We're All in This Together: Recent Episodes
Mike Robbins
On We're All In This Together, leadership, teamwork, and company culture expert Mike Robbins shares his wisdom and insight, and also interviews interesting and influential business leaders, thought leaders, and change makers. Over the past 20 years, Mike has partnered with people, leaders, and teams within top organizations like Google, Wells Fargo, Microsoft, Schwab, the NBA, Genentech, eBay, the Oakland A's, and many others. He gets real about his own experience and with his guests, so that you can learn the truth behind his and their stories, how they've overcome challenges, and specifics tips about leadership, teamwork, culture, and life. These conversations are designed to give you practical ideas, insights, and techniques to enhance your success, impact, and the performance of your team. For more information on Mike Robbins and his work, visit www.Mike-Robbins.com
No matter how great or challenging things may be - personally and collectively - what’s happening right now will, at some point down the line, be the “good ole days.” On this episode, I talk about some of the many reasons it can be challenging to appreciate things as they are happening. I then share some ideas and perspectives on why it is important for us to do so and how we can appreciate life, others, and ourselves…right now, even and especially if things are difficult.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
Finally Feeling Good in Your Body - The Mel Robbins Podcast
Whether it’s leadership, teamwork, performance, navigating change, accomplishing goals, or anything else that matters to us at work and in life…it’s almost always all about relationships. How we relate to others, how we relate to circumstances, and how we relate to ourselves has so much to do with our level of success or fulfillment (or lack thereof). On this episode, I talk about why relationships are so important, what can make them challenging, especially these days, and some things we can do to enhance how we relate to those around us, what we’re going through, and to ourselves in the most effective way possible.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
Sometimes it’s important to suck it up, dig deep, and push forward with as much effort as possible. Other times, it’s essential to stop, take a break, and maybe even change course. Knowing when to do each of these things is both challenging and crucial to our wellbeing and success. On this episode, I talk about this dynamic and how it plays out for us - both individually and collectively. I also share some specific things we can do to find a healthy balance for us and our teams in this regard.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
Like most people, I like to be prepared, especially when it comes to my professional life and commitments. However, in today’s face-paced, ever-changing business world and with the level of uncertainty and disruption that exists, it can often be even more important to be present. On this episode, I talk about why it makes sense that we’re obsessed with preparation and why it can be challenging to be present. I then share some specific things we can do to enhance our presence…thus putting us in the best position to respond effectively to the changing world around us.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
As people, leaders, parents, and more, we often waste a lot of time and energy thinking we aren’t good enough. On this episode, I talk about this common but detrimental phenomenon, and offer some ideas and techniques for us to embrace being enough. I also talk about why it’s important to say “enough,” when it comes to certain negative patterns, habits, and behaviors - both ours and others.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
While knowledge may be power, curiosity is a superpower. We often get so obsessed with knowing things and sharing our wisdom with others, we forget how important it is to focus on learning. On this episode, I talk about why our “know-it-all-ness” can be a detriment to us and annoying to others. I then share some specific things we can do to tap into the power of curiosity and learning, in a way that empowers us and those around us.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
For us to have the kind of relationships and impact we truly want to have - as leaders, parents, friends, spouses, family members and more - apologizing and forgiving are essential. These things, however, can be challenging for a variety of reasons. On this episode, I talk about some of what gets in the way of us being able to effectively apologize and forgive. I then share some specific things we can do to make it more conducive for these things to happen authentically in our relationships, within our families, and on our teams.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
We all face challenges, both personally and professionally, yet sometimes we make things much harder than they need to be. On this episode, I talk about some of the paradoxes involved when we’re dealing with hard things. I then share some specific things we can do when we’re facing difficulties to navigate them as effectively as possible and keep things in a healthy perspective.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
With all the change, disruption, and uncertainty swirling around us these days, I’ve been feeling quite humbled. Being humbled is not only an inevitable aspect of life, leadership, parenting, working, relationships, and more…it’s actually a powerful state of being, if we’re willing to embrace it. On this episode, I talk about some of the paradoxical aspects of being humbled. I then share some specific things we can do to embrace authentic humility in a way that empowers and inspires us and those around us, especially when things are unsettled.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
Many of us, myself included, are obsessed with solutions. And while this makes sense, especially when we find ourselves in times of challenge and uncertainty as we do these days. What if asking questions was more powerful than finding answers? On this episode, I discuss this dynamic and the paradoxical nature of curiosity. Asking questions can lead to authentic connection and important innovation.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
Ask Powerful Questions (book), by Chad Littlefield and Will Wise
This is the 400th episode of this podcast! As I reflect on this meaningful milestone, I realize that most of our biggest goals are accomplished by simply putting one foot in front of the other and moving in the direction of what matters most to us. On this episode, I talk about why it can be challenging, especially at certain times, to go for our dreams. I then share some specific things we can do to manifest our most important goals…step by step.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on BlueSky
Giving credit to other people is such an important thing for us to do as leaders, teammates, family members, and friends. However, it can be challenging for several reasons. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that can get in our way. I then share both specific ways we can give credit to others more authentically and generously, as well as why it’s essential to do so for the benefit of everyone involved, including us.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
With all that is going on in the country and the world these days, as well as inside our families, teams, and businesses, it can sometimes be difficult to stay authentically hopeful. On this episode, I talk about some of the uncertainty that is impacting me and many of the people I know and work with right now. I then share five specific things we can do to stay as grounded and positive as possible.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
With all the recent discussion and debate about DEI, it seems to me that some pretty important aspects of inclusion and belonging haven’t been a part of this conversation. On this episode, I offer some of my perspective on these important issues. I also share some specific things we can do to focus on creating authentic environments of inclusion and belonging, which are fundamental elements of healthy and effective teams and organizations.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Winning is more than just about the bottom-line results we produce or the outcome our team is attempting to achieve, it’s also about how we approach what we do and the way we engage with each other in the process. On this episode, I talk with speaker, coach, and author of Let’s Go Win, JM Ryerson. In our conversation we discuss the mindset necessary for success and fulfillment, why change can be hard but upgrading can be inspiring, and some specific things we can do personally and collectively to perform our best.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Let’s Go Win (book) by JM Ryerson
JM Ryerson website
Upgrade (book), by JM Ryerson
The political polarization that exists in our country and our world is deeply concerning to me and so many others. As I travel around to different parts of the United States and the globe, one specific topic where we actually seem to have real common ground is our collective concern about the division, and the forces within society, media, social media, politics, and more that seem to exacerbate this dynamic. On this episode, I address this complex and emotional issue in light of the recent presidential inauguration here in the US. I offer some thoughts and perspectives, as well as some specific ideas for how we can connect in a more productive and authentic way, especially with those who may see things differently than we do.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
On this episode I had the honor and privilege of talking to my friend, Tyler Merritt, about his brand new book, This Changes Everything: A Surprisingly Funny Story about Race, Cancer, Faith, and Other Things We Don’t Talk About. Tyler’s wisdom, wit, depth, and insight are inspiring and important. In our conversation, we discuss the power of vulnerability, how proximity breeds empathy, why facing death can be both terrifying and liberating, the importance of keeping things in perspective, and why it’s essential to be real about how we feel.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
This Changes Everything (new book), by Tyler Merritt
The Tyler Merritt Project
The Power of Proximity (podcast episode) with Mike Robbins and Tyler Merritt
I Take My Coffee Black (first book), by Tyler Merritt
Before You Call the Cops (video), by Tyler Merritt
At this time of year, we’re often thinking about what we want to create, accomplish, and experience over the next twelve months. However, setting and achieving our goals can be tricky and we often think about it differently at work than we do in our personal lives. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that make it challenging to set goals in an effective way, how we can learn something personally from the ways we usually approach targets at work, and some specific things we can do to set ourselves up for success with our most important desires.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
Wrapping Up the Year and Setting Ourselves Up for Success in the New Year (podcast episode)
Creating the New Year Consciously (podcast episode)
Being challenged is an essential aspect of our growth and our ability to create success. However, not only does it take courage, it can be hard to be challenged. It’s also important for us to make sure we’re getting the type of feedback we truly need and that it’s being given to us in an empowering and healthy way. On this episode, I talk about some of what makes this tricky. I then share specific examples of how we can lean into it being challenged in a way that is both supportive and effective.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins on X
The game of life is played on the court. However, it is much easier, safer, and more comfortable to sit in the stands, comment on what’s happening on the court, and not put ourselves at risk. On this episode, I talk about some of the understandable reasons we hold ourselves back. I then share some specific things we can do to courageously put ourselves out there…which is where real growth and success can happen.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
The creation of just about anything, big or small, starts with desire. However, for a number of reasons, it can be challenging for us to focus on what we truly want with freedom and power. On this episode, I discuss some of the key blocks that many of us have when it comes to desire. I then share some specific things we can do to focus on what we truly want, without attachment or demand, thus making it more likely for us to manifest our desires into reality.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
As the saying goes, the only real constant is change. Embracing uncertainty is essential for us in all aspects of life and business, especially these days. On this episode, I talk about the nature of impermanence and some of the challenges associated with it. I then share three specific things we can do to navigate worry and change effectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
There is a lot of uncertainty in our country and our world right now. Big changes can be scary and unsettling. On this episode, I talk about some of the challenges and opportunities of uncertainty. While we often can’t control the specifics of what comes next, we can take care of ourselves, connect with others authentically, and take conscious and productive action.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Builders Movement
TED Talk: Why the World Needs More Builders
The dramatic results of the US Presidential election have left me feeling shocked, sad, scared, angry, and confused. On this episode, I talk about how we can process this experience in as healthy a way as possible, ways we can show up for ourselves and others, and how we can move forward together in this intense time of emotion and division. Even though it may not feel like it for many reasons right now, I do believe that we’re all in this together.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Managing our anxiety is both important and challenging, especially right now. With so much uncertainty and potential change in the country and the world, as well as the various aspects of our life and work that matter most to us, it is easy to get stuck in fear. On this episode, I talk about how understandable it is for us to feel anxious, particularly these days. I then share some specific things we can do to effectively manage our anxiety and liberate ourselves.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Having healthy expectations of ourselves and others is essential for success, but there’s a fine line between ambition and rigid demands. On this episode, we explore the paradox of expectations—how goal-setting can both inspire and frustrate. You’ll learn four practical actions to manage your expectations in a healthy way, while maintaining flexibility and balance. It’s about embracing the journey and pursuing what you truly want, without being consumed by the outcome.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Knowing whether we’re sore or hurt is important in various contexts. Soreness is a natural part of growth and progress, while injury needs to be addressed and intervened with specifically. Whether it’s our physical wellbeing, our mental health, our relationships, our teams, or our businesses, understanding this distinction is essential. On this episode I talk about why this dynamic is fundamental to our success and how it applies in many different situations and circumstances.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Thinking differently is essential for our ability to grow, change, adapt, and connect with all types of people. However, shifting our perspective in a genuine way can be challenging for number of reasons, especially these days. On this episode, I discuss some of the reasons that make it hard for us to think differently. I then share five specific things we can do to change our thoughts and perspective in a healthy and productive way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
With all the negativity and meanness in the world right now, being kind is more important than ever. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that get in the way of kindness. I then share some specific things we can do to be kinder to those around us and to ourselves. Leading with kindness is one of the best things we can do to enhance our relationships, our teams, and how we operate at work and at home.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
As we do what we can to accomplish our most important goals, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and scared for a variety of reasons. Our fear often keeps us stuck in procrastination. On this episode, I talk about some of what gets in our way and how we can specifically let go of perfectionism…thus allowing us to take courageous action, have more freedom, and create the kind of success we truly want.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
In the fast-paced world we live and work in these days, it’s easy for things to pile up. As important as decluttering can be, it’s often challenging to find the time and create the system to do so on a regular basis. On this episode, I talk about how decluttering our physical environment is directly connected to our mental and emotional wellbeing, as well as our ability to focus, create, and succeed. I also share some specific tips for how we can effectively clear space around us and within us.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Readiness is an important part of life and success, both individually and collectively. However, when we’re attempting to do something big, new, or both, the paradox is that we’re usually not quite ready and always ready at the same time. On this episode I talk about how we often get in our own way with perfectionism, procrastination, and fear. I then share five specific things we can do to take courageous action, whether or not we feel ready to do so.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Being present is a lot easier said than done, especially these days. On this episode, I talk about some of the many reasons we get distracted, overwhelmed, and stuck in the past or obsessed with the future in today’s world. I then share some specific things we can do to embrace the now, thus allowing us to be present, let go of erroneous stress and worry, and have the kind of presence and impact we truly want.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
I’ve always had a bit of a love/hate relationship with the saying, “Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good.” However, this is often true. The tricky thing about good fortune is that we can’t control it. At the same time, very few individuals, teams, or organizations are able to truly be successful without some serendipity playing a role. On this episode I talk about some of what makes good luck challenging and elusive, as well as hard for us to acknowledge and attract. I then share some specific things we can do to enhance our ability to both prepare/work hard, and at the same time trust that serendipity can and will show up in the process.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
20 Feet from Stardom (documentary)
Creating, leading, and experiencing anything new or different requires us to tap into possibility. As positive and powerful as possibility can be, it can also be quite scary and vulnerable. On this episode, I talk about some of what makes it challenging. I then share some specific things we can do to effectively tap into the power of possibility.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
As the saying goes, “the only constant in life is change.” While this is true, change can be tricky to navigate since most of us seek and fear change at the same time. On this episode, I talk about some of the reasons why navigating change, especially these days, can be challenging. I then share six specific things we can do to embrace change effectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on LinkedIn
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on X
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
At work and in life, it's inevitable that we'll face various storms - change, uncertainty, challenge, disappointment, and even chaos. Our ability to stay calm and grounded in the face of these things is both difficult and essential. On this episode, I talk about some specific things we can do to stay centered in the midst of the storms we face. Doing this can allow us to navigate these storms as effectively as possible ourselves, and support those around us in a healthy and authentic way at the same time.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Conflict can be difficult to address and resolve effectively, but doing so is essential to the success of our relationships, families, teams, companies, communities, and more. On this episode, I talk about some of the main reasons dealing with conflict can be hard. I then share the two specific ways we can resolve conflict successfully, and offer tips for how to do so.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
A mentor of mine said to me years ago, “There are two things you could do that would dramatically improve the quality of your life…be easy to impress and hard to offend.” On this episode, I discuss why this is such sage, albeit challenging, advice. I talk about some of what makes both of these things hard, and offer specific suggestions for how we can live, work, parent, lead, and operate from the perspective of being easily impressed and difficult to offend.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Many of us, myself included, can be obsessed with action. And while taking action is essential to so many aspects of success for ourselves and others, we sometimes overlook the importance of allowing. Being able to pause, step back, and allow things to happen is often fundamental to the manifestation of our biggest goals and dreams, individually and collectively. On this episode, I talk about why it can be challenging to embrace the art of allowing, especially in today’s culture. I then share four specific things we can do to enhance our capacity to let things happen in an effective and elegant way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
In order for us to accomplish or experience what we truly want, personally or professionally, we have to be willing to go for it. This, however, can be scary and challenging for a whole host of reasons. On this episode, I talk about some of what gets in our way of going after what we want. I then share some specific things we can do to access courage and boldness…and to go for it effectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Uncertainty is a fundamental part of work and life, especially these days, yet it can often be scary and upsetting. The more willing we are to truly embrace uncertainty, the more successful, peaceful, and impactful we can be in all areas of life. On this episode, I talk about some of what makes uncertainty so challenging. I then share some specific things we can do to effectively embrace it in an empowering way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on TikTok
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
We all deal with challenging people, situations, and circumstances, and sometimes this can be quite difficult. While it’s easy and understandable for these challenges to impact us, we often forget that we’re the common denominator in everything we experience. On this episode, I talk about how we can authentically take ownership and make the necessary changes needed to navigate anything we face.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Nothing Changes Until You Do (Book), by Mike Robbins
Setting healthy boundaries is essential for our wellbeing, our relationships, our teams, our families, and more. However, it can be difficult to do this effectively. On this episode, I talk about the important distinction between boundaries and requests, address some of the biggest challenges we face in setting healthy boundaries, and share some specific tips to allow us to be more successful in doing so.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Supporting those around us is one of the most important, yet challenging, things for us to do as leaders, parents, co-workers, friends, family members, and human beings. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that make providing support difficult. I then share some specific ideas for how we can support those we work with and live with in an authentic and effective way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
For us to be inspired, it’s essential that we’re up to something that truly matters to us. This can be much easier said than done at times, especially these days. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that make it challenging for us to be engaged in important things that matter. I then share what we can do, specifically, to inspire ourselves and others…and make sure we’re up to what truly matters most to us in meaningful and healthy ways.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
For us to be able to grow, change, and truly succeed, we must have the courage to tell the truth - first to ourselves and then to those around us. This is much easier said than done. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that make it hard for us to face and share the truth. I then talk about why this is essential for us, our relationships, our teams, and any important change or goal we have. Finally, I share some specific things we can do to expand our courage and our ability to operate with liberating and inspiring authenticity.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
It takes real courage to step into the “arena” in life. We understandably get scared of failure, judgment, and rejection. However, to achieve or experience anything that truly matters to us - personally or professionally - we’re required to take some risks and vulnerably put ourselves out there. On this episode, I talk about some of what makes this challenging and scary, and I share some specific things we can do to tap into the courage we need to authentically step into the arena and go for what we truly want.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Back in my baseball days when we’d get down early in a game, we would often talk about just going “station to station.” This meant we needed to keep things simple and just try to get runners on base…so that we could methodically get back into the game. When things get stressful, overwhelming, or difficult, it’s often an important practice for us to stay present and focus on going station to station. On this episode, I share some specific ways we can do this, which allow us to be more peaceful, grounded, and effective, as we navigate change and challenge.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Just Do the Next Right Things (podcast)
Trusting ourselves is essential to so many aspects of life, work, leadership, relationships, parenting, and more. However, self-trust can be challenging for a number of understandable reasons. On this episode, I explore some of the key things that get in the way of us trusting ourselves. I also share four specific things we can do to expand our capacity for self-trust and enhance our confidence.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
The Importance of Self-Trust (blog post)
Trust Your Instincts (podcast episode)
I’m honored and excited about the conversation on this episode, with my friend, mentor, and longtime counselor, Christopher Andersonn, who just released a powerful new book called Living an Enchanted Life. Chris is a sought-after teacher who works with people of all kinds who are seeking meaningful change. I met him almost 30 years ago and he has had a profound impact on my life and my work. In this interview, we discuss the important connection between our health and our emotions, how to more fully feel our feelings and live authentically, and specific techniques we can utilize to create more joy, peace, and freedom.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube ChannelLiving an Enchanted Life (book), by Christopher Andersonn
Christopher Andersonn Website
Will You Still Love Me if I Don’t Win (book), by Christopher Andersonn
When we own our story, we allow ourselves tell the truth about who we are, what has happened, and how we truly feel. If we choose to share our story with others, we can both liberate ourselves from debilitating fear and shame, as well as connect with them in an authentic and vulnerable way. On this episode, I talk about why it takes courage to own our story and why doing so is essential for our freedom and fulfillment.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
I had the incredible opportunity to see Taylor Swift in concert in Singapore. It was such a joyful and positive experience. On this episode, I share some reflections from the show, and specifically talk about the importance of setting a positive tone for ourselves, our teams, and those around us. This can be tricky to do in an authentic way for a number of reasons these days. However, when we’re able to genuinely set a positive tone, the benefits can be remarkable.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Proving ourselves is something most of us do in certain aspects of work and life. However, usually the harder we’re trying to prove something, the less we actually believe it to be true, although this can sometimes be hard for us to see and own. On this episode, I talk about some of the understandable reasons we feel compelled to prove ourselves, our ideas, or specific qualities. I then share five specific things we can do to make the powerful shift from proving to believing.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Interview with Jamie Kern Lima on the Mel Robbins podcast
So many things happen to us and around us throughout our lives and it’s easy to fall into the never-ending trap of fault-finding. We live in a blame-obsessed society and we often waste a lot of time blaming all kinds of situations, circumstances, and people (including ourselves). On this episode I talk about the pervasive and dangerous nature of focusing on who or what is at fault. And I share some specific things we can do shift from this into the healthy and empowering mode of true ownership and responsibility. Doing this allows us to be more effective leaders, parents, friends, partners, and humans.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Shifting from Blame to Responsibility (podcast episode)
Armchair Expert Podcast
As I celebrate my 50th birthday, I’m reflecting on lots of memories from the past few years and decades of my life. And while I’ve had many highs and lows, some big accomplishments and major failures, and a whole lot of learning along the way, I’ve realized that one of the most important and challenging aspects of life is being able to celebrate ourselves. On this episode, I talk about some of the reasons this can be hard, why it’s so essential, and specific ways we can celebrate, appreciate, and honor who we are…wherever we may find ourselves at the present moment.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Learning to Love Midlife (book), by Chip Conley
Niecy Nash-Betts Emmy Speech
Appreciate Yourself (podcast episode)
Progress is a simple, but often overlooked fundamental aspect of individual and collective fulfillment. We often get so focused on results or we get caught up in erroneous perfection demands, both of which can get in our way of our growth. On this episode, I talk about the importance of progress and I share a specific framework that can dramatically enhance your capacity for both achievement and fulfillment.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Tony Robbins Website
I spend a lot of time thinking, writing, and speaking about the importance of humanity at work…and I’m still amazed at how challenging it can be, and also how profound it is. On this episode, I discuss some of the key reasons that it’s so essential for us to create humane working environments these days, why it can be difficult, and some specific things we can do to bring more of our humanity to work.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
The conventional definition of elegance is about beauty and grace. However, when I think about operating with elegance at work and in life, it’s about putting forth intentional effort and expecting maximum results, in a balanced and non-attached way. On this episode, I talk about why this can be challenging in our effort and results obsessed world. I also share some specific things we can do to tap into the power of elegance and manifest the experiences and outcomes we truly want.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Worrying is something that most of us do, understandably. However, it can get in our way of feeling our true feelings, connecting with those around us effectively, and creating what we actually want. On this episode, I talk about what worry really is, why we seem so obsessed with it, and some specific things we can do to transform our worry in healthy and productive ways.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
How to Stop Worrying (blog post)
As we move into this new year and think about our most important goals, relationships, projects, and desired outcomes, we want to be mindful of putting down our “sword” and not thinking that we have to fight our way to success and fulfillment. On this episode, I talk about why many of us, myself included, tend to armor up in ways that seem necessary, but don’t ultimately serve us or those around us. I also share some specific things we can do to put down our “swords” and allow ourselves to experience deeper levels of trust, connection, and performance - both individually and collectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Mel Robbins website
Mel Robbins podcast
Brene Brown website
In order for us to create anything new for ourselves and our teams, it’s essential for us to think differently. This is often easier said than done, because we often get caught in habitual patterns of thought. On this episode, I talk about how to get out of this rut and some specific things we can do to think in different ways. Doing this allows us to be creative and innovative, and gives us access to new ideas and solutions.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
It’s important for us to step out of our comfort zone and shake things up from time to time, in service of our own growth and that of those around us. When we consciously choose to move out of our day-to-day routine, we can often access new possibilities and perspectives. On this week’s episode, I talk about the importance of shaking things up, why this is so essential, and some specific ways we can do this both personally and professionally.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Remembering that multiple truths can coexist simultaneously is crucial for understanding complex situations and navigating work and life these days. This, however, is often much easier said than done, especially in today’s world. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that make embracing different perspectives so challenging. I also share four specific things we can do to expand our capacity for understanding multiple and even conflicting ideas at the same time, which can be a real super power when harnessed with authentic curiosity and empathy.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Dr. Becky Kennedy on the Armchair Expert Podcast
The Social Dilemma (documentary film on Netflix)
Curiosity is essential to learning, collaboration, and creativity, yet it can be challenging to tap into our curious mind given the pace and demands of modern life. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that make curiosity difficult to access. I then share five fundamental practices that empower us to embrace curiosity and foster growth, understanding, and connection in our rapidly changing world.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Artificial Intelligence - Friend of Foe? (podcast episode)
We have more communication platforms and tools than ever before, and yet, connecting with people in meaningful and effective ways seems as challenging as ever these days. On this episode, I talk about some specific things we can do to connect with people on a human level, even and especially in today’s fast-paced, digital world.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Artificial intelligence is already disrupting many aspects of life and business…and it’s still in its infancy. Many of us, myself included, are both excited and scared about what AI can do, how it will change the way we work and live, and what the potential impact of it may ultimately be. On this episode, I share some insights I gained from attending the Wisdom and AI Summit in San Francisco earlier this week and some of the possibilities and concerns related to AI. I also share some specific things we can do personally to most effectively understand, embrace, and prepare for the impact of AI on our work, our teams, and how we live.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
Chat GBT
Possibility is such an important and powerful force for us to tap into - individually, in our work, with our teams, and as we look to create what matters most to us. However, it can be challenging to access for a number of reasons, especially these days. On this episode, I talk about why it can be tricky to tap into the power of possibility. I also share five specific things we can do to access possibility in an authentic and effective way, which can benefit us and those around us significantly.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins YouTube Channel
The recent tragic violence in Israel and Gaza has been and continues to be so sad, scary, and upsetting. In the face of such horrific events, it’s often extremely difficult to find an authentic sense of peace and equanimity within ourselves. On this episode, I share 8 specific things we can do to stay peaceful inside when things aren’t peaceful around us - in the world, in our communities, in our organizations, or in our families. Being able to stay genuinely grounded and calm, especially when things seem overwhelming, allows us to more effectively address what’s going on and to take care of ourselves and those around us when it matters most.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We Can Do Hard Things (podcast)
Together Rising
The importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion is front and center in so many aspects of life and work these days. However, these can be emotionally charged and challenging issues to address in an authentic, productive, and effective way. My guest on today’s show, Ray Arata, is the co-founder of the Better Man Movement, as well as an expert in inclusive leadership and the author of two books. He shares some of his wisdom and perspective on the current state of DEI in today’s business world and talks about why we are so much better together (which also happens to be the name of the upcoming virtual conference he is co-hosting with Jennifer Brown).
