Let's Pause: Recent Episodes
Mark & Jeff
Today's world is rushed and our lives feel as though they're in constant motion. Let's Pause is a podcast that commits to slowing down, filtering out the noise, and digging deeper on a particular topic. With the goal of being educational and entertaining, discussions will focus on recognizing the importance of the topic, how to push the pause button, learn more, and re-engage with greater understanding and appreciation. Join Mark and Jeff as they pause and dig deeper (www.letspause.org).
On this episode of Let's Pause, Mark and Jeff explore Adam Grant's seminal work, Think Again. Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and in Think Again, he details why human being are cognitively lazy, seeking to economize and reduce our mental and emotional loads down to sound bites. The troubling result? Individual biases, cognitive distortions, and rigid thinking patterns that all reduce our ability to make thoughtful and accurate judgments. We unpack Grant's top strategies, including engaging in counterfactual thinking, challenging assumptions, pausing to consider alternatives (thinking again), and honing our meta-cognitive skills (learning to think about our thinking). Tune in and join the conversation!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode of Let's Pause, we are joined on location at a remote Lake house in the Mountains of New York by three friends, John, Matt, and Clifford. Tune in as we explore the subtle nuances that distinguish one bourbon from another... differences that get harder and harder to detect as the pairings increase! Following our exploratory mixology and our philosophical musings, we press our luck and perform the Five Tibetan Rights (led by John). In the end, this episode is as much about fellowship and connection than it is about insightful bourbon tasting or deep spiritual experiences. Listen in, sip some bourbon in absentia, and start your Tibetan spinning!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Ever stepped out into the unknown? Ever sought to manifest a new future reality? Do you possess the leadership qualities to adapt in a dynamic and often hostile environment? Yeah...me neither. On this episode of Let's Pause, Mark and Jeff explore the world of adaptive leadership, as envisioned by Tod Bolsinger in his book, Canoeing the Mountains. Bolsinger chronicles Lewis and Clark's courageous trek across uncharted territory, and in doing so, siphons away key leadership lessons for organizations attempting to navigate in uncharted waters. Tune in and learn how they did it...spoiler alert, not without the ally-ship and support of knowledgeable indigenous partners and the courage to operate in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous environments!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode of Let's Pause, Mark and Jeff welcome Jonathan Lewis, an experienced Police Chaplain and ordained minister of the Wesleyan church. Jonathan serves in many capacities, but we focus on his role in serving those who protect and preserve our community. How does "a man of the cloth" fit in with law enforcement and first responder personnel? Do cops that don't share his religious beliefs stiff-arm his presence? If so, what then? Does he ever get pulled in to policing actions? In the present age of ICE and contentious immigration policies, how does he walk the line? Turn in as we explore the world of embedded chaplaincy in local law enforcement!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Ever wonder about the roads not taken? Ever look back on your life and think about alternative jobs, occupations, or even places you might have lived? On this Misfit series episode, Jeff plays host as Mark guests and together they explore what could have been! They also address the age old question, why did George Washington choose to be on the one dollar bill and not the twenty! Spoiler alert, he was the OG of social media influence! Tune in and ponder your own metaverse identities...
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Ever over-eaten, had too much to drink, or been in a one-sided toxic relationship? What did the ancient Greeks mean when they said "moderation in all things" was the key to a life well-lived? Don't feel like you have good work-life balance? Jeff hosts and Mark "guests" in this Misfit series episode, exploring what it means to live in moderation. Tune in and learn more about finding proper balance in all things!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Anxiety up 134% in last 15 years while depression is up 106% (in U.S. undergrads)...what's happening?! This disturbing trend is isolated to younger generations...but not older ones, why? In today's episode, Mark and Jeff review Jonathan Haidt's latest book, The Anxious Generation. Haidt makes the case that there has been a rewiring of Gen Z through parental over-protection from the real world and under-protection from the virtual world. As a result, we've created four foundational harms: 1) social deprivation, 2) sleep deprivation, 3) attention fragmentation, and 4) addiction. Tune in and learn about ways we can turn this alarming trend around!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Are you making money or memories? Investing in your 401K or an experience annuity? On this episode of Let's Pause, Mark and Jeff conduct their own life audits based on the best selling book, Die with Zero by Bill Perkins. Join us as we dive into the book, explore experience over wealth, compounding memory dividends, spending down our bank accounts, longevity, gifting and balancing health, money, and time. Learn to time bucket your life, goals, and spend-plans. Give when it matters and others can make the most of your generosity. Thinking about a back-packing trip around Europe or backstage passes at the next Billy Idol concert? Get with the MJ plan and "Just Do It!"
