you think about leadership, personal growth, and the power of creating space for others, then you won’t want to miss this conversation.
My guest this week is Emmanual Guillory, a passionate advocate for higher education and a leader in student affairs. We dive deep into his journey from higher education to advocating for meaningful change in the field, discussing how to build confidence, find purpose, and embrace the discomfort that leads to true growth.
Emmanual shares his insights on the importance of compassion and curiosity when connecting with people across differences, and how faith and self-awareness play a crucial role in reshaping our personal narratives. We also touch on the power of therapy, overcoming imposter syndrome, and intentionally rewriting the stories we tell ourselves to create lasting change.
Key Takeaways:
Confidence and purpose often begin with key moments of personal growth.
Embracing curiosity and compassion, without judgment, fosters authentic relationships and progress.
Inner work through therapy can lead to significant emotional and intellectual growth.
Personal beliefs should be regularly examined and challenged to ensure they still serve us.
Self-awareness and rewriting our stories are crucial for personal growth and resilience.
Resources Mentioned:
Daring Greatly by Brene Brown
Attached by Amir Levine & Rachel S.F. Heller
The Birth Order by Kevin Leman
The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Connect with Emmanual:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_eguillory/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, I’m joined by Meghan Stevenson, a talented ghostwriter and collaborator in the publishing world. Meghan takes us through her journey, from being a passionate reader to launching her own ghostwriting and editing business. We dive deep into the world of prescriptive nonfiction, and I pick Meghan’s brain about the importance of finding the right fit in publishing and the challenge of narrowing down ideas and niches for aspiring authors.
We also talk about the power of focus in entrepreneurship, how each author brings their unique perspective to their work, and the myth of originality in writing. We touch on the differences between influencers and thought leaders and discuss how society views modern content creation and value.
Throughout the conversation, Meghan and I explore the multifaceted journey of authorship, the realities of influencer success, and the ins and outs of the publishing industry. We break down misconceptions around writing a book, talk about the fear of success versus the fear of failure, and highlight the crucial role an author’s platform plays in achieving publishing success.
We also dig into the emotional side of writing, the connection between identity and the desire to write, and share some book and podcast recommendations that have resonated with us both. It’s a conversation packed with insights for anyone interested in writing, publishing, and finding their place in the industry.
Key Takeaways:
Finding the right fit in publishing is crucial for authors.
Not all ideas are suitable for a book.
Focus can be broad, allowing for creativity within a niche.
Judgment around money and work ethics is prevalent in society. Influencer success often requires immense effort and dedication.
Fear of success can be more paralyzing than fear of failure.
An author's platform is crucial for book sales and visibility.
Successful authors focus on serving their audience rather than personal validation.
Resources Mentioned:
Take the quiz here: https://www.meghanstevenson.com/quiz
Worthy by Jamie Kern Lima
Believe It by Jamie Kern Lima
Rich AF by Vivian Tu
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Maintenance Phase Podcast by Aubrey Gordon and Michael Hobbs
Connect with Meghan:
Website: https://www.meghanstevenson.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megstevenson/
Podcast: https://www.meghanstevenson.com/podcast
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
I’m joined by AJ Crabill to talk about the evolution of education and how we can better empower students and schools to unlock their full potential. We dive into why curiosity should come before judgment when it comes to understanding student behavior and why teaching behavioral skills is just as important as academic ones. AJ shares some powerful insights from his own experiences and stresses the importance of giving students the right tools to succeed, all while tackling the systemic issues that too often affect marginalized students.
We explore themes like communication, trust, and engagement in education, talking about how active listening and understanding student apathy are key to building connections. AJ also highlights the importance of student-led initiatives in developing leadership and pushing for more options in students' lives. By the end of our conversation, we call for a shift in mindset within the education system, one that’s focused on empowering both students and educators with the right tools and resources.
Key Takeaways:
Students often lack the tools they need to succeed, leading to behavioral issues.
Behavior should be treated similarly to academic skills, with a focus on teaching and support.
Restorative practices can be more effective than punitive measures in education.
Education systems must recognize and address the disparities faced by marginalized students.
Apathy in students often stems from a lack of trust.
Connection and belonging are crucial for student engagement.
Resources Mentioned:
This Might Be the Real Reason Our Schools Are Struggling with AJ Crabill
Our Tools They Deserve by AJ Crabill
Connect with AJ:
Website:www.StudentLedRP.org
LinkedIn:@ajcrabill
YouTube:@ajcrabill7
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
Vanessa Alves-Ruiz has a background in journalism and facilitation, and we dive deep into the power of mindset shifts, how creating space for new ways of thinking can truly transform learning and leadership.
We talk about the role of intuition in facilitation, why simplicity in communication is so important, and how teams can shift from blame to responsibility. Vanessa also shares a fascinating case study in occupational health and safety, showing what it really takes to change mindsets within organizations.
This one is full of practical takeaways and fresh perspectives on fostering collaboration, leadership, and growth. Let’s get into it!
Key Takeaways:
How to create space for mindset shifts that drive real change.
Why true transformation starts with expanding your awareness.
How intuition can be a powerful tool for decision-making.
The role of simplicity in effective learning and facilitation.
How honoring past experiences helps create lasting change.
Facilitation is about collaboration, not control.
Why mindset shifts require more than just knowledge.
How better listening can transform teams and leadership.
Resources Mentioned:
TEDTalk: Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks-_Mh1QhMc
Non-Violent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg: https://www.amazon.com/Nonviolent-Communication-Language-Life-Changing-Relationships/dp/189200528X/ref=asc_df_189200528X?mcid=644e079a48633d63964efcdbd6720495&hvocijid=16278184952188666608-189200528X-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=721245378154&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16278184952188666608&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9191417&hvtargid=pla-2281435179058&psc=1
Connect with Vanessa:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessaalvesruiz/
Website: https://lifetransition.club
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, John Puts joins me to explore the fascinating intersection of humanity and technology. We dive into how embodiment practices can help us reconnect with ourselves and others.
John shares his journey, moving from a high-pressure career at Google to a more fulfilling path focused on human connection and growth. We discuss how to activate human potential, reclaim focus in our distracted world, and overcome the fear of missing out.
John also emphasizes the power of mindfulness, self-awareness, and choice in shaping our lives. We talk about why personal growth should prioritize vertical development over horizontal, and why slowing down is key. John shares how shifting from self-referential thinking to a service-oriented mindset can transform the way we act, and we touch on the influence of thought leaders like Yuval Noah Harari in shaping his approach to human consciousness.
It’s an insightful conversation you won’t want to miss!
Key Takeaways:
The AI era challenges us to redefine what it means to be human.
Embodiment practices foster deeper connections with ourselves and others.
Personal fulfillment often requires stepping away from societal expectations.
Quality attention is essential for personal and professional growth.
Workplaces should prioritize community and connection over competition. Reclaiming agency is crucial in a distracted world.
Human-centered skills are essential for future work.
Resources Mentioned:
Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky: https://amzn.to/43u8nLA
After the Ecstasy, the Laundry by Jack Kornfield: https://amzn.to/4iqB6oO
The Way of Integrity by Martha Beck: https://amzn.to/41yWBgm
Ikigai by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles: https://amzn.to/3QQGGoG
The Drive (podcast) by Peter Itia: https://open.spotify.com/show/63AWQmsSnFNFHUqnRAOFtD?si=39a9f237d57c4499
The Making Sense Podcast by Sam Harris: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgumWEx4FsqIY8e1wJNAk?si=a8ad7329ec7e4f17
The Waking Up App by Sam Harris: https://www.wakingup.com/
Heart IQ: https://www.heartiq.org/
Connect with John:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnputs/
Website: https://www.johnputs.com/
Evolution: https://evolution.team/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
I’m so excited about this episode because I get to chat with the incredible Emy Mylona about something we don’t always associate with the workplace, play!
Emy shares her journey from being a shy student to becoming a passionate advocate for bringing play into professional spaces. We dive into how play can unlock human potential, spark collaboration, and make work more engaging. We also tackle some common misconceptions about gamification, the importance of being intentional with playful practices, and how to navigate resistance when introducing play at work.
One of my favorite parts of our conversation is how Emy breaks down the real impact of play, how it’s not just about having fun, but about creating meaningful connections, fostering innovation, and even enhancing career development. We also get into visual mapping, the power of reflection, and how leaders can create environments where people feel safe to show up as their authentic selves.
And of course, Emy shares some practical ways to incorporate play into your work life, plus some great book and podcast recommendations to keep the learning going. I can’t wait for you to hear this one!
Key Takeaways:
The power of play can transform team dynamics and foster collaboration.
Gamification doesn't have to be complex; simple interventions can be effective.
Finding inspiration for playful practices can come from everyday experiences.
Resistance to play often stems from fear of appearing unprofessional.
Play unlocks human potential in the workplace.
Creating safe spaces fosters authenticity and openness in teams.
Resources Mentioned:
Ice Breaker Questions Generator
Episode: How Might We Create Space for Mindset Shift in Learning Experiences
Edward Tufte: https://www.edwardtufte.com/books/
How We Learn by Benedict Carey
Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
The Realistic Happiness Podcast by Daisy Ilaria
The Learning and Development Podcast by David James
Connect with Emy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emymylona/
Website: https://teamifyed.com/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
In this episode of Building Thinkers, I sit down with Tom Goulooze to discuss the power of intentional experience design and how it’s reshaping the way we approach meaningful moments at work and beyond.