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Better Together Conference (promo code MRBTC15)
Better Man Movement
Ray Arata
If you’re anything like me, you may find yourself worrying from time to time about the people and things that matter most to you. While this makes sense for a number of reasons, worrying that bad things could happen doesn’t usually help and can actually be quite detrimental to us and those around us. On this episode, I talk about how we can shift our mindset and ask different questions when facing important or even stressful situations. When we change our approach, not only can it reduce our anxiety, it can also inspire us and others in new and productive ways.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Gabby Bernstein
Mike Dooley
Robert Holden
Mel Robbins podcast
We Can Do Hard Things podcast
I’m Not a Mourning Person, by Kris Carr
Because things don’t always go as planned, it’s essential for us to make adjustments. However, making adjustments can be easier said than done, for a number of reasons. On this episode, I talk about some of what makes pivoting difficult for us and I share some specific things we can do to embrace and enhance our ability to adjust, thus expanding our capacity for flexibility and success.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Healthy habits are important for our wellbeing and performance. However, if we become obsessive about our behaviors related to work, food, money, exercise, achievement, and more - it can be detrimental and even dangerous. On this episode I talk about how and why some things we consider positive can become problematic and how to keep things in perspective when it comes to taking care of ourselves and creating success.
Description:
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Toxic Productivity (podcast episode)
The Paradox of Hustling (podcast episode)
For us to succeed individually and collectively, it’s important to be able to put forth the necessary effort and work hard. However, feeling the pressure and expectation of constantly hustling (i.e. hustle culture) can be incredibly dangerous and damaging. On this episode I talk about the paradox of this phenomenon, and ways we can be conscious, healthy, and effective in how we work and live.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Toxic Productivity (podcast episode)
Some of our emotions are easier for us to feel than others. We tend to avoid certain feelings, especially the ones that seem hard, scary, and not all that socially acceptable. However, being able to feel all of our emotions authentically is one of the most important and liberating things we can do for ourselves, our relationships, and for our personal and professional wellbeing. On this episode I talk about how we can stop blaming our feelings on the people and circumstances around us, and I share some specific ways we can start feeling our emotions with a greater level of depth and ownership.
Description:
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Honor Your Emotions (blog post)
Your Feelings Matter (blog post)
As the saying goes, “the only constant in life is change.” Like most cliches, this one is true. During this back-to-school season, it seems like a lot of us, me included, are navigating some big changes. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that make change both exciting and scary, and I share some specific things we can do to navigate change authentically and effectively.
Description:
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Embracing Change Without Suffering (blog post)
Navigating Through Change, Uncertainty, and Chaos (podcast episode)
Mel Robbins podcast episode on change
In many important areas of our lives and businesses we often want things to be different (i.e. better) than they are. However, one of the things that gets in our way of creating the kind of changes that we truly want, is our willingness to believe that they can be different in the first place. On this episode, I talk about the paradoxical nature of change and some specific ways we can allow things to be different in a healthy and authentic way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Being productive is essential to many important aspects of our lives - both personally and professionally. However, when we overly identify with what we produce, neglect our self-care, and/or have an obsessive need to be productive all the time, it can become toxic. On this episode, I talk about some of the often-overlooked dark sides of productivity and I share some specific things we can do to make sure we’re being productive in a healthy and sustainable way.
Description:
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We live in a world obsessed with blame; constantly focused on who’s at fault for the various challenges we face, individually and collectively. While this makes sense and is understandable for so many reasons, it doesn’t serve us and often leads us down an unproductive path. On this episode, I talk about the disempowering aspects of blame and offer some ideas for how we can shift to responsibility in an authentic and effective way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Armchair Expert Podcast with Dax Shepard, Monica Padman, and Terry Crews
There are really only two ways to resolve any conflict or issue we face - deal with it directly, all the way through until it gets worked out…or simply let it go. Letting things go is such an important and liberating thing to do, yet it can be challenging for us to do so authentically. On this episode, I talk about some of the reasons it can be difficult to let things go. I also share some specific ways we can do this consciously and effectively.
Description:
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Tapping into our desires is one of the best things we can do to create our desired reality. However, for a number of reasons, it can actually be hard to identify and share what we want - both individually and collectively. On this episode, I address some of what makes desire challenging. I also share some specific things we can do to tap into the power of our desires to help us create the types of outcomes and experiences we truly want.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Being kind to others and to ourselves is one of the best things we can do. However, for a number of reasons, especially these days, it can be challenging to be kind in an authentic way. On this episode I talk about some of the things that get in our way of being kind to others and particularly ourselves, and I share some specific ways to utilize the power of kindness in how we lead, parent, and operate at work and in life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Let’s Be Kind to Ourselves (podcast episode)
The Power of Kindness (podcast episode)
Accountability is essential for success and performance - both personally and collectively. However, many of us have a complicated relationship with it since it can be uncomfortable to hold others accountable and to be held accountable by those around us. On this episode I talk about some of the challenges we face with this dynamic. I also share some specific things we can to do hold ourselves and others accountable in the most effective and empathetic way possible.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Difficulty and Necessity of Accountability (podcast episode)
The world of work continues to change in significant ways. Our ability to be creative, individually and collectively, is essential to our success. My guest today, Steven Kowalski, knows this and has been teaching it for decades. He’s the author of Creative Together: Sparking Innovation in the New World of Work. In our conversation we talk about how to embrace our personal creativity and create the conditions for our teams to be creative with one another…leading to enhanced collaboration and increased performance.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Steven Kowalski Website
Creative Together (book), by Steven Kowalski
Emotional intelligence is so important to our success and fulfillment in business, relationships, and life. It’s also essential for strong leadership and healthy teams. However, beyond emotional intelligence is emotional freedom - where we can deeply and freely feel all our emotions with courage, and we give other people permission to do the same. On this episode, I talk about why this is so important, how it can be challenging, and some specific ways to experience emotional freedom.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The energy, attitude, and perspective we bring to things often has a big impact on the outcome of whatever we’re doing, as well as everyone else involved. However, this can sometimes be hard to quantify and manage for a number of reasons. On this episode, I talk about the power of our energy and how we can tap into intention and even magic to create what we truly want at work and in life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Synchronicity
Inspired by NBA star Steph Curry’s brilliant performance against Sacramento, I’ve been thinking about the importance of operating with joy and perspective. While it often seems like the circumstances of our work and our life dictate our level of joy and the perspective we take, we actually have much more of a choice than we often realize. On this episode, I talk about ways for us to operate with true joy and a healthy perspective, regardless of what’s going on around us.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Steph Curry Drops 50 in Sacramento
In our desire to support those around us, we often offer suggestions, advice, and feedback. And while this can be helpful and necessary at times, what’s usually most important, especially these days, is our ability to hold space. On this episode, I talk about what it means to hold space, why it can be challenging, and some specific ways we can do it effectively for others, as well as for ourselves.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Esther Perel
Cy Wakeman
The Importance of Showing Up (podcast episode)
We’re encouraged in our society to be strong and confident, and not to be fragile. While this makes sense, especially in our professional lives, we have someho bought into the erroneous notion that being sensitive is problematic and even weak. On this episode, I talk about the important distinction between sensitivity and fragility. I also talk about how important it is for us to embrace our sensitivity and tap into it as the superpower that it can be.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Antifragile, by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
We live in a culture that is obsessed with winning - in business, sports, school, and life. And while I definitely prefer to win than to lose, there is often a real paradox in our pursuit of success. When we get so obsessed with the outcome, we can lose perspective and forget what we’re truly wanting to accomplish and experience in the process. On this episode I talk about some of the things that make our desire to win challenging. I also share some ways we can alter our relationship to winning that can actually lead to more authentic success and ultimately to a real sense of contentment.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Enneagram
Will You Still Love Me if I Don’t Win, by Christopher Andersonn
Our relationship with ourselves is the most important human relationship we have, yet it tends to be filled with self-criticism, neglect, and lack of kindness. Being compassionate and loving towards ourselves, while challenging, is foundational in our ability to support, care for, and empower others. On this episode, I talk about some of the reasons our relationship with ourselves can be difficult. I also share some specific things we can do to love and appreciate ourselves, thus allowing us to have the kind of fulfillment, relationships, and success we truly want.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Inspiration is so important, but it can be elusive, especially with the frenetic pace of work and life these days. For us to tap into the creativity necessary for our own success and fulfillment and that of our teams, it’s essential for us to create the space for inspiration. On this episode, I talk about why this can be challenging, particularly right now, and some specific ways we can do it, both individually and collectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Glennon Doyle
Elizabeth Gilbert’s TED Talk
This week marks the third anniversary of when the pandemic took over life as we know it here in the United States. So much has happened over the past three years…lots of pain, challenge, loss, and disruption. And at the same time, there has been so much growth and resilience. On this episode, I talk a bit about what we’ve been through, where we are now, and how we can move forward in a healthy, authentic, and successful way, especially given all that we’ve been through.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Albert Einstein famously said, “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” I had an experience last week that reminded me of the power of synchronicity. On this episode, I talk about how prevalent synchronicities are and how important it is for us to tap into them, especially these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mel Robbins website
Mel Robbins podcast
Steve Jobs’ Commencement Speech at Stanford
I went to see a powerful one-man show this week in New York called Without You, by Anthony Rapp, the actor who originated the role of Mark in the musical Rent on Broadway. Anthony shared a powerful story in the show about dealing with the loss of his mother and being told that “the only way out is through.” This phrase and concept, while challenging at times, is so important for us to remember as we navigate various aspects of work, family, and life, especially these days. On this episode, I talk about why it’s essential for us to lean into discomfort, even when it’s painful or scary. I also share some specific things we can do individually and collectively to make our way effectively through hard things.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mel Robbins website
Mel Robbins podcast
Without You (book), by Anthony Rapp
Without You (show), by Anthony Rapp
Having a beginner's mind means we look at every situation we're placed in as if it's the first time we’re seeing it. On this episode talk about how this concept is easier said than done, and why it’s so important to our growth, wellbeing, and success. I also share some specific things we can do to cultivate this powerful approach at work and in life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mel Robbins website
Mel Robbins podcast
Work and life are filled with constant changes and challenges, especially these days. Our ability to navigate through uncertainty and difficulty has a lot to do with our level of success and fulfillment, both personally and collectively. On this episode, I talk about some of the ways life can throw punches at us, particularly right now. I also share some specific things we can do to more effectively roll with the punches and not just survive, but actually thrive, regardless of the circumstances.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
As I turn 49 years old this week, I’m thinking a lot about my age and age in general. While age is just a number, it is a pretty significant one for most of us. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that can make our relationship to our age complicated and challenging, especially in our society. I also share some things we can do to make peace with ourselves and our age wherever we are in our journey of life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Appreciate Your Age (video blog)
There seems to be quite a bit of uncertainty and fear in the air these days, economically and otherwise. Even though we’ve been through so much uncertainty over the past few years (and throughout our lives), whenever it gets significant, it can cause quite a bit of stress and challenge. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that make uncertainty difficult and scary. I also share some specific things we can do to more effectively navigate it ourselves and support those around us.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Don’t Freak Out (podcast episode)
For many reasons, both practical and emotional, it has been more challenging for us to connect with one another over the past few years. And while things have improved on this front in recent months, it still seems more difficult for us to engage with one another these days both professionally and personally. On this episode, I talk about some of these challenges, as well as how important it is for us to connect with each other and specific ways we can do that more effectively right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We Are Not Alone (podcast episode)
The Importance of Showing up (podcast episode)
Trust, patience, and letting go of control are all things that are important to our success and wellbeing, and that of our relationships, families, and teams. However, these things can be challenging. On this episode, I talk about some of what makes them hard and I share specific ways for us to be more trusting and patient, and less controlling - both at work and at home.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Power of Patience (podcast episode)
The Importance of Letting Go of Control (blog post)
I spent this past weekend at a wonderful meditation retreat. Although I have had my own meditation practice for almost three decades and have been attending workshops of all kinds for years, this was the first time I’d been at a multi-day event like this. I found being in silence as much as we were to be both challenging and enlightening. There is so much power in silence, if we’re able to slow down and embrace it. On this episode I talk about the importance of going within and how we can live, work, and relate to others in a mindful and conscious way when we embrace silence.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
1440 Multiversity
Jon Kabat-Zinn
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction
Wisdom 2.0
Headspace
As the New Year gets underway there is a lot of focus on resolutions, goals, and intentions, which makes sense and can be both important and impactful. However, what we’re usually wanting to experience with whatever healthy practices or desired achievements we focus on is feeling good about ourselves. And what can often get in the way of our success and fulfillment is being harsh and critical of ourselves. What if we started with self-kindness and made a commitment to be kind to ourselves, regardless of the circumstance, situation, or outcome? On this episode, I talk about how important this is and I share some specific techniques for how to accept, appreciate, and have compassion for ourselves.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mel Robbins podcast
The High 5 Habit, by Mel Robbins
Louise Hay
Robert Holden
Brene Brown
New Year, Be You (blog post)
Joy is something most of us want to experience in life, yet it can often be elusive. For a number of reasons, especially these days, it is challenging to be joyful. On this episode I talk about some of the specific things that make joy difficult. I also share some ways we can more authentically and effectively experience joyfulness in our lives.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Our ability to support and empower others, as well as create success and fulfillment in our lives has to do with if and how we show up. For a number of reasons, especially these days, this isn’t always easy. On this episode I share about some recent struggles and a tragic loss and what they have taught me about the importance of showing up. I also talk about how we can show up for ourselves and others, even and especially when things are hard.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mel Robbins podcast episode
Being grateful doesn’t mean everything is great, it means we’re willing to look for, find, and acknowledge the gifts, lessons, and blessings in our life. Doing this in an authentic and effective way can be challenging for a number of reasons, especially these days. In the spirit of our Thanksgiving holiday this week here in the US, I talk about the importance of gratitude in this episode, and share some specific techniques for tapping into the power of it, regardless of the circumstances we may be facing.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Power of Gratitude (blog post)
The Power of Gratitude (podcast episode)
Many years ago, I heard Dr. Michael Beckwith say, “Don’t waste a good crisis.” At first, I thought this was a bit strange and even harsh, but the more I thought about it and experienced it, the more I understood the importance of this paradoxical wisdom. On this episode, I talk about how we can authentically reframe difficulty and I share some specific things we can do to navigate crises as effectively as possible.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Don’t Waste a Good Crisis (blog post)
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential in business and life. They can be challenging to understand, discuss, and implement for many reasons. My friend and colleague, Ray Arata, is an expert in inclusionary leadership and the founder of the Better Man Conference. He joins me again on the show today to talk about these important topics and about his upcoming event.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Showing Up: How Men Can Become Effective Allies in the Workplace (Amazon)
Better Man Conference (use promo code BMCMR10 for a 10% discount)
Ray Arata (website)
Showing Up: How Men Can Become Allies in th
Even though things are much “better” these days in terms of our ability to gather with others, travel, go into the office, and more…it still feels weird in so many ways, doesn’t it? As I speak to people, leaders, and teams throughout the country and world, I’m hearing a lot about exhaustion, awkwardness, and difficulty, given all that we’ve been through the past few years. On this episode, I talk about some of the messy and confusing aspects of life and work right now…and some specific things we can do to support ourselves and others as we continue to navigate these uncertain times.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
At 44, Sarah McDonald was newly married, newly promoted, and planning pregnancy. It felt like a time of new beginnings in her life when suddenly she was diagnosed with a rare, incurable cancer. Two months later she was diagnosed with another, unrelated cancer. Ten years later, Sarah is healthy, the mother of a beautiful daughter, and the author of a brand-new memoir called The Cancer Channel: One Year, Two Cancers, Three Miracles. In our conversation, Sarah and I talk about her remarkable journey, how leaders can most effectively support their team members when they are going through hard things, the power of perspective, and more.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Cancer Channel Website
The Cancer Channel (book) on Amazon
Podcast interview with Sarah from 2017
This is the 300th episode of this podcast. As a way of acknowledging this milestone, I reflect back on some of the journey over the past six years - both with the show and my work, and with all that has happened in the world. I also discuss the importance of marking occasions in our lives and our work, and the impact celebration has on us personally and collectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Importance of Celebrating (blog post)
I was quoted in a recent New York Times op-ed entitled, “Do Not Bring Your ‘Whole Self’ to Work.” While I appreciated being mentioned in this piece, as you can imagine, I disagree with it on many levels. On this episode, I talk about some of the misconceptions and challenges of bringing our whole selves to work. I also discuss some of the specific reasons why it's important to do so these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Do Not Bring Your Whole Self to Work (NY Times op-ed)
The Power of Proximity with Tyler Merritt (last week’s interview)
What Psychological Safety Looks Like in a Hybrid Workplace (HBR article)
My guest on this episode, Tyler Merritt, believes that proximity breeds empathy…and that with empathy, humanity has a fighting chance. I agree and am so inspired by him, his work, and his books. Tyler is an actor, activist, founder of the Tyler Merritt Project, and the author of the remarkable memoir, I Take My Coffee Black, as well as the brand new children’s book, A Door Made for Me. In our wide-ranging conversation, Tyler and I discuss race, religion, inclusion, authenticity, and the importance of proximity.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Tyler Merritt Project
Before You Call the Cops (video)
I Take My Coffee Black (book)
I Take My Coffee Black (audiobook)
A Door Made For Me
Jen Hatmaker
Change may be inevitable, but it definitely can be tricky, especially these days. Most of us seek and fear change at the same time, which is part of what makes it so complicated to navigate. On this episode, I talk to my friend and colleague, Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino, about her new book, The Change Guidebook. Elizabeth shares some specific things we can do to more effectively embrace change and create what we truly want in our work and our life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Magic Mind (use promo code Together20 for a 20% discount)
The Change Guidebook on Amazon
Best Ever You
Self-reflection is an important and necessary part of growth. Self-criticism, while common and understandable, is almost always detrimental to us and those around us. On this episode, I talk about the important difference between self-reflection and self-criticism, why we can sometimes collapse them together, and ways we can truly create positive change.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Self Improvement vs. Self Acceptance (blog post)
Trust and surrender are two things that I’ve found challenging for much of my life. I’ve recently been reminded of both the difficulty and importance of both of these…and have been working on embracing them more deliberately. On this episode, I talk about why trust and surrender can be so hard, especially these days. I also discuss how essential they are for our own wellbeing, as well as the health and success of our relationships, families, and teams.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Acceptance, Surrender, and Embracing Powerlessness (podcast episode)
Embracing Powerlessness (blog post)
The Importance of Surrender and Gratitude (podcast episode)
Embracing Powerlessness (medication audio)
I’ve often thought of vigilance as just a more intense version of discipline. And while there is some truth to this in a practical sense, as I’ve been unpacking it more for myself recently, I’m now realizing that there’s a big difference between these two which is important for us to understand. On this episode, I talk about this essential distinction and how we can shift from fear-based vigilance to choice-based discipline.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
For a number of reasons, especially these days, it’s easy to feel like we’re alone. When things get hard, scary, and even painful, many of us, myself included, have a tendency to judge and isolate ourselves. However, one of the best things we can do when things are challenging (and even when they aren’t), is to remember that we’re not alone and to reach out to those around us. On this episode I talk about how easy it is for us to feel alone right now, even though that’s not usually the case. I also offer some specific things we can do to stay connected to one another and to make sure the groups we’re a part of are as healthy as possible in this regard.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
You Are Not Alone (blog post)
Challenge Day
I’ve been dealing with some setbacks recently - both personally and professionally. I’m also aware of the collective struggles many people and groups are dealing with these days. The nature of progress is often messy, and it can be hard to navigate for a number of reasons. On this episode I talk about this phenomenon and why it can be so challenging. I also offer some specific things we can do to make our way through setbacks as effectively and compassionately as possible.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The level of collective anxiety seems pretty high these days. The accumulation of stress related to the pandemic, violence, political divisiveness, uncertainty, change, and more can take a real toll on us - individually and collectively. On this episode, I talk about some of the key reasons we may be feeling anxious these days and some specific techniques we can use to cope with it as best as possible right now - personally and professionally.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Helping Parents Cope with Anxiety - TV interview
With the United States Supreme Court ruling to overturn Roe vs. Wade, I’ve been feeling angry, sad, and deeply concerned about the impact this decision will have. I’ve also been thinking about the importance and power of choice - both in terms of this specific decision and also in terms of how we react to challenging circumstances. Viktor Frankl famously said, “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and freedom.” On this episode I talk about the difficulty and necessity of this concept right now and how we can choose to respond to what’s happening.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
As a lifelong Golden State Warriors fan I am, of course, fired up that they recently won another NBA championship - their fourth in the past eight seasons. However, as impressed and excited as I’ve been about their sustained success, what I find most inspiring is the incredible culture they’ve built. On this episode I talk about some of the key elements of creating a championship team. And while these things have been and continue to be exemplified by the Warriors, they’re important things we can all utilize within our own teams.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Keys to Creating a Championship Team (program)
What the Golden State Warriors Can Teach Us About Teamwork (podcast episode)
An essential element of any strong team is their ability to lean on one another. This takes trust, willingness, and safety…it is foundational to individual and collective success. On this episode I talk about why this is so important, especially these days, and some specific things we can do to lean on those around us, make ourselves available for people to lean on us, and enhance the culture of our teams.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
I’m Okay, You’re a Brat, by Susan Jeffers
In response to the devastating tragedy last week in Uvalde, TX, I’ve noticed my own tendency to want to blame certain people, groups, and policies (or lack thereof). I’ve also noticed how much finger pointing and blame seems to be flying around in conversations, on social media, and in society as a whole - related to this mass shooting and in general. On this episode I talk about why it is both so easy and dangerous to play the blame game. We also look at how this impacts us at work and at home, and some specific things we can do to shift from blame to accountability, responsibility, and ownership in an authentic and healthy way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Let go of Blame (blog post)
Be Careful of the Traps of Blame and Numbness (podcast)
I’m someone who likes plans, goals, and visions. For us to be successful individually and collectively, both in business and life, effective planning can be essential. However, when things are challenging and uncertain (and even when they’re not), all we can really do is the next right thing. On this episode, I talk about this simple but powerful concept - why it can be challenging, and why it is so important, especially these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Glennon Doyle (website)
We Can Do Hard Things (podcast)
Resting and relaxing are two things I enjoy but find challenging to do. Living in a world that is obsessed with hard work, productivity, and results, it can be difficult for many of us to find the time and feel like we deserve to relax. On this episode, I talk about some of the specific reasons resting can be hard for us. I also share some tips for how we can embrace relaxation more effectively…and why it is so important to do so, especially right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
There are a lot of things I don’t understand or know how to do. However, I sometimes find not knowing to be quite frustrating, vulnerable, and uncomfortable. On this episode, I talk about why we have a hard time with not knowing, some specific things we can do to embrace this, and what the benefits are of doing so - for us and those around us.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Power of Not Knowing (Blog Post)
With all of the stress and uncertainty that we’ve been through these past few years (and continue to experience today), it can be challenging to stay grounded. I’ve noticed my own difficulty to stay calm in the midst of challenges has increased recently. On this episode, I discuss five specific things we can do to stay grounded, even and especially when things are hard.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Self-Compassion (podcast episode)
This Too Shall Pass (blog post)
Don’t Freak Out (podcast episode)
In a recent session with my counselor, Eleanor, the themes of acceptance, surrender, and embracing powerlessness came up once again. These things are both very important and incredibly challenging for me and so many of us. On this episode, I talk about why each of these are essential, especially right now, and also why they can be difficult for us to embody. I also share a specific technique for how we can more deeply and effectively make peace with anything and everything we’re facing these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Embracing Powerlessness (blog post)
The Importance of Surrender and Gratitude (podcast episode)
Embracing Powerlessness (meditation audio)
I tested positive for Covid this past week. Thankfully, my symptoms were pretty manageable, my family members have all tested negative, and I’m feeling better. Getting the positive test results, being sick, and isolating myself in my office has been interesting and challenging, particularly mentally and emotionally. On this episode, I share some of this experience and what I’ve been learning…and how it relates to both how we continue to navigate through this pandemic, and also how we can have more compassion for ourselves and others.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Special e-book promote for We’re All in This Together
Let’s Get Real About the Vaccine (previous podcast episode)
Our 13 year old daughter Rosie said to me recently, “Dad, you don’t always have to suck it up.” Her feedback stopped me in my tracks. It had me reflect on how and why I do this, and also how much we’re encouraged in our culture to “suck it up” at work and in life. On this episode, I talk about the paradox of sucking it up and how it can be both necessary and detrimental to our success and wellbeing.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Trusting our instincts is an important aspect of growth and success in life, leadership, work, and more. And, even in the best of times, it can be challenging to do this effectively. Over the past few months and years, I’ve found it more difficult than ever to trust my own instincts, given all of the stress, change, and uncertainty we’ve been facing. On this episode, we talk about both the challenge and the importance of trusting our instincts these days, and some specific things we can do to enhance our capacity to do so.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
I watched the Oscars live, like millions of people around the country and the world. I was shocked and shaken by the incident that took place between Will Smith and Chris Rock, two entertainers whom I’ve had great respect and appreciation for over the years. On this episode, I talk about what happened between them, my initial reactions, and, more broadly, how we can most effectively deal with the messy and paradoxical nature of our mixed emotions to not just this incident, but to the real things that happen in our work and in our lives.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The paperback edition of my latest book, We’re All in This Together, officially came out today! So much has happened since I finished the manuscript for this book back in late 2019 and it first came out in the spring of 2020. On this episode, I reflect on a few of the core themes of the book and my work, and talk about some of the most important things we’ve learned over the past two years. I also talk about what we can do and think about as we move forward and continue to navigate through these uncertain times.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new paperback edition), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Info About the Launch Event - March 26 at 4 PM
Assets Page - Easy Ways to Share About the Paperback
Like most busy people, I crave more free time and find it challenging to create. However, according to my friend Jenny Blake, for us to thrive in our work and our lives, creating free time is not just a nice to have, it’s essential. On this episode, I talk to Jenny about why this can be so difficult, why it is so important, and how we can do it. Jenny’s forthcoming book, Free Time: Lose the Busywork, Love Your Business, is filled with actionable ideas for how we can create more space for ourselves to do more good work.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Jenny Blake (website)
Free Time (book), by Jenny Blake
Magic Mind (use promo code Together20 for a discount)
Like most of us, I think of regret in a negative way, and that it’s something I try to avoid as much as possible. However, I recently listened to a conversation that Brene Brown had on her podcast with Daniel Pink about his new book, The Power of Regret. Listening to them underscored some things I think I’d known but didn’t specifically realize were so important about acknowledging our regrets. On this episode, I talk about the tricky but healthy balance between denial and shame where we can embrace the essential lessons of our regrets…and allow them to change us in positive ways.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Power of Regret (book), by Daniel Pink