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode of Let's Pause, we are joined by Chip Gentry (and wife Summer), master Falconer from Hawk Manor Falconry. This is Part II of a two part series that explores the ancient practice of hunting with predatory birds. If you missed Part I, hit pause and begin at the beginning! It's time to meet the birds! A red-tailed Hawk that looks like baby T-Rex by 8 weeks and the fastest animal on the planet, a Falcon who serenades us all! Learn how survival school and training Falcons are sort of the same thing...and see if Jeff is willing to have bloody meat snatched out of his hands! All kidding aside, tune in as Chip puts on a clinic regarding how to be a master of the art of living. He has found the perfect marriage between purpose and passion.
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this misfit series episode, we answer the age-old question...why does Microsoft provide 300+ fonts to choose from? Tune in as Jeff is our host and Mark is our guest while we explore equity and diversity from the perspective of font choice. Are you a word-dog (with a finely tuned sense of fonts)? An aesthetic (the creative side of you just has to use Old Bookman? Do you hate Aptos and believe it's a Russian false flag operation to overthrow our Western way of life? Should we all be texting using "wing-dings"? Hit play, sit back, and find out the answers!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode of Let's Pause, we are joined by Chip Gentry (and wife Summer), master Falconer from Hawk Manor Falconry. This is Part I of a two part series that explores the ancient practice of hunting with predatory birds. How do you train an Owl? ...the same way you train your cat! (you probably don't) How about a Hawk? Now we're talking about you family Labrador. A Falcon? The same way you might a working dog...what does that mean? Learn about Chip's journey from pet stores and big cats, to hunting with the fastest animal on planet Earth! Learn about the physics of terminal velocity and the differences between how Hawks and Falcons kill their prey. I'm telling you, you had no idea!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Think you're hip? cool? to legit to quit? When you look in the mirror, do you see a square, a nerd, or feel like bagging your face? Well...on this episode of Let's Pause, we dive into the world of generational slang. Mark is our host while Jeff is our guest and we get to see just how much cred Jeff has....will he bring receipts or RIP this episode? Tune in and catch the vibe....and find out just how bad to the bone you are!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode of Let's Pause, we are joined by Frank Daniels IV, executive producer at Pilot Radio and The Pilot. Frank is journalistic royalty in North Carolina, descending from several generations of journalists and newspaper publishers, including his grandfather, who led the iconic News & Observer (Raleigh, NC). Frank is also an accomplished artisan and creative who honed his craft out of teenage angst and misdeeds into a deep understanding of the art of glass blowing! Tune in and learn more about his unique journey...and learn something about frit, and gathering, and journalistic integrity!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Ever wonder who gets to test drive the coolest and funkiest vehicles on the road? Ever had a dream car and wished you could get behind it's wheel? On this episode of Let's Pause, we are joined by Ezra Dyer, award winning author and car enthusiast. Ezra has the greatest job ever...as a writer for Car and Driver, the New York Times and more, he samples the most exotic and yet-to-be revealed arrivals and then shares his experience with us! Join us as we talk auto shop, engines, torque, and RPMs. Not a motor head? Fear not, just hit play and we will take you back to your first cars and early car experiences.
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
How does life experience inform theology? What makes for a good Pastoral journey? How can you tell which Blanton's topper you're gonna get from across a crowded bar? On this episode of Let's Pause we're joined by Mike Dubbs, pastor of Community Congregational Church. Pastor Mike has a wealth of experience in life that fuels the depth of his preaching and teaching. Join us as we explore the relationship between real-world life experiences and connecting with other believers. Pastor Mike shares his own journey to build and cultivate a relationship with God and His people. Not interested in faith or religion...no worries, tune in just to learn more about Blanton's bourbon!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Chariot racing? Pistol dueling? Tug of War? What would you bring back to the Olympics? Would you opt for all nude athletes as the ancient Greeks did? On this misfit series episode we explore the Olympic Spirit and advise the Olympic committee on what events to drop and what events to bring back. Join us as Jeff hosts and Mark is our guest on this episode of Let's Pause!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Roth vs. Traditional IRAs? Debt cards vs. credit cards? Co-signing for loans or leases?