Tom shares his unique journey from agile coaching to creating his freelance business,Tomfoolery, where he specializes in crafting transformative experiences for teams and organizations. We dive into the need to rethink traditional team-building practices and corporate rituals, and how focusing on human connection can lead to real, lasting change.
Tom challenges the conventional approach to solving problems by encouraging us to look at the root causes rather than relying on quick fixes.
We also explore how "broken soundtracks" and limiting beliefs can hold back innovation, and how shifting mindsets can unlock new potential. This episode is all about reimagining how we create impact in the workplace, whether it’s through a meeting, a team-building event, or even a company ritual.
If you're someone looking to innovate and challenge the status quo in experience design, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how you connect with others and create authentic, impactful moments. Tune in for fresh ideas and practical advice on designing experiences that prioritize people and purpose over outdated methods.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of focusing on feelings before diving into experience design.
Rethinking how traditional team-building activities could be reshaped for deeper connection and purpose.
Recognizing how limiting beliefs might be impacting your team’s growth.
Learn how shifting mindsets could open new doors for team collaboration and innovation.
Small, thoughtful changes could have a big impact, without resorting to one-size-fits-all solutions.
Resources Mentioned:
The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker
The Power of Moments by Dan & Chip Heath
The Book of Symbols by Ami Ronnberg
Connect with Tom:
Website: tomfoolery.co
https://www.kaospilot.dk/product/experience-design-offline-training/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomgoulooze/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
In this episode of Building Thinkers, I sit down with Adis Sophie to talk about how to bring more flow and creativity into our work. After spending years in the corporate world, Adis now leads How to Design Your Life workshops in Amsterdam, helping people create more meaningful careers and lives.
We dive into what it means to find work that truly energizes you, the role of intuition in making career decisions, and how to break free from limiting beliefs that no longer serve us. Adis shares insights on personal growth, the power of connection, and how small, intentional shifts can create big changes over time.
We also explore how joy and creativity impact the workplace and why acceptance and small steps are key to lasting transformation. Plus, Adis shares some of her favorite books and podcasts for anyone looking to deepen their own journey of self-discovery and career fulfillment.
Key Takeaways:
Finding alignment in your career is essential for personal fulfillment.
Deconstructing beliefs can help you identify what truly serves your growth.
Small, intentional steps lead to powerful personal transformation.
The journey of self-discovery and growth is ongoing and unique to each person.
Joy and creativity can completely shift how we experience work and life.
Resources Mentioned:
Books:
Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans https://amzn.to/4hFtQoz
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg https://amzn.to/42AHFjW
The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin https://amzn.to/3PUyjYW
Podcasts:
Pause (French podcast) with Alexandre Mars https://open.spotify.com/show/05r8AC9YA77tH68JSoUHIc?si=86d11c0cf0ee4de9
Curiosity Chronicles with Sahil Bloom https://open.spotify.com/show/4VS1y9v0uwWoxZ8BzugigN?si=9446ec2251e3446e
Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett https://open.spotify.com/show/7iQXmUT7XGuZSzAMjoNWlX?si=5821c50f31dd402d
Connect with Adis Sophie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adissophie/
Website: https://designingyourlife.nl/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
As we kick off the start of the new year, I'm reflecting on the season of amazing guests and their insights. I dive into the topic of clarity and share how it can be a game-changer for decision-making, goal-setting, and overall life satisfaction. I talk about how gaining clarity can help build momentum, and also how slowing down to focus on what truly matters is just as important.
I walk you through my 2025 Goal Guide, which includes vision planning and strategic reflection activities designed to help you use discernment, self-awareness, and purposeful living to achieve your goals. Whether you're setting personal or professional goals, this episode gives you practical tools to gain clarity and make more intentional decisions.
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of pausing and reflecting at year's end to gain clarity on personal and professional goals
- How clarity provides direction and acts as a filter for decision-making, especially crucial for multi-potentialites who see endless possibilities
- Practical tools for achieving clarity, such as vision boarding and goal-setting exercises Resources Mentioned:
2025 Goal Guide - https://courses.buildingthinkers.com/goalguide
Books:
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman: https://amzn.to/4akxgL0
Good to Great by Jim Collins: https://amzn.to/40zNv3E
Connect with Me:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracyannclark08/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildingthinkers/
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
I’m joined by Katie Conley, a luxury travel advisor and hospitality professional. We dive into one of my favorite problems: “How might we activate human potential through travel?”
Katie shares her fascinating journey as a travel advisor and the importance of crafting personalized, immersive travel experiences. We explore how travel impacts human experiences, the challenges of information overload, and the positive effects travel has on neuroplasticity and mental health. We emphasize the significance of being open to new experiences and how transformative travel can enhance creativity and personal growth.
In our conversation, Katie and I also discuss the value of intentional travel planning, the joy of sharing trips with loved ones, and the importance of understanding the purpose behind each journey. We also highlight how travel can deepen connections, boost cultural awareness, and lead to a more enriching, fulfilling life.
Key Takeaways:
- Travel can activate human potential in many ways.
- Openness to new experiences fosters personal growth.
- Travel can improve neuroplasticity and cognitive function.
- Travel doesn't have to be expensive to be meaningful.
- Transformative travel experiences can happen at any age.
- Openness to experiences fosters intellectual curiosity and independence.
- Experiencing new cultures broadens perspectives and enriches lives. Resources Mentioned:
Books:
Setting the Table by Danny Meyer: https://amzn.to/41la3Ge
Travel TV Shows:
Somebody Feed Phil: https://www.netflix.com/ae-en/title/80146601
Anthony Bourdain: https://www.amazon.com/Anthony-Bourdain-No-Reservations-Season/dp/B09229BZ67
Searching for Italy with Stanley Tucci: https://edition.cnn.com/shows/stanley-tucci-searching-for-italy
Connect with Katie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieconley623/
Website: https://culturedconcierge.travel/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/culturedconcierge
Email: k.conley@dreamvacations.com
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
I’m joined by Said Saddouk to dive into one of my 12 favorite problems: “How might we increase flow and creativity to bring joy to work?”
Said is a virtual facilitation expert who transforms online sessions from dull and disengaging to impactful and inspiring. With his expert training, practical techniques, and passion for connecting with his audience, Said helps facilitators, educators, and team leaders unlock the full potential of virtual learning spaces.
In our conversation, we explore the themes of joy, creativity, and innovation in the workplace, especially in virtual settings. We talk about the importance of finding joy in work, the journey to creativity, and how to create a playful and engaging environment in meetings.
Said shares his insights on the definition of creativity, the power of childlike play, and practical tools for making virtual meetings more engaging. Our chat emphasizes the value of community, collaboration, and the continuous pursuit of joy and creativity in professional settings.
Key Takeaways:
Alpacas and llamas are different animals 😂
Childlike play can enhance creativity and innovation
Engagement in meetings can be improved with playful elements
Virtual meetings can be transformed with simple tools and techniques
Small changes can lead to significant improvements in meetings
Resources Mentioned:
100 Tricks to Sound Smart in Meetings by Sarah Cooper: https://amzn.to/3ObwvK2
Workshops.Work: https://workshops.work/podcast/
Star Talk: https://startalkmedia.com/
Butter Referral Link:https://butter.cello.so/X5aVOOcce9Z
People to Follow:
Cat Mulvihill: linkedin.com/in/mulvihillcatherine , youtube.com/@CatMulvihill
Anamaria Dorgo:linkedin.com/in/anamariadorgo
Jan Keck: linkedin.com/in/jankeck , youtube.com/@mrjankeck
Myriam Hadnes: linkedin.com/in/myriam-hadnes , youtube.com/@myriamhadnes
Thomas Lahnthaler: linkedin.com/in/thomaslahnthaler
Olina Glindevi: linkedin.com/in/thevisualagilecoach
Connect with Said:
- Website: thefacilitainer.com
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/saidsaddouk
- YouTube: youtube.com/@facilitainer
- Instagram: instagram.com/thefacilitainer
More About Building Thinkers:
I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.
And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.
If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
This conversation with Dr. Gina Sipley stretched me in the best kind of way.
In this episode, we dig into one of my twelve favorite problems: How might we create space for mindset shifts in learning experiences? Gina is a community college professor, a first-generation college graduate, and someone who’s deeply committed to building inclusive spaces where people can explore how texts (both online and offline) shape who we are.
We talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention: lurking in online spaces. You know, the quiet observing, the not-posting, the watching from the sidelines. We explore what it means for learning, how it can be both helpful and harmful, and what it looks like to engage meaningfully, especially when perfectionism and fear are holding people back.
This episode is about making room. Room for mindset shifts. Room for silent learners. Room for diverse voices. And room for a more mindful relationship with social media that allows us to curate instead of just consume.