Dare to Lead Podcast with Brene Brown and Daniel Pink
Given the level of stress, weariness, and uncertainty that many of us are experiencing these days, it can be challenging to keep things in a healthy perspective. In light of the terrifying invasion and violence happening right now in Ukraine, I’ve been thinking a lot about the millions of people impacted by this. So much of what seems hard in my own daily life pales in comparison. On this episode, I talk about the importance of perspective, how we can avoid the trap of unhealthy comparative suffering, and some specific things we can do to shift our mindset in positive and productive ways, even in the face of difficulty.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
There’s a powerful and important difference between joy and happiness. Happiness, like fun, is often dependent upon positive circumstances and situations. Joyfulness, on the other hand, is an intentional choice we can make at any moment. Inspired by Steph Curry’s incredible MVP performance in the NBA All-Star game and the way he plays basketball, I talk about how we all can tap into the power of joy on this week’s episode.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Steph Curry All-Star Game Highlights
Being comfortable with being uncomfortable is an essential aspect of growth, change, and success in just about every aspect of work and life. However, there is a difference between healthy and unhealthy discomfort, although it can be challenging for many of us, myself included, to recognize this important distinction. On this episode, I delve into this dynamic and talk about some specific ways we can embrace healthy discomfort, without needlessly creating unproductive pain and struggle for ourselves and those around us.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The High Five Habit, by Mel Robbins
Most of us appreciate when other people express appreciation for us. Clearly some of us are more motivated by this than others, and it can be a bit uncomfortable to receive, but it’s very rare to meet someone who feels over-appreciated or doesn’t enjoy being acknowledged at some level. However, the most important and most difficult aspect of appreciation is being able to do it for ourselves in a genuine way. On this episode, I talk about why authentic self-appreciation can be so hard, and I offer a series of reminders and techniques for how to do it effectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The High Five Habit, by Mel Robbins
For a number of understandable reasons, especially these days, it can be challenging to slow down and savor our experiences. The pace of life and work, the stressful and uncertain nature of things right now, and the tendency many of us have to plan and worry, among other things, all make savoring difficult. However, when we pause and truly take things in, it brings us into the present moment and allows us to more fully appreciate our experience of being alive. I talk about this important phenomenon on this week’s episode - pointing out some of the challenges we face in this regard, and sharing specific tips for how we can practice the art of savoring more effectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Radical Acceptance, by Tara Brach
Many of us, myself included, tend to focus a lot on outcomes and goals. And while this makes sense for us in many areas of life and business, what often drives our performance (or lack thereof) is our habits. On this episode, I talk about the importance of habits. I also break down some simple things we can do to adopt new habits we want, let go of ones that don’t serve us, and stay consistent with the practices that lead to our success and wellbeing.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
James Clear Website
Atomic Habits, by James Clear
When things are hard, scary, uncertain, painful, changing, or frustrating, it’s easy for us to freak out. However, when we react in a knee-jerk way to stress (i.e. we freak out), it almost never serves us, others, or the situation. In many cases, we make an already challenging situation more difficult. On this episode, I talk about this phenomenon, why it is so common (especially right now), and some specific things we can do to shift from freaking out to authentically responding, which is much more effective.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Brene Brown Website
Atlas of the Heart, by Brene Brown
As we find ourselves back in the throes of a covid surge, the increased stress and uncertainty can lead us to understandable feelings of fear, sadness, anger, and more. On this episode I talk about how we can give ourselves permission to experience all of this in a healthy way, and also about the importance of staying in the present moment, even and especially with things being so challenging and up-in-the-air right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Year End/New Year podcast episode
Inclusion, belonging, and allyship are essential in business and life. These things can be challenging and complex. My friend and colleague, Ray Arata, is an expert in inclusionary leadership and the founder of the Better Man Conference. He joins me on the show today to talk about these important topics and about his powerful new book, Showing Up: How Men Can Become Allies in the Workplace.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Showing Up: How Men Can Become Effective Allies in the Workplace (Amazon)
ShowingUpBook.com
Ray Arata (website)
I love this week between Christmas and New Years…it’s usually a time to rest, reflect, and prepare. On this episode, I talk about how we can consciously complete the year that is ending. This past year has been challenging for me and so many of us. And, if we’re intentional about it, we can bring real closure to this year, which can create the freedom and space to create something new in 2022. I also talk about how we can set ourselves up for success in the new year with how we think about our intentions, goals, and habits.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
I threw out my back this past weekend and was in an enormous amount of pain. This experience, coupled with the news of the omicron variant spreading rapidly, had me reflect on the humbling nature of life, especially these days. Being able to embrace authentic humility is actually something that can give us a lot of freedom and power. On this episode, I talk about being humbled by life and offer some specific ideas for how we can navigate this dynamic right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with the holidays. I enjoy some of the rituals, food, music, gifts, and celebrations, but I’m not a huge fan of the pressure, expectation, disappointment, family dynamics, and grief that often accompanies this time of year. On this episode, I talk about some of the things that can make the holidays challenging and share some specific tips for what we can do to effectively navigate this season with authenticity and grace, especially this year.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We all compare ourselves to other people at times. This can be benign and there can even be some positive aspects to it, but, for the most part, comparison is an ego trap that distorts our perception and causes harm. On this episode I talk openly about some of my own struggles with comparison and some things we can do to navigate the comparison trap, especially these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Are You Jealous of Other People’s Success (blog post)
Stop Comparing Yourself to Others (blog post)
Life is full of wonder and joy, although sometimes it can be challenging for us to see and experience this, especially these days. On this episode, I talk to my longtime friend, Andrea Scher. She’s an artist, life coach, and the author of the brand new book, Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake Up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy. Andrea’s approach to life and creativity is inspiring, accessible, and practical...and it is so needed right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Wonder Seeker (book), by Andrea Scher (on Amazon)
Andrea Scher Website
Andrea Scher on Instagram
Wonder Seeker (book), by Andrea Scher (special bonus page)
Gratitude is something that I’ve researched, written, and spoken about for the past two decades. Even though I know how important, healthy, and powerful it is, I still find it challenging to be grateful, especially at certain times. On this episode, I reflect on some of the things that can make gratitude difficult, particularly right now, and I share some specific ideas and practices for how we can tap into the power of gratitude during this holiday season and beyond.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
For us to successfully create or experience something important - whether it’s a relationship, a project, a team, a family, a career, or anything else - a strong foundation is essential. This foundation needs to be built and maintained consistently. However, growth and evolution happen by us focusing on vision and embracing innovation. On this episode I talk about the important balance of foundation and vision. We need both in order to thrive. For most of us, myself included, this can be challenging, especially these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Take Care of Your Animal (video blog post)
Keep Your Head in the Clouds and Your Feet on the Ground (blog post)
Fear is something we all experience as human beings, but it’s an emotion we often avoid, deny, or suppress to our own detriment. With anxiety levels running high for many of us, especially these days, it’s important for us to have more space for our fear and to learn healthy ways to feel it and move through it. On this episode, I talk about why fear can be so tricky and uncomfortable, and I share some specific techniques for how we can transform our fear, individually and collectively, and utilize its power in a productive way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
How to Move Through Your Fear (blog post)
Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway, by Susan Jeffers
Patience may be a virtue, but it’s definitely something I find challenging. Given the pace, uncertainty, and intensity of life and work these days, I don’t think I’m alone in the struggle with being patient. On this episode, I talk about some of the reasons patience can be difficult, particularly right now, and I also explore some specific things we can do and focus on to be more patient with ourselves, with those around us, at work, and in life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Trust the Process (podcast episode)
The Power of Patience, by MJ Ryan
I can be pretty harsh and critical of myself at times. And even though I know how important self-compassion is, I still find it to be challenging. On this episode I talk about some of the reasons it can be hard for us to have compassion for ourselves. I also explore the three components of self-compassion and talk about why it is essential for us, our relationships, and our teams.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Dr. Kristin Neff
Nothing Changes Until You Do (book), by Mike Robbins
I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with accountability. Similar to feedback, I know how important it is for us to hold ourselves and others accountable...it can just be hard and scary to do so at times. On this episode, we discuss some of the specific reasons we avoid or run from accountability. And we talk about why it’s so important and how we can more effectively embrace accountability ourselves and within our teams...for the benefit of everyone involved.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Forgiveness is so important for our relationships, our teams, and our overall well-being...and, it can be really hard, especially these days. On this episode, we discuss some of the things that make it challenging, and we delve into some specific ways to embrace and practice the power of forgiveness in our work, our relationships, and our lives.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Forgive For Good, by Dr. Fred Luskin
Work and life seem to be getting busier and busier all the time. Creating space in our schedules and in our minds is more important and challenging than ever these days. On this week’s episode, I talk to my friend and colleague, Juliet Funt. She’s the author of the new book, A Minute to Think, and an expert in training people, leaders, teams, and organizations specific techniques which allow them to reclaim creativity, conquer busyness, and do their best work.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
The Juliet Funt Group
A Minute to Think (book), by Juliet Funt
So many aspects of life and work are paradoxical, especially these days. Paradox is something that I’ve always been fascinated by - the notion that more than one thing can be true at the same time, and often these truths can contradict one another. We seem to be having a hard time, especially right now, embracing paradox in our society, but it’s essential for us to do within our teams, our families, our communities, and our world.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Brene Brown and Esther Perel on the Unlocking Us Podcast
If you’re anything like me and so many people I know, caring for yourself in a healthy and nourishing way these days may be a bit challenging. Self-care is often difficult for many of us, and over this past year and half, it seems to have gotten even harder, for a number of understandable reasons. On today’s show, I share some of my own current struggles with self-care and why it can be so tricky for so many of us these days (and in general). I also offer some specific ideas that can allow you to more effectively and compassionately care for yourself right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins (now out in paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Adam Grant’s TED talk - How to Stop Languishing and Start Finding Flow
Today is a big day...it’s episode #250 of this podcast, which used to be called “Bring Your Whole Self to Work,” and it also happens to be the launch day of the paperback edition of my book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work. On today’s show we talk about the five principles from this book: 1) authenticity, 2) appreciation, 3) emotional intelligence, 4) growth mindset, and 5) teamwork, and why these things are even more challenging and more important than ever these days, given everything that is going on.
Resources:
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (paperback)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
On today’s show, I spoke with my friend, client, and colleague, Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann. Rebecca is an accomplished executive, board member, consultant, and the co-author of FitCEO: Be the Leader of Your Life, which officially comes out next week. In our discussion, Rebecca and I talk about her remarkable journey through education and business, as well as some of the core pillars of her leadership philosophy and key ideas from her powerful new book.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
FitCEO book website
RMK Group LLC
FitCEO on Amazon
I’m back after a two month hiatus! On this return episode, I talk about some of the current challenges and continued uncertainty facing us on various fronts. In the face of all that is going on right now, it’s important to be able to surrender in an authentic way, and also to focus on what we’re grateful for. These things can be hard to embrace and embody for a number of understandable reasons, but they’re essential for our mental and emotional well-being, and necessary as we navigate work and life these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Most of us could use a break these days. However, for a number of reasons, taking breaks can be challenging. This difficulty is often practical, financial, emotional, relational, social, or some combination of these factors. And, no matter how hard it may be, it’s critical for us to pause from time to time, not only for our own wellbeing, but for the health of our relationships and teams as well. On this episode, I talk about both the challenge and importance of taking breaks, as well as some of the specific dynamics that make doing this even harder and more essential these days. I also share that I’ll be taking a break from this podcast and some other things over the next few weeks or months.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Positivity is something that most of us consider, well, positive, right? However, when positivity is used to cover up or silence our authentic human experience, it can become incredibly toxic. With all of the challenges, stress, and struggle many of us have been facing these days, it can be difficult, but really important, to remain optimistic. And, at the same time, we don’t want to sugarcoat things or diminish the experience of others. On this episode, we talk about this complex dynamic and look at ways we can balance our desire to be positive and create a positive environment around us, while at the same time being real and giving people space to express themselves authentically.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Covid has, obviously, turned our lives upside down in so many ways. The distribution of the vaccine has been a game-changer these past few months. However, not everyone have access to the vaccine, and there are people who are hesitant to get it or simply refuse. On this episode, I talk openly about my own journey with the vaccine and share some thoughts about how we can have more authentic conversations about this incredibly important and emotionally charged topic. While everyone has the right to make their own personal choice, what we each decide to do in this regard does impact those around us and all of us collectively. And, given how essential this is, it’s important for us to find more effective ways to discuss it openly.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Telling the truth about how we really feel is so important, especially these days. At the same time, operating with this type of vulnerability can be challenging for many different reasons. On this episode, I share some of how I’ve been feeling lately, and we discuss not only the importance of being real, but some specific ways to engage with those around us authentically. There is so much freedom and power in the truth...and it takes courage for us to operate this way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle (podcast)
Five Wishes (book), by Gay Hendricks
Five Wishes (movie)
So many of us, myself included, are struggling with mental health challenges these days. Even if we aren’t, we probably know people who are and want to be able to support them. While we’ve made progress in recent years in how we think about, talk about, and treat mental health, there is still a lot of understandable yet unnecessary fear, shame, and stigma connected to it. On this episode, I talk openly about my own mental health journey and the importance of being real about how we feel and asking for the support that we need. Caring for our mental health is as essential, if not moreso, than caring for our physical health, especially right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
The Me You Can’t See
What Happened to You (book), by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce Perry
Shareables:
“Focusing on our mental health is as important as focusing on our physical health.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s okay to not be okay.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Asking for help is one of the most important and empowering things we can do.” — @MikeDRobbins
With all of the ups and downs we go through, especially these days, it can sometimes seem like life is just happening to us. However, even in the face of challenges, we are way more at cause than at effect in life than we often realize. My guest on this episode knows a few things about what it takes to design an extraordinary life. Sheri Salata was the executive producer of the Oprah Winfrey Show and the President of the Oprah Winfrey Network. She’s an author and teacher who, through her own extraordinary journey and her inspiring wisdom, reminds us to create a life we love, wherever we find ourselves in the process.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Sheri Salata (website)
Design Your Life - 5-Day Challenge
The Beautiful No (book), by Sheri Salata
BestEverYou.com
Shareables:
“We have the power to design a life we love.” — @SheriSalata
“When we own and share our story, we can transform our lives.” — @SheriSalata
“Life can be fantastic at any age and stage - it’s up to us.” — @SheriSalata
There is such a strong need for transformation these days - in our work, our lives, our families, our organizations, our society, and our world. As we have seen and learned in many painful ways over the past year or so, some of the ways we operate - personally and collectively - aren’t ideal, equitable, healthy, or sustainable. On this episode, I once again talk with my friend Scott Shute. As the Head of Mindfulness and Compassion Programs at LinkedIn, Scott develops and delivers programs that assist in the well-being of leaders, teams, employees, and customers. He also has a brand new book out today called The Full Body Yes. Scott’s book, his work, and his life are dedicated to changing our work and our world from the inside out.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
TheFullBodyYes.com (book site)
The Full Body Yes (book on Amazon)
Scott Shute (website)
Scott Shute on LinkedIn
Shareables:
“Compassion is empathy in action.” — @ScottShute1
“There is real freedom and power when we realize life is happening for us not to us.” — @ScottShute1
“All transformation starts from within.” — @ScottShute1
There’s an important difference between struggling and suffering. Given all that we’ve been dealing with over this past year and the many challenging dynamics of work, family, health, relationships, and what’s going on in our world, many of us, myself included, have been struggling. On this episode, I share vulnerably about some of my own challenges and talk about five specific things we can do to effectively navigate times of struggle, so that we don’t get caught in the trap of suffering.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Shareables:
“There is a big difference between struggling and suffering.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s okay to struggle.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Telling the truth about our struggle with courage and vulnerability, allows us to not get stuck in suffering.” — @MikeDRobbins
Setting healthy boundaries is both as important and challenging as ever these days. Both at work and at home, being able to speak up, say “yes” and “no” authentically without guilt or pressure, as well as having the courage to negotiate for our preferences, desires, and needs, are all essential aspects of our well-being and success. On this episode, I talk to my friend and colleague Terri Cole. She’s a psychotherapist and the author of a brand-new book called Boundary Boss. In our conversation, we discuss why boundaries are so difficult and necessary (both personally and professionally), especially right now. We also talk about some specific things we can do to create healthy boundaries for ourselves, our families, and our teams.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Boundary Boss (book), by Terri Cole
De Less with Boundaries (bonus)
Terri Cole Website
Boundary Quiz
Shareables:
“You have the right to say no (or yes) to others without feeling guilty.” — @TerriCole
“You have the right to negotiate for your preferences, desires, and needs.” — @TerriCole
“You don’t have to say yes when you really mean no.” — @TerriCole
It’s almost always scary and uncomfortable to be vulnerable, yet vulnerability is necessary for us to learn, grow, connect, lead, and succeed personally and professionally. My guest on this episode, Laila Tarraf, knows all about the importance of this paradox. She was the Chief People Officer at Peet’s Coffee and Tea, and over the span of five years lost her husband, her father, and her mother, all while raising her young daughter and leading a cultural transformation for the company. In her moving new memoir, Strong Like Water, Laila shares about her grief, growth, and personal transformation through these intense experiences. In our conversation, we talk about her book, her journey, and how we can all find the courage to lead with vulnerability in business and in life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Laila Tarraf Website
Strong Like Water (book), by Laila Tarraf (Website)
Strong Like Water (book), by Laila Tarraf (Amazon)
Shareables:
“Being right isn’t the point.” — @LailaTarraf
“There is strength in softness.” — @LailaTarraf
“Vulnerability is not weakness, it’s courage.” — @LailaTarraf
When we bring our whole selves to work (and to life), so much becomes available for us and those around us. However, these things are easier said than done, especially right now. On this episode, I talk to my new friend Cherie Healey about the importance of spirituality, allyship, and well-being. Cherie is a coach, workshop facilitator, and speaker who is passionate about helping leaders unlock their potential and see what’s possible.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Cherie Healey Website
Shareables:
“Showing up fully and bringing all of who we are to work is so important.” — @CherieHealey
“We must be well to do well.” — @CherieHealey
“I am passionate about helping people see what’s possible.” — @CherieHealey
Risk and uncertainty are parts of life, especially these days. Whether we’re focused on a business idea, a creative endeavor, parenting, an important project, a big life decision, leadership, or any number of other things, our success and fulfillment often hinges upon an ability to embrace the unknown. For a number of reasons, doing this can be incredibly challenging. On this episode, I talk to my friend Victoria Labalme about the importance of leaning into uncertainty. Her remarkable new book, Risk Forward, just came out. In it she shares practical and inspiring ideas about how we can unlock our hidden genius and have the kind of impact we truly want.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Victoria Labalme Website
Risk Forward: Embrace the Unknown and Unlock Your Hidden Genius (book)
TED Talk: Victoria Labalme
Shareables:
“In the gap between what is and what could be is where we find our way.” — @VictoriaLabalme
“Some people in life know exactly what they want to achieve. My book, ‘Risk Forward,’ is for everyone else.” — @VictoriaLabalme
“When someone offers you advice there are three variables to consider. 1) How does it feel? 2) Who is giving the advice? 3) Is it in line with where you think you want to go?” — @VictoriaLabalme
Leadership is always important and challenging, especially in the times we find ourselves in right now. On this episode, I had a chance to talk to a great leader and one of my favorite people, Dheeraj Pandey. Dheeraj co-founded Nutanix in 2009 and was their CEO for over 11 years. He’s currently on the board of Adobe and has had an incredibly successful career as an engineer, a leader, an entrepreneur, and as a co-founder and CEO of a rapidly-growing start-up that he took public in 2016. In this conversation, we discuss the importance of curiosity, anti-fragility, authenticity, and more in today’s ever-changing world.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Dheeraj Pandey on LinkedIn
Shareables:
“There are only so many things we can remember - so relying on the wisdom of thought leaders and frameworks are important.” — @dheeraj
“Staying balanced is one of the most important aspects of business, leadership, and life.” — @dheeraj
“Great leaders are great learners.” — @MikeDRobbins
The concept of not “spiking the ball before we get to the endzone” is being referenced a lot these days given where things are with the pandemic. While we’re all tired, weary, and ready for this to be over - it’s important for us to stay focused and safe as we make our way through. This concept is also important and relevant with how we approach our goals and our dreams - both personally and collectively. If we spike the ball too early because we think we’re already there or we’re simply tired of trying, we end up not getting to where we ultimately want to be. On this episode, we talk about this phenomenon, and how to stay present, engaged, and keep things in perspective as we’re going for the things that matter most.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Authentic Leadership - New Udemy Digital Course by Mike Robbins
Peak: How Great Companies Get Their Mojo from Maslow, by Chip Conley
Shareables:
“Let’s not spike the ball until we’re actually in the endzone.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Don’t give up on your dreams simply because they haven’t manifested yet.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Failure is not the opposite of success, it’s part of success.” — @MikeDRobbins
It’s been about a year since the pandemic took over the world and changed life and work as we know it. And while there does seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel, things continue to be incredibly challenging and many of us are feeling understandably weary. On this episode we talk about some specific things we can do to address our weariness and effectively navigate the coming days, weeks, and months as we make our way through this difficult time. We have more than this requires...even when it’s hard for us to remember how strong we are.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Shareables:
“Even when we’re weary, tired, and not sure we can go on...it’s important to remember how strong and resilient we are.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We can do this.” — @MikeDRobbins
“This, too, shall pass.” — @MikeDRobbins
When we’re struggling, one of the hardest but most important things we can do is tell the truth about it. Even though this is vulnerable, having the courage to be authentic liberates us, gives other people permission to do the same, and often allows us to gain both perspective and support. On this episode, we talk about the power of telling the truth, even and especially when things are challenging or scary, as is the case for many of us these days. Although we each have different circumstances, experiences, and difficulties, we truly are all in this together.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
The Truth Will Set You Free, But First it Will Piss You Off (book), by Gloria Steinem
Shareables:
“Having the courage to vulnerably tell the truth liberates us and gives other people permission to do the same.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We aren’t supposed to have it all figured out...we can tell the truth of our struggle and ask for help.” — @MikeDRobbins
“The truth will set you free...but first it will piss you off.” — @GloriaSteinem
Conscious leadership is so important, especially right now. On this episode, I talk to my friend and colleague Carley Hauck about her brand new book, Shine: Ignite Your Inner Game to Lead Consciously at Work and in the World. Carley is a leadership expert who works with top conscious businesses and teaches at both Stanford and UC Berkeley. In this conversation we discuss how inner transformation leads to outer transformation, as well as the importance of creating a more inclusive and sustainable world.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Carley Hauck Website
Shine: Ignite Your Inner Game to Lead Consciously at Work and in the World, by Carley Hauck
Community Events for Shine
Shareables:
“Inner transformation leads to outer transformation.” — @CarleyHauck
“We need conscious leadership now more than ever.” — @CarleyHauck
“We have the opportunity right now to be a part of a new paradigm and change the world for the greatest good.” — @CarleyHauck
I’m not a huge fan of making mistakes. However, mistakes are a part of life, business, relationships, leadership, parenting, and being human. Trying to avoid making mistakes or judging ourselves and others harshly when they happen, are detrimental to our success and well-being. On this episode, we explore our relationship to mistakes and talk about how we can be more compassionate, forgiving, and kind when things don’t go the way we want them to go.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
It’s Okay to Make Mistakes (blog post)
Shine: Ignite Your Inner Game to Lead Consciously at Work and in the World, by Carley Hauck
Shareables:
“It’s okay to make mistakes.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Failure is not the opposite of success, it’s part of success.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Having compassion for ourselves and others when mistakes are made is essential.” — @MikeDRobbins
We all have different family situations, but just about everyone I know and work with these days is struggling at home to some degree. From isolation, to disappointment, to illness, to worry, to irritation, to depression, to financial concerns, to grief, and more, this has been and continues to be an incredibly challenging time for our relationships and our lives. On this episode, we discuss some of the hardest aspects of navigating the pandemic in our families. We also talk about some specific things we can do at this time to take care of ourselves and our loved ones in a real and healthy way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Why Empathy is Important: How to Become More Empathetic
The Language of Love - new podcast with Laura Berman
Unlocking Us - podcast episode with Brene Brown and Melinda Gates
Shareables:
“We’re all in the same storm, but in different boats.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Check in with the people in your family - we need to lean on each other right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s okay to not be okay.” — @MikeDRobbins
Asking for help is challenging for most of us, for a variety of reasons. With everything going on these days and many of us feeling understandably depleted, it’s even more difficult to request the support that we need. However, being able to ask for help is so important right now, not only for our own well-being, but for the health and success of our relationships, families, and teams. On this episode, I talk about why support is so essential and offer some specific tips for how to successfully get it.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Shareables:
“The answer is always ‘no’ if you don’t ask.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.” — @MikeDRobbins
“When we ask for help, we give other people permission to do something most people love to do...support another human being.” — @MikeDRobbins
Many of us find ourselves on an intense emotional roller coaster these days for a number of understandable reasons. As challenging as it is for us to navigate the physical and practical realities of our work and our life right now, dealing with the intense fluxuations of our mental and emotional state, and that of those around us, might be even more difficult. On this episode, I talk about the importance of embracing all of our emotions, even and especially our grief, and some specific ways we can do that right now to enhance our own well-being, as well as the well-being of our family, friends, teams, and more.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
A New Day in American - Finding Common Ground in These Divisive Times (interview with Bo Brabo)
Shareables:
“If we can feel it, we can heal it.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Feelings are meant to be felt...all of them.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We’re all in the same storm...but in different boats.” — @MikeDRobbins
As President Biden takes office, he is focused on unity, coming together, and finding common ground, especially in the midst of this incredibly challenging time. Doing this is much easier said than done for a number of reasons. On today’s show, I interviewed author, speaker, and Army veteran, Robert “Bo” Brabo. Bo worked as the Chief of HR Operations for the White House Communications Agency and as a Presidential Communications Officer for George W. Bush and also for Barack Obama. Bo and I talk about some of the lessons he learned in the military and working in the White House, as well as how we can come together and find common ground at this pivotal moment in the history of our country.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
The Social Dilemma
Bo Brabo Website
Bo Brabo E-Learning Courses
From the Battlefield to the White House to the Boardroom, by Bo Brabo
Shareables:
“For us to come together we have to focus on our core values and all the things we have in common.” — Bo Brabo
“It’s important to simply reach out and have a conversation - this allows us to come together and find common ground.” — Bo Brabo
“We’re all in this together.” — @MikeDRobbins
We’re at a dangerous moment in the history of our country. And while I’m praying for peace, healing, and unity, I believe that truth and accountability must come first. The lies, misinformation, and double standards that have gotten us to this perilous place in our society need to be challenged and changed. On this episode, I talk about the importance of truth and accountability as it relates to what’s going on in our nation right now, and also how essential these things are to the health and well-being of our lives, families, and businesses as well.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
The Social Dilemma
Shareables:
“Before we can authentically work on healing and unity, we must first focus on truth and accountability.” — @MikeDRobbins
“A lack of truth and accountability can be incredibly dangerous and damaging.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Without truth and accountability, there can be no real trust, unity, or collaboration.” — @MikeDRobbins