On this misfit series episode, we explore all of these questions and many more. Mark hosts while Jeff is his guest! With all of the financial issues to navigate, what are parents to do? Sometimes it feels like it's hard enough just balancing your own adult budget, but parents also have to consider helping their kids instill best practices of their own. Tune in and join the conversation!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Wanna run faster, jump higher, and live better...longer? On this episode of Let's Pause, we're joined by Dr. Todd Reiter, an interventional spine, sports med physician and chiropractor specializing in rehabilitative and performance medicine. Dr. Reiter's vision spawned the Longevity and Performance Clinic and Recalibrate Med (Pinehurst, NC) serving a population of aging operators and elite athletes. As the prior lead physician for the Philippines Olympic team in both the Beijing and London Olympic games, Dr. Reiter is a true subject matter expert in the area of performance medicine and longevity. Join us as we explore dozens of "T-Bone's" healthspan and longevity hacks - vibration pads, light therapies, Wimhof breathing and cold plunges, not to mention the best hacks for getting deep and restorative sleep!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this Misfit series episode, Jeff is our host and Mark is our guest. Tune in and learn more about the prophetic words of Billy Joel. If you had to pick one event each year for the last 30 years, what would jump to your mind? How about a single event in human history to define each decade? We posed this question to ChatGPT...guess what they came up with?! Tune in and be part of the conversation...and pause to think a little deeper about how you connect to world events in order to make them more personally relevant!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode we are joined by Master Sergeant (Ret.) Drew Stamp. As a Green Beret, Drew navigated some of the most challenging and extreme environments on the planet; however, transitioning from Special Forces to the civilian and corporate world posed its own set of unique challenges. In re-purposing himself, Drew found peace, contentment, and balance. Along with the team at the Donovan & Bank Foundation (donovanbank.org), Drew heads up a series of tailored experiences for transitioning SOF warriors (and others) in search of purpose, identity, and community. Join us and we explore the JANUS program, "the society," Green Beret for a day...and much more! Even if you aren't a transitioning veteran, you will find truth nuggets in this episode to aid any major transition in life. Tune in and check it out!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Ever had to give bad news? To tell someone, "I'm sorry, but we have to let you go" or worse, "your test results came back and you have cancer"? How in the world can you tell people such tough news without adding to the pain of the news itself? Well...tune in and get some real-world advice on potential strategies for giving painful "bad news". Join us on this Misfit series episode as Mark hosts and Jeff is our guest. Letting people go from a job, telling loved ones about the death of another...it's all hard and impossible to go through without being impacted. But, we can all learn to be better when delivering bad news to others. Tune in, check it out, and be part of the conversation!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode of Let's Pause, we host Tori Hypes - owner of Foodie Tours NC. Tori is a consummate cultivator of the local culinary experience! She walks us through her vision as a young business woman and entrepreneur, revitalizing small town charm, and pleasing the palate. Her motto, "where locals feel like tourists and tourists feel like locals". Book a tour today and soak up some of the Sandhills finest cuisine! (foodietoursnc.com)
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Have you ever considered getting yourself a coach? What's the difference between coaching and counseling? In this episode we are joined by Dr. Jeremy Noble, an accomplished performance coach and former Army Ranger. Dr. Noble explores the unique warrior mindset resident within the 75th Ranger Regiment and its elite warrior athletes. Tune in and check it out - goal setting, a growth mindset, and an insatiable appetite to get better! Learn what you can do to become a better version of yourself and what to look for in a personal or executive coach. To learn more about the podcast, join Mark and Jeff at www.letspause.org and to learn more about Dr. Noble and his coaching/consulting practice, check him out at Noble Organizational Consulting, LLC!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
In this episode we rejoin the conversation with Lt Col Mike Bain (ret) and his journey into addiction and recovery. In part I we chronicled the rise of his career as a Special Tactics Officer, serving among the ranks of SOF's elite. In part II we explore the collapse of Mike's world under the weight of alcohol and addiction. Tune in and learn how Mike clawed his way back to sobriety, the depths of his pain and personal tragedy, and the recovery he found through Warrior's Heart (warriorsheart.com) and the support of his family and community of fellow warriors!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Is fate or destiny real? Are coincidences just happy co-occurrences or is there a grander design at work? Does it really just depend on what you believe? Tune in to this Misfit episode, as Jeff "hosts" and Mark "guests"...and we explore coincidence, fate, and the possibility that we are all part of something intentional or designed. Also, find out if Jeff and Mark are in fact related?!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
In this episode, our guest is Special Tactics Officer, Lt Colonel Mike Bain (ret). Mike takes us through a tremendous career as a SOF warrior - starting as a junior enlisted sled dog and ending his career as a Lt Col, DO, Commander and respected leader in the Air Force Special Tactics community. Early 9/11 deployments, the massive loss of teammates, and wear and tear led to near catastrophe and an addiction to alcohol. In part I, we explore his tremendous career, humorous pipeline stories, and hint at his pain and suffering...but his road into a personal hell and his ride out of it into recovery will have to wait until part II! Join us for a powerful conversation with Lt Col Mike Bain!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this misfit series episode, Jeff is our host and Mark is our guest....posed with one of the ultimate questions - "If you were President of the US, what would you do?" If you were the most powerful person on the globe...no, not Xi Jinping...the US President, what would you do? We're talking domestic politics and the American people. Give everyone a free car? Put medicinal grade weed in the drinking water? How about re-work the carvings on Mt Rushmore into the faces of your favorite music artists? Tune in and learn what Mark would do as our next President!