Key Takeaways:
- Lurking has become the dominant way we interact online
- Curating diverse perspectives on social media is crucial
- Protective curation helps individuals navigate online spaces
- Engagement with social media should be mindful and intentional Resources Mentioned:
Books:
https://amzn.to/48uTXva
Algorithms of Oppression: How Search Engines Reinforce Bias by Safiya Umoja Noble https://amzn.to/48uy7Ie
Country of the Blind: A Memoir At The End of Sight by Andrew Leland
https://amzn.to/3YLj3Tb
Trolling Ourselves to Death: Democracy in the Age of Social Media by Jason Hannan
https://amzn.to/40uCl0G
Podcasts:
You’re Wrong About https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/youre-wrong-about/id1380008439
The Measure of Everyday Life https://measureradio.net/
Transforming Society https://www.transformingsociety.co.uk/transforming-society-podcast/
Connect with Gina:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gsipley/
Newsletter: https://www.ginasipley.com/
More About Gina:
I am a great resource for lurking and social media strategy, all things community college and the K-16 pipeline. I particularly love supporting first generation college students.
I am interested in problem solving at scale and I welcome speaking and consulting opportunities.
I would love to connect with other folks who bridge scholarly and creative pursuits for social good.
More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
I'm joined by Jovonee King to discuss one of my twelve favorite problems, “how might we make thinking visible?”
Jovonee is a Scaled Solutions Engineer at Miro, with a rich background in customer education and a passion for transformative collaboration. She shares her journey with us, highlighting her commitment to education, inclusivity, and community building.
We dive deep into the concept of making thinking visible,what that really means, and why it’s so crucial for accelerating learning and sparking creativity. And for my fellow recovering perfectionists, we also explore how visualization can help people overcome perfectionism.
Plus, you’ll get a sneak peek into the future of Miro and some exciting new features that’ll definitely boost your creative game. And if that wasn’t enough, we also chat about Jovonee’s love for DIY projects and upcycling, and how digital tools can help us rethink and reimagine physical spaces.
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of taking risks and learning from different experiences for career growth
- Visualization is crucial for effective collaboration and idea sharing
- Overcoming perfectionism is crucial for creative processes
- Visualization helps create an inclusive canvas that allows all voices to be heard Resources Mentioned:
Books
- Design for How People Learn by Julie Dirksen: https://amzn.to/48f3CWv
- Master of Change by Brad Stulberg https://amzn.to/48f3CWv Other Links:
Try Miro - https://miro.cello.so/Wviex1qZaSS
Canvas ‘24 - https://canvas24.miro.com/
Miro Community - https://miro.com/community/
Connect with Jovonee:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jovonee/
More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, Tracy is joined by Dr. Alaina Szlachta to discuss one of her 12 favorite problems, “how might we close the research-practice gap (the knowing-doing gap) across social impact sectors?"
Dr. Alaina Szlachta is a Measurement Architect who's passionate about making data literacy accessible for education professionals. In the discussion, they dive deep into the world of data-driven learning, the importance of bridging the research-practice gap, creating a learning culture, and more.
Alaina’s insights on building a strong learning culture, the power of feedback, and the importance of both quantitative and qualitative data will leave you thinking about how we can better use data across many of our domains and improve performance. They also touched on how personal problem-solving and experimentation play a critical role in developing data literacy, both at work and in everyday life.
If you're looking to elevate the way you or your organization approaches measurement and data-driven decision-making, Alaina's expertise will offer valuable guidance.
Key Takeaways:
- Data-Driven Learning: Organizations should shift away from traditional learning methods and focus on collecting data to identify specific performance gaps and challenges. This data-driven approach allows for more targeted and effective learning initiatives.
- Prioritizing Professional Development: A culture of continuous learning is essential for organizational growth. Companies should invest in opportunities and provide the necessary support to help employees develop their skills and knowledge.
- The Power of Practice: Practical experience is key to developing valuable skills. Engaging in problem-solving and experimentation allows individuals to apply their knowledge in real-world situations and foster a growth mindset.
- Data Literacy: Understanding and utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data is crucial for making informed decisions. Developing data literacy skills can empower individuals to analyze information and drive positive outcomes.
Alaina’s Recommendations:
Book Recommendations:
Measurement and Evaluation on a Shoestring, by Dr. Alaina Szlachta https://amzn.to/4ePySgT
Partner for Performance, by Ingrid Guerra-Lopez https://amzn.to/4eKB6hu
Show the Value of What You Do, by Patricia Pulliam Phillips https://amzn.to/47V1Jye
Podcast Recommendations:
2 Bobs: https://2bobs.com/
Clark Howard: https://clark.com/podcasts/
Creator Science: https://podcast.creatorscience.com/
Connect with Alaina:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drszlachta/
Website: https://dralainaszlachta.com/
Newsletter: https://dralainaszlachta.substack.com/
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, Tracy and Stephanie Silver discuss one of Tracy’s 12 favorite problems, “how might we rewrite broken soundtracks?” The concept of "rewriting broken soundtracks," refers to the limiting beliefs and negative thoughts that often replay in our minds.
Stephanie’s incredible life story is one of resilience and healing in the face of deep trauma and heartache. She shares her deeply personal journey with overcoming those broken soundtracks to build a life beyond what she could have imagined.
In this conversation, Tracy and Steph discuss the power of rewriting our internal soundtracks and overcoming limiting beliefs. They explore the origins of these scripts and how they shape our lives.
Tracy and Stephanie share their personal journeys with soundtracks and how they have found freedom and joy in rewriting them. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and challenging negative thoughts, and offer guidance for those who want to start exploring and rewriting their own soundtracks.
Key Takeaways:
- Soundtracks are the limiting beliefs and negative thoughts that get stuck on replay in our mind. These internal dialogues can significantly impact our feelings and actions. Recognizing and challenging negative thoughts is the first step in rewriting broken soundtracks.
- Neuroplasticity allows us to rewire our brains and create new, positive neural pathways.
- Rewriting broken soundtracks requires self-reflection, honesty, and a willingness to challenge our own beliefs.
- Perceptions of success and failure vary among individuals. Stephanie challenges the notion that one must hit "rock bottom" to initiate change, arguing that personal definitions of bottom differ widely.
- They discuss the importance of viewing one's challenges from different perspectives to foster change. By embodying positive beliefs about oneself, individuals can shift their energy and influence how they are perceived by others.
Book Recommendations:
Anywhere, USA by Stephanie Silver https://amzn.to/4d8E6TH
Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza https://amzn.to/3Xzqf3e
Existential Kink by Dr. Carolyn Elliott https://amzn.to/3Xvb37i
Radical Honesty by Brad Blanton https://amzn.to/3zqEpeO
The Universe Has Your Back by Gabrielle Bernstein https://amzn.to/4dbsHTm
Connect with Stephanie:
https://www.vine-collective.com/
Podcast: https://www.vine-collective.com/mvp-business/
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, Tracy speaks with Gretchen Fox Palmer about one of her twelve favorite problems: “how might we increase flow and creativity to bring joy to work?”
Gretchen opens up about her personal path to self-awareness, including how she identified and dismantled her own hyper vigilance at work. From a self-described "toxic executive" to a champion of conscious leadership, she reveals how this process led to immediate positive changes in her team's culture, offering valuable lessons for leaders at all levels.
Now, Gretchen teaches performance-driven organizations, teams, and leaders through her EQ @ Work program, focusing on the five EQ skills that can rescue employees from burnout. Her approach to emotional regulation and resilience is what has taken her from merely surviving to truly thriving.
The conversation explores the importance of vulnerability and joy in the workplace. It emphasizes the need for vulnerability to be approached with care and used as a tool for connection.
Tracy and Gretchen discuss how increasing flow and creativity to bring joy to work requires prioritizing emotional intelligence skills, which are easy to learn and have quick transformative outcomes.
Key Takeaways:
- Emotional intelligence skills are easy to learn and have quick transformative outcomes.
- Leaders need to prioritize emotional intelligence to create emotionally healthy performance-driven cultures.
- Feedback and vulnerability are essential in creating a culture of growth and productivity.
- Joy can be structured and designed for in organizations by tying it to well-being, fostering connection, and prioritizing people's livelihoods.
- Emotional capacity plays a crucial role in individual and organizational well-being, and it can be developed through self-awareness, boundary-setting, and healthy coping mechanisms.
Gretchen’s Recommendations:
Books:
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron: https://tinyurl.com/zvrwp6jk
The Presence Process by Michael Brown: https://tinyurl.com/3ya9ke2a
Podcasts:
Satsang with Mooji: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/satsang-with-mooji/id1134425259
Connect with Gretchen:
MTO Agency: https://mtoagency.com/
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, Tracy is joined by Kevin Alster to discuss one of her 12 favorite problems, “how might we make thinking visible?”
Kevin is a strategic advisor at Synthesia, an AI video communications platform that translates text into professional, instructional AI videos. They explore the importance of using concrete, pictorial, visual, and abstract representations to help learners understand complex concepts. They also emphasize the need for a product design mindset and an experimental approach when incorporating AI and technology in learning experiences.
In this conversation, Tracy and Kevin discuss how storytelling is a powerful tool for making thinking visible and communicating complex concepts.
Key Takeaways:
- Making thinking visible involves using concrete, pictorial, visual, and abstract representations to help learners understand complex concepts.
- A product design mindset and an experimental approach are crucial when incorporating AI and technology in learning experiences.
- Unbundling tasks and identifying which ones can be impacted by AI can lead to more efficient and effective learning processes.