I felt so sad, angry, and scared watching the violence take place on Capitol Hill in Washington DC yesterday. I recorded a special episode of the podcast to address this, and share some thoughts and insights about how we navigate through these challenging times, find common ground with one another, and create the kind of change that is required at this pivotal moment.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Shareables:
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
“We have no morally persuasive power with those who can feel our underlying contempt for them.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
“It’s time for us to dig deep to find the courage, strength, and love we need to create the change that is necessary.” — @MikeDRobbins
While the calendar has turned from 2020 to 2021, we still find ourselves in difficult and uncertain times. We do have the opportunity to tap into the power of creation as we start this new year. On this episode, I talk about how important and powerful it can be to create this new year with intention. I also provide a specific process and series of questions we can answer as we set our goals for 2021. Conscious creation is essential and can help us both manifest what we truly want and focus on what matters most.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
The Power of Completion
Shareables:
“Creation is the process of taking our intentions and putting them into action.” — @MikeDRobbins
“New year, be you.” — @MikeDRobbins
“There’s a big difference between fixing and changing.” — @MikeDRobbins
What a challenging, bizarre, and painful year this has been in our country and our world. As 2020 comes to a close, it is easy to just say “good riddance” and hope for brighter days ahead. However, as difficult as this year has been for us collectively, and for many of us personally, it’s important for us to acknowledge all that has happened, as well as our growth and the fact that we made it through. On this episode, I reflect on this unprecedented year. I also provide a specific process and series of questions we can answer to bring completion to the year that is ending. Conscious completion is important and allows us to step into the new year successfully.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Elizabeth Gilbert’s TED Talk on Creativity
Shareables:
“As challenging as this year has been, it’s important for us to acknowledge our growth and that we made it through.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We made it!” — @MikeDRobbins
“Take the good, leave the bad, and be grateful for all of it.” — @MikeDRobbins
Things continue to be challenging these days with all that is going on in our country and our world, and as we make our way through the holidays. Just about everyone I know and work with, myself included, is struggling right now mentally and emotionally. On this episode, I share some specific tips and techniques for how we can enhance our mental and emotional well-being, especially when we’re feeling tired and weary.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Armchair Expert Podcast
Unlocking Us Podcast
Shareables:
“Caring for ourselves and others mentally and emotionally is so important right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s okay to not be okay.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Mental and emotional well-being is essential for us and everyone around us.” — @MikeDRobbins
For us to be able to effectively navigate the challenges of life, it’s essential for us to embrace paradox. Things can be messy and complicated, and the solutions we seek aren’t usually clear cut. Our ability to hang out in ambiguity, see things from multiple perspectives, and understand the paradoxical nature of life are fundamental to our success and that of those around us. On this episode of the podcast, we delve into the importance of paradox and balance, especially given all that is happening in our world these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Dare to Lead Podcast - Barack Obama and Brene Brown
Shareables:
“More than one thing can be true at the same time.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Life is complex and messy, and we have the ability to embrace all of it.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Embracing paradox is about acknowledging the complex nature of life.” — @MikeDRobbins
With things being as challenging as they are right now, many of us are struggling for a number of different reasons. As we continue to navigate this difficult time and do what we can to support those around us, it’s really important to operate with compassion. On this episode, we discuss specific ways to embrace compassion and practice forgiveness - both with ourselves and with others. These things aren’t always easy, especially these days, but they’re essential for our own self-care and for the well-being of the people with whom we work and live.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Forgiving What You Can’t Forget, by Lysa TerKeurst
Shareables:
“Being kind to ourselves is one of the most important things we can do right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
“If your compassion doesn’t include yourself it’s incomplete.” — Jack Kornfield
“Holding a grudge is like drinking poison, and expecting the other person to die.” — @MikeDRobbins
Things are hard right now for me, just about everyone I know, and the vast majority of us. Although Thanksgiving is this week here in the US and we’re entering the holiday season, it’s challenging for many of us to get into a festive mood with the coronavirus spiking, and all of the ramifications that entails. On this episode, I talk about the importance of embracing where we are, giving ourselves permission to not be okay right now, and having compassion for ourselves and others during this difficult time. I also talk about how and why embracing gratitude authentically right now is so important, although not that easy.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Tim Ferriss and Dax Shepard interview
Shareables:
“It’s okay to not be okay right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
“There is always so much to be grateful for...if we choose to look for it and acknowledge it.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Gratitude and victimhood can’t co-exist.” — @MikeDRobbins
The late Senator from New York, Daniel Patrick Moynihan, famously said, “You’re entitled to your own opinions, but not your own facts.” These words are as true and important as ever right now. On this episode, I share my thoughts on the Presidential election results, and more broadly, on the importance of truth in our relationships, our teams, our society, and in life in general. For us to come together and create positive change, we have to be dealing with the same set of facts.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Shareables:
“For us to come together and create positive change, we have to first acknowledge the factual reality.” — @MikeDRobbins
“You’re entitled to your own opinions, but not your own facts.” — Daniel Patrick Moynihan
“The truth will set you free, but first it will piss you off.” — Gloria Steinem
Now that the election is over, it’s important for us to focus on the hard work of coming together. What has been reinforced in recent days, weeks, and months is how divided we are as a nation. This division doesn’t serve us and is incredibly detrimental to so many aspects of life and society. On this episode, I share my reflections on where we are right now and offer some specific ideas of what we can do personally to create more unity and togetherness in our families, teams, communities, and our country.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Van Jones’ Reaction to the Election
Shareables:
“There is no THEM, it’s all US.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Listening to others with empathy allows us to find common ground.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s time for us to come together.” — @MikeDRobbins
This has been an extraordinary week here in the United States with an unprecedented Presidential election. And, while at the time of recording and posting this episode the final results of the election are not in, what has been reinforced by how it is playing out, is that we’re a deeply divided nation. On this episode, I share my thoughts about the election, where we are, and how we move forward on the other side of this.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Unlocking Us Podcast - Brene Brown
Dare To Lead Podcast - Brene Brown
WTF Podcast - Marc Maron
Shareables:
“Even though it may not seem like it right now, we truly are all in this together.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Listening to others with empathy allows us to find common ground.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We’re way more alike than we are different.” — @MikeDRobbins
I’ve been thinking about fairness a lot recently. We’re less than a week away from the election here in the United States and while I have both strong opinions and deep concerns about the outcome, what’s most important to me is that everyone who wants to vote is able to do so...and that all of the votes are counted fairly. On this episode, I talk about the election, the recent Supreme Court confirmation, and the World Series, all in the context of fairness. And, we discuss how essential fairness is to the integrity of outcomes, as well as to the morale, trust, and culture of any group, team, family, community, or society.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
I Will Vote
Let’s Get Real About Cheating (podcast episode)
Shareables:
“Fairness is essential for an outcome to have integrity.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Lack of fairness is devastating to trust and morale.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Sometimes we win, sometimes we lose, but if it is fair, we can live with the result.” — @MikeDRobbins
We’re less than two weeks away from the election here in the United States, and it’s hard not to be aware of the intensity and importance of it. For a number of reasons, I’ve been feeling scared - anxious to see how it all plays out and nervous about the outcome. On this episode, I talk about my personal feelings about the election and also about some of the challenges we face in our relationships with people who may be voting for a different candidate than we are. I offer some ideas for how we can navigate these challenges before and after the election. I also talk about how we can take positive actions before the election, and then focus on healing and coming together after it’s over.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
I Will Vote
William McRaven’s Op Ed
Shareables:
“We’re All in This Together.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We have no morally persuasive power with those who can feel our underlying contempt for them” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
“When this election is over, we need to find a way to come together as Americans.” — @MikeDRobbins
With so much going on these days, many of us are feeling stressed, weary, and burned out. What most of us need, as much as almost anything right now, is empathy. However, given all that is going on, there seems to be an understandable empathy deficit within many teams, families, and relationships. On this episode, I talk about why empathy is both so important during this difficult time and why it is also incredibly challenging. Additionally, we discuss some specific things you can do to both give and receive more empathy these days, so that you can care for yourself and those around you most effectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Shareables:
“Empathy is both more challenging and more important than ever right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
“The natural human response to vulnerability is empathy.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Let’s have compassion for ourselves and each other - everyone is doing the best they can.” — @MikeDRobbins
Things have been and continue to be crazy right now in our country and our world...and they seem to be getting crazier by the day. In the midst of all that is going on, it is completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, outraged, and crazy ourselves. However, it’s important to remember that we’re not crazy, we’re just living in crazy times. On this episode, I talk about some of the ridiculous and upsetting events of the past few weeks and how we can stay engaged in all that is happening, without making ourselves insane in the process.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Shareables:
“You’re not crazy, this is crazy.” — @MikeDRobbins
“You’re not insane, this is insane.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s okay and appropriate to be outraged right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
Things continue to be incredibly intense in our country and our world these days. At times, like last night as I watched the first Presidential debate, I find myself feeling sad, angry, and scared - wondering how we’re going to make our way through this dark period. At the same time, I’m often reminded of how strong and resilient we are as human beings. The only place we can find peace and tap into our power is in the present moment. As challenging as this can be in general, and especially right now, it’s essential for us to operate moment by moment.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Unlocking Us Podcast with Brene Brown
Shareables:
“Step by step, moment by moment.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Let’s focus on being fully present in this moment.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We have more than this requires.” — @MikeDRobbins
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably been feeling outraged in recent days, weeks, and months, with all of the traumatizing things happening in our country and our world. While this outrage is understandable and normal right now, it’s also volatile. Instead of either avoiding our outrage or using it in damaging ways, we have the opportunity to turn it into positive action. I imagine you’re probably also feeling exhausted, as am I. However, if we’re willing to dig deep, step up, and act with courage and commitment, we can have a real impact on this election, and on the future of our country and our world. We can’t control the outcome, but we can control our attitude and our effort...and we can leave it all on the field over these next 40 days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Glennon Doyle on Instagram
Together Rising
Vote Save America
Register to Vote
Confirm That You Are Registered to Vote
Unlocking Us Podcast with Brene Brown
Shareables:
“Let’s turn our outrage into action.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Insight without action makes no difference.” — @MikeDRobbins
“There are really only two things we can control - our attitude and our effort.” — @MikeDRobbins
The country and the world lost a significant and legendary leader this past Friday with the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG). My guest today, Susan B. Katz, knows a lot about RBG. She’s the author of the bestselling book, The Story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Biography Book for Young Readers, which came out in March. Susan is an award-winning children’s book author and a friend. Her forthcoming book, Meditation Station, teaches kids about the power and importance of mindfulness. We discuss the incredible life of RBG, how we can keep our kids and ourselves grounded during these challenging times, and more.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Susan Katz Website
The Story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Susan Katz
Meditation Station by Susan Katz
Shareables:
“Ruth Bader Ginsburg was an icon who taught us so many important things.” — @SusanKatzAuthor
“RBG inspired us to stand up, speak up, and fight for what we believe in.” — @SusanKatzAuthor
“Teaching our children mindfulness is one of the best and healthiest things we can do.” — @SusanKatzAuthor
As we continue to navigate through these unprecedented times of change and challenge, there’s a trap that we can fall into - thinking there is some “right” way we’re supposed to be handling it all. The truth is, there is no right way to do this. Each of us is doing the best we can with the resources we have. And, while we can definitely make positive and healthy choices and changes, shaming ourselves and putting pressure on ourselves to do things “right,” especially these days, is detrimental to our well-being, success, and connection with others. In this episode, we talk about some ways to let go of our obsession with “doing it right,” and instead, focus on trusting ourselves and operating with compassion.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Nothing Changes Until You Do, by Mike Robbins
Shareables:
“There’s no right way to do this.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Stop ‘should-ing’ on yourself.” — @MikeDRobbins
“The truth can’t be rehearsed.” — @MikeDRobbins
As we hit the unofficial six-month mark of the pandemic here in the United States, I’ve been reflecting on some of what I’ve seen, heard, and learned - both personally and from the people around me during this time. In this episode I highlight five specific lessons from this experience, and also speculate on five things we can do and focus on as we move forward and navigate the uncertainty that lies ahead for us, our families, our teams, our communities, our countries, and our world.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Unlocking Us Podcast with Brene Brown - Day 2
The Gifts of Imperfection, by Brene Brown
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff, by Richard Carlson
The Universe Has Your Back, by Gabby Bernstein
Life Loves You, by Rober Holden and Louise Hay
Shareables:
“We have more than this requires” — @MikeDRobbins
“We’re all in the same storm, but different boats.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s important for us to remember that this, too, shall pass.” — @MikeDRobbins
Taking care of ourselves and focusing on our well-being are important, as we all know. Right now most of us, myself included, are finding it even more challenging to focus on these things effectively. My guest today, Deborah Bonzell, is a good friend and an expert in well-being. She’s a coach, consultant, and the founder/creator of the Well Workout. Deb works with people, leaders, teams, and organizations - helping them find fun and creative ways to care for themselves, balance their lives, and support their well-being, so that they can keep things in perspective and perform at their best.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Deborah Bonzell Website
The Well Workout
Deborah Bonzell on LinkedIn
Shareables:
“Being well allows us to do well.” — @TheWellWorkout
“We are human beings, not human doings.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s important for us to take breaks and nourish ourselves.” — @TheWellWorkout
With fires raging in Northern California, a hurricane down in Texas and Louisiana, 180,000 Americans dead from Covid-19, and the horrific shooting of Jacob Blake by the police and two people killed during the protests in Kenosha, WI, I’m feeling incredibly sad and angry. In this intense episode of the podcast, I address these things and share some of my thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on where we are and what we can do right now. It’s a time for truth, change, and prayer.
Resources:
Campaign Zero
NAACP
Black Lives Matter (organization)
Trevor Noah talking about Jacob Blake
Doc Rivers talking about being Black in America
Black Lives Matter (podcast episode)
Mike Robbins Website
Shareables:
“It’s time for truth, change, and prayer.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Black Lives Matter.” — @MikeDRobbins
“This is not okay - we must do better than this as a country.” — @MikeDRobbins
My guest on this episode is the Athletic Director and Head Football Coach at Laney College in Oakland, CA, John Beam. John and I have known each other since 1989 when I arrived at Skyline High School in Oakland where he coached football for 22 years. John and his Laney College Eagles are featured in the current season of Last Chance U on Netflix. As an incredibly successful high school and college football coach over the past 40 years, John knows a lot about what it takes to succeed and how to build a winning culture - in football, business, and life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Last Chance U (Netflix) - Season 5 Trailer
John Beam on LinkedIn
Shareables:
“If you want people to trust you, you’ve got to keep it real.” — @beam_coach
“Winning teams create a culture of family and have each other’s backs.” — @beam_coach
“For people to count on you...you’ve got to do what you say you’ll do.” — @beam_coach
I learned an incredibly valuable lesson from my pitching coach at Stanford, Dean Stotz...that there are really only two things we can control, our attitude and our effort. This lesson has served me well throughout my life and is critically important for us to remember, especially when we’re faced with stressful, challenging, and uncertain times as we are right now. On this episode, we discuss how to stop focusing on what we can’t control, and ways to shift our attitude and take effective actions, which can both liberate and empower us, particularly these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Go with the flow (podcast episode #201)
Shareables:
“There are really only two things we can control - our attitude and our effort.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Let go of trying to control that which you can’t control.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Focus on what you can control - your attitude and your effort.” — @MikeDRobbins
I’m back from our trip and a nice break...and have some stories to share. In this episode we talk about the importance of “going with the flow,” especially when things are stressful, challenging, and uncertain - as they are for many of us right now. Going with the flow is about acceptance, which is not passive or weak, although it can be challenging. In fact, it’s incredibly powerful and effective when we have the courage to truly go with the flow.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Take a Break (episode #200)
Loosen Your Grip (episode #198)
Shareables:
“Going with the flow is about acceptance and trust.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Acceptance is not passive or weak, it is a courageous and conscious choice to embrace what is.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Instead of wasting so much energy swimming up stream, it is often much more effective to just go with the flow.” — @MikeDRobbins
Today is episode number 200 of the podcast! In celebration of this milestone I both reflect on the past four years of the show and also plan to take a break for a few weeks. And, on this episode, we discuss the importance and the challenge of taking breaks, especially right now. Whether we’re talking about vacations, days off, or simple breaks throughout the day - these are both more important and more difficult than ever to make happen these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
The Whole Self is Everything with Chip Conley (EP 1 - 7/16/16)
Vulnerability and Power with Dr. Dacher Kelter (EP 2 - 7/16/16)
Why Taking Breaks is So Important (podcast episode, 7/23/19)
The Whole Self Is Everything with Chip Conley
Shareables:
“We are human beings not human doings...we need breaks.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Taking a break is both more challenging and more important than ever right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Taking regular breaks is essential to our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.” — @MikeDRobbins
Things continue to be crazy in our country and our world these days in just about every aspect of our lives and society. Staying grounded and mindful is both more important and more challenging than ever right now. On today’s show, I talk to an expert in mindfulness, Holly Duckworth. Holly is the author of four books, including Everyday Mindfulness: From Chaos to Calm in a Crazy World. In this interview, we discuss a number of different challenges facing us right now and ways to practice mindfulness in the face of the difficulty and uncertainty we’re dealing with these days.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Holly Duckworth
Everyday Mindfulness Show (interview with Mike Robbins)
Everyday Mindfulness (book), by Holly Duckworth
Shareables:
“Mindfulness is about being present in the midst of the uncertainty of life.” — @hduckworth
“Feel the feeling, drop the story.” — @MikeDRobbins
“All we can truly focus on is this present moment.” — @hduckworth
I have a tendency to hold onto things tightly, often to my own detriment. Unless it’s an actual emergency, gripping things tightly almost always limits our joy, perspective, and effectiveness. These past few months, a lot of us have been holding on both personally and professionally pretty intensely, which is completely understandable, yet often problematic. In this episode I talk about this dynamic and how important it is for us to loosen our grip, especially right now. Doing this allows us to be more creative, responsive, and open, and it’s also a much more fun and successful approach to work and life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Flying Coach podcast
Shareables:
“When we loosen our grip it allows us to relax, respond, and engage more authentically and effectively in the most important aspects of our lives.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Unless it’s an actual emergency, holding on tightly almost always limits our joy, perspective, and effectiveness.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Live your life as though you’re going to die (because you are).” — @MikeDRobbins
Our friend Glennon Doyle, best-selling author of Untamed, often offers a great reminder to us all that “we can do hard things.” I woke up this morning thinking about this quote and idea. Things in our country and our world seem pretty hard and bleak these days, and many of us are struggling in significant ways - physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, politically, organizationally, relationally, and more. And, as hard as things may be, it’s important for us to remember how strong and resilient we are - individually and collectively. Not only can we do hard things, we have done lots of hard things, over the course of our lives and careers, and just in the past few weeks and months in the midst of all of this. On this episode, we talk about how to remember this and tap into our individual and collective strength.
Resources:
Bring Your Whole Self To Work (Kindle) by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self To Work (Nook) by Mike Robbins
Bring Your Whole Self To Work (Apple Books) by Mike Robbins
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Untamed, by Glennon Doyle
Shareables:
“When things are hard, it’s important to remember that we can do hard things.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Gratitude is a practice that shifts our perspective in a powerful and important way.” — @MikeDRobbins
“You have more than this requires.” — @MikeDRobbins
The first six months of 2020 have been unprecedented in so many ways. Things have been painful, challenging, and uncertain for most of us in just about every important aspect of our lives. And, as we now move into the second half of this year, what if we did something similar to what we do at the end of the year and the start of the new year? On this episode, I talk through a process we can follow to bring closure/completion to the first half of the year, hit the reset button, and create the second half of this crazy year in a new, and more positive way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Shareables:
“We have the power to hit the reset button at any time.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Today is the first day of the rest of your life.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Today is always a good day to start again.” — @MikeDRobbins
There is a weariness that a lot of us are experiencing these days with everything going on in our country and our world the past few weeks and months. On today’s episode, I share five specific things we can think about and focus on to navigate these challenging times and hang in there:
1. Pace Ourselves
2. Check in with Others
3. Stay in the Present Moment
4. Remember...This, Too, Shall Pass
5. Don’t Waste This Crisis
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - eBook special ($1.99 through June 28)
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Black Lives Matter
Anti-Racism Resources
75 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice
How to Be an Antiracist (book), by Ibram X. Kendi
White Fragility (book) by Robin DiAngelo
Shareables:
“Hang in there.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Remember...this, too, shall pass.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s important to remember that just about everyone, including you, is doing the best they can with what they have right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
Things continue to be incredibly intense in our country and our world these days. And, if we want to make a difference, have impact, and create real change, we have to get in the “game.” In other words, we need to put ourselves out there, take action, and actually do things that align with our values and our desires for change, growth, and success. Doing this takes courage and a willingness to fail. Simultaneously, we can’t be in the game all the time or we will burn ourselves out. We have to take time to rest, re-charge, and rejuvenate, which is something I’ve been struggling with recently, but is so important. We talk about these important dynamics on this episode.
Resources:
Black Lives Matter
Anti-Racism Resources
75 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice
How to Be an Antiracist (book), by Ibram X. Kendi
White Fragility (book) by Robin DiAngelo
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Shareables:
“Life happens in the game, not in the stands.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Jump and find your wings on the way down.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Taking time to rest and rejuvenate is essential for us to do if we want to be of service in the most effective way we can.” — @MikeDRobbins
In the midst of all that has been happening in our country in the past few weeks, I’ve been hearing a lot of people ask the question, “What can I do?” I think the answer to this question does depend a bit on who we are, where we are, our level of privilege and power, our background and identity, our experience, and more. And, even with all of these variables and the intensity of this moment, on this episode I share some thoughts and ideas about how we can be a positive force for change in our country and our world right now - by listening/learning, speaking up, supporting people and organizations doing important work, and being willing to make mistakes.
Resources:
Black Lives Matter
Campaign Zero
#8CantWait
Together Rising
Anti-Racism Resources
75 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice
How to Be an Antiracist (book), by Ibram X. Kendi
White Fragility (book) by Robin DiAngelo
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Shareables:
“It’s time for many of us to do and say things we have never done and said before.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s time for courageous action and real change.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Be willing to say or do the wrong thing, in service of showing up, supporting others, and having a positive impact” — @MikeDRobbins
In response to the killing of George Floyd and the subsequent protests that have erupted throughout our country, I have noticed my own tendency to want to blame others or simply check out and go numb. While these are understandable reactions, they are not helpful or healthy. On today’s show I talk about how we can avoid these traps, and explore some ways we can stay open, curious, and engaged - even if we feel scared, angry, confused, or overwhelmed by all that is happening. This is a time for us to wake up, step up, lean in, and for us to be willing to learn, grow, and change - individually and collectively. We’re all in this together.
Resources:Killer Mike speaking on May 29
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms on May 29
Black Lives Matter
75 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice
GoFundMe Campaign for George Floyd’s Family
Anti-Racism Resources
How to Be an Antiracist (book), by Ibram X. Kendi
White Fragility (book) by Robin DiAngelo
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Shareables:
“Blaming others or numbing out right now are not going to move us in the direction of healing, accountability, change, and justice that is necessary.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s time for many of us to do and say things we have never done and said before.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We can and we must do better.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I share some passionate thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on the recent killings of George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery...and how we can authentically address issues of racial justice in our culture. I clearly don’t have the answers to these complex and painful challenges, but I do think we can and we must have a deeper, more authentic conversation about these things collectively. And, more than talking, it’s important for us to take actions that can impact positive change.
Resources:
Black Lives Matter
75 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice
GoFundMe Campaign for George Floyd’s Family
Anti-Racism Resources
How to Be an Antiracist (book), by Ibram X. Kendi
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Shareables:
“Black Lives Matter.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We can and we must do better.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We’re all in this together.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I have the honor of talking to my friend Christine Hassler. Christine is a best-selling author, keynote speaker, master coach, and podcast host. She’s the real deal who helps people get past their blocks and create what they truly want in life. In this interview, we talk about how we can navigate the current challenges authentically and effectively. We also delve into the importance of doing our inner work, specifically healing our inner child, and why that is so essential to our growth, well-being, and success, especially right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Get copies of We’re All in This Together for your entire team or organization
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Christine Hassler Website
Over It and On With It - Christine Hassler’s Podcast
Healing Your Inner Child Virtual Workshop
Expectation Hangover (book), by Christine Hassler
Shareables:
“Kindness is one of the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves and those around us.” — @ChristinHassler
“If we want to be free, we have to commit ourselves to doing our inner work.” — @ChristinHassler
“Healing our inner child is essential to our freedom.” — @ChristinHassler
On today’s show we talk about caring about and challenging each other, which is Pillar #4 from my new book, We’re All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Belonging. For teams to perform at the highest level and unlock their greatest potential, they need to have a strong balance of nurturing and high expectations. When people on a team feel cared about and know that their leader and teammates will push them to be their absolute best, everyone can thrive. This isn’t always easy to do for many reasons, but it is essential for true success, even and especially in challenging times like right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Get copies of We’re All in This Together for your entire team or organization
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Shareables:
“Great teams understand that it’s the combination of caring about and challenging each other that activates their success.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Our role is what we do specifically. Our job is to help the team win.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Recognition is about what people do. Appreciation is about who people are.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I talk about embracing sweaty-palmed conversations, which is Pillar #3 from my new book, We’re All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Belonging. These are conversations that often involve conflict, feedback, or other things that aren’t easy to address effectively. Even though they can be scary and difficult, when we’re able to talk about important issues openly and authentically, it has an incredibly positive impact on our relationships, our teams, and our overall performance and well-being. We discuss some of the ways we can do this successfully and why this is so important.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Get copies of We’re All in This Together for your entire team or organization
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
WTF Podcast episode - Marc Maron and Bradley Whitford
Shareables:
“What stands between us and the kind of relationships we truly want to have with people is often a ten-minute, sweaty-palmed conversation we’re too afraid to have.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Engaging in healthy conflict is one of the most important things we can do for the success of our relationships and teams.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Giving and receiving feedback effectively isn’t always easy, but it is necessary if we’re going to learn, grow, and be our very best.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I talk about focusing on inclusion and belonging, which is Pillar #2 from my new book, We’re All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Belonging. Inclusion is about having respect for and appreciation of the differences of everyone on our team, and belonging is about creating an environment in which everyone knows they’re an integral part of the group. Belonging is a fundamental human need.