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To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
They say it is better to give than receive....so true when it comes to critical feedback! Are you good and telling folks what they did well and what they did poorly? How they could improve upon their performance? How about when it comes time to be on the receiving end? Anybody get defensive when they get told they aren't doing something well? None of us are really good at giving feedback and fewer of us are good at receiving it gracefully. On this misfit series episode, Mark is hosting while Jeff is our guest and we plum the depth of how to give and receive critical feedback. Tune in and be part of the conversation!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Is Alexa or Siri really listening...and if so, what are they doing with all of that data? Has AI already become sentient...and if not, when will it emerge? What does it even mean for a machine to establish self-awareness and what is it going to take for the "singularity" to occur? Join Jeff and Mark as we work through Mo Gawdat's book - Scary Smart - and other recent articles on AI. We'll dive into the emergence of self-aware machines and how AI can go from helping you find good cat videos on YouTube to launching Skynet and the Terminator! Tune in, pause and learn more about why we're all doomed!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Establishing "touch-points" or re-envisioning your "engagement strategy"? On this Misfit episode, join Jeff as he hosts Mark and together they explore the reason and value behind buzzwords in the workplace. Why don't we just say what we mean? What's the difference between a buzzword and a colloquialism? When should we use them and when should we avoid them? Tune in and join the conversation!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Join us on this episode of Let's Pause as we once again host Dr. Matt Harmody - emergency care physician, organ donor advocate, and ultra-athlete! On today's episode (Part II) we explore the limits of human performance as an organ donor - climbing Kilimanjaro, hitting the 50 highest peaks in the US in only 41 days - a new Guinness Book World Record!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
What do you do to make sure you're prepared for life's many challenges? How do you get ready and stay "good-to-go" when it comes to your relationships stressors, job challenges, and whatever comes your way? On this episode of the Misfit podcast series, Jeff is my guest as we explore the range of his self-care strategies. What are you doing for your body, your mind, emotions and soul? Do you leverage social supports? Tune in and learn about successful strategies to address the many dimensions of self-care!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Join us on this episode of Let's Pause as we host Dr. Matt Harmody - emergency care physician, organ donor advocate, and ultra-athlete! What is it like to donate a kidney? How great is the need? Why can't we pay people for their organs? Or can we? Don't you need both of them? Tune in and learn more in Part I of this two part series on organ donation. In Part I we tee up the need and process and learn more about Dr. Harmody's personal journey...finding the extraordinary in the ordinary!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode of Let's Pause, Mark and Jeff visit the James Creek Cider House and explore the ups and downs of starting and nurturing a small business selling fruit and crafting hard cider. What's a Southern heirloom or cider apple variety? Did you know that there are 7500 types of apples? How about the fact that an apple seed doesn't even know what kind of apple it is to become...until you whisper to it as it grows? What makes an apple an heirloom apple? David and Ann Marie Thornton, owners of the James Creek Cider House, walk us through their journey from London through European apples brought to a young America, through their peach orchard...and eventually to the tasting room!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Join us for another misfit podcast episode where Jeff hosts and Mark is his guest. On this episode we explore "non-negotiables" in parenting and in the hiring process. What are your red-lines? Are you more of a balancing-test type of person or do you set bright-lines instead? In a job interview, if a candidate makes it all about themselves...can they recover? Tune in and weigh in!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Join your Let's Pause hosts (Mark and Jeff) and their guest, Keith Moneymaker as we explore an amazing non-profit...Dreams 4 All! If you lost everything, what would be one of the first things you'd need? A place to sleep of course! Hurricane, house fire, major flood...you name the disaster and we'll say the same thing in response - ain't no way to get back to normal without a bed. In steps Keith Moneymaker and his team making dreams come true out of nightmarish circumstances. Free beds for all - that's his claims. Join us and put that proclamation to the test! Did you know that you could bake a bed? Tune in and learn more about this amazing man and his vision for those in need. Learn more at - https://dreams4all.org
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
What are the critical tools to managing people well? Are they any different than what you need as a leader? Join us as we explore management and leadership lessons learned. On today's Misfit episode, Mark plays host while Jeff is our guest. With over three decades of management and leadership experience, Jeff opens up about the common challenges and key skills required to lead and manage well - and we explore what, if any, difference exist between the two. Tune in and be part of the conversation...raise your management and leadership game!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Trauma and personal demons are part of many people's lived experience. Overcoming those tragedies and picking up the pieces isn't easy and there's no one formula for recovery. However, join us as we explore the principles that underlie traumatic recovery with Dr. Tim Murphy - psychologist and former U.S. Congressman. Out of personal tragedy and public failure, Dr. Murphy leads us in a thought-provoking dialog about his personal journey and lessons learned. Dr. Murphy's latest book, the Christ Cure forms a framework for our exploration of Biblical truths toward healing from trauma, tragedy, and PTSD. Learn more about Dr. Murphy and his journey toward healing and hope at drtimmurphy.com
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode of Let's Pause, Jeff and I are joined by three amazing humans - Matt and Kathleen Jones...and their son Indiana. Tune in and learn more about the miracle of an unexpected home birth. In the DIY - YouTube generation, would you know what to do? Not only can Google help you with home-repairs...it can't pretty much deliver your baby too! Join us as we unpack the epic tale and find the extraordinary moments in the ordinary circumstances of life.