- Leveraging AI tools, such as large language models or custom models, can enhance the learning experience and improve outcomes.
- The process of learning and growth involves going broad, diving deep, and trusting your brain to make connections.
Kevin’s Recommendations:
Follow-up resources:
- Sinead Bovell - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinead-bovell-89072a34/
- Synthesia Academy - https://www.synthesia.io/academy
- AI Video (FOCA) Certification - https://rise.articulate.com/share/3RUx1hiDtyl6wuBT9OaRy330gRVwUmpd#/
- Vanderbilt’s Open Source AI - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jules-white-5717655_an-advanced-open-source-enterprise-generative-activity-7209676778439675904-Z3oi/
Book Recommendations:
- Supercommunicators by Charles Duhigg- https://amzn.to/4fY89jO
- Made to Stick by the Heath Brothers - https://amzn.to/4edu6K7
- Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel - https://amzn.to/3XiEgST
- Slow Productivity by Cal Newport - https://amzn.to/3MhPm5h
Podcast Recommendations:
- Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend - https://www.earwolf.com/show/conan-obrien/
- Acquired - https://www.acquired.fm/
- Kurzgesagt - https://www.youtube.com/@kurzgesagt
Connect with Kevin:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinalster/
In this episode, Tracy is joined by design researcher, Nick Petch, to discuss one of her twelve favorite problems, “How might we close the research-practice gap (the knowing-doing gap) across social impact sectors?” Tracy and Nick cover an array of topics from the definition of learning to the role of access and behaviors in the learning process.
This conversation stresses the importance of creating environments that prioritize access and behaviors over mere content delivery, advocating for a shift towards human-centered design that empowers individuals. Nick shares insights on the significance of understanding oneself as a designer and the responsibility that comes with designing for others. He recommends starting with self-reflection and developing an ethnographic practice to better understand the needs and aspirations of the people being designed for. Nick also highlights the importance of design leadership and the power of participatory design.
Key Takeaways:
Human-centered design transfers power to the people being impacted by the design process. Design plays a crucial role in the field of learning and development, and it is important to understand oneself as a designer and the responsibility of designing for others.
Design is about de-risking and understanding the problem space and context in order to solve the right problem.
Empowering the people being designed for and involving them in the design process leads to better outcomes.
Design leadership is about influencing how design is seen and valued in organizations.
Nick’s Recommendations:
Book Recommendations:
Being Ecological by Timothy Morton: https://amzn.to/4dujZ3D
This Human: How to Be the Person Designing for Other People by Melis Senova: https://amzn.to/3YIwPGy
Doing Sensory Ethnography by Sarah Pink: https://amzn.to/3Ap9MGI
Connect with Nick:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickpetch
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, Tracy speaks with Melissa Pickering, an accomplished product development expert with a rich background in leadership. Melissa's impressive career spans from launching her own EdTech startup, iCreate to Educate, to solving complex challenges at Lego by integrating digital and physical experiences, to making a significant impact at Willow, a company focused on products for moms. Currently, she leads product development as a Senior Director of Product at Bose.
The main theme of their conversation revolves around one of Tracy's 12 Favorite Problems: "How might we create impactful order out of chaos?" Melissa's passion for untangling complex challenges and breaking them down into manageable parts makes her the perfect guest for this topic. She shares her insights on both the people and product sides of creating order and discusses the creative tension between structure and flexibility, particularly in innovation and product development.
Melissa also delves into the urgent need for focus, the dynamics of quick decision-making versus taking time to reach a consensus, and the wisdom of allowing innovation to emerge from a deeper examination of options and opportunities. Her expertise, insights, and leadership lessons offer valuable takeaways for anyone involved in product development, team leadership, or personal growth.
Key Takeaways:
- Embrace the chaos: In product development and organizational change, some level of chaos is necessary for innovation and progress.
- Focus is key: In a world of constant distractions, cultivating focus and presence is crucial for individual and team productivity.
- Don't overcomplicate: Avoid unnecessary complexity in product development and problem-solving by focusing on user needs and core assumptions.
- Influence for lasting change: Driving change through influence and collaboration leads to greater ownership and sustainable results.
Melissa’s Recommendations:
Book Recommendations:
Switch by Chip & Dan Heath: https://amzn.to/4caFvZL
Powerful by Patty McCord: https://amzn.to/3Sl0RMF
The Power of Moments by Chip & Dan Heath: https://amzn.to/4dbCcCf
Connect with Melissa:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjpickering/
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, Tracy speaks to Eli Wood about one of her 12 favorite problems: How might we consistently replace complexity with insight? Eli is the leader of the collective Black Flag Design, a group of creative technologists, designers, and product strategists focused on complex AI applications.
They discuss the importance of embracing artificial intelligence (AI) and developing durable skills in AI for professionals in various fields. They also explore the value of simplicity and the insights that can come from being a generalist or non-expert.
Tracy and Eli discuss the importance of participatory design and the challenges of obtaining user feedback in sensitive data environments. He addresses the intersection of creativity and AI, debunking the notion that AI hinders creativity and instead highlighting its potential to enhance creative processes.
Key takeaways:
- Overcoming the complexity of AI: Eli emphasizes accessible on-ramps to AI skill-building and encourages embracing the technology rather than fearing it. He highlights the evolution of AI as a tool, similar to the transformation of photography.
- The importance of durable skills: Eli discusses the importance of adaptive learning and executive function as crucial skills for the future of work. He introduces the "tennis" analogy as a metaphor for encouraging individual agency and action.
- Creative pragmatism: Eli advocates for a relationship-based approach to problem-solving, prioritizing clarity over jargon. He emphasizes experimentation, mindset, and assumption-busting as key elements in achieving practical outcomes.
- The role of AI in creativity: Eli expresses optimism about the potential for AI to enhance creativity, sharing his personal experience of increased creativity through AI-powered tools.
- The future of human skills: Eli believes that adaptive learning and communication will be critical skills for humans in the evolving landscape of AI.
Eli's Recommendations:
Book Recommendations:
The Creative Pragmatist by Amy Smilovic - https://tibi.com/products/the-creative-pragmatist-navy-green-multi
Testing Business Ideas by David J Bland - https://amzn.to/3XW1joc
Sprint by Jake Knapp - https://amzn.to/3zCgLMc
Building by Mark Ellison - https://amzn.to/3XZtrqM
The Creative Act by Rick Rubin - https://amzn.to/4f0DTEf
Podcast Recommendations:
Lex Fridman: https://lexfridman.com/podcast/
The Daily: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-daily/id1200361736
Connect with Eli:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/notthatactor/
eli@blackflag.design
Pop Tech Conference: https://poptech.org/
In this episode, Tracy speaks with Alma Quiroga about one of her 12 favorite problems, “how might we bring impactful order out of chaos?”
They explore the power of storytelling and narrative in shaping organizational culture and behavior so that business can be a force for good, from the inside out. Alma shares her journey of building people-first organizational cultures and challenging traditional business paradigms. They discuss the need to recognize and understand the stories that drive behavior within organizations and the importance of creating environments where people can thrive. They also highlight the complexity of navigating individual and collective stories within organizations and offer insights for leaders in understanding and shaping organizational narratives.
By recognizing the power of storytelling and creating spaces for collective storytelling, organizations can co-create their culture and navigate transitions more successfully.
Key Takeaways:
Storytelling is deeply ingrained in human nature and is how we relate to each other.
Our brains are wired to make sense of the world through storytelling, and humans naturally order the chaos of the world and their own internal world in a story format.
Understanding how humans make sense through story is essential for effective communication and change management in organizations.
By recognizing the power of storytelling and creating spaces for collective storytelling, organizations can co-create their culture and navigate transitions more successfully.
Alma’s Recommendations:
Book Recommendations:
Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins by Annette Simmons: https://amzn.to/4cqFq56
The Story Factor by Annette Simmons: https://amzn.to/4eGiwrQ
The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human by Jonathan Gotsschall https://amzn.to/3xrXCvT
Organizational Culture and Leadership by Edgar Schein: https://amzn.to/4bE0NPb
Humble Leadership, Second Edition: The Power of Relationships, Openness, and Trust by Edgar Schein: https://amzn.to/3VMfWb0
Managing Transitions by: William Bridges & Susan Bridges https://amzn.to/3znNPaN
Flawless Consulting: A Guide to Getting Your Expertise Used by Peter Block: https://amzn.to/4cCf8MI
Podcast Recommendations:
Beautiful Questions Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TuliandAlma
Work Life Podcast: https://adamgrant.net/podcasts/work-life/
Radio Ambulante: https://radioambulante.org/en
Invisibilia: https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510307/invisibilia
Connect with Alma:
- www.almaquiroga.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/almaquiroga/
In this episode, Tracy talks with Shani Persson about one of her twelve favorite problems: How might “be where your feet are” become our primary way of being?
Shani is the co-founder of Wonder, an insight and experience design lab which aims to inspire and support companies, institutions, groups or individuals to help themselves and others thrive through more human experiences.
They discuss the importance of creating contexts that take into account the fact that we are human beings with brains, bodies, and lives. They explore the role of self-inquiry and self-awareness in creating meaningful work experiences. They also delve into the challenge of saying no and the need to listen to ourselves. The conversation emphasizes the practice of being present.