These things are essential to the health, culture, and success of our teams (and any group), and they’re often difficult to address authentically for a number of reasons. It takes willingness, awareness, and courage for us to both engage in authentic conversations about inclusion and belonging, and to actually move things in a positive direction on these fronts. And, if our teams are going to thrive, we must be willing to do this important work together in an on-going and effective way.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Get copies of We’re All in This Together for your entire team or organization
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Shareables:
“While policies of inclusion can ensure that everyone is invited, it’s a sense of belonging that allows workers to feel safe, valued, and seen.” — Pat Wadors, Chief Talent Officer at ServiceNow
“Diversity is being invited to the party. Inclusion is being asked to dance.” — Verna Myers, Vice President of Inclusion Strategy at Netflix
“A diverse mix of voices lead to better discussions, decisions, and outcomes for everyone.” — Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google
On today’s show I talk about creating psychological safety, which is Pillar #1 from my new book, We’re All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Belonging. Psychological safety is essentially group trust, and it is foundational to the success of any team. When we create an environment within our team that is safe for risk-taking, disagreement, failure, boldness, and authenticity, we’re able to innovate, perform, and thrive. This isn’t easy, but it’s so important, especially right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Get copies of We’re All in This Together for your entire team or organization
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Steve Kerr, Pete Carroll, and Brene Brown podcast
Shareables:
“Psychological safety is the foundation of team culture, trust, and performance. It is more important than ever right now” — @MikeDRobbins
“Creating an environment on your team that is safe enough for people to speak up, take risks, and make mistakes is essential for everyone’s success.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Psychological safety is essential trust at the group level.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I talk about loneliness, which is something I recently realized I’ve been feeling, but haven’t been acknowledging. There is a lot of loneliness in the air right now, understandably. And, like any emotion, when we authentically feel it, we have power. But, when we avoid or deny it, it has power over us. We explore healthy ways for us to feel our emotions genuinely and connect with those around us in a healthy, authentic, and productive way. This is not easy stuff, yet it is so important.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Get copies of We’re All in This Together for your entire team or organization
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Dr. Brene Brown and Dr. Vivek Murthy on loneliness and connection (podcast)
Meditation audios - embracing powerlessness and fulfilling your own needs
Shareables:
“Allowing ourselves to authentically feel our emotions, even the ones that scare us, gives us enormous freedom and power.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s okay to feel whatever you are feeling.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Feelings are meant to be felt...all of them.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I talk about the challenge and importance of focusing on the good stuff in the midst of everything that is going on right now. Because things are so challenging it can be hard to tap into gratitude these days authentically, or we can feel guilty for doing so given how much suffering exists in the world. While it is important to be mindful of this, there is real power for us when we allow ourselves to focus on what we appreciate about what’s happening. While I wish this all wasn’t going on, there are some aspects of it that I am enjoying. And, it’s not only okay for us to acknowledge this good stuff, it’s essential for us to do so.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Get copies of We’re All in This Together for your entire team or organization
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Shareables:
“It’s not only okay to focus on the good stuff right now, it’s essential.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Gratitude and victimhood can’t co-exist.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Feelings are meant to be felt...all of them.” — @MikeDRobbins
Today is the day...my new book, We’re All in This Together, is officially available! On this show, I share the origin story behind this new book, the specific reasons why I wrote it, the significance of the title and timing, and how it connects with what we’re going through right now. I also talk about the four pillars of the book and how these things relate to you and your team. The moment that we’re in calls for us to come together in a new and different way. Now more than ever, we truly are all in this together.
The Four Pillars of the book are:
1) Create Psychological Safety
2) Focus on Inclusion and Belonging
3) Embrace Sweaty-Palmed Conversations
4) Care About and Challenge Each Other
Resources:
We’re All in This Together (new book), by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Shareables:
“We’re All in This Together.” — @MikeDRobbins
“One of the great paradoxes of life is that we’re all unique, yet at the same time we have so much in common as fellow human beings.” — @MikeDRobbins
“There is no ‘them,’ it’s all ‘us’.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I talk about the idea that “We can do hard things,” which is something I’ve been reminded about over the past few years by my friend, the incredible author Glennon Doyle. Things right now are really challenging for a lot of us, and there is so much pain, change, and uncertainty in our world. I lay out five specific things we can focus on these days, which can help us navigate these challenging times.
They are:
1) Feel Your Feelings
2) Remember How Strong You Are
3) Ask For Help
4) Check in With Others
5) Stay in the Present Moment
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
We Have More Than This Requires (blog post), by Mike Robbins
Brene Brown podcast interview with Dr. Marc Brackett
Glennon Doyle
Untamed (book), by Glennon Doyle
Shareables:
“We can do hard things.” — @MikeDRobbins
“The answer is always ‘no’ if you don’t ask.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We have more than this requires.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I talk about the idea that “this, too, shall pass.” While there is deep truth and wisdom in this mantra, it can also be tricky. We have to be careful about when and how we say it to others, and also how we think about it ourselves. And, remembering how strong and resilient we are, as well as knowing that we will get through this, are important things for us to focus on as we make our way through this challenging time.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
We Have More Than This Requires (blog post), by Mike Robbins
Shareables:
“This, too, shall pass.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We’ve made it through 100% of the challenges we’ve faced in life so far.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Remember how strong and resilient you are.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s episode I had a chance to connect with my friend, colleague, and teammate Andrew Deutscher. Andrew works with me and our team. He’s an expert in individual and team performance, well-being, and productivity. He’s an author, keynote speaker, and just an overall great human being. On the show we discuss how to navigate the challenge and uncertainty of this moment personally, and some specific things that leaders and teams can do right now to manage themselves, their energy, and connect with each other effectively.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Andrew Deutscher
Managing Energy for Teams
Andrew Deutecher on LinkedIn
Typecast: Amazing People Overcoming the Chronic Disease of Type 1 Diabetes, by Andrew Deutecher (book)
TEDx Talk: Seize Back Your Life and Be Fully Engaged, by Andrew Duetscher
Shareables:
“A setback can be an opportunity for us to step back and reevaluate things.” — @adeutscher
“It’s so important for teams to check in with each other, connect, and really come together right now.” — @adeutscher
“We can and will get through this - if we lean on each other and remember that we’re all in this together.” — @adeutscher
On today’s show I talk about the intense paradox of this moment in time. Things are uncertain, scary, confusing, and challenging in so many ways. And, yet, there is so much opportunity for growth, and a recognition of love, beauty, and togetherness - even as most of us are physically separated right now. For us as leaders, parents, and human beings, being able to embrace the paradox of this moment and navigate through the contradictory emotions we are having are essential to our well-being and success, and that of those around us.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief (book), by David Kessler
Elizabeth Gilbert and Chris Anderson - TED interview
Shareables:
“Have compassion for yourself and others right now - everyone is doing the best they can.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Embracing the paradox of this moment isn’t all that easy, but it’s one of the most important and powerful things we can do.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Now more than ever - we’re all in this together.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I talk about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the Five Stages of Grief, and how I have been thinking about these things a lot the past few days. I’ve been inspired by a few thought-leaders in recent days - Chip Conley, Brene Brown, David Kessler, and Elizabeth Gilbert. In this episode, I address how we can meet our needs, understand where we are and how we feel, and acknowledge the grief and loss we may be experiencing at this time. Allowing ourselves to truly feel how we are feeling, without judgment, can move us to a place of acceptance and, ultimately, meaning, in the midst of all of this.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Peak: How Great Companies Get Their Mojo From Maslow (book), by Chip Conley
Chip Conley on LinkedIn
David Kessler and Brene Brown - podcast interview
Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief (book), by David Kessler
Elizabeth Gilbert and Chris Anderson - TED interview
Shareables:
“We have more than this requires.” — @MikeDRobbins
“If we don’t feel it, we can’t heal it.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Now more than ever - we’re all in this together.” — @MikeDRobbins
On today’s show I talk with my friend Michael Bungay Stanier, the author of a number of great books, including his latest, The Advice Trap: Be Humble, Stay Curious, and Change the Way You Lead Forever. Michael and I reflect upon the current pandemic, and he shares his insights about how we can navigate this whole experience and support others in the process. He also gives some great advice about how to tame our “advice monster” - in general and especially right now.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
The Advice Trap (book), by Michael Bungay Stanier
Michael Bungay Stanier
TEDx Talk - How to Tame Your Advice Monster
What’s Your Advice Monster Questionnaire?
Shareables:
“Being humble and staying curious are two of the best things we can do when we want to empower other people.” — @mbs_works
“Be careful of not going too far into the dark or the light right now.” — @mbs_works
“As a leader people will respond much more to how you show up, and less to what you say or the advice you give.” — @mbs_works
Things continue to be challenging for so many of us in the midst of this global pandemic. And, as the news gets more grim and the reality of what’s happening settles in, it’s important for us to learn new ways to navigate this whole experience, and to support those around us to do the same. In this episode I share some thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for how to surrender to this experience - the most healthy and productive way. This isn’t all that fun or easy, and we’re all dealing with our own unique circumstance, challenges, and situations. And, we’re also all in this together.
Here are the specific suggestions I make in this episode:
1. Create a routine for yourself
2. Focus on self-care and well-being
3. Ask for help and support
4. Mix it up and be creative
5. Focus on what you’re grateful for and who you appreciate
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
5 Things Teams Can Do to Help Each Other Thrive While Working From Home (BI article)
Elizabeth Gilbert
Shareables:
“Taking care of ourselves is not selfish, it’s what’s necessary for us to do right now so we can show up for others and for life in a way that is necessary.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Be kind to yourself and others - everyone is doing the best they can right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Now more than ever - we’re all in this together.” — @MikeDRobbins
We are in a defining moment right now. And while none of us know how this is going to play out or what the ultimate impact will be on our lives, our businesses, our economy, and our society, we do know that we need to dig in and step up to meet the challenges we are facing. My good friend - bestselling author and leadership expert, Lisa McLeod - joins me on the podcast today. We talk about how leaders can step into this moment - to impact their teams and lead their businesses through this difficult time by focusing on what she calls, “Noble Purpose.” Lisa believes that business can be a force for good and that now is the time for us to prove it. She and I discuss the fact that leaders have a choice, to descend into a transactional mindset and see this crisis as a scramble for money. Or they can decide that they are willing to step into something bigger. Our organizations, our employees, and perhaps even our very humanity are at stake.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Lisa McLeod Website
Lisa McLeod on Twitter
Lisa McLeod on LinkedIn
“This Moment Calls for Noble Purpose Leadership” by Lia McLeod on Forbes
Brene Brown Podcast
Shareables:
“Many of us say business can be a force for good. Now is the time for us to prove it.” — @LisaEarleMcLeod
“Circumstances don’t define us, they reveal us” — @MikeDRobbins
“This moment calls for ‘noble purpose leadership’.” — @LisaEarleMcLeod
Today’s episode is a refreshing break from the news of the day and the coronavirus, but is a really important conversation about how we can lead with gratitude in the midst of stress, challenge, and uncertainty, which is very much related to what’s going on in the world right now. One of the most influential voices in workplace trends over the past two decades, Chester Elton, has been called ‘The Apostle of Appreciation.’ Along with Adrian Gostick, Chester has written twelve books on recognition, leadership, and culture, including five New York Times bestsellers. Their latest book, Leading with Gratitude: Eight Leadership Practices for Extraordinary Business Results, is a culmination of their years of work in this area and Chester has some interesting insights to share. Why is it so difficult to express gratitude in the workplace? How can we balance leading with gratitude against tackling business challenges? Will being grateful cause us to lose our edge? These are just a few of the topics Chester discusses with me in this enlightening conversation about the power of gratitude at work (and in life).
Key Takeaways:
[1:41] This episode’s guest is Chester Elton.
[4:25] Chester feels that his latest book, Leading with Gratitude, is a culmination of his work over the years.
[5:31] What was Chester's journey to get into his current field, and how did he start working with Adrian Gostick?
[10:43] How has Chester's work and business expanded and evolved in the 20 years that he has been doing it?
[13:52] Chester shares how he and Adrian found the path to write specifically this book, Leading with Gratitude?
[15:06] Whether it's being a great leader or building a great team, what really matters is the soft skills, not the hard skills.
[16:37] In the business or professional context, we don't think about gratitude so much as appreciation and recognition, and it is the place we express the least gratitude. Why?
[20:29] Being grateful in the face of adversity is more necessary than ever, given the current context, but how can we approach this effectively?
[23:16] What are some specific practices that leaders can use to bring more gratitude into their leadership and to their teams?
[27:46] At a personal level, what are some of Chester's gratitude practices?
[31:54] How does Chester maintain a work-life harmony?
[37:03] One of the reasons we don't focus on gratitude as much as we could is the sense that being grateful would cause us to lose our edge or become complacent. Chester speaks to this myth and highlights some leaders who disprove it.
[43:56] What is Chester's inspiration for focusing on philanthropic work?
[49:01] What are some things that Chester is grateful for in his life?
[53:13] Chester shares his final thoughts on gratitude, appreciation, and living a better life.
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Leading in the Midst of Uncertainty (Forbes article)
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Dealing with Fear Authentically and Productively"
Chester Elton
Adrian Gostick
Leading with Gratitude: Eight Leadership Practices for Extraordinary Business Results,
by Chester Elton and Adrian Gostick
Books by Chester Elton and Adrian Gostick
100 Coaches Pay It Forward Project
Camp Corral
The Culture Works
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode “Vulnerability and Power with Dr. Dacher Keltner"
Hubert Joly, Chairman of Board of Directors, BestBuy
Alan Mulally
Garry Ridge, CEO of WD-40
Ability Beyond
Antelope Lending Library, Iowa Bookmobile
Shareables:
“The difference between good leaders and extraordinary leaders is not their hard skills, it’s always their soft skills.” — @chesterelton
“Our research shows that when you have a boss that expresses gratitude and appreciation for your work, 83% of people do better work.” — @chesterelton
“Gratitude is one of the most powerful aspects of strong leadership.” — @chesterelton
This whole experience with the coronavirus continues to be bizarre, challenging, fascinating, scary, and more. The paradox of this moment is that while we are all physically separated from one another, we’re also together in this experience. For those of us who are able to work from home, we’re both fortunate and we’re also probably dealing with lots of practical challenges in this regard. In this episode, I talk about some specific things we can do to stay connected to our teams so that we can not only get our work done effectively, but grow, develop, and deepen our relationships and our culture in the process. Remembering and operating from the perspective that we’re all in this together, which we are, is essential right now.
Here are the specific suggestions I make in this episode:
1. Address the moment, your feelings, and other people’s feelings
2. Over-communicate
3. Double down on authenticity - do the “if you really knew me” exercise
4. Appreciate people - use the “appreciation seat” exercise
5. Have enough self-awareness and humility to admit you have no idea what’s going on right now and how it will all play out
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Leading in the Midst of Uncertainty (Forbes article)
Glennon Doyle
Untamed (book), by Glennon Doyle
Shareables:
“The paradox of this moment is that we’re all physically separated, yet we’re all connected through this common experience.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Anyone who says they know how this is all going to play out is either lying or crazy.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Now more than ever - we’re all in this together.” — @MikeDRobbins
Being Authentic and Appreciative, Especially Right Now
Description:
Things are weird and challenging right now in so many ways. Just about every aspect of our work and our lives are significantly disrupted by the coronavirus. In this episode, I talk about how important authenticity and appreciation are to our current reality. Being real about our experience and giving others the space to do the same is essential right now. And, looking for and finding things and people to appreciate, including ourselves, is also super helpful at this time.
Here are the key suggestions I make in this episode:
Authenticity:
1. Be real about how you feel...and allow yourself to feel all of your feelings
2. Ask for help
3. Check in with others and give them space to be exactly where they are
Appreciation:
1. Look for and find things to be grateful for
2. Appreciate other people - the ones you’re related to, work with, and others
3. Appreciate and love yourself
Resources:
We’re All in This Together - virtual program
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
Leading in the Midst of Uncertainty (Forbes article)
Glennon Doyle
Untamed (book), by Glennon Doyle
Brene Brown podcast - Unlocking Us
Rob Bell podcast - The RobCast
Elizabeth Gilbert
Shareables:
“It’s so important for us to truly feel all of our feelings, especially right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Asking for help is one of the most courageous things we can do, especially these days.” — @MikeDRobbins
“There are always so many things for us to appreciate, if we choose to look for them.” — @MikeDRobbins
Many of us, if we’re fortunate enough to have a job that allows it, are working from home right now. This poses a lot of challenges for us individually, as leaders, and for our teams. And, even as difficult, disruptive, and uncomfortable as working remotely can be, especially given the intensity of what’s going on right now in the world, there are some specific things we can do, both individually and collectively, to not only be more effective, but to be able to thrive in the process. On this episode, I share ten specific things you can think about and do, which will allow you to work and lead from home during this crazy time more successfully.
What to focus on for ourselves while we work from home:
1. Take care of yourself
2. Set up rituals/routines
3. Be flexible
4. Ask for help
5. Be real
What to focus on as a leader and for our team while everyone is working from home:
1. Take care of yourself first
2. Get guidance and support
3. Check in with the people on your team
4. Be flexible
5. Step up
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Bring Your Whole Self to Work (book), by Mike Robbins
We’re All in This Together (book), by Mike Robbins
We Have More Than This Requires (blog post)
Leading in the Midst of Uncertainty (blog post)
How to Navigate This Strange New World (blog post)
We Have More Than This Requires (podcast)
How to Navigate The New World We Find Ourselves in Right Now (podcast)
Dealing with Fear Authentically and Productively (podcast)
How to Manage Your Coronavirus Stress (video)
5 Tips for Leading Your Team Virtually (video)
5 Tips for Successfully Working From Home (video)
Shareables:
“Remember that everyone, including you, is doing the best they can right now.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Working from home has many challenges, and it’s a privilege to be able to do it...not everyone is fortunate enough to have a job that makes it possible to do so.” — @MikeDRobbins
“We’re all in this together.” — @MikeDRobbins
When we’re facing something big, scary, and overwhelming, like what’s going on in our world right now, it is easy to feel small and like there’s not much we can do. However, when we think back on times in our lives when we’ve faced something challenging - personally and/or collectively - it can remind us of our strength and resilience. On this episode, I talk about how we can tap into our personal and collective power in the face of the fear and uncertainty of this moment. And, I share five specific things we can do and think about as we make our way through what’s going on right now.
1) Be real about how you feel
2) Reach out for support
3) Take Inventory of how resilient you are
4) Check in with other people
5) Focus on what you’re grateful for
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Blog
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Bring Your Whole Self to Work, by Mike Robbins
We’re All in This Together, by Mike Robbins
Steve Jobs TED talk
I Can See Clearly Now by Wayne Dyer
How to Navigate The New World We Find Ourselves in Right Now
Dealing with Fear Authentically and Productively
Shareables:
“We have more than this requires.” — @MikeDRobbins
“It’s important to remember how strong and resilient we are.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Keep reaching out, asking for help, and supporting one another - we are not alone in this.” — @MikeDRobbins
Things have changed in a pretty significant way in our country and our world in the past few days with the coronavirus. On this special episode, I address some of how I’ve been feeling and what’s going on right now. I also talk about how we can remember that we’re all in this together, especially during this time, and some specific things we can do for ourselves, others, our kids, and how we can navigate this new world we suddenly find ourselves in. We can do this, even though it might seem hard, scary, and weird right now.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Mike Robbins on YouTube
Bring Your Whole Self to Work, by Mike Robbins
We’re All in This Together, by Mike Robbins
Shareables:
“We’re all in this together.” — @MikeDRobbins
“This is going to be hard, but we can get through it together if we focus on compassion, courage, authenticity, and love.” — @MikeDRobbins
“Keep reaching out, asking for help, and supporting one another - we are not alone in this.” — @MikeDRobbins
With the intensity of everything happening right now - the coronavirus outbreak, the U.S. presidential primary election, a volatile stock market, and many other events going on in the world and our lives today, there is a lot of understandable fear going around. This makes sense and can be hard for us to deal with personally, with our teams at work, and collectively. On this episode I share some of my own experiences with fear and powerlessness in my life, and some specific techniques we can use to embrace our fear and emotions, and tap into the power of them in a positive way. Our emotions are very powerful, but feeling emotion doesn’t mean that we are that emotion. When we’re mindful of the stories we tell ourselves, it can help us manage and harness our emotions most effectively.
Key Takeaways:
[1:19] There’s a lot of fear in the world right now, around the elections, the coronavirus outbreak, the volatile stock market, and other events. How are we dealing with the fear in our lives?
[4:35] How much of our reaction to events like outbreaks of diseases or the elections or any other major negative event is based on fear and paranoia?
[9:19] Mike learned something important from his coach back in the day: There are only two things you can control — your attitude and your effort.
[13:06] Media is everywhere, and we are constantly being inundated with information. It is hard to disengage from what’s happening in the world.
[15:18] Mike shares an anecdote of a difficult time in his life and family life a few years ago and what he learned about giving in to the feeling of powerlessness, without being powerless. How does this translate to our feelings around fear?
[21:51] We need to learn to embrace our emotions, including fear, and manage them.
[26:26] Fear is a very powerful emotion if we’re willing to acknowledge it and utilize the power of it. That’s where we need to be mindful of the stories we tell ourselves.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We're All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Belonging, by Mike Robbins (Pre-order)
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Transforming Our Fear”
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode “It’s The Relationships That Make a Team Great with Dean Stotz”
Brené Brown
Embracing Powerlessness Meditation
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “What Great Sports Teams Can Teach Us with Rich Hollenberg”
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Let’s Get Real About Cheating”
Shareables:
“There are really only two things we can control - our attitude and our effort. This is extremely important to remember when we’re feeling scared or overwhelmed.”
— @mikerobbins
“Embracing fear means that you allow yourself to feel it without choosing to be it.” — @mikerobbins
“Excitement and fear show up in similar ways in our bodies. What’s different is the story in our head.” — @mikerobbins
There are a lot of lessons to be learned from sports teams, both in business and life. Whether you’re a sports fan or not, we can all benefit from looking to sports to see what makes the great teams great, and how we can apply things to our own groups. Rich Hollenberg joins me in this episode to dive into some of the things he’s observed and learned from his 25 years in sports broadcasting, specifically with ESPN college basketball and the Tampa Bay Rays. We explore some of the themes of sports, broadcasting, teamwork, and what really creates the chemistry necessary for teams to thrive. Rich also shares his insights about building a great team culture.
Key Takeaways:
[3:32] Rich has been in sportscasting for 25 years. What inspired him to go into this field?
[7:36] How did Rich get into the business of sportscasting and make a career for himself?
[13:16] It can be scary to fully commit to something without knowing for sure that it will work out, but that is necessary to reach your goals.
[17:35] Rich shares more about his work with ESPN college basketball and the Tampa Bay Rays.
[19:19] What does Rich love about the different work he does, and what does he find challenging?
[25:35] How has Rich approached providing unbiased sportscasting when covering teams he is passionate about?
[28:29] What does Rich do to build rapport and create chemistry with the other analysts he works with while covering games?
[33:57] Mike and Rich discuss the conference tournaments and the NCAA tournaments and why they’re so great.
[38:22] Mike shares why the NCAA tournament was so exciting for him to watch.
[41:27] What are some of the elements that help great teams overperform?
[46:41] Mike draws a parallel between the underdog teams of baseball and businesses.
[48:21] Communication and interpersonal relationships are some of the most essential elements of a successful team.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We're All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Belonging, by Mike Robbins (Pre-order)
Rich Hollenberg
Rich Hollenberg on Twitter
ESPN
Fox Sports
Al Michaels
Outliers, by Malcolm Gladwell
Ryan Holiday, author
John Sawatsky
Shareables:
“There is no one right way. There’s no specific recipe for success. You need to chart your own course.”
— @RichOnSports
“Versatility is a huge strength.” — @RichOnSports
“Accountability and communication are two things that are essential for great leadership and team performance, especially these days.” — @RichOnSports
In light of the Houston Astros sign stealing scandal, I have been thinking a lot about cheating recently. The Astros are a client of mine and AJ Hinch, the former manager of the Astros is a good friend and former teammate of mine, so this is very close to home for me. And, given the intense reaction from the media and throughout the baseball and sports worlds about this situation, it’s had me take a deeper look at why people seem so upset about it. The reality is that, whether in baseball or in life in general, most of us cheat in some way, and at some time. We usually justify or minimize our own cheating. However, we often get extremely worked up when others get caught doing it, and hypocritically judge them for it. I explore some of my own feelings around the scandal, and why it’s so important for us to reflect on and evaluate our own actions before seeking to point the finger at others.
Key Takeaways:
[1:33] Cheating is an interesting topic. Mike talks about the recent cheating scandal in baseball, related to the Houston Astros.
[5:15] One of the people impacted by the Houston Astros cheating scandal is a very good friend of Mike’s, among other people.