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
When you walk in to your home do you look around and wonder, "why do I have all of this stuff?" Do you have so much stuff that you've rented a storage unit? If so, you're not alone! during this Misfit Podcast episode Jeff hosts and Mark is our guest as we explore the psychology behind why we have so much stuff...and what to do about it once we're ready to downsize.
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
We know, from the title you might be thinking that we are going to share the deep thoughts of Socrates, Aristotle, or Epictetus...sadly no. Instead, tune in to this episode as Mark hosts and Jeff "guests" as we explore how aging (the seasoning of life) has changed Jeff in substantive ways. No, he's not just shorter, fatter, and has more grey hair - we're talking about how life's experiences have shaped him as a human being. How has life shaped you? What has perspective provided you and how have you let it inform your life in meaningful and impactful ways?
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Yes, you read that correctly...ain't no such thing as multitasking. You might think you're good at it but you're not, and in fact, it's not even a thing. Join us on this episode of the podcast as we celebrate another Misfit Series and explore Mark's assertion that multitasking isn't real and never has been. How many times has someone said they are good at multi-tasking or, in the hunt for talent, the boss thinks "multitasking" is a critical component to the job and wants it assessed. Impossible. Tune in and learn why the science just doesn't support it and why you shouldn't either!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
On this episode of Let's Pause, Jeff and I explore James Clear's insightful release, "Atomic Habits". Lots of great nuggets in this one...when we couldn't get James in person, we figured doing a deep-dive on his book was the next best thing: 1) Learn why incremental change translates into major course corrections over time, 2) Stop setting goals and instead, cultivate a better system, and 3) Build an identity-based habit! We go on to identify Clear's 4 Laws of Behavior Change and then Mark attempts the impossible....to make Jeff embrace email (a new habit with a lot of resistance). With an atomic habit approach, we're going to make Jeff's habit cues obvious, his craving to look at email attractive, his email responses easy, and his reward for emptying out his inbox, SATISFYING....and we might even learn about habit stacking along the way!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Favorite jacket? A picture that speaks 1000 words? How about something sacred you picked up together on that great trip? Why do we have emotional attachments to things? Does it mean we're materialistic? What are you holding on to emotionally and what purpose does it serve in your life? Join us during this Misfit Podcast episode as Jeff hosts and Mark guests. Will you remember to take some Athenian drachmas to pay the ferryman for passage across the river Styx? Or will you breakdown and bribe them with part of your beanie baby collection?!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Ever wish you received the gift of a dirt bike, ATV, or four-wheeler? Me too, but what if the kind of Suzuki you got instead was a type of music lesson? Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Suzuki methods in music instruction - and in building character. Our guest today is James Hutchins - Suzuki violin teacher of teachers (and allegedly personal violin teacher of Cuban leader, Raul Castro - at least that's the rumor I am spreading). Hot off the heels from his trip to Cuba, learn why Suzuki has become the predominant methods approach to music instruction and why it has something profound to teach us about leadership and character development as well!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
We've all had them...good ones and bad ones. What separates the good boss from the bad boss? Tune in to this Misfit Podcast episode as we stroll through a professional life of good and bad bosses. We reveal the top 7 characteristics of great bosses. We also identify several pitfalls to avoid as you manage and lead others in the workplace. Climb into the conversation and join us as we "pause" to think more deeply about leadership and managing others!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
It's not just a house, it's a home! Join us on this episode of Let's Pause as we host the Sandhill's Habitat for Humanity executive director, Aime Fraley. What do you mean they don't give away homes?! Tune in, learn more, and spread the good news about Habitat and what it does to partner with families ensuring affordable housing for all!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
What would you do with a $1 Billion dollars? With mad-money you could do almost anything...but what would you really do? What if you couldn't spend it on yourself...you had to give it away...how would you choose your charity or recipients? In many ways, what we do with our treasure says something about what we value most. Tune in for this episode of our Misfit podcast series and let's learn more about how Mark would spend $1B! If you won the lottery, how would you spend it?