Key Takeaways:
Recognize the importance of being present and enjoying the process, rather than constantly striving for the next thing.
Learn to say no and set boundaries to maintain energy and focus. The facade of control can lead to addictive behaviors and a constant need for dopamine hits.
The awareness of mortality can awaken us to what truly matters in life and help us reevaluate our priorities.
Being present and letting go of urgency can bring more joy and clarity to our lives.
Shani’s Recommendations:
Books:
Essentialism by Greg McKeown https://amzn.to/4bhrk4F
Connect with Shani:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanipersson/
Wonder: https://www.justwonder.co/
In this episode of the Building Thinkers Podcast, Tracy speaks with Sara Huang about one of her twelve favorite problems: How might we rewrite broken soundtracks (limiting beliefs)?
Sara is an experienced facilitator and designer specialized in creative conflict resolution, policy work, and collaboration. The discussion centers around identifying and rewriting limiting beliefs or 'broken soundtracks.' Sara introduces concepts such as edge figures and emphasizes the importance of creating transformational spaces for personal and collective growth. The episode explores practical exercises for recognizing and reworking limiting beliefs and touches on the power of creating enriching environments for experimentation and learning.
Key Takeaways:
Unleash Transformation: Create space for self-reflection and connection to rewrite limiting beliefs and build a brighter future.
Reframe Your Reality: Shift limiting beliefs by understanding their energy and using it to propel yourself towards new possibilities. Pay attention to strong emotional reactions, either love or hate, and examine what those reactions may reveal about underlying beliefs.
Resonate, Imitate, Create: Sarah introduces a model for learning and growth: starting with what resonates (sparks interest), moving to imitation (practicing and experimenting), and finally reaching creation (applying and innovating in one's unique context).
Sara’s Recommendations:
Podcasts:
Finding Your Way: https://www.findingourwaypodcast.com/individual-episodes/s2e3
On Being: https://onbeing.org/series/podcast/
Books:
Lessons from Courageous Child by Sara Huang - https://buymeacoffee.com/sarahuang/e/71071
The Power Manual by Cindy Suarez - https://amzn.to/4bSoWC8
Holding Change by Adrienne Maree Brown - https://amzn.to/3R3Mmwk
The War of Art by Steven Pressfield - https://amzn.to/3R8F2j3
Beyond the Wall of Resistance by Rick Maurer -https://amzn.to/3KoJjLh
Other Recommendations:
https://app.7taps.com/av9kFaO3IR
https://www.conflicttransformationsummit.org/www.conflicttransformationsummit.org/stage-2.html
https://communityresourcehub.org/resources/turning-towards-each-other-a-conflict-workbook/
https://ariseembodiment.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/So-youre-ready-to-choose-love-workbook-19.pdf
Connect with Sara:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/huangsara
www.bento.me/sarahuang
www.instagram.com/bureautwist
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, Tracy interviews Paula Amiama about one of her twelve favorite problems: How might we increase flow & and creativity to bring joy to work?
Over the last decade, Paula worked across marketing, the arts, sustainability, innovation, and education. She’s had stops in start-ups, non-profits, and large corporate organizations.
Currently, Paula leads the global Skilling & Learning agenda at DB Schenker, a large logistics company. Paula’s deep and wide expertise from her self-proclaimed non-linear career path, experiences, and clear life-long learning brought such powerful and unique insights in our conversation.
Tracy and Paula discuss the importance of creating flow and autonomy in work, as well as strategies for shifting perspectives to find flow. They emphasize the need to protect time and set clear agendas to prioritize flow and creativity. The conversation highlights the role of leaders in supporting and prioritizing flow for their teams.
Takeaways
- Embrace non-linear career paths: Explore diverse interests to discover what resonates most deeply with you.
- Prioritize reflection and journaling: Gain clarity on your true desires and motivations for greater focus.
- Protect time for deep work: Schedule uninterrupted blocks for focused, creative activities that energize you.
- Leaders: Foster flow through reflection: Find fulfillment in your role and create a positive work environment by prioritizing deep thinking.
- Flow and autonomy boost motivation: Enhance productivity and job satisfaction by creating space for flow and individual choice in work.
Paula's Recommendations:
Books:
Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
Podcasts:
Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin
We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle
School of Embodied Arts with Jenna Ward
Connect with Paula:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulaamiama/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulaamiama/
Substack: https://paulaamiama.substack.com/
In this episode, Tracy is joined by Lily Higgins, the founder of The Intervention Bureau, a learning experience design consultancy where she partners with agencies and thought-leaders to design signature sessions fueling her crusade against boring, ineffective workshops. They discuss the importance of creating space for mindset shift within learning experiences and the role of facilitation as an act of love. Lily shares insights on the power of play and the concept of life as a game. They also explore her signature “Serendipity Walk” experience. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of experiences and the importance of autonomy and ownership in learning.
Key Takeaways:
- Facilitation is an act of love. Facilitators hold space for groups to tap into their collective wisdom and create something greater than the sum of their parts.
- Autonomy is crucial for mindset shifts. Learners need to feel ownership over their learning journeys to integrate new ideas and make meaningful changes.
- Life is a game, and we can redesign it. Game Thinking helps us see the world as a series of games with rules, roles, goals, time, space, and objects. We can change our behavior and shift systems by tweaking any of these elements. Instead of focusing solely on changing people's mindsets, we can look for ways to redesign the game itself.
Links & Recommendations:
Books:
The Power of Moments by Chip & Dan Heath: https://amzn.to/4cT75MB
The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker: https://amzn.to/3UkmpdM
Free Play: Improvisation in Art & Life by Stephen Nachmanovitch: https://amzn.to/3Jjahn0
How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy by Jenny Odell: https://amzn.to/49UMvc5
Connect with Lily:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lily-higgins-980519b8/
The Intervention Bureau: www.theinterventionbureau.com
Book a 90-min experience design consultation with Lily: https://calendly.com/lilyhiggins/experience-design-consultation
In this episode, Tracy and Hannah discuss the importance of being present and intentional in our lives. They explore the impact of conditioned beliefs and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The conversation highlights the need to be fully present in each moment (be where your feet are) and the consequences of not doing so.
They talk about the practice of mindfulness through meditation and how it can lead to a life of peace and fulfillment and they discuss the obstacles to mindfulness, such as fear and the desire for safety and familiarity. They emphasize the importance of taking aligned actions and finding sustainability in growth and action.
Takeaways
- Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention on purpose in the present moment, non-judgmentally.
- Practicing mindfulness through meditation helps to exercise the mindfulness muscle and live a life of peace and fulfillment.
- Being fully present in the moment amplifies happiness and reduces ruminations about the past and anxiety about the future.
- Taking aligned actions and finding sustainability in growth and action are key to living a fulfilled life.
Hanna’s Recommendations:
Books:
Frequency by Penny Pierce https://amzn.to/4ayHOW8
The Inner Matrix by Joey Klein https://amzn.to/3U1WzLx
The Surrender Experiment by Michael Singer https://amzn.to/3TKhZLU
Podcasts
The Expanded Podcast
Where Should We Begin?
The Michael Singer Podcast
Find Hanna:
Soultrustignite.com
https://www.instagram.com/soultrustignite/
In this episode of Building Thinkers Tracy interviews T. Mark Meyer, author of "The Art of Being Authentic." They dive deep into creating space for powerful mindset shifts that transform your learning and life experiences. They cover the following topics:
- Discovering your purpose: Uncover what truly drives you and learn to express it authentically.
- Confidence vs. self-esteem: Understand the key differences and their impact on your journey.
- Leading with authenticity: Explore how to be a more genuine and impactful leader.
- Redefining success in education: Move beyond traditional measures and create a more meaningful path.
- Staying true to yourself: Learn practical tools to stay aligned with your purpose, even when it's challenging.
This episode is your guide to the ongoing adventure of authenticity. Join the conversation and discover a fresh perspective on connecting with your true self.
For more information, check out the resources T. Mark shared below:
Books
The Art of Being Authentic by T. Mark Meyer https://amzn.to/3PwgPCu
Dare to Lead by Brene Brown https://amzn.to/3Pvze2f
True North by Bill George https://amzn.to/3Pvze2f
Socials
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troelsmarkmeyer/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authentictmarkmeyer/
In this episode, Tracy interviews Jonathan Butterworth about the power of habits and how they can be used to improve various aspects of life.
Jonathan shares his background as an entrepreneur and his experience in building people and teams. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the desired outcomes before implementing habits and making necessary sacrifices.
Jonathan also discusses the balance between hustle and rest, and the need to align goals and habits. He provides insights on maintaining focus in a distracted world and shares his approach to creating content and managing time effectively.
For more information, check out the resources Jonathan shared below:
Books
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius https://amzn.to/495qOoU
Code of the Extraordinary Mind by Vishen Lakhiani https://amzn.to/493YWld
The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson https://amzn.to/4cpuQvq
Podcasts
Lex Fridman Podcast https://lexfridman.com/podcast/
The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes https://lewishowes.com/sogpodcast/
Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett https://stevenbartlett.com/the-diary-of-a-ceo-podcast/
Socials
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanbutterworth/
In this episode, Tracy Clark interviews Chris Skees, a learning product manager at Cisco Meraki, about putting the learner at the center of the learning conversation. Chris shares his background and journey in the learning and development field, highlighting the importance of understanding personas and meeting learners where they are. He emphasizes the need for learning professionals to talk to learners and gather data to validate assumptions and make informed decisions.