[7:17] The Houston Astros weren’t the only team cheating, but they got caught.
[9:25] We have a tendency to get all up in arms when people get caught cheating or lying, but the reality is that most of us have cheated in some way.
[13:12] There’s a cancel culture mentality going on, and Mike addresses how this has taken root in society.
[16:06] Mike reflects on his own experience as a professional baseball player and how he feels about the scandal.
[19:23] We're looking for any advantage that we can get, and this applies even in our regular daily life.
[23:17] One of the hypocrisies of our culture is we’re so obsessed with outcome and result, that it seems much worse when it is revealed that the best teams or players have cheated.
[25:31] When we get worked up about certain issues like cheating or lying or other morally questionable actions, it can be helpful to think about how these things show up in our own lives.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We're All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Belonging, by Mike Robbins (Pre-order)
Houston Astros
Houston Astros Sign Stealing Scandal
AJ Hinch
The Tim Ferriss Show: “Brené Brown — Striving versus Self-Acceptance, Saving Marriages, and More (#409)”
Shareables:
“In competitive environments, there’s so much pressure to win, that most of us at certain times in life have cheated in some way.” — @mikedrobbins
“Given the opportunity, if you could cheat and not get caught, would you do it?”
— @mikedrobbins
“We often justify our own cheating but get self-righteously upset when others do it.” — @mikedrobbins
We’re living in politically divisive times. On the heels of impeachment, with the primary process in full swing, and with the Presidential election looming this fall, things seem to be getting even more intense on this front. And while we’re often told, directly or indirectly, not to talk about politics at work, it’s hard not to do so these days. For a number of reasons, it’s important for us to find ways to talk about politics, in a respectful and authentic way that brings us closer together - at work and in life. This week on the podcast I share my thoughts on how we can do this and specifically how we can create a more open and inclusive environment at work, where people feel safe to share their opinions about politics and more (even and especially if those opinions are different).
Key Takeaways:
[3:04] How can we be more authentic and bring our whole self to work in the midst of incredibly intense and divisive political times?
[6:03] There's wisdom in not talking about taboo topics like politics, religion, and money, but it is increasingly more difficult to separate our personal and professional lives and we need to find ways to talk about these topics in a more mature way.
[11:01] We have been through some difficult political times and recent Presidential elections have been a very intense process.
[14:51] The last Presidential term has been particularly difficult for Mike. He explains why he feels like the campaigning has not stopped since Donald Trump was elected, and what that means for the general sentiment on the ground.
[17:48] Even as we feel more divided politically, we need to find ways to respect, support and relate to people who might vote differently from us, and who might hold different opinions.
[23:51] Being inclusive can’t just happen on certain, select fronts. There is inner work that needs to be done on a personal level to become inclusive, not just on a surface level.
[28:27] Mike challenges us all to be real, authentic, and vulnerable with ourselves and with each other.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We're All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Belonging, by Mike Robbins (Pre-order)
“An open letter to my fellow straight white men…”, Mike Robbins Blog
We’re All In This Together, Mike Robbins Blog
Shareables:
“How can we be in environments where we have to interact with people who see things differently than we do, and still be able to maintain a sense of openness?” — @mikedrobbins
“It’s important to create an environment that is psychologically safe enough for people to respectfully disagree about politics and more.” — @mikedrobbins
“Honesty without self-righteousness and with vulnerability — that’s authenticity.”
— @mikedrobbins
Letting go of approval and relinquishing control are things that I’ve struggled with for many years, and continue to work on. My counselor Eleanor recently said to me, “You obsessively seek approval. Stop doing that. And, when you don’t get the approval you want, you go into control. Neither of these things serve you or work very well.”
She’s right. Seeking approval and/or trying to control everything can get in our way in life, both personally and professionally, and can stop us from achieving our goals. In this week’s episode, I share some of my thoughts around why we don’t need everyone to like us and approve of everything that we do, as well as why trying to control things and people doesn’t serve us or anyone else. I also talk about the things we can control, in a healthy way, and how to focus on those things to create the impact and outcomes that we truly want.
Key Takeaways:
[2:46] Letting go of seeking approval and having control is something we may struggle with, but it is important to do as it can impede living our best lives.
[3:42] How much of my time and energy is spent and ultimately wasted insatiably wanting everyone to approve of me, like me, and validate me?
[6:28] Mike shares one of the things he finds most difficult about parenthood, particularly when dealing with teenagers and adolescents, and how that relates to his life in general.
[10:59] Reminder to self: It’s not necessary for everyone to like me.
[15:33] Not everyone will approve of you. What’s important is that you don’t let that need for approval stop you.
[19:47] When we don’t get the approval we are seeking, we often go into control mode. However, in reality, there are only two things you can control.
[24:54] Trying to control things and people doesn’t work.
[29:29] Let’s let go of our obsession with needing to be approved of and our controlling tendencies.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We're All in This Together, by Mike Robbins (Pre-order)
We're All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Why Embracing Loss and Grief Is So Important to Our Growth”
Brené Brown
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “How to Stay Relevant in Today’s Noisy World with Bill Cates”
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “It’s The Relationships That Make a Team Great with Dean Stotz”
What You Think About Me is None of My Business, by Terry Cole-Whittaker
Shareables:
“We waste so much time and energy seeking the approval of others.” — @mikedrobbins
“There’s a big difference between wanting the positive engagement of others, which is essential to our success, and thinking we need approval, which is often insatiable and damaging.” — @mikedrobbins
“There are only two things you can control...your attitude and your effort.” — @mikedrobbins
Loss and grief are inevitable parts of life. Both personally and professionally, we face a lot of loss and grief that we have a hard time dealing with. However, even though they can be scary and painful to talk about, and we mostly tend to live in denial about them, it’s essential for us to grapple with these powerful emotions. I share some of my thoughts around loss and grief, and some of my own personal losses of loved ones and people close to me, as well as why it is so important for us to address these emotions. Ultimately, these are very common and universal experiences that everyone experiences, and we need to be more open, real and honest about them.
Key Takeaways:
[2:07] Loss and grief are part of life, but parts that aren’t often talked about or acknowledged.
[3:05] Kobe Bryant recently died in a tragic accident. His death affected Mike more than he expected, and he explores why that might be.
[8:51] Like everyone else, Mike has experienced the loss of loved ones and people close to him, and as much as it is uncomfortable or difficult to think about, it is important.
[12:14] Being more aware of death on a daily basis would dramatically change how we live our lives.
[15:01] Thinking about and grappling with our own mortality and the moralities of everyone around us can shape our interactions with the people who matter the most.
[18:19] There are loss and grief that happen every day in our lives that we have a hard time dealing with.
[23:18] We have to learn to lose in life, and learn to grapple with and embrace the emotions that accompany that loss.
[29:25] Grief, loss, and disappointment are some of the most common and universal life experiences.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff, by Richard Carlson
Nothing Changes Until You Do, by Mike Robbins
Robert Holden
Hay House Publishing
Shareables:
“Life is precious and fragile - let’s seize the day.”
— @mikedrobbins
“Learning to embrace loss and grief is essential to our growth, development, healing, and success in life.” — @mikedrobbins
“If we live our lives more aware of our own death, it fundamentally changes the way we live.” — @mikedrobbins
When it comes to the topic of mindfulness and self-compassion, my friend Dr. Shauna Shapiro is an internationally recognized expert. A clinical psychologist, professor at Santa Clara University, and author, Shauna has published over 150 papers and three critically-acclaimed books, including her latest work, Good Morning, I Love You: Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Practices to Rewire Your Brain for Calm, Clarity and Joy, which comes out today. Interest and awareness of mindfulness and self-compassion has expanded quite a bit in recent years, and Shauna has been at the center of it all. She shares her own journey to mindfulness, the insights she has gained from her scientific exploration of the practice, and some tips for how we can rewire our brains to create more calm, clarity, and joy in life.
Key Takeaways:
[2:21] Shauna's latest book has just been released.
[3:38] What has Shauna's journey been to get to where she is today? She shares how she found meditation, mindfulness, and self-compassion through a series of life-changing events.
[12:39] Shauna explains how she studied mindfulness and meditation from a scientific perspective with a clinical application.
[14:46] How has the approach to mindfulness and meditation changed over the years?
[17:17] What are some aspects of the mindfulness that Shauna teaches at the corporate level, and what implications does it have for integrating it into practices within the organizations?
[21:37] Shauna explains the story behind the title of her new book, Good Morning, I Love You, a rather unconventional title for a scientific book.
[25:41] Many of us struggle with how we relate to and interact with ourselves. Why are we so critical of ourselves, and why is it so hard to love and accept ourselves?
[28:54] Mark and Shauna discuss the idea of joyful striving and finding joy in achieving our goals and ambitions.
[32:21] What can we do to make tackling the difficult things in life easier? The 5% principle can help.
[35:02] Mindfulness in parenting has become very popular in the past decade. Shauna shares some of the insights she gathered in writing her first book Mindful Discipline and what inspired her to write it.
[39:20] How does Shauna think about calmness juxtaposed against passion in relation to mindfulness? Mindfulness is not just about being calm all the time, but about enhancing your senses.
[43:10] What are some practices that Shauna teaches that can help leaders and teams be more present and mindful?
[44:55] What is Shauna's advice for dealing with technology and devices?
[50:32] Shauna shares her intention for her book Good Morning, I Love You.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Dr. Shauna Shapiro
Books by Dr. Shauna Shapiro
“The Power of Mindfulness: What You Practice Grows Stronger” | Shauna Shapiro | TEDxWashingtonSquare
Nothing Changes Until You Do, by Mike Robbins
Grit, by Angela Duckworth
“A Wandering Mind Is an Unhappy Mind,” Research study by Matthew A. Killingsworth
and Daniel T. Gilbert
Events by Dr. Shauna Shapiro
We're All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Find Your Best Contribution to the World with Tom Rath”
We're All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Belonging, by Mike Robbins (Pre-Order)
Shareables:
“This idea that we can meet the present moment with kindness and curiosity instead of with anger and pain is revolutionary.” — @drshaunashapiro
“It’s compassion, as well as courage, that allows us to take risks, to be creative and to try new things.”
— @drshaunashapiro
“So often people say that time is our most valuable resource. It’s actually our attention.”
— @drshaunashapiro
As an author and researcher, Tom Rath has impacted countless people with his ideas on how work can improve human health and wellbeing. His ten books, including How Full Is Your Bucket?, Eat Move Sleep, Wellbeing and Strengths Finder 2.0, have sold more than 10 million copies and have made hundreds of appearances on global bestseller lists. His latest book, Life's Great Question: Discover How You Best Contribute to the World, seeks to help people bridge the gap between who they are and what the world needs. Tom shares his insights from his personal journey as an author and dealing with health challenges, and highlights the importance of focusing on your strengths. We also discuss the different aspects of wellbeing and how you can discover your best contribution to the world.
Key Takeaways:
[3:45] Tom co-wrote the book How Full is Your Bucket? with his grandfather. What was that initial journey like and how did Tom get on the path of writing?
[7:41] There is a lot to be gained and learned just by asking good questions and genuinely listening to others.
[11:18] Tom has dealt with health challenges since he was a teenager, and he shares more about that in his book Eat Move Sleep.
[14:04] Navigating cancer and other health issues is often accompanied by fear and self-pity. How has Tom dealt with that for almost 30 years?
[17:19] What is Tom's advice for people to be able to find good information and not get overwhelmed or freaked out by all the information available?
[20:11] Strengths Finder, as an assessment and the book itself, is something that has resonated with many people and leaders. Tom explains how it helps people develop self-awareness, confidence, and direction.
[24:20] What's the most effective way of doing things that need to be done that aren’t your (or anyone of your team’s) strength or just need doing?
[29:01] What inspired Tom to write the book Life’s Great Question: Discover How You Best Contribute to the World?
[34:15] Tom and Mike discuss the importance of human connection and recognizing people for their personal values and who they are as people rather than just a resume list of their achievements.
[39:55] Financial wellbeing is an important aspect of wellbeing, but beyond a certain point, it is important to focus on other aspects of wellbeing.
[44:31] Tom’s focus is primarily on doing good work and creating things that are valuable rather than marketing and selling, but he still manages to impact numerous people with his work. How does he maintain that balance?
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Tom Rath
How Full is Your Bucket, by Tom Rath and Don Clifton
Life’s Great Question: Discover How You Contribute to the World, by Tom Rath
Contribify.com
We're All In This Together Podcast Episode: “How to Stay Relevant in Today’s Noisy World with Bill Cates”
Turnitin
We're All in This Together, by Mike Robbins (Pre-Order)
Strengths Finder (Gallup)
Eat Move Sleep, by Tom Rath
Strengths Finder 2.0, by Tom Rath
David Brooks — “The Moral Bucket List” (Eulogy Virtues)
Wellbeing: The Five Essential Elements, by Tom Rath
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Are You Fully Charged, by Tom Rath
Shareables:
“Tell people why they matter while you still can.” — @TomCRath
“Great leaders are really good at asking questions and listening.” — @TomCRath
“We tend to take our strengths for granted, and in turn, we worry more about and spend more time trying to develop areas where we might not have that much room for growth and potential.” — @TomCRath
Bill Cates is the President of Referral Coach International and author of multiple books including Get More Referrals Now and Beyond Referrals. His latest book, Radical Relevance, is all about how we can break through the noise to get our message out and engage people effectively. Drawing on his over 30 years of experience, Bill shares some essential insights about relevance, resonance, and the importance of creating a human connection. In this illuminating interview, Bill also reveals why internal marketing is just as important as external, and his strategies for getting people to engage.
Key Takeaways:
[3:50] Bill has a wealth of expertise and experience in writing and speaking. What got him started on this journey?
[9:21] In addition to talent and hard work, there is an X-factor of timing and things falling into place that contributes to success.
[11:46] What is the difference between something that people really engage with and something that fails to get a reaction? Bill talks about relevance and resonance as factors that contribute to success.
[14:27] Marketing is not just an external process. There’s also an internal marketing piece of keeping people within the organization informed, engaged, and inspired by what’s going on in the business.
[17:29] What are some of Bill’s tips for tailoring the message to the unique audience you’re trying to reach? Context is key.
[21:31] If you want to get referrals and more people introducing you, you need to be remarkable i.e. worthy of remark, and have a human connection. People will do business with people they like!
[31:16] What are some strategies to get people to engage with you before you have a personal connection with them?
[36:15] How can we think about clarifying our message and having a specific call to action, without being pushy and obnoxious?
[42:27] Bill is very engaged in his life and work with a lot of vitality and energy. How does he nourish that at a personal level and what are some practices that help him stay energized?
[44:43] What are some supportive environments, groups or communities that nourish Bill’s growth, learning and well-being?
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Bill Cates
Referral Coach International
National Speakers Association
Get More Referrals Now, by Bill Cates
Beyond Referrals, by Bill Cates
Radical Relevance, by Bill Cates
CPAE Hall of Fame
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode 159: “Making Positive Change with the Start-Stop-Continue Technique”
Shareables:
“Luck is opportunity meeting preparedness.” — @Bill_Cates
“For people to fully engage, they need to see their direct connection to the mission and vision.” — @Bill_Cates
“All things being equal, people will do business with people they like. All things not being equal, people will still do business with people they like!” — @Bill_Cates
Happy New Year! Continuing the theme of making positive change as we head into 2020, I want to share a technique that you can use to get some clarity now and over the course of the year - for yourself and for your team. The Start-Stop-Continue technique is a simple, healthy, and positive prompt that you can use for yourself personally, with your teams as a group exercise, or even as a whole team exercise. I explain how to use this effective technique in different ways - to give and receive feedback and to make important changes individually and collectively. As we kick off this new year, consider what can you start, stop, and continue?
Key Takeaways:
[2:50] Mike shares an anecdote about asking and receiving feedback and communicating with team members.
[8:07] Mike has started using variations of the Start-Stop-Continue technique personally, with his team, and the teams and leaders he works with.
[8:25] You can use the Start-Stop-Continue technique to set goals and intentions for the new year.
[11:45] Use this technique to get feedback from others about what you can start, stop, and continue doing to improve in all aspects of your life, whether it is at work, your family, or in your relationships.
[14:59] Using this technique in a group setting takes courage and skill. Mike explains how he has run this exercise with teams he works with.
[18:50] This exercise can also be a good activity to do as a team at the end of a season or during a retreat.
[20:53] Fixing comes from shame, change comes from choice. Approach this exercise from a healthy, positive place of change, rather than a shame-based place of fixing.
[22:52] Consider: What can you start, stop, and continue? Where can you ask for and give feedback in this manner?
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Completing the Year Powerfully”
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Creating the New Year Consciously”
One Word, by Jon Gordon
We're All In This Together, by Mike Robbins (Pre-order)
It’s the last day of 2019. We’re about to start 2020. There’s often a focus around this time of year on ‘new year, new you’ and making resolutions. This can be tricky for a number of reasons. If we go about it consciously, it can be a sacred and powerful time of creation as we step into the new year. In this episode, I have some specific questions to help guide your process of creation for the new year. I also share some thoughts about how you can think about your goals at different levels — intentions, outcomes, and actions. I’m excited about this new year and new decade, how about you?
Key Takeaways:
[3:35] As we think about 2020, what is it that you really want for yourself, for the people around you, your team, your work, and your life, personally?
[4:36] There’s a difference between fixing and changing. Change is more about choice, fix is more about shame — approach setting your goals, intentions, and resolutions from a place of change.
[8:42] Mike shares his creation questions to prepare himself for the new year.
1) What are the themes for 2020?
2) What personal qualities do I want to develop in 2020?
3) What are my top personal goals or intentions for 2020?
4) What are my top professional goals or intentions for 2020?
5) What is my vision for 2020?
[9:57] There are different ways to approach the process of answering these creation questions, but Mike recommends also sharing your answers with people close to you.
[11:23] There are different levels for the kinds of “goals” that we set. Mike walks through the different levels: intentions, outcomes and actions/practice.
[17:44] Oftentimes, we can’t create what we really want to create alone. We need support from those around us to help us achieve those goals.
[19:33] Mike is looking toward 2020 with anticipation. How do you want your 2020 to go? How are you going to show up?
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Completing the Year Powerfully”
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Setting Intentions for a Successful New Year”
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Creating the New Year with Mike Robbins”
Mike Robbins Blog: “New Year, Be You”
Mike Robbins Blog: “Creating the New Year with Intention”
2019 is coming to a close, and I have a tradition for the week between Christmas and New Years — completing the year. Whether you’ve had a great year or a bad year or a mixed year of ups and downs, it’s important to take some time to complete the year by acknowledging and honoring it. Reflecting on the events of the year and the things that have happened can be a valuable and powerful exercise, and I have a set of questions I use to guide this process. I encourage you to complete your year and give yourself space to move into the New Year consciously and deliberately.
Key Takeaways:
[1:30] Mike expresses his gratitude for 2019 and reminds us that it’s important to also be kind and compassionate with ourselves.
[3:09] As the year draws to a close, take some time to complete the year. What are you going to do to honor, acknowledge, and complete the year?
[6:30] Mike shares his completion questions to reflect on the year that has come to a close.
1) What were the top lessons?
2) What was the actual theme of the year?
3) What personal quality did you develop most?
4) What were the biggest wins?
5) What were the biggest challenges?
6) What would you like to let go of?
[8:29] Answering these questions can be quite an extensive exercise. Reviewing the year can help put it into perspective as we take time to remember the things we have done, the things we have learned, and this can be very valuable and powerful.
[11:47] Try to look at your year objectively — there's so much that we can learn if we just pay attention.
[14:34] Achievement without fulfillment is the ultimate failure. Mike reveals some of his own struggles with this idea.
[16:36] The holidays can be exciting and stressful, but they can also be really sad for a lot of people.
[18:35] Taking the time to complete the year gives you space to move into the new year consciously and deliberately.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Completing The Year with Mike Robbins (2016)”
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Bringing Closure and Completion to 2017”
Mike Robbins Blog: “Complete the Year Consciously”
Mike Robbins Blog: “Completing the Year with Power”
Mike Robbins Blog: “Consciously Complete 2011”
We’re All In This Together Podcast Episode: “Give and Receive Feedback, Even When It’s Uncomfortable”
Tony Robbins
In this solo episode, I’m diving into feedback. Here’s the thing about feedback, in general, for me — I don’t always love it. But really, receiving feedback (and giving it) is so important to growth. I share my recent experience of receiving feedback from my editors on my latest manuscript, and how having a “sweaty-palm” conversation really helped move me forward with integrating that feedback. We can all benefit from enhancing our capacity to give and receive feedback, so I have some strategies to move ourselves from a space of defensiveness and self-criticism, into a growth mindset and openness of receiving and accepting feedback.
Key Takeaways:
[2:23] What stands between you and the relationships you really want to have with people is a 10-minute ‘sweaty-palm’ conversation you're too afraid to have — but they're such a critical part of every single relationship.
[3:21] There are two primary areas where you might have a ‘sweaty-palm’ conversation — conflict and feedback.
[7:00] When we get feedback from someone, there are often three beats that go off in our heads simultaneously. 1) Defensiveness, 2) Self-criticism or self-loathing, 3) Growth mindset.
[20:34] We don’t give or receive nearly as much feedback as we probably need to. Why? Because we’re uncomfortable.
[22:09] How can you get more feedback in the way that you want? Ask for it.
[24:07] Feedback is more a function of the relationship than the way the feedback is given. It takes time to cultivate a relationship to that level of trust where feedback can be freely given and received.
[25:06] We can set up an environment both in our minds and in our relationships where we can receive feedback from others openly and with a growth mindset.
[30:34] We can all benefit from enhancing our capacity to give and receive feedback.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Intuit
Bring Your Whole Self to Work, by Mike Robbins
We're All in This Together, by Mike Robbins (Pre-order on Amazon)
Melanie Bates
WTF with Marc Maron Podcast Episode 909: “Bradley Whitford”
We're All In This Together Podcast Episode 155: “Giving Tuesday Special: Ending The Water Crisis with Scott Harrison”
Learn About and Contribute to Charity Water
On today’s show we’re re-playing my interview from last year with Scott Harrison, CEO and Founder of Charity: Water. We’re doing this in honor of Giving Tuesday and because the work of Charity: Water is so important and powerful. There are over 600 million people on the planet who don't have access to clean drinking water; this is a solvable problem since the technology and resources are available and it has been Scott’s and his team’s mission for the past 13 years. Scott’s story is remarkable. I hope this conversation touches and inspires you. And, if you’re moved to contribute to Charity: Water, that will be amazing.
Takeaways:
[5:44] Scott Harrison talks about Charity: Water’s mission which is to end the water crisis.
[7:43] Giving Tuesday was created as a response to the overcommercialization of Thanksgiving.
[9:59] The beauty of the problem about accessibility to clean water is that it is a solvable issue.
[12:48] Dirty water kills more people around the world than all forms of violence.
[13:50] It is the women and the girls that are risking their lives to get water.
[16:14] Scott Harrison talks about his personal journey that brought him to the charity world.
[25:44] Scott explains how he reached a point in his life where he was ready to serve and do humanitarian work.
[29:40] Scott talks about how he arrived in Liberia in 2004, where there was no running water or electricity, a country devastated after 14 years of civil war.
[33:26] Scott shares how he came back to New York City to follow his life mission: bringing clean water to everyone in the world.
[35:06] The main principle of Charity: Water was that every dollar donated went entirely to the cause, while they reached out to other donors to cover other expenses of the organization.
[36:50] Scott started focusing on giving the donors updates about where their money is going.
[38:30] A charity should be well designed.
[43:10] We don't need more stuff, we can turn our birthdays into generosity moments inviting our friends and families to improve other’s lives.
[46:58] Scott tells the story about a 9-year-old girl in Seattle who donated her birthday and later after she passed away in an accident, her parents created “Rachel’s campaign” and raised millions of dollars.
[51:30] Scott talks about “The Spring Monthly Donation Program”, how it was structured, what it looks like to become a member, and how it created a predictable growth for Charity: Water helping more than 10 million people get clean water.
[55:28] During such a toxic political time, where we are fighting over everything, everyone can agree on this: water is life and it is essential for all human beings.
[56:30] How we spend our money should reflect our values; we invest more money in what we want to see more, and that is one of the bases of philanthropy.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
CWTR.org/mikerobbins
Charity: Water
Scott Harrison on Instagram
On today’s show, Anese Cavanaugh joins me for the second time. She’s an author and speaker, who shares her knowledge around the country about leadership, culture, being positively contagious, nurturing our relationships and creating impact. Anese and I chatted about some of the concepts included in her latest book Contagious You: Unlock Your Power to Influence, Lead, and Create the Impact You Want during our conversation. We talked about intentional energetic presence (IEP), how to prevent burnout, and how to detect workaholism. Anese also shares a useful tool for leaders called DENT.
Takeaways:
[4:39] Anese talks about what prompted her to write her new book called Contagious You.
[6:07] Anese shares the meaning of Intentional Energetic Presence.
[7:18] Mike shares his own personal example and how having a high level of energy can sometimes get in the way of being fully intentional, present, and aware.
[9:25] The concept of meeting the group where it is, without compromising your energy.
[13:30] Having a good energetic presence doesn’t mean to be bouncing off the walls, it is the quality of this presence that matters and how it serves the rest of the people in the room.
[15:35] There is a difference between men and women in a group, where men tend to interrupt and take more space while women are often more careful.
[17:43] The cultural background influences the way we communicate and what we considered acceptable and not on our closest relationships.
[21:05] When we feel comfortable we don’t have to worry so much about being present.
[23:55] Anese shares different pieces of burnout:
- Connection with the pause and being present.
- Stay connected to the purpose (Why are you doing what you are doing?).
- Connect with people.
- Connection to pain, pleasure, and play.
[33:55] Sitting with your pain and struggling helps to process the feeling faster and learn from it more effectively.
[34:12] These are questions you should ask yourself if you are wondering if you are just being passionate about work or if you have become a workaholic:
- How are you feeling?
- Is it having a negative impact on my family and relationships? If it is, can I stop it?
- What do I need?
[37:30] In order to avoid burnout it is important to be aware of the relationship we have with our work and to pay attention to how our purpose is growing along with ourselves.
[39:10] Anese shares the concept of leadership depression and how it is related to isolation and the feeling that regardless of how much is done, it is not enough.