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
What would you do if a 2000 lbs walrus gave you a hug? More importantly, why are there 240 lemurs living in a Durham, NC forest? Our guest on this episode is Greg Dye, the Executive Director of the Duke Lemur Center, the world's largest concentration of endangered lemurs (outside of their native Madagascar). This amazing habitat and rehabilitation center was home to the beloved Jovian (Zaboo) from the kid classic, Zaboomafoo. Join us as Greg reveals what it takes to run a world-class primate facility. From Sea World marine mammal trainer to primate behaviorist and leader in endangered species conservation - Greg walks us through the world of lemurs like no one else can. Learn what you can do to help save one of THE MOST ENDANGERED mammals on the planet....and what to do if you find your self cornered by a walrus!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Who do you turn to when you face a major life decision? Tune in and join us for another Misfit podcast series episode as Mark is our host and Jeff is our guest. During this episode we explore several of Jeff's recent major life decision as well as projected future challenges. When do you include your spouse or family in navigating tough decisions? What's the role of prayer or seeking guidance from a higher power? Why doesn't Jeff trust Mark enough to include him in major life decisions? Finding people you trust, who have experience in the issue you're facing, and those who are likely to be there for you whether you're successful are your target resource.
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Join us as we explore the world of craft beer, with business owner, Micah Niehbauer - owner and founding member of the Southern Pines Brewing Company. From Green Beret to entrepreneur to brew master, we chronicle the journey and the joy of building community in a small town and working to extend their branding to a "community of communities" throughout North Carolina. Learn more about reverse osmosis and the odds of creating radioactive water from Chernobyl...here in the Sandhills! Prepare your audio pallets for a flavor profile that includes roasted pecans, cacao, German chocolate cake, and bourbon barrel stave-infused stouts. Put the headphones on and grab your favorite spirit...this episode will make you thirsty!
Thanks for listening to Let's Pause!
To learn more, check out www.letspause.org
Leave us a message at markandjeff@letspause.org!
Join us today for another episode of our Island of Misfit Podcast series. In this episode Jeff is our host while Mark is our guest and together they explore the top five picks of three mystery categories. Tune in and find out what makes Mark's top five in each category and why! What would your top five list look like?
Have you ever found a good hooker? What about a great one? If you're a writer or a lover of words...hopefully you have! Joining Let's Pause in this episode is author and psychologist, Dr. Mardy Grothe. Dr. Grothe offers listeners a master-class on the use of literary devices such as first-lines, best quotes, clever quips, resourceful retorts, and final words. It is a fascinating look at how great authors write, draw readers into their experience, and effectively share their narratives. Lots of fun and a great education - tune in and check this one out!
On this episode from the Island of Misfit Podcast series, we explore what makes Jeff anxious, where his anxiety comes from, and ways to manage worry and irrational beliefs. Whether you struggle with significant anxiety or you just get nervous like most people, our exploration of anxiety life hacks, tactics for challenging worry, and pathways to engage our parasympathetic nervous system (the relaxation system) will point you in the right direction to your own investigation and management of anxious thoughts and worry!
Join the conversation as we explore the literal "next gen" in people - Native Digitals. A new typology in humankind - they've never known a world without connectivity or the internet. Their very experience of what it means to be human, in community, and a citizen is different than the rest of the species ("the Analogs"). Tune in as we examine engagement strategies for the Gen Z-Native Digital working through an analog world and workplace!
Join us for another episode of our Island of Misfit Podcast series! Tune in as we explore the meaning of dreams, best practices for remembering them, and the value and purpose of dreaming. In this episode, Mark hosts (Jeff guests) and we plum the depths of Jeff's sleeping mind...what is his wildest fantasy dream (IT IS SHOCKING)!
On this episode of Let's Pause, we explore the intersectionality of racial and ethnic identity in First Nation Indigenous peoples and historical traumas beset by colonialization. Join us as we welcome Dr. Kisha Supernant, Director of the Institute of Prairie and Indigenous Archeology and Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of Alberta. As an indigenous and First Nation member of the Metis, she is uniquely poised to educate and connect cultural identities, "kinscapes," and the cartographies of deep time relevant to the Pacific Northwest (and to us all). Dr. Supernant leads us in a discussion of the use of remote sensing and ground penetrating radar in the search for unmarked burials and the remains of First Nation communities. A compelling narrative that will drawn you in...pushing us all to confront a painful and poorly understood past of oppression and human suffering.
Welcome to another episode of our Island of Misfit Podcast series. In this episode we explore the pros and cons of military service, and somehow find our way into Waffle House to discuss their biggest franchise mistake. If you've ever served (not waffles) or have thought about signing up and shipping out, tune in as we weigh the services against each other - is it better to be an "army of one" or to "aim high"? Is it true that the Navy has the most fashionable uniforms and is it true that the Marines are the coolest? Spoiler alert...yes, they are!