Chris also discusses the importance of measuring learning outcomes and connecting learning initiatives to business goals. He envisions a future where learning is personalized and engaging, leveraging technology to anticipate learner needs and provide targeted support.
In this conversation, Tracy and Chris explore the concept of a product mindset and how it can transform the way L&D professionals approach their work. They also discuss the learner-centered approach of Justin Welsh and the power of listening to learners' needs.
For more information, check out the resources Chris shared below:
Books
Transformed by Marty Cagan https://amzn.to/3TqRxXm
Podcasts
The Learning & Development Podcast: Developing A Digital Mindset With Myles Runham https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/developing-a-digital-mindset-with-myles-runham/id1466927523?i=1000514937966
The L&D Career Club Podcast: How to Become a CLO with David James https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-become-a-clo-with-david-james/id1540650959?i=1000609468785
Courses
Justin Welsh: LinkedIn OS https://learn.justinwelsh.me/linkedin
Socials
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cskees/
Tracy Clark and Sandhya Sudhakar discuss the importance of knowing oneself at work and how it’s critical to activating human potential. Sandhya shares her personal journey of experiencing burnout and leaving the corporate world to start her own business focused on helping individuals understand their innate potential and make choices that align with their true selves. They discuss the consequences of not knowing oneself at work, the role of self-reflection and the Enneagram in personal growth, and the need for rest and self-care. They also explore how leaders can create systems and structures that support individual differences and foster trust within teams. The conversation explores the importance of building trust and collaboration in teams and embracing our humanity at work.
For more information, check out the resources Sandhya shared below.
Books
Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most -https://amzn.to/3TLBCEq
The First, the Few, the Only: How Women of Color Can Redefine Power in Corporate America- https://amzn.to/43uvxQb
The Essential Enneagram - https://amzn.to/49aEqPU
Discovering Your Personality Type - https://amzn.to/3TkjcJm
Podcasts
Working Your Way https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/working-your-way/id1714936726
https://hbr.org/podcast/2018/02/lead-with-authenticity
Enneagram Resources:
- Self At Work Guide: Discovering Your Enneagram Type
- Enneagram Online Assessment: https://cpenneagram.com/compass
Socials:
https://www.selfatwork.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandhya-sudhakar/
https://www.instagram.com/selfatworksandhya/
In this episode, Tracy Clark explores the idea of learning agility and why it is the ultimate competitive advantage for modern work and life.
Tracy answers the questions:
-
What is learning agility?
-
Why does learning agility matter?
-
How might we begin to develop learning agility? Including three practical ideas for getting started with your own learning agility development.
Tracy shares how reflecting on her own learning story helped her recognize the power of this concept and its direct impact on her personal and professional growth.
Books
The Power of Habit: Why we do what we do in life and business | By Charles Duhigg
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less | By Greg McKeown
Limitless Mind: Learn, Lead & Live without Barriers | By Jo Boaler
Socials
All the Building Thinkers socials and such - https://linktr.ee/buildingthinkers
Build Your Thinker - https://courses.buildingthinkers.com/newsletter
Tracy Clark & Kristiaan Hartmann talk about building clarity and motivation to learn. Kristiaan spoke to his own challenge in making decisions at important crossroads in life and how he learned to trust his intuition take action and change course when necessary as he went from snowboard instructor at 17 to people manager to lecturer and entrepreneur.
Kristiaan shared how he and his co-founder at Prototype You use best practices from lean, agile, design thinking and behavioral design to help professionals get from inspiration to action. We talked about the power of a posture of experimentation and a bit about Kristiaan’s current business prototype where he is putting into practice the same methods he teaches to others to help entrepreneurs take meaningful action within a structure of trusted and supportive accountability.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Kristiaan Hartmann
Books
- Procrastinate on Purpose | by Rory Vaden
- Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind | by Yuval Noah Harari
- Deep Work | by Cal Newport
Socials
- Kristiaan Hartmann on LinkedIn
Tracy Clark & Alexia Raven talk about building a life of continuous adventure and personal growth. Alexia shares her mindsets and practices for making ongoing progress towards her goals personally and professionally.
Alexia gives a mini-master class on marriage and shares her potentially controversial viewpoint that marriage is “easy”. We talk through what prompted Alexia to move from Hollywood to the Hill Country and start her own company, Maverix Insights and Strategy, after over two decades of corporate work in the qualitative research space, including at the top executive levels as Vice President of Warner Brothers Discovery Global Research & Insights Group, and roles at iHeart Radio, Lin Television and FOX Broadcast Network.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Alexia Raven
Books
-
Invisible Influence: The Hidden Forces that Shape Behavior | By Jonah Berger | I am fascinated by society & culture and why people make the decisions they do. Jonah Berger writes that we are all influenced by others and most of the time this is subconscious - we don’t even realize it.
-
The Millionaire Next Door | By Thomas Stanley & William Danko | I read this many many years ago, but it really changed my perception with money and how to manage it. Such a great resource.
-
Braving The Wilderness | By Brene Brown |At Warner Bros. we had the privilege of having Brene come speak to the studio. After that, I read her book and it gave me some real-world tips I use in my everyday life. What is the story I’m telling myself? I use that a ton!
Socials
- Alexia Raven on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexia-raven-87b19b5/
- Alexia's company website - Maverixinsights.com
Tracy Clark & Manuel S. Herrera talk about the power of drawing to make thinking visible. Manuel shares about creativity, art, visual literacy and why we sometimes may put our creative practices aside for a period of time. Manuel reflects on his career in education and edtech and the new opportunities opening up through his own illustrations and creative practices. We also talked about how Manuel learned how to illustrate children’s books and more about how several of his upcoming collaborations and projects came to fruition.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Manuel S. Herrera
Books
- Steal Like an Artist | By Austin Kleon
- The Art of Noticing: 131 Ways to Spark Creativity, Find Inspiration, and Discovery Joy in the Everyday | By Rob Walker
- Whole Child, Whole Life: 10 Ways to Help Kids Live, Learn, and Thrive | By Stephanie Malia Krauss (Author) and Illustrated by (Manuel S. Herrera)
Podcasts
- 99% Invisible
- Creative Pep Talk
- Clever
Socials
- You can Manuel on Instagram & Twitter at @manuelherrera33
Tracy Clark & Shemmy Majewski talk about the inflection point of this moment in time when it comes to AI and Machine Learning and how Shemmy’s own journey with diabetes fuels his passion for harnessing its power to enhance the lives of those living with diabetes.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Shemmy Majewski
Books
- Only The Paranoid Survive | by Grove Andrew
- Flowers for Algernon | by Daniel Keyes
- The Black Swan | by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
Socials
- Shemmy on LinkedIn
- Shemmy on Twitter
- Dlabs.AI - Company Site
Dlabs.AI on Instagram
Tracy Clark & Amanda Parker talk about building courage from within. With a remarkable career journey from NYC marketing to working with jaguars in Panama for the World Wildlife Fund and for clients such as the World Economic Forum, World Bank, Unicef, and General Assembly - Amanda’s experience in organizational and individual transformation shines throughout our conversation as she shares her insights and challenges us to consider what might be on the other side of that resistance we feel and leads us to a place where we find the courage to take the next right step forward. If you are ready to get unstuck and consider what courage looks like in your own life, take a listen and let me know what you think.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Amanda Parker
Books
- The War of Art | by Steven Pressfield
- The Untethered Soul | by Michael A. Singer
- You Are a Badass |by Jen Sincero
- Living a Committed Life |by Lynne Twist
Podcasts
- Podcast Episode - Marie Forleo interviewing Lynne Twist
- How to Live by Sharad Lal All about how to live a good life.
- Chris Do and The Futur For any entrepreneurs, especially in creative fields, who want to build a great business and life - simple, pragmatic, easy-to-follow, and creative advice.
Socials & More
- Free Gift for Building Thinkers Listeners - Habit Hero! - www.amandaparker.co/thinkers
- Amanda’s Personal Transformation Work - www.amandaparker.co
- The Courage Factory for Leaders & Organizations - www.couragefactory.com
- Amanda on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/amandaparker.co/
- Amanda on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandamparker/
For more from Tracy Clark & Building Thinkers check out https://linktr.ee/buildingthinkers
Tracy Clark & Anna Brewster talk about building teams for collective impact and evidence-based health policy. We analyzed why there is such a gap between what we know (research) and what we do (practice) across many fields and what strategies make an impact. If information doesn't change behavior, what does?