[45:34] A way to have more energy to keep on contributing tomorrow is by practicing the DENT: Do what you can, Engage with heart and honest intent, do the best you can Now, in this moment, and Trust that it is enough.
[47:12] It is essential for us to take care of ourselves so we can be super clear in our intentions, we can manage and be responsible for our energy, and be present.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Contagious Culture: Show Up, Set the Tone, and Intentionally Create an Organization that Thrives, by Anese Cavanaugh
The Leader You Will Be, by Anese Cavanaugh
Contagious You: Unlock Your Power to Influence, Lead, and Create the Impact You Want,
by Anese Cavanaugh
Listen to the first show with Anese Cavanaugh: “Intentional Energetic Presence with Anese Cavanaugh”
Anese Cavanaugh
My good friend and Stanford teammate Kyle Peterson joins me today. He was an All-American at Stanford and a first round draft pick of the Milwaukee Brewers in 1997. Kyle made his Major League debut with the Brewers in 1999, but injuries to his pitching arm ended his playing career in 2003. He then pursued a career in broadcasting and was hired by ESPN, where he has been the lead college baseball analyst for the past 16 years. In addition to his successful career in broadcasting, Kyle is also the president and CEO of Colliers International, a commercial real estate firm, in Nebraska. And, in his spare time, Kyle also runs a business called D1baseball.com which is the primary online portal for anything and everything related to college baseball. Kyle shares great stories, wisdom, and insights from his time in baseball, broadcasting, and business on this show.
Takeaways:
[6:02] Kyle Peterson talks about the experience of coming from Nebraska to Stanford University.
[9:33] Mike remembers living together with Kyle.
[10:25] Kyle talks about how he realized that journalism was going to change quickly, from newspapers to blogs, to the internet, and how the way of absorbing news has completely shifted in the past 10 years.
[14:42] Kyle remembers back in 1995 how being part of the team was the best experience for him — when everybody was trying to win, and it was that simple.
[16:35] Mike looks back on how he used to see Kyle as a pitcher in his freshman year, as being confident and grateful for the opportunity.
[19:20] Kyle talks about how it was for him personally and to his family to be pitching in a College World Series as a freshman in 1995.
[21:06] Kyle reflects on the differences for him going back to play in 1997 as a junior.
[23:18] What would Kyle have done differently from a mindset point when he was 21 years old and getting ready for the game in Omaha?
[26:38] The problem of going out thinking about how not to lose instead of heading to win.
[29:02] Kyle talks about the pressure he put on himself during his freshman year.
[30:30] The tendency of remembering the negative more than the positive as a protective mechanism to avoid future threats.
[34:46] Kyle talks about what he learned from his parents being amazing support in his baseball career.
[38:40] Kyle explains how it felt to sign a contract and go to the minor leagues.
[41:05] Kyle remembers talking with his father after finding out an injury was going to end his baseball career.
[43:09] Being called to the major leagues for the first time in 1999.
[48:31] Kyle shares how he realized he was not good enough as a pitcher anymore and what he did afterward.
[52:11] Kyle talks about his journey as a broadcaster.
[55:25] Kyle explains how he became the CEO of Colliers International in Omaha.
[59:14] Kyle starts a business at D1baseball.com and D1softball.com.
[1:02:30] Trust is what makes a great team great.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Kyle Peterson on ESPN
D1baseball.com
D1softball.com
Colliers International
I’m so pleased to have Megan McNealy joining me this episode. She’s a wealth management advisor for one of the top financial firms in the world who specializes in working with senior corporate executives. In addition to her work in finance, Megan started her own company called Well-Being Drives Success. She just released her first book, Reinvent The Wheel: How Top Leaders Leverage Well-Being for Success, where she shares her own story of healing from some significant health challenges, as well as 18 different pillars for well-being and corresponding interviews with leaders who share their best practices.
Takeaways:
[5:16] Megan McNealy talks about what inspired her to write her new book.
[7:15] Megan shares how being diagnosed with auto-immune diseases impacted her life.
[11:21] The journey of healing herself.
[13:55] The idea that overworking drives to success.
[16:17] The difference between healthy hard work and workaholism.
[22:01] The crucial importance of having a good night’s sleep.
[27:31] The mind control is an underrated aspect of well-being.
[29:56] Relax: take things easy, put zero effort.
[32:50] CEOs chosen by Megan to talk about the different pillars of well-being.
[37:14] We can only go forward if we first take care of our well-being.
[37:40] Megan talks about how healing herself changed her entire life.
[42:04] Where your motivation to change to a healthier life comes from.
[44:25] You have to be prepared for healthy habits.
[45:01] Hold your focus.
[50:26] Paying attention to your patterns regarding relationships.
[51:30] You can do well and be well.
[52:51] Personal growth and connecting to a higher power.
[55:01] The common difficulty for women to prioritize themselves.
[58:12] Men tend to internalize emotions and not really nourish themselves.
[59:59] Why do people have such a hard time asking for help?
[1:02:02] The tricky custom to reward results and outcomes.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Well-being Drives Success
Reinvent The Wheel: How Top Leaders Leverage Well-being for Success, by Megan McNealy
This week we explore the importance of appreciating the small things. How many things do we take for granted? The simplest things, such as having power or being able to take a hot shower are usually underappreciated. Our schedules tend to be packed with obligations and chores that can be urgent, but they can get in the way for us to be able to connect to what is most important and valuable. The confusion between urgency and emergency often prevents us from being truly present and connected to what is essential.
Key takeaways:
[2:19] Enjoying the small things in life.
[6:11] How much do we take for granted?
[7:35] The importance of being grateful for the simple things.
[13:46] When the urgent gets in the way of the important.
[15:37] The hectic speed of the daily schedules.
[18:47] Can we slow down?
[19:02] The difference between urgent and emergent.
[20:29] Are we creating our own course?
[26:21] When we are feeling “not good enough.”
[28:01] You can do anything if you are committed.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
I’m very excited to welcome my friend, mentor, and former coach at Stanford, Dean Stotz, to the show this week. He was the Associate Head Baseball Coach at Stanford University for 37 years, retiring in 2014. Dean has been an incredibly important person in my life since he first started recruiting me back in 1991. He has had a huge impact on me by exemplifying what it means to be a great coach, husband, father, leader, and human being. He and his family are like family to me and my family. In this episode, Dean and I talk about how he went from coaching the freshman team when he was a senior at Stanford in the mid-70s, to building one of the top baseball programs in the nation, along with Head Coach Mark Marquess. He also shares how his own evolution as a parent affected his coaching, what he thinks are the keys to a great team from a cultural and chemistry standpoint, and what leaders can do to inspire those around them.
Key Takeaways
[6:26] A few of the key aspects within a great team are members that aren’t territorial or consumed with protecting their spot, who are willing to be vulnerable, and are selfless in nature.
[11:07] Over the past years, Dean has evolved to be even more vulnerable and transparent as both a parent and a coach. When you show that you do care and are there for someone as a human, you can build the type of trust needed to really coach and push them.
[12:10] Dean pitched in the Little League Series at 12, and went on to play baseball in college as well. He has been involved in all phases of coaching in his expansive role on the staff, and currently serves as the team's lead recruiting coordinator, primary hitting instructor, and third base coach, while also handling various offensive and defensive aspects of the game.
[24:33] Winning the National Championships is obviously a great feeling but the hard work and teamwork that went behind it make the win even better.
[32:45] Family is a huge part of Dean’s life and his wife Kathy and their kids are very invested in his work as well. Dean suggests making a traditional family dinner around the table when you can, as it’s a great way to connect and unplug from the day.
[36:55] Dean was inspired by his parents to provide a life rich in love and help people that can’t help themselves without needing anything in advance.
[49:22] The relationships we have at home have a huge impact on our work.
[58:22] A true team celebrates the wins but also helps each other through the hard times.
[1:04:14] Great leaders are willing to do the things they expect from others.
[1:05:01] Life is about adjustment and modifications. We can try something, assess to see if it works, and then pivot from there.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Stanford
Dean Stotz
@StanfordBSB
Kansas City Royals
Houston Astros
Focus on the Good Stuff: The Power of Appreciation, by Mike Robbins
New York Mets
I was inspired by World Mental Health Day on October 10th to share some of my own story and to encourage us to address mental health challenges openly, without shame and stigma. Today on the show, we talk about why we need to be mindful of this, how we can proactively focus on our mental and emotional health and support others, and why more companies are realizing that well-being (both physical and mental) is a fundamental component of productivity and success at work.
Key Takeaways
[4:45] I grew up with an awareness of the shame and significant impact that mental illness can bring upon a family.
[9:51] Depression was talked about in my family as the “family curse,” and in college, I found myself feeling very low and knew I needed some help. Luckily, I found support through the help of my Uncle Steve and visiting the student health center at school. There, I found a therapist to work with and get me the help I needed for that time.
[11:21] Scary and challenging times can lead us to the biggest growth and transformation.
[17:37] If we are not careful and mindful about how we share our feelings and emotions, we can use these conditions as a way to get people to feel sorry for us or as an excuse to get us off the hook for certain obligations.
[20:53] Many companies, especially some of the most progressive ones, have mainstreamed and instituted well-being programs and incentives that have become fundamental.
[23:18] Mental and emotional health can be an ongoing commitment and not just something we seek help for in times of crisis.
[25:02] A few of the many avenues where one can find mental and emotional support include peer and professional groups, coaches, mentors, therapists, meditation, journaling, and breathing.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Oakland Center for Spiritual Living
Kauai Writers Conference
Landmark
Fear is a natural, normal, and essential human emotion and experience, especially when we’re growing, changing, and taking risks. Today, I’ll share my own experience of how fear can creep up along with these times of expansion and ways we can rewrite the story we tell ourselves to embrace change, and the fear that often comes with it. We talk about acknowledging fear, viewing it as excitement, and reframing the way we experience it.
Key Takeaways
[5:28] Going off on your own and starting a business can be great for flexibility, but there’s also the pressure of making it happen all on your own.
[7:23] If you are wanting to change, grow and expand, you also have to confront your fears and reframe the story you tell yourself about the past.
[11:32] Fear is not bad, it’s just an emotion. The real important thing is what we do with it.
[14:33] A few ways to handle the sensation of fear:
- Realize that fear and excitement can be interchanged for one another.
- Acknowledge fear by speaking about it, or writing it down.
[19:18] Following our dreams and going after the things that matter most can be very rewarding but can also come with vulnerability, risk, exposure, and emotional uncertainty.
[23:02] There is a difference between fixing and changing. While fixing infers there is something wrong or broken, changing is choosing from a place of contentment and self-appreciation.
[26:30] Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a sign of power. When we ask for help, a couple of things happen:
- We get the help we need and maybe even more than we expected.
- We acknowledge the skills and talents of the people around us.
- We give people the opportunity to do something that they love.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Brené Brown
With the impeachment inquiry heating up, our already crazy political environment here in the United States seems to be getting even crazier. Many of us have strong opinions and beliefs about what’s happening right now and about politics in general. Our differences on these fronts can lead to us feeling isolated and at odds with the people we work with, live with, and interact with in life. Today on the show, we talk about why it’s important for us to get out of our bubble, listen to different political opinions than our own, and how we can find common ground with those who may not see things the same way we do. It’s about remembering that we’re all in this together.
Key Takeaways
[2:46] Along with many people, I was surprised by the results of the 2016 Presidential Election. After seeing the divisiveness in the country, I wanted to challenge others to stand up and pay attention to those that felt vulnerable and scared. I wrote a blog post entitled “An Open Letter to My Fellow Straight White Men,” and got some very intense and harsh feedback from some people with differing opinions.
[10:48] We are way more alike than we are different, and it’s beneficial to try and see the common ground rather than come from an us vs. them mentality.
[11:07] Great leaders bring people together, rather than attack their opponents.
[15:02] We all have political views, but have to remain respectful and curious when others have beliefs different from ours.
[26:35] It’s healthy to take a break from the drama-filled news cycle. Take positive action and do something to remind yourself that we are all just humans that deserve respect and compassion.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
An Open Letter to My Fellow Straight White Men
Today we’re talking about bias and privilege, two topics that can be thorny and difficult to talk about, but extremely important for so many reasons, especially in today’s world. I talk about what bias and privilege are, why it’s essential for us to be aware of them, and some examples of each. We also talk about creating a team culture that acknowledges bias and privilege, and at the same time creates an environment of belonging and trust.
Key Takeaways
[3:39] There are two types of bias: conscious, which is explicit bias against a group of people or a specific situation or environment, and unconscious, which is implicit bias we are not aware of. The first step is to be aware of it and to take responsibility for our biases.
[8:09] It is important to be aware of the bias we have, and where we seek out confirmation for it throughout our day. Much of the news that is reported has a political bias, and when turned in to strong opinions, it shapes how we ultimately see the world.
[12:05] We all have bias and prejudice about things. It doesn’t mean we are necessarily evil or bad, it just means that we must be aware and acknowledge it.
[13:48] We must be allies for each other and be open to having a dialogue about the ways we can help advocate for others.
[16:11] We all have privilege to some degree. Owning it doesn’t take away from hard work or diminish any success that was earned.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Scientists not immune to gender bias, Yale study shows
Everything is Figureoutable, by Marie Forleo
Kris Carr interview
Hello Privilege. It’s Me, Chelsea
Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don't Know,
by Malcolm Gladwell
Brené Brown
GSK
I’m inspired by Marie Forleo’s fantastic new book, Everything is Figureoutable, and I listened to a great podcast episode featuring Marie and her best friend Kris Carr last week when the book came out. It got me thinking about how we can figure things out and adopt a healthy approach to life and business that sets us up for success. On today’s show, we discuss the difference between a fixed mindset and growth mindset and why it matters, as well as what it takes to challenge ourselves to figure anything out, including: asking for help, acknowledging our privilege, and observing our limiting beliefs.
Key Takeaways
[6:29] Figuring something out doesn’t always mean we have to do it ourselves. It’s okay, and even strong, to lean on others.
[8:19] A fixed mindset is one where we think there is no changing or growing possible, and things are stuck the way they are. A growth mindset allows for trying new things out, challenging ourselves and learning through growth. We trust ourselves to figure it out, no matter how many bumps in the road along the process.
[10:09] The more you do something, the more confidence in it you build. Instead of waiting for the inspiration or the confidence to do something, it’s the action and growth that builds those feelings.
[12:31] Help can come in many forms. We can hire or invest in a coach or mentor, we can ask our friends or community, or we can delegate to someone else who it may come naturally to.
[13:44] We don’t ask for help because we think it’s weak or are fearful that we will get rejected. However, asking for help is incredibly empowering, and we give someone the chance to do something they love, to help another human.
[21:03] As we figure things out and work from a state of the growth mindset, we can acknowledge the level of privilege we do or don’t have in our personal reality.
[26:29] Our beliefs shape our reality, and have everything to do with how we see the world. Beliefs can also be changed over time and they aren’t a one-way sentence for life.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Marie Forleo
Everything is Figureoutable, by Marie Forleo
Gabby Bernstein
Danielle LaPorte
MarieTV
Kris Carr
Life Loves You: 7 Spiritual Practices to Heal Your Life, by Louise Hay and Robert Holden, Ph.D.
Carol Dweck
This week, we talk about healthy ways of feeling and expressing our anger (and all of our emotions), both at work and at home. I share my own personal experience of staying with anger to get to the root of the issue and why we tend to suppress our emotions in the first place. I also provide some of my personal favorite ways to get in touch with our emotions and express them in ways that are positive and give us our power.
Key Takeaways
[2:28] When you lean into discomfort and have the sweaty-palm conversations, you often find better communication and a deeper understanding of the different perspectives and expectations.
[5:53] Emotions aren’t positive or negative but become problematic when we suppress them and don’t feel them authentically. We’ve been trained as adults to suppress our emotions and be “adult” and professional, which means we can feel stuck and pent up with our feelings.
[11:08] Anger is often a secondary emotion, and the bursts of anger can really be unresolved hurt and disappointment.
[12:11] Being nice is one thing, but suppressing our feelings and disappointment can come out in sideways or passive-aggressive ways. There is value in giving ourselves the freedom to identify and tap into all emotions.
[19:22] Emotions come and go, and feeling a certain way is different than being that way.
When we say “I’m feeling mad,'' as opposed to “I’m mad,” it makes it more about the passing emotion and less about living in a state of anger.
[26:15] A few of Mike’s best techniques for processing our feelings and getting them out: write an anger letter, practice visualization, journal, do healthy productive things to get the anger out physically.
[29:05] Great leaders provide a safe space for their team to express their emotion. It takes emotional intelligence and maturity but will help establish a place others can share openly without judgment or fear.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
“How to Embrace the Discomfort of Creating What Matters To Us”
Wayne Dyer
Edwin Moses
Brian Cunningham, CEO of Wahiawa General Hospital and author of The Leadership Revolution, joins the show this week. Brian shares the story of his fascinating background from working as a parking lot attendant at a hospital, to gaining a position in leadership, all with the mission to serve as many people as possible. Brian talks about what life is like in Hawaii, how he works to create a culture where everyone in the organization is clear on values, and how the quality of service is everything when working in the healthcare industry.
Key Takeaways
[5:46] Great leaders know what the right thing to do is, intellectually but they also follow through with it in times of frustration and crisis.
[7:33] Brian witnessed how the healthcare industry is one where emotions are magnified and he realized how important it was to infuse service and care with every interaction. He started as a parking attendant and worked his way up until he was pulled into a leadership role.
[8:46] No matter what role he is in, Brian is always focused on the goal of serving as many people as he can.
[13:30] Quality of service is the number one priority for Brian and his team at Wahiawa General Hospital. They get clear about what they need to do and then do it the best they can. They delegate things they know they can’t be exemplary at and do not try to be all things to all people.
[15:40] Brian is committed to always be growing and embrace new experiences and adventure. His move to Hawaii has worked out very well and loves serving the people on the island.
[17:43] Brian wrote The Leadership Revolution as he explored his own self and saw how internal exploration started to mirror the possibilities of leadership. He started to look at the reality of the environment he was in and built a body of knowledge that could help other leaders grow and to contribute to the dialogue from a reality-based perspective.
[31:17] To create a sustainable culture of leadership, the elements of both being and doing must be clear. Leaders must clarify the purpose of the organization and make sure everyone understands the fundamentals of how to demonstrate it daily.
[33:08] Brian explains the difference between challenging and marginalizing, and the importance of giving constructive criticism.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book),
by Don Miguel Ruiz
The Leadership Revolution: Because Evolution Takes Too Long, by Brian Cunningham
Awareness Quotient Leadership
In this week’s solo episode, I share some takeaways I’ve encountered while working on the manuscript for my next book, We’re All In This Together. Many of these things may be relevant to you while engaging in a creative project or anything important you’re currently working on (or wanting to). I talk about embracing deadlines, accepting help from others, and staying in the discomfort of that messy middle part, among other important things.
Key Takeaways
[6:17] Deadlines are important. They help us stay on track and orient our focus and action to produce tangible results.
[9:47] Lean on the people around you who love and care about you. Create a reciprocal culture where people can help lend their skills and strengths, and you are able to help raise them up with yours.
[12:40] Done is better than perfect. The voice of fear will try to take us into perfectionism, but this is also why deadlines and the support of others are important to the finished project.
[16:33] Lean into the discomfort, and try to stay in the process even through the doubt and resistance.
[22:41] Don’t take yourself or your creative process too seriously.
[30:19] Shift from I “have to” to I “get to,” and it changes the whole dynamic.
Resources:
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Mike Robbins Podcast
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TED Radio Hour
Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts., by Brené Brown
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, by Elizabeth Gilbert
I’m joined on the show today by Aimée Lapic, the Chief Marketing Officer at Pandora. She’s a passionate, authentic, and high performing leader who cares deeply about her team. Aimée and I discuss ways to be authentic and caring as a leader, how to manage your personal and professional life without feeling guilty, and the key elements that make a great team.
Key Takeaways
[3:25] Aimée shares a little bit about her background and where she grew up.
[9:50] Back in the mid-’90s the internet was on fire and it gave Aimée the chance to hit the ground running in the Bay Area. She was able to work for startups and get her feet wet in online marketing and e-commerce.
[14:25] When Aimée stepped into a leadership role, the biggest lesson she learned was that not everyone is motivated by the same things. You have to pay attention to each person and what they care about.
[19:15] Aimée has always strived to be the top of her class but when she got into Princeton she realized that the country’s top students were also there and it was incredibly hard adjusting to this new environment. However, it gave her a good wake up call that she had to work even harder and that work ethic has served her well in life.
[23:15] When Aimée became a mother, that’s when her high-achieving streak had to take a back seat. Being a working mom and managing three children is tough and sometimes you just have to let go and be happy with the ‘good enough.’
[29:25] Aimée believes she’s a better leader today because she is much more transparent about the conscious choices she is making. She decided to go into work late the other day because she wanted to have a nice breakfast with the kids. She decided not to have breakfast with the kids so that she could be on time for important meetings on other days. She makes conscious choices now and doesn’t feel guilty about them.
[36:35] Aimée looks for talented people who have a growth mindset. She wants to know that her team can be empowered to do things on their own and not be micromanaged. When it comes to hiring, she actively seeks key characteristics like a positive outlook to make sure that they will fit into and adapt to the company culture.
[42:00] Aimée believes that in order to develop good teams it comes down to having the people connect with one another on a personal level. When you have a connection, you build respect and trust. You don’t have to be the most qualified in the room, but if you know how to work together, then you really are able to move mountains.
Resources:
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Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
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TED Radio Hour
Pandora.com
Aimée on LinkedIn
My friend Holly Dowling joins the show today. She’s a thought leader and a fantastic inspirational keynote speaker. Holly is passionate about creating inclusive environments within companies so that teams can thrive and organizations can retain talented people. She and I talk in-depth about how to create a culture where everyone feels a true sense of respect and belonging.
Key Takeaways
[4:25] What’s new in the world of inclusive leadership?
[6:35] Why are more men showing up to inclusion talks than women? Holly believes they’re scared. They want more inclusion, but they don’t know how to start the conversation.
[10:50] Unfortunately, by having women-only empowerment groups, these women are being siloed from a bigger purpose. The reality is, we need men included in on these conversations so that a healthy dialogue can be developed.
[15:15] Men want to be included in the conversation, they just don’t know how. There are a lot of tools out there for women, but when it comes to men wanting to be more inclusive, they get stuck with the ‘how.’ There’s a different landscape happening now.
[22:20] We need to share our stories! So often, people feel so alone and they can feel like the problem they’re facing is only happening to them, but by hearing about other people’s challenges and struggles, it gives those people a voice and a light.
[28:20] With such a focus on women’s leadership and empowerment, where does that leave our young boys? Holly is currently raising three young boys herself and she sees first hand that there’s a lack of resources for them in this new environment. We are facing not only generational differences but cultural differences too.
[32:45] Women want men to read their minds, but that’s impossible. It’s important that expectations are set before a conversation begins so that no one gets upset (from both parties). Do you want him/her to listen, problem-solve, or advise when you’re about to start a conversation? Let your partner know!
[41:05] We have to stop putting labels on people’s foreheads, especially if we disagree with them. Remember, at the end of the day, everyone has a story and when you understand their story, you will have more compassion for one another despite the differences.
[52:20] Social media can be so misleading. It’s important to get grounded and get authentic so that we don’t mislead the very people who look up to us and admire us. There’s nothing wrong with sharing your mistakes or faults on social media and being real with some of life’s challenges.
Resources:
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TED Radio Hour
Holly Dowling
A Celebration of You - Holly Dowling’s podcast
Kimberly Davis, author of Brave Leadership and expert in authentic leadership, joins the show this week. Kimberly shares how her experience as a trained actor set the stage for a career in leadership and coaching, the relationship between bravery and fear, and how we can live, lead, and work with courage. Kimberly helps people and leaders connect to their real and powerful selves, which in turn creates a team culture where others feel at ease to do the same.
Key Takeaways
[5:30] One of her “survival jobs” as an actress led Kimberly to lead cross-cultural workshops in Japan, and the experience transformed the way she looked at the world. She saw that training and leadership development helped her access her own values and talents, and also saw a striking similarity between the high-stakes environment of life on the stage and in the corporate world.
[15:10] Kimberly reframed her definition of bravery to mean an individual being their best and most authentic self. Bravery is about focusing on the impact and connection with others, not just about the outcome.
[21:22] When leaders are able to be authentic and drop their own mask, others in the workforce will feel comfortable to do so as well.
[23:03] Kimberly is seeing more men bring themselves to work as a human rather than a boss. Emerging leaders are also working to bridge senior leaders that may have a different style with the younger generation that seeks out more emotional and psychological safety.
[30:24] Others decide how genuine, worthy of trust, and believable we are. When we look through the lens of others without judgment, it impacts our actions to behave in a way that hopefully reflects these core values.
[34:18] Leaders must get out of their own way and realize it’s not all about them to fulfill their “super objective.”
[38:35] As a leader, you are always on stage, and whether it’s in a small meeting or large presentation, people are always paying attention.
[40:33] Two powerful things Kimberly recommends to overcome speaking anxiety: Shift focus out of yourself and on to your super objective and to simplify and have a conversation rather than speaking at people.
Resources:
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TED Radio Hour
Brave Leadership, by Kimberly Davis
On Stage Leadership
@onstagekimberly
TEDx Talk
In today’s busy world with a never-ending “to-do” list of obligations, responsibilities, and commitments, it’s hard to take a break. In today’s episode, I share my own experience of taking a break in the midst of the daily grind and why it’s important to get off the grid every now and then for your own well-being and creativity. Wherever you are in your career, and whether you love almost every minute of what you do or you need to get better aligned, you can purposefully and deliberately build in time to rest, relax, and rejuvenate.
Key Takeaways
[2:29] We used to get breaks built-in during summer vacation and winter break in school, but in the real world, it is a lot tougher to take time off. Even if we do get vacation days or holidays, many of us have fear and insecurity about missing something or dropping the ball.
[8:16] Even if you love what you do it is still healthy to take a break.
[10:09] Breaks give us the chance to rest our brain, break out of everyday habits and let our minds wander to regain more stamina and creativity.