Join us as we plum the depths of human performance with extreme athlete (and Guinness Book of World Records - holder) Vicki Otmani. Vicki and her rowing partner hold an EXTREME world record - the fastest women to row across the Pacific Ocean (from the Cali coast to Honolulu). In just under 58 days at sea, Vicki Otmani and Megan Biging fought the Kraken...four hurricanes, 60 foot swells, and each other! How far can one person push themselves when there is no plan B? Pause with us as we think deeper about the human capacity within all of us to do hard things, push our boundaries, and take steps into the unknown!
On this episode of the Island of Misfit Podcasts, we invite Jeff to explore the age-old question...Is it better to give than receive? Join us as we discover the greatest gift Jeff has ever received and the best gift he's given. This creative, dedicated father and "feeler" doesn't disappoint! (www.letspause.org)
On this episode of Let's Pause, our guest is singer-songwriter and Twitch TV personality, Annelle Staal. As a content creator, reality curator, and someone who makes her living on the balance of social media engagement, we explore the upside and downside of social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook. Are you authentic or transparent when it comes to your personal electronic footprint? What are the risks in cultivating a virtual reality for others to consume? Was CS Lewis right when he said, "comparison is the thief of joy" and what have you been consuming on-line? Tune in as we explore these challenging questions and learn more about how content is created, consumed and monetized!
On this episode of our Island of Misfit Podcasts series, Jeff is my guest as we pop the question...what is his greatest "pain gain"? What painful experience has led to the greatest gains (personally or professionally)? Tune in and learn more about why our most painful experiences are often are greatest teachers!
In this episode we tackle the difficult topic of grief and loss. Ubiquitous to human experience, we can't escape suffering losses and the natural grieving process that results. Whether its a catastrophic loss like the death of a spouse or something less traumatic like the loss of a job...our ability to "grieve well" requires thoughtful engagement, emotional and physical presence, and opportunities for closure. Who better to explore this challenging subject than true experts in the field - funeral director Robert Nunnaley and the Reverend Colette Bachand. Join us as we identify the common stages, adaptive coping strategies, and critical steps in our own grieving and shepherding those suffering loss themselves!
In this episode, Jeff hosts Mark as guest and we explore, "If you could go back in time, what would you tell your younger self?" Join us as Mark journey's through his misspent youth in search of landmines to avoid, love to secure, and lost opportunities to get rich quick! Ask yourself what would you do? Is the "butterfly effect" real? Is the past better to leave in the past or would it be a good thing to re-write your personal narrative?
In this episode we explore leadership development and behavioral integrity with a true subject matter expert, Dr. Kevin Basik. Join us as Kevin guides us through the central components of how leaders lead with integrity - an alignment between their habits of excellence and the type of person they've committed to be. We investigate the role of competence, confidence, and commitment - the trifecta that forms an unshakable foundation in the face of personal and organizational storms. If you ever wanted to know more about how to lead well...this episode is a must listen! (www.letspause.org)
Join us as we celebrate our Let's Pausiversary! It's true...we've been on the podcast journey for one year. In this episode we explore the journey while we celebrate the destination. Learn more about the Let's Pause origin story, our humble beginnings, the continued buffoonery, poor audio engineering, and outstanding guests!
In a highly competitive job market, finding the greatest talent is critical for an organization. Good hires not only translate into bottom line profits, but also in talent retention and team morale. Our guest on this episode is Dr. Michelle Ambrose, an expert in Talent Management and the assessment and selection of specialized personnel. Join us as we explore the critical components in personnel suitability screening programs, how to design a job analysis, and how to craft the most effective questions targeting "the Right Stuff" for a given occupational specialty! (www.letspause.org)
Welcome to another episode of our Island of Misfit Podcast series! On this episode Jeff interviews Mark and they explore Mark's "best day ever" - we dive into what makes for a great day for most people and look past the superficial and tangible - it's not about the money or the things, it's about the people, the places, and the peak moments in our lives that make the difference. Tune in and join us...and wonder, what's your best day ever?! (www.letspause.org)
Fear is a natural state...an initial response to threat and loss. During this episode we explore the value of Fear in our lives and ways to overcome its negative effects. Our guest is SMSgt George Earhart – a Special Operations combat veteran who shares his personal story of tragedy, challenge, and his journey to rise above both. An inspiring story that will motivate you to see setbacks as opportunities. Tune in and “pause” to think a bit deeper about loss, challenge, and overcoming fear! (www.letspause.org)
Welcome to the Island of Misfit Podcasts - Episode 2!
In the "Misfit Episode Series" we turn the tables on ourselves - one of our hosts chooses a topic while keeping it a mystery from the other host. In order to keep things interesting, the host possessing the "stealth" topic hits record and then shares it with their co-host LIVE! (who, for the sake of the Podcast acts as interviewee). Tune in and check out this Misfit episode as we explore Criminals and Crimes, and answer the question, "If you could be a criminal, what kind of crime would you commit?"