Anna shares her journey from management consulting at Deloitte to cancer prevention work at MD Anderson and her recent career transition to local government policy. Anna received her masters in public health from Harvard University and is passionate about seeing the impact of government health policy in action. It was such a treat to talk with my longtime friend and hear about the incredible impact of her work in public health.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Anna Brewster
Books
- Winners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World | by Anand Giridharadas
- To Bless the Space Between Us | By John O'Donohue
- Killers of the Flower Moon | By David Grann
Podcasts
- How I Built This | Guy Raz
- Lovett or Leave It
- This American Life
Socials
- Anna Brewster on LinkedIn
Tracy Clark and Stephanie Simpson talk about conscious leadership and becoming more “human” at work. At a time when change is happening at an exponential pace, having the tools to navigate ambiguity and adversity is vital. Stephanie shares how her unique experience in the performing arts and arts education comes into play as she coaches clients and teams to nurture the connection between mind, body, and spirit.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Stephanie Simpson
Books
- Dare to Lead | By Brene Brown
- Burnout | By Emily Nagoski & Amelia Nagoski
Podcasts
- Armchair Expert
- Scriptnotes
Socials
- Website: http://www.stephanie-simpson.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniesimpsoncoaching/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniesimpsoncoaching/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StephanieSimpsonCoaching
Tracy Clark & Toby Newman explore strategies for building seamless learning ecosystems that minimize friction between learners and the learning process. Discover how this approach fosters adult learner agency and unlocks limitless learning potential. Toby shares his insights on the intersection of AI and Learning Technology, the potential for improving our learning ecosystems, and the power of being a generalist in learning and development.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Toby Newman
Books
- Feakanomics | By Steven D. Levitt
- Sapiens, Homo Deus, 21 Lessons | Trilogy by Yuval Noah Harari
Socials
- Toby Newman on LinkedIn
- Toby Newman’s website
Community
- L&D Shakers Info
Join Tracy Clark and Tony Wang as Tony shares his personal transformation stories and insights into how to overcome common obstacles on the path to self-discovery. In this episode, you'll hear Tony's perspective on what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to making an introspective change and clearing unwanted thoughts and emotions. From navigating difficult emotions to breaking free from limiting beliefs, you'll explore potential ways of thinking that could inspire working towards breakthroughs in your own life.
And, in a lighthearted segment, Tony also shares some of his other favorite things, including a chili oil that he claims is better than sriracha and extra well-done fries from In N Out.
*This podcast is not intended to provide medical or mental health advice. The opinions and experiences of our guests are their own. Tony discusses his experiences with plant medicine and how it played a role in his emotional breakthrough. We encourage you to consult with your physician before exploring any new forms of therapy and healing.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Tony Wang
Books
- Power of Now | By Eckhart Tolle
- Levels of Energy | By Frederick Dodson
- A Journey Into Oneself | By Vladimir Stojakovic
Other Recommendations
- Aubrey Marcus podcast
- Lao Gan Ma Chili Oil (better than sriracha)
- Extra well-done fries In N Out
Socials
- Tony Wang on Instagram
- Tony Wang business site
- Tony Wang on LinkedIn
In this episode of the Building Thinkers Podcast, host Tracy Clark is joined by cross-cultural communication expert Paola Pascual, who shares her insights on effective communication across cultures and languages.
Listeners will learn about key mindset shifts and self-awareness techniques that can help non-native English speakers feel more confident in their communication skills and even access more of their full selves in their non-native language. Paola also highlights the positive impact that a vibrant multicultural community can have on work and innovation efforts and what native English speakers can do to decrease linguistic bias in conversations and collaboration.
Throughout the episode, Paola draws from her own experiences and her current role at Talaera working with individuals and organizations across cultures, providing practical advice and strategies for improving cross-cultural communication.
Whether you are a non-native English speaker seeking to improve your communication skills or a professional working in a multicultural environment, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable tips for building effective communication skills across cultures.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Paola Pascual
Upcoming Free Webinar! Working Across Cultures (link goes to registration page)
Talaera - Business English Training for Global Teams https://www.talaera.com/
Books
- The Culture Map | by Erin Meyer
- Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard | by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
- Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness | by Richard H. Thaler
- How People Learn | by Nick Shackleton-Jones
Socials
Paola Pascual on LinkedIn
Tracy Clark & Amanda Rickman talk about how Amanda transitioned from owning a local cake shop to building a real estate business and team. Amanda shares her perspective on what’s happening in the current housing market, how she thinks about building a real estate investment portfolio, and when to delegate in your business. We also talked about the inspiration that drives her community giving and involvement.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Amanda Rickman
Books
- The Go-Giver | by Bob Burg & John David Mann
- The Energy Bus | by Jon Gordon
Podcasts
- The Goal Digger Podcast
- Hustle Humbly Podcast
Socials
- Amanda Rickman on Instagram
- Amanda Rickman on Facebook
Join Tracy Clark and Anamaria Dorgo in a compelling conversation on the critical factors that contribute to building a thriving community of practice. In this podcast episode, Anamaria shares valuable insights on how purpose and values play a vital role in narrowing the gap between community vision and reality.
Discover the secrets to building a sustainable community that benefits both individuals and organizations. Anamaria challenges community builders and leaders to adopt a co-creation approach anchored in human-centered design. By consistently tending to the norms and contributions of the community, you can foster an environment where growth and innovation flourish.
Are you ready to take your community-building skills to the next level? Then, tune in and learn from the incredible communities of practice thought leader, Anamaria Dorgo!
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Anamaria
Books
- How We Learn: Why Brains Learn Better Than Any Machine ... for Now | by Stanislas Dehaene
- Creative Confidence | By Tom and David Kelley
- The Art of Gathering | By Priya Parker
Podcasts
- Creative Confidence Podcast | By IdeoU
- Workshops Work | By Myriam Hadnes
- Learning Uncut | By Michelle Ockers
Learning
- Any course by KAOSPILOT on Learning Experience Design, Experience Design and Leadership Presence
- Leading Groups Online, Offline and Hybrid from Mischief Makers (facilitation)
- Tate Modern Museum Youtube Channel is the most inspiring resource I’ve found recently.
Socials & More
- Connect with Anamaria on LinkedIn
- Visit her Bento page to learn more about her work
- Sign-up for L&D Shakers
- Join the Butter Community
- Sign-up for Butter
Tracy Clark & Daniel Raz talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to fitness and health goals. Daniel shares the small shifts that can make a big impact on our health and confidence and how he helps his clients make lasting changes.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Daniel Raz
Socials
- Daniel Raz on Twitter
- Daniel Raz on Instagram
- Daniel Raz on Facebook
- Daniel Raz on LinkedIn
Tina Chessher and Tracy Clark talk about transitioning to a career that aligns with your strengths while leaving room for growth. Tina shares her learnings from her own transition from childcare work to the financial and insurance services industry and what she learned along the way. Tina unpacks how she leads with authenticity and connection and the learning mindset she brings to her career.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Tina
- The Bible
- Modern Appointment Setting: Prospecting and Phoning for Financial Professionals | Gail B. Goodman
Socials
- Tina Chessher on LinkedIn
AJ Crabill and Tracy Clark talk about how to build effective school boards and what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to school governance. AJ shares his perspective on what school boards' singular vision and purpose should be and why so many have veered from this direction. AJ shares what he learned from his experience in several remarkable school district turnarounds and his time in state-level education leadership regarding the continuous improvement cycle. AJ previews his upcoming book - launching in March of 2023 - Great on Their Behalf: Why School Boards Fail, How Yours Can Be Effective.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from AJ Crabill
- Great on Their Behalf: Why School Boards Fail, How Yours Can Be Effective | By AJ Crabill - Coming to Amazon in Spring 2023
- Leadership & Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box | By The Arbinger Institute
Socials
- AJ Crabill on LinkedIn
- AJ Crabill Website
- AJ Crabill on Twitter @ ajcrabill7
- AJ Crabill on Facebook
- AJ Crabill on Instagram
- AJ Crabill on YouTube
Tracy Clark & Kirsten Anderson talk about the power of play and why Kirsten sees play as the antidote to fear. Kirsten explains why play and productivity should not be at odds with one another and identifies the bottom-line benefits of play at work. Kirsten shares how the lessons from her imaginative, thriving toy store days inspired her to help more adults solve sticky challenges through the power of play at work.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Kirsten Anderson
Books
- Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul | by Dr. Stuart Brown
- Playful Rebellion: Maximize Workplace Success Through the Power of Play | by Gary Ware
- The Fun Habit: How the Pursuit of Joy and Wonder Can Change Your life | by Mike Rucker, PhD
Podcasts
- Hidden Brain
- Using Play to Rewire Your Brain & Improve Your Brain | Huberman Lab
- Sir Ken Robinson Ted Talk | Do Schools Kill Creativity?
Courses
Eleven Minutes to Mars Course
Socials
- Kirsten on Instagram (@ KirstenPlaying )
- Kirsten on TikTok (@ KirstenPlaying)
- Kirsten on LinkedIn
Episode Description
Tracy Clark & Jason Fite talk about what leadership skill development looks like in the military. Jason explains why he reads biographies rather than traditional leadership books and why indecision is the achilles hill of leadership. Jason shares how understanding your own strengths and weaknesses is foundational to any leadership position and about his upcoming role as a new commander of a naval warship.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Jason Fite
Books
- John Adams | by David McCullough (Lesson: Country over self)
- Team of Rivals| by Doris K. Goodwin (Lesson: Team over self)
- The Hunt for Vulcan | by Thomas Levenson (Lesson: We can continually “rediscover” something that’s not there. Our worldview affects how we “discover” the natural world.)