Join the dialogue as Mark and Jeff explore critical conversations about race with renown African American storyteller, Dr. Sonny Kelly. Author, scholar, performing artist, and consummate conversationalist, Dr. Kelly shares his insights into Sterling's story, the evolution of "The Talk", and the current struggle facing black and brown youth in America. Tune is as we discuss the troubling weaponization of terms like "white privilege", "white fragility" and the value of critical race theory. Provocative, entertaining, and thought-provoking - join us and be part of the conversation!
Welcome to the Island of Misfit Podcasts - Episode 1!
In the "Misfit Episode Series" we turn the tables on ourselves - one of our hosts chooses a topic while keeping it a mystery from the other host. In order to keep things interesting, the host possessing the "stealth" topic hits record and then shares it with their co-host LIVE! (who, for the sake of the Podcast acts as interviewee). Tune in and check out this Misfit episode as we explore Graveyards and Cemeteries!
Join the dialogue as we explore music and life with Baxter Clement. As a classically-trained guitarist turned Punk Rock plank-holder of The Blondes, Inc., Baxter is a musical genius whose acumen at guitar (and just about every other stringed instrument out there) is incredible. Witty, compelling, authentic, and a delight, tune in to this episode and learn more about his journey as an artist, performer, and owner of Casino Guitars...and keep listening as Baxter serves up a quick jam and has us hooked!
Traditions are woven into the fabric of our lives. They preserve culture, pass along our values to the next generation, and provide us with a framework for meaning....they're also a lot of fun! Join us as we explore the power of traditions in our lives and families. With the holiday season upon us all, whether you are celebrating Christmas or a different faith-based tradition this month, you and your family likely engage in different customs and rituals that make up your traditions. Let's pause and think a bit deeper about how the power of traditions shape our experience!
We invite you to "pause" with us as we explore gratitude and its value and impact on our lives. Our guest today is a distinguished author and research scientist, Courtney Ackerman. The author of seven books on positive psychology, Courtney is not only a true subject matter expert on the topic, she lives it! Just 1-3 minutes each day can make a profound difference in all of our lives. Create a Gratitude Practice and FEEL the difference. Tune it, and check it out.
We welcome you into the conversation with Dr. Brad Johnson, professor of psychology in the Department of Leadership, Ethics, and Law at the U.S. Naval Academy and faculty associate in the Graduate School of Education at Johns Hopkins University. Author of numerous books tackling the subject of mentorship, gender in the workplace, and professional ethics; including Good Guys: How Men Can Become Better Allies for Women in the Workplace (2020, with David Smith), The Elements of Mentoring (2018, with Charles Ridley), and Athena Rising: How and Why Men Should Mentor Women (2016, with David Smith).
In this episode, we take a moment to "pause" and dig a bit deeper with Dr. Johnson as we explore mentorship and its place in our personal and professional lives. What does it mean to adopt a posture of cultural humility? How does being a mentor impact mentors and what makes for a good mentee? Tune in and find out!
Join us as we look back on two of our nation's most impactful moments in time, the Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941 and the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001. We are blessed in this episode to be joined by Mrs. Pat Auch, a survivor of the Pearl Harbor attack, and Ret. Brigadier General Dana Born, then Commander of the 11th Mission Support Squadron, supporting the Pentagon following the attack on 9/11. You will not want to miss these two powerful accounts and the inspiring words of our guests!
Channel Note: Since the recording of this Podcast, we are sad to share that our guest Pat Auch passed away. We give thanks for her, her life, and all that she shared with us on this special episode of Let’s Pause.
We are joined today by Doug Herbert, the founder of B.R.A.K.E.S (Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe), an innovative and nationally recognized program for teaching teens how to drive. We'll discuss Doug's triumph, born out of tragedy after the loss of his two sons (Jon and James). Doug and the B.R.A.K.E.S program have gone on to train over 45,000 families (putonthebrakes.org). As a four-time world champion drag racer, Doug employs a professional driving team in a unique way to capture the interest, and codify the learning, of teen drivers! Tune in and check out, "Teaching Teens to Drive" as we hit the pause button and dig a little deeper!
As we emerge from the Pandemic and take stock of life's next ridgeline, we take a moment to pause, and explore the challenges presented by uncertain times. Join us as we invite Dr. (Rev.) Stuart Hoke to speak with us and examine life's many uncertainties. How might we tackle the uncertainties we face? Tune in and find out why one of your mantras should be, "Don't just do something...sit there!"
In a day and age when life is moving faster and faster, pushing the pause button is more important than ever. Finding balance between the demands of work, family, and the world can be overwhelming. Join us as we explore the intersection of these demands and ways to Find Better Balance!