- The Field of Blood: Violence in Congress and the Road to Civil War | by Joanne Freeman (Lesson: Civil War results from an irreparable breakdown in the body politics’ ability to compromise)
Socials
- Jason Fite on Facebook
- Jason Fite on LinkedIn
Tracy Clark & Kara Kirby talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to building leadership skills and people-first practices. Kara shares about her experiences in top rated organizational cultures and how she took the leap to build her own service business, growing people-first companies across the globe. Oh, and if you are a Ted Lasso fan you’re in for an extra treat.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Kara Kirby
Books
- Heart of Business | By Hubert Joly
- Don’t Overthink it | By Anne Bogel
- Outward Mindset: Seeing Beyond Ourselves | By The Arbinger Institute
- Culture Renovation | By Kevin Oakes
- Actualized Leadership | By William L. Sparks
- Quiet Leadership | By David Rock
- If You Want To Write | By Brenda Ueland
- Don’t Overthink It | By Anne Bogel
Coach Beard's Booklist via Kara Kirby
· Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds & Shape Our Futures by Merlin Sheldrake
· Fever Pitch by Nick Hornby
· About a Boy by Nick Hornby
· Football Against the Enemy by Simon Kuper
· Inverting the Pyramid: The History of Football Tactics by Jonathan Wilson
· Coaching Soccer for Dummies by Greg Bach
· The Greatest: The Quest for Sporting Perfection by Matthew Syed
Socials
- Kara Kirby on LinkedIn
- Kara Kirby on Instagram
Pop On Leadership - Podcast
Tracy Clark & Gillian Calley talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to making structures to help make impactful projects possible. Gillian shares her pathway from office administrator to chief of staff and how being a “non-traditional” college student helped develop skills and mindsets she carries with her today. Gillian and Tracy talk about the power of communication in an organization and the connections between relationships, psychological safety, and effective operations.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Gillian Calley
Books
- The Nightingale | by Kristin Hannah
- The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo | by Taylor Jenkins Reid
- Colleen Hoover and Elin Hilderbrand
Podcasts
- The Carpool Podcast
- ABC Story Sisters
- Bad on Paper
Socials
- Gillian Calley on LinkedIn
In this special episode the roles are reversed as Greg Garner interviews Tracy Clark about her story and what ignited her desire to unleash human potential. Tracy and Greg talk about the core principles that ground the work she does with clients, the twists and turns of her career path and how her own insatiable desire for positive impact drives a sense of purpose and the action oriented collaboration signature to her learning strategy services.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Tracy Clark
Books
- All the Jon Acuff Books
- The Art of the Gathering | by Priya Parker
- Think Again | Adam Grant
Socials
- Tracy Clark on LinkedIn
- Tracy Clark on Twitter
- Building Thinkers Website
Tracy Clark and Eryn Schultz talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to personal finance in Eryn's niche, helping high earning women with graduate degrees. Eryn takes her incredible depth of knowledge from her days of management consulting at Accenture, Harvard Business School MBA, and corporate leadership roles and she combines it with a humble and accessible heart of an educator in the courses she designs and leads. Her work has been featured on NPR, CNBC, at Harvard Business School, and Real Simple.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Eryn Schultz
Books
- The Simple Path to Wealth | by JL Collins
- LBJ Series | by Robert A. Caro
- Your Money or Your Life | by Vicki Robin
Podcasts
- Your Money Briefing | WSJ Podcasts
- The Money with Katie Show
- Money Confidential
Socials & More
- Eryn Schultz on LinkedIn
- Her Personal Finance on Instagram
- Eryn's 10 Week Money Bootcamp | Listeners can use the discount code Friendswithmoney for 10% off!
Tracy Clark & Alex McFadyen talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to developing a new product and the process of securing a patent. Alex shares his unique approach to developing, what he likes to call "assets", and building a business to the point of passing it off for someone else to run. So, what should you do with your "big" idea? Alex shares his thoughts on how to start, equity tips, and some of the first questions VCs have in mind during that first pitch.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Alex McFadyen
Books
- Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less | By Greg McKeown
- How to Win Friends & Influence People | By Dale Carnegie
- Patent it Yourself (19th Edition) | by David Pressman & David E. Blau
Socials
- Alex McFadyen on LinkedIn
Tracy Clark & Greg Garner talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to developing and leading others and what he is learning in his role as a learning and performance specialist at a pharmaceutical research company. Greg shares about his doctoral work at the intersection of education, psychology and design and challenges us to think about productivity in new ways.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Greg Garner
Books
- Lateral Thinking | by Edward De Bono
- Pedagogy of the Oppressed | By Paulo Freire
- The Art of Gathering | by Priya Parker
- Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice that Shapes What We See, Think, and Do | by Jennifer L. Eberhardt
Socials
- Greg Garner on Twitter
- Greg Garner on LinkedIn
- Greg Garner on Instagram (for his golf fans)
Tracy Clark & Moss Pike talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to strategy. Moss shares about developing a managed services product and the questions he and his company are thinking about at this moment in time like: What is the purpose of our office space now? How do we have non-transactional conversations?
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Moss Pike
Books
- Good Strategy Bad Strategy | by Richard Rumelt
- Beethoven: Anguish and Triumph | by Jan Swafford
- Every Good Boy Does Fine | by Jeremy Denk
- Embrace Fearlessly the Burning World | by Barry Lopez
- Big Feelings | by Liz Fosslien and Mollie West Duffy | also their newsletter
Socials
- Moss Pike on Twitter
- Moss Pike on Good Reads
- Moss Pike on LinkedIn
Tracy Clark & Kimberly Borges talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to building an apparel brand, manufacturing products, and going from vision to action as an entrepreneur. Kimberly shares about the women entrepreneurs in her family and how she is currently working to make PWR WMN, her apparel brand, more inclusive and empowering.
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Kimberly Borges
- Book - Breakthrough Advertising | Eugene M. Schwartz
- Podcast - How I Built This| Guy Raz
- Companies - Salt Box
- incfile - file LLC
- Alibaba - manufacture in high quantities
- Flodesk - newsletters
Socials
- Kimberly’s company PWR WMN | Use the code BUILDINGPWRWMN for 10% off for a limited time!
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PWRWMN1/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pwr_wmn/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pwrwmnkimberlyborges/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pwr_wmn
Tracy Clark & Ali Goljahmofrad talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to building connection and contentment. Ali shares how to intentionally re-think happy-whenitis, accept and value our own humanity, including our imperfections, and be present witnesses to joy.
Episode Resources
- The Golden Connection | Ali Goljahmofrad
- We’re All A Bunch of Broken Crayons | TEDxSanAntonio
- The Epidemic You’ve Never Heard Of | TEDxIdahoFalls
Books
- When Breath Becomes Air | Paul Kalanithi
- The Letter: My Journey Through Love, Loss, and Life | Marie Tillman
- My First Coach: Inspiring Stories of NFL Quarterbacks and Their Dads | Gary Myers
Podcasts
Ali implores listeners to explore a wide range of content, including things that are from other arenas or perspectives that differ from your own. And with that in mind he shared his picks:
- Chasing Excellence | Ben Bergeron & Patrick Cummings
- The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast
Socials
- Twitter: @aligoljahmofrad
- Instagram: @aligoljahmofrad
Tracy Clark & Alton Riggins talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to supporting teachers and building learning experiences for all students. Alton tells us how he supports teachers as they try new things and he makes an intention to launch his own internet presence – get ready for a YouTube channel and TED Talk by Alton in the future.
Episode Resources
Books
- Pedagogy, Policy and the Privatized City| Kristen L. Buras
- Worth Striking For: Why Education Policy Is Every Teacher's Concern | Isabel Nuñez, Gregory Michie, Pamela Konkol
- The Autobiography of Red | Anne Carson
Favorite Ed-Tech Tools (because he isn’t into podcasts yet)
- Formative | Formative Assessment
- Blooket | Review Games
- Gimkit | Live Learning Game Show
Socials
Twitter: @AltonSocrates
LinkedIn: Alton Riggins
Tracy Clark & Katie Conley talk about what people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to building memorable customer experiences. Katie tells us why companies shouldn’t be afraid to make a mistake in the customer service experience and why nothing is too small to celebrate.
Episode Resources
Books
- The Defined Dish Cookbooks | Defined Dish | The Comfortable Kitchen, Alex Snodgrass
- The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact, Chip Heath & Dan Heath
- The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things Right, Atul Gawande
Podcasts
- Brené Brown
- Esther Perel
- What a Day
Companies
- https://www.saltbox.com/
- https://www.pwrwmn.shop/
- https://imanicollective.com/
- https://joycreativeshop.com/
- https://simpleafbrands.com/
Tracy Clark & Davis Staedtler talk about three things people tend to overcomplicate when it comes to building learning experiences. When it comes to designing learning experiences, strike the right balance between being timely and timeless.
Episode Resources
- NeuroLeadership Institute
Books
- Just Listen
- Acoustic Leadership
- The Ten Faces of Innovation (especially chapter on story telling)
- Unwinding Anxiety
Podcasts
- Rob Bell
- Malcolm Gladwell
- Gloria Cotton
In this trailer Tracy Clark shares what the Building Thinkers podcast is all about and why she decided to explore the world of podcasting as a way to continue her own learning and create accessible blueprints on a range of topics (business, education, organization, building habits, therapy, finances, research, and learning science to name a few).