[13:12] We are never promised tomorrow, and no one is sure what each day will bring. The important thing is to focus on what and who matters most in life, and to take time to fully connect with them and ourselves.
[16:27] Deadlines and set goals absolutely do matter but in between them it’s just as important to rest as it is to move on to the next item on the list.
[18:40] Whatever career level you are at, you deserve to purposely and deliberately build in more breaks to pause and unplug.
[21:04] A break can be a nice vacation, or it can just be something simple, such as going for a quiet walk or reading a book. I keep one journal for thoughts and another for gratitude and self-compassion and find the time writing in these always gives me a nice built-in time for reflection.
[25:18] Staying busy can be a way to distract ourselves from our own feelings. The more time we give to fully feel all the emotions, even the uncomfortable ones, the more quickly we move through them.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
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TED Radio Hour
A Year to Live: How to Live This Year as If It Were Your Last, by Stephen Levine
The Sixth Man: A Memoir, by Andre Iguodala
Author, entrepreneur, coach, and speaker Jenny Blake has a passion for helping people move beyond burnout and create the kind of work and life that truly inspires them. Jenny joins the show today to discuss her work at startups and at Google, which then led to her own big pivot and starting her own business. She talks about what inspired her to write her first book, Life After College, while still working at Google. Jenny also shares her journey of going out on her own, the methodology behind her popular book, Pivot, and how she turned the scary moments of remote work and side hustling into blazing a trail for others.
Key Takeaways
[4:09] Jenny grew up in the Bay area and attended UCLA, originally thinking she may be interested in a career in politics or working on a presidential campaign. She interned for Rock the Vote and loved the passion and energy behind the movement.
[5:11] Fun fact: Jenny’s mom is a landscape architect in Stanford, so a lot of the beautiful scenery you see is in part thanks to her!
[7:55] After several years at Google, Jenny felt intuitively that she’d outgrown her role. She talked to the Google Adwords product training team and shared her vision of being a speaker and author. She knew she couldn’t maintain both the training and the book project and now was the time to go full-time and invest in herself and her own business.
[9:25] High net growth individuals want to pivot more frequently than others, and we must reduce the obsession with promotion as the only way forward.
[15:04] Jenny started to see the extra time as a challenge to make money and to earn twice as much in half the time with joy and ease. Both she and I saw this time of being on their own almost as a year in “school” where we can create our own curriculum and studies.
[22:10] Don’t underestimate the power of corporate alumni networks and solopreneur networking groups. Keep a list of the people you enjoy connecting with within the company and make the relationship a two-way connection.
[24:29] It’s okay to take some time and decompress when you go from a fast-paced job to one with free times, but don’t let the “rest monster” in for too long.
[32:26] Great leaders work with their staff on what success means to them, and what their overall vision is. That way they can have an open dialogue and recognize what areas can be shaped to fit the needs of both parties. It’s not about more money and a fancier title for everyone.
[41:01] Jenny is very interested in mentoring others that are structurally shut out from society. She helps the incarcerated and newly released pivot in their own situation through Defy Ventures and finds a whole new type of inspiration working with the clients.
Resources:
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TED Radio Hour
Life After College
Pivot: The Only Move That Matters Is Your Next One, by Jenny Blake
Pivot Method
“10,000 Hours of Neurosis”
Puppies Behind Bars
Defy Ventures
Chris Barbin is a serial entrepreneur and investor with more than 25 years of experience across a number of startups, companies, and enterprises. Chris joins the show today to talk with us about his work as a Venture Partner at GGV Capital, how he co-founded Appirio and stayed on as Chief Culture Officer when it was acquired from Wipro. Chris is an expert on company culture, team building and what it takes to scale a business. He also gives advice on building strong relationships when people work remotely, the upsides and downsides of being incredibly transparent, and how to create an environment where people feel safe to talk about the important stuff.
Key Takeaways
[3:27] Chris was born and raised outside of Boston and graduated from Bates College, of which he now sits on the Board of Trustees. He landed in Chicago and was in various tech and consulting gigs before he co-founded Appirio in 2006.
[8:26] While others were experiencing hardships in the economy around 2007, Appirio found that their company provided a value around organizations saving money moving to the cloud.
[11:49] Chris and the other founders of Appirio were in different cities when they founded the company, so they started with a mentality of creating great work from remote locations. They decided that instead of having a huge business office, they would connect to the right people using world-class processes and systems. They also started with a great amount of transparency where workers could see everything in a consumer-grade type of environment.
[15:21] Chris and the founders of Appirio grew in a distributed way and set their workers up with the tools that they needed for a great work environment at home.
[16:42] Remote culture can get much of the work done, but there still needs to be a level of in-person connectivity. Appirio put time into culture-building both virtually using Facetime, photos, and videos, and made the most of their quarterly in-person meetings.
[21:02] Appirio had an all-hands meeting every two weeks virtually, and senior leaders met once a week virtually and once a quarter in person. They also displayed their commitment to transparency through time for a Q&A, where any question was fair game.
[26:52] One of Chris’s biggest lessons was in growing your team from within, as compared to upgrading them from the outside in.
[31:34] The leadership team has a responsibility to not always engage in “happy talk,” but to really focus on making things better and pulling the bad things out so they can be talked about and solutions can be provided.
[35:52] After the acquisition from Wipro, Chris stayed on as Chief Culture Officer to help catalyze and stimulate the culture. With a number of 2,500 employees sitting inside of 180,000 employees in 55 countries, Chris and his team had their work cut out for them.
[42:40] Chris is also an operating partner at Thunderboss (a lakeside bar and grill in Green Lake, WI that he built and opened with his wife in 2018), as well as two tequila businesses — SipTequila.com (a premium tequila business focused on a direct to consumer model) and Compoveda (his own private label tequila).
Resources:
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GG Capital Venture Firm
Sip Tequila
Compoveda
ThunderBoss
Wipro
Appirio
Chris Barbin
Amy Edmondson is the Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at the Harvard Business School, and the world’s leading expert in psychological safety. On this week’s podcast episode, Amy and I discuss her groundbreaking research, as well as her latest book, The Fearless Organization. We also talk about what psychological safety is, what it is not, why it’s necessary for high performance, examples of leaders who are doing it well, and what we can do even better in modern society to create an environment where everyone feels safe to be themselves, take risks, and do their best work.
Key Takeaways
[2:55] Psychological safety is when you genuinely feel as though your voice is welcomed, and you are free to be yourself and have your own opinions.
[4:43] Amy found that the most cohesive teams reported making the most mistakes, but it wasn’t because they were less capable. It turned out they were just more able to and willing to come forward about their mistakes and to grow and learn from them.
[5:10] Trust is a component that makes up psychological safety. Trust is more one-on-one and based on an expectation we have about a person or entity, where psychological safety is fundamentally self-focused and within the context of a group.
[6:33] Psychological safety is not the norm, and yet it is something that can definitely give an organization that leading edge. It is much more necessary when the work is complex and interdependent.
[14:47] What is psychological safety not? It isn’t about being nice, nor is it about whining, complaining or expecting everything to be done your way. It’s also not a safe space that guards against any possible trigger moments.
[16:13] Great leaders are able to be authentic and vulnerable when tasks are complicated and difficult. There is power in admitting to others that something is hard or unknown, as long as we keep going with our mission.
[19:45] School is a perfect example of psychological safety, as it must be present to feel secure asking questions and offering ideas. This leads to more learning and others, in turn, helping their teammates.
[27:23] Different viewpoints and perspectives matter.
[31:50] Amy cites Pixar and Salesforce as two examples of organizations that model candor, humility, and vulnerability.
[38:14] Psychological safety is important, but it also is a means to an end. The goal is really for innovation, excellence, and creativity and psychological safety is how we get there.
[39:11] The “Good Question” is a question that focuses on something that matters, gives people room to respond, doesn’t presuppose the answer, and invites careful thought.
[41:27] You must honor the effort it took for others to say something.
[43:03] We are often just one 10-minute “sweaty palm conversation” away from really connecting with others and what it is we are seeking from them.
[46:03] Good leaders know how to get on the same side of the table and look forward with those on the frontline. They give good feedback and figure out how they can help their people.
Resources:
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Mike Robbins Podcast
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TED Radio Hour
The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth, by Amy C. Edmondson
“The five keys to a successful Google Team”
Administrative Science Quarterly
“What Google Learned From Its Quest To Build the Perfect Team”
“Psychological Safety and Learning Behavior in Work Teams”
Amy Edmonson — Harvard Business School
Award-winning entrepreneur, author, and speaker, Jennifer Brown, returns as a guest this week. Jennifer has a fantastic new book, How to Be an Inclusive Leader, which comes out in August. This book has important information we need now more than ever in the workplace. Jennifer discusses where one even starts when trying to create a culture of inclusion and belonging, and what leaders can do specifically to cultivate this type of environment. She also shares the reasons why people may refrain from speaking up, and some simple steps to get started and/or to expand our ability to be inclusive leaders in today’s world.
Key Takeaways
[3:37] Jennifer’s new book, How to Be an Inclusive Leader, will be out in August. In it, she provides a step-by-step guide for creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
[6:20] Jennifer notes that the election in 2016 sparked both more self-reflection and also a focus on what really makes a workplace an environment where others feel safe and accepted.
[8:56] Most companies don’t perceive the emergency of the need for diversity and inclusion, and therefore continue to ignore the data that could be so important to even better productivity.
[13:45] The ability to express anger is so important and cleansing, and yet corporate America has no patience for it. While we can give it voice properly in the community, we often will have to shapeshift to reach the stakeholders in corporate leadership.
[15:19] Cisgender is when the sense of your gender matches the body you were born in. It is the opposite of transgender. Sexual orientation is who you are attracted to, and different than gender identity.
[16:31] One powerful gesture leaders can do to make a step towards inclusion is to share your pronouns as part of the way you do business. Another is to stop saying you don’t see color. Even with good intentions, it is an erasure of someone else’s very real and relevant experience.
[19:57] Most of the privilege that we have is really hard for us to see. Fully recognizing it starts in small steps, and we must have curiosity, empathy, and the knowledge that it is our job to make a difference.
[27:12] When we come from a mindset of trust and abundance, rather than scarcity, we see that there is room for everyone to succeed.
[32:14] Having an ally is important. Make sure it is someone that can really level with you and give it to you straight.
[35:32] Inclusion programs can also make people in dominant groups can feel exclusion. That is why it is important for all leaders to be aware there is much they don’t understand, and to stay humble and patient while learning.
[44:06] The Platinum Rule: Do Unto Others As They Would Have You Do Unto Them.
[45:14] Leaders need to set up a trusting environment so their team can fully express what is getting in the way of feeling truly safe and included.
Resources:
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Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
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TED Radio Hour
Jennifer Brown Consulting
How to Be An Inclusive Leader: Your Role in Creating Cultures of Belonging Where Everyone Can Thrive, by Jennifer Brown
White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism, by Robin DiAngelo
Brené Brown
Lean In
“We All Have a Role to Play in Change with Jennifer Brown”
Marc Maron with Brene Brown
My friend Eric Saperston is an award-winning filmmaker, best-selling author, international speaker and the Chief Creative Officer of an organization called Live In Wonder. He’s an amazing human being and joins me on the show today to discuss what he has learned from over 25 years studying the behaviors of extraordinary people. Eric met, hung out with, and interviewed actors, musicians, artists, and business executives while creating his documentary The Journey. He talks about the common thread he found in icons such as Jimmy Carter, Jerry Garcia, and Billy Crystal. Eric then discusses what is next for him and his team, and what we can expect from the new series Three Things: Wisdom From Strangers.
Key Takeaways
[7:39] Extraordinary people know how to pivot. They aren’t afraid to change, learn, and grow in new directions.
[9:33] Eric discusses how The Journey came to be. After he graduated college he sought a time to press pause and enjoy life before entering the workforce and didn’t want to get a corporate job or graduate degree like most of his friends. One of his mentors suggested he find a way to provide value to both himself and others, and that and that suggestion changed the trajectory of his life. He looked at his skills and gifts and set his purpose to having conversations that led to bridge the gap between youth and elders. The three things he examined were:
- What’s the problem?
- What’s the need?
- What’s the solution?
[17:02] One year turned into four with three other travelers and over 200 interviews. This lead to a development deal with Walt Disney Studios, and a win at SXSW. The Journey premiered in 2001 in theatres worldwide.
[21:23] The Journey was at the cutting edge of the digital movement, and his interview form is much like the podcast interviews we see modeled today.
[23:46] When you go down a path no one else has gone before, it’s hard to measure success. Eric and his team dealt with outside doubt and skepticism. Many couldn’t see what the end result would be, but he stayed true to his purpose and service.
[36:57] Eric had an epiphany one night in Costa Rica and realized the commonality of all the extraordinary people he spoke with: they lived their life with wonder. Instead of getting boxed in and living life too seriously, they stayed in a childlike state of play and exploration. This led to gratitude and fun, which made them magnetic and captivating to others. They also were exceptional question askers, lived with curiosity, and listened to what people had to say.
[47:31] Their new series Three Things: Wisdom From Strangers captures answers from people contained from all walks of life.
[56:55] Success doesn’t bring us closer, it’s our collective struggles that build deeper relationships.
[67:28] Three things Eric is grateful for:
- The chance to be surrounded by other great men that can mutually respect and stand for each other’s greatness.
- The abundant and nourishing resources from our planet.
- The opportunity to be of service to the world.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
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Mike Robbins on Facebook
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TED Radio Hour
Three Things: Wisdom From Strangers
Live in Wonder
Live in Wonder (book)
The Journey (film)
Today I talk to my friend and colleague of almost 20 years, Vicki Abadesco. As the Co-Founder of of an amazing organization called Soul Shoppe, Vicki brings 30 years as an educator teaching life skills and conflict resolution tools to both young people and adults. She’s also a fellow for the Dalai Lama Center for Ethics and author of the book Free to Be. Vicki talks with us today about what it takes to create a truly safe environment, the growth and impact of Soul Shoppe, and what she has seen shift over the years in the areas of social and emotional learning. She also discusses how we can feel a part of something rather than apart from it and what she and her team are doing to help schools, teams, and people feel more empathy for one another and a true sense of belonging.
Key Takeaways
[4:40] So much of our success is related to our relationships. When we establish deep roots with another person, the connection helps us both grow.
[8:40] You never know who in your network will be able to help you get where you want to go.
[10:20] Soul Shoppe has been around for over 20 years, and their mission is to create safe learning environments that bring forth a culture of compassion, connection, and curiosity. Through this, we can eliminate bullying at the roots. They mainly focus on elementary schools but also do workshops and assemblies with middle schoolers as well.
[12:10] Vicki was a long time educator and always worked with young people, teachers, and those in admin positions to create safety, resolve conflict, and really show up and make a difference in the lives of one another.
[12:53] When we feel nurtured and supported we have more energy and want to thrive. From a productivity standpoint, there is nothing better than a team that feels valued and appreciated.
[14:14] Ask yourself: how can we bring more success to others?
[16:56] Vicki sees the trend in education, moving more towards socio-emotional learning. Instead of imparting wisdom as a one-way street, it’s now important for people to have respect and understanding.
[19:37] While social media and online can connect us to a wider audience faster and easier than ever, depression and anxiety are up. We must be aware of our own mental health and the mental health of others, and also strive to take time out to pay attention to our own emotions and truly connect with those around us.
[30:44] It is so common for people to feel “a part” of something but then also feel “apart” from others. This causes loneliness, isolation, and a greater feeling that we don’t belong. Soul Shoppe gives children a way to just catch their break and get a break from their busy schedule. Here they can share their feelings in a safe environment and learn we are all going through similar challenges.
[43:38] The bully on the playground may be really hurting and just in need of someone to listen and feel empathy. Be curious about others, and they may feel safe to be vulnerable.
Resources:
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Mike Robbins Website
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TED Radio Hour
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff… And It’s All Small Stuff
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Soul Shoppe
Junior Giants
Peaceful Warrior Days
Free to Be: Untold Stories of Going Beyond Bullying, by Vicki Abadesco
This week we welcome Mike Corkery, President and CEO of Deltek, to the show. He and his team at Deltek have created a strong company culture that is focused on authenticity, collaboration, and performance. Mike shares his perspective on leadership and what it takes to create a winning culture. He also talks about career advice for the modern working world, the importance of taking ownership of our careers, and how Deltek’s values inform the way they operate and serve their customers.
Key Takeaways
[2:44] Mike joined Deltek in 2010 initially as the CFO and became the CEO in 2012. Deltek is the leading provider of Software and Solutions for project-based businesses globally. They are well known for the 60% of business in the government space, and 40% in other professional services such as consulting, creative agencies, and architecture.
[5:28] Deltek has just over 3,000 employees, and they are based outside of D.C.
[11:13] Mike’s parents had a huge influence on him as a leader. They ingrained in him a sense of humility and the importance of perseverance.
[15:31] There are times in personal and professional life where we feel we have been thrown into the pool. It’s important to keep swimming and know that success lies on the other end of hard work.
[16:55] Mentors and executive coaches can be instrumental in helping us evolve and stay motivated.
[20:33] Mike sees a shift where rather than focusing on individual contribution, people are looking to draw from experience to feel valued and accomplished in their work. When people can draw experience and are able to build a career, they are more likely to feel loyal and dedicated to their work.
[25:23] It’s up to leaders to make sure they are providing a vibrant opportunity for their team, but also important for employees to be sure they are working at a place they feel excited to work for and where they are aligned with the mission.
[28:26] Deltek puts forth many resources for their team for people to feel empowered and own their own careers. Three items were:
- Organizing and sharing professional development content and resources.
- Developing internal curriculum that help people advance inside of Deltek from a leadership and management perspective.
- Moving away from the performance review process, and more towards regular check-ins to make sure everyone is getting development feedback and engaging in helpful discourse.
[35:13] Deltek has an employee engagement survey process every 18 months, where they get feedback from the team as for what’s working and what’s not. Through that, they create an action plan as to what needs to be addressed and worked on.
[37:06] Three important things Mike thinks about when potentially bringing someone on to the team:
- Can you do the job?
- Are you going to love us?
- Are we going to love you?
[41:01] Deltek has high compassion and high standards that challenge and help others grow. They expect a lot and make sure they are taking good care of each other.
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Deltek
In this episode I talk with author, podcaster, and leadership speaker Dov Baron. He is one of the most passionate and unique people I’ve ever had on the podcast. We talked about his business Full Monty Leadership, what real authenticity looks like, and what gets in the way of our true magnificence. It is a fascinating, intense, and explicit conversation.
Key Takeaways
[4:22] Dov has been an entrepreneur since the early age of 15. He grew up in Northern England in the ghetto, surrounded by violence, crime, and addiction. He made a decision to leave and pursue the study of how quantum physics, psychology, and the metaphysical intersect.
[16:40] Dov points out how in our culture we are made to feel that in order to be “worthy,” we must constantly be buying material possessions and upgrading to keep up with those around us. This comes from a place of feeling broken when really there is nothing wrong with us.
[33:16] Polarity is not a choice, it’s a reaction. The choice is where the power lies.
[36:30] We must really get to the core of the primary driver of our needs. This explains so much of what is really under the things we think we want.
[38:35] One word sums up authenticity: depth. This is an ongoing journey and takes an immense amount of courage.
[43:45] Rejection can scare us, but it doesn’t have to stop us. Human beings are driven by two primary forces — pleasure and pain, and we can use fear and anxiety as motivation.
[47:48] Purpose is about something way bigger than you and making a difference in the world. Hustling is great, so long as it doesn’t distract us from being fully available to tap into our purpose.
[53:44] Application is what creates transformation.
[54:04] Stay tuned for Dov’s new course All At Once, which will help others find their purpose.
Resources:
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Mike Robbins Website
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TED Radio Hour
Full Monty Leadership
When Hustle Isn’t Flow
Leadership and Loyalty Podcast
Dov Baron YouTube
dov@dovbaron.com
Freddy Garcia is the Special Assistant to the President for Diversity Inclusion and Community Engagement at Marist College in New York. His role is to promote inclusion amongst all constituents of the college and to teach others how to really listen with curiosity, openness, and compassion. He joins me today to discuss how he got into this role, what he has seen change in diversity and inclusion over the recent years, and the challenges we are facing now more than ever. We also talk about ways Marist College inspires people to pay attention and take action, and ways we can both honor our differences and find common ground at the same time.
Key Takeaways
[3:57] Freddy was born and raised in the South Bronx of New York City and moved up north to attend Marist College. A first-generation United States citizen, he was also the first in his family to attend college. His family set expectations high by displaying a hard work ethic. Freddy got a job right out of college working in diversity and has stayed intrigued with how deeply it benefits others when you create a culture of understanding and inclusion.
[9:02] In the past decade, Marist college has doubled the amount of non-white attendees. That number went from 13.3% in 2008 to 22.9% in 2018.
[11:43] We tend to stick with what we know and what seems familiar. However, there is much to be gained from branching out. When we ask questions from a place of curiosity, we can find common ground, despite having differences.
[15:57] Freddy’s role as the Special Assistant to the President for Diversity Inclusion and Community Engagement is a Cabinet Leader position that holds a lot of responsibility. It is Freddy’s role to work with faculty, staff, and students of all types to support diversion and inclusion from a place of innovation at every step of the way.
[18:14] It all comes down to people. None of us are experts in what we don’t know about others, but real change happens we try to listen and understand.
[26:24] We must first look inside ourselves to get to know where we stand in the conversation of diversity, and from there we can affect others. We also must realize not everyone engages and discovers their “Oh! I get it!” moment the same way, and inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all approach.
[39:20] It is both a heart-based and business-oriented choice for institutions to be at the forefront of this topic.
[43:38] To use a sports metaphor, when we build a team based on the strengths and unique abilities of individuals, the entire team wins.
Resources:
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Marist College
Freddimir Garcia
Shannon Adkins and I have known each other for almost 20 years, and it’s been fun to see her life and career grow to such great heights. She is the CEO of Future State, an organizational transformation consulting firm and has spent 15 years driving internal innovation and external collaboration. Shannon chats with us today about how her career started, challenges that go along with working with Fortune 500 companies, fostering cultures of engagement and belonging, and why it’s important for leaders to model healthy conflict.
Key Takeaways:
[5:44] Shannon’s previous roles at Wells Fargo and Intuit provided her with examples of great leadership. It is possible for companies to do both engaging work on a large scale and treat their employees with compassion and transparency. This laid the foundation for how she sought to be as a CEO and leader herself.
[12:43] While flexibility and freedom often come with being an entrepreneur, there are times where the stability that comes in working for a large company better suits the situation. It is a personal choice and one that may fluctuate over the span of a career.
[16:31] Shannon has been the President of CEO of Future State for five years. They are a different type of consulting firm — one that is practical, connected, and human-centered. This fits her personal mission to express herself as a leader, mother, entrepreneur and let all parts emerge as she brings her whole self to work and helps organizations in the midst of change.
[18:48] Humans seek psychological trust and safety at work. The more we feel we have that, the more we can relax into the shared vision and shared purpose bigger than our individuality.
[22:12] Shannon and her team discuss their vision and values right from the start in the interview process. They let the candidates know off the bat that they lead with heart and engage with purpose.
[30:24] Great leaders show their team examples of healthy communication even when there is dissent of opinion. When we are transparent about our internal process, it helps others understand our perspective.
[32:25] Just as leaders can benefit from serving in tactical solutions, frontline team members would benefit to share in conversation at the strategic level.
[40:42] When we do the hard work and take the sting out of our own bias and prejudice, we can lead with curiosity and interest. Mandatory diversity training often has the opposite effect and real ownership is what moves the needle.
[51:40] Observing privilege and acknowledging hard work does not have to be mutually exclusive.
[54:54] We must confront the mindset that when an individual gets more it means less for us.
Resources:
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Landmark Worldwide
Shannon Adkins LinkedIn
Future State
Eight Dates
Ashley Goodall, SVP of Leadership and Team Intelligence at Cisco, invites us to think freely about work and life. In this thought-provoking conversation, he discusses how we can challenge today’s conventional wisdom about leadership and focus on what research and experience prove to be effective. He also talks about his partnership with Marcus Buckingham in writing their new book, Nine Lies About Work: A Freethinking Leader’s Guide to the Real World, and what truly matters when it comes to inspiring excellence in ourselves and others.
Key Takeaways:
[4:50] Ashley describes the writing process for his book Nine Lies About Work, which he co-authored with Marcus Buckingham. He would make time for writing on weekends, early mornings and would re-write and go over drafts while traveling for work. Even just setting aside 2-3 hours a week for writing can make a huge difference.
[7:50] Great leaders stay curious about what really works, and how to measure if something is working.
[8:49] Ashley appreciates the perspective that working at large companies gives him, and how they are living examples of creating significant transformation in an environment that intertwines others.
[11:16] Ashley and Marcus wrote Nine Lies About Work to share wisdom from both evidence-based research and on the ground experience.
[18:19] We should focus not only how to give feedback, but how it will help others grow.
[20:43] Excellence is idiosyncratic. We are unreliable raters of other human beings, and since the information of feedback can be highly suspect, the best way to give it and receive it is to understand it comes from the individual’s truth and perspective. The true understanding comes from our own “aha” moment instead of from others telling us what to do.
[28:08] The phrase “Good Job” is the beginning of the conversation, not the end. It gives us a chance to talk about what went right, how to do it again, and possibly how to do it even better.
[35:28] The most important job as a leader is to build and encourage excellence in others.
[38:41] Most of the real world leaders don’t exemplify all (or most of) the qualities that top the lists of characteristics of a leader. Instead, what leaders do have in common is one main thing: they have followers. We must understand what followers look for in their leaders:
- They see themselves in one way or another in their leader.
- The leader provides them assurance about the future.
- The leader displays confidence and has seen around the corner.
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Ashley Goodall
The Feedback Fallacy — Harvard Business Review
Nine Lies About Work: A Freethinking Leader’s Guide to the Real World,
by Marcus Buckingham and Ashley Goodall
Lisa Hufford, Founder, and CEO of the talent solutions company Simplicity Consulting, joins the show today. She and I chat about her interesting story and perspective on how she has grown her company, her book Navigating the Talent Shift, making the transition from corporate to consulting, what qualities and characteristics make a great consultant, and what she sees the most successful managers doing.
Key Takeaways:
[5:27] Even if you don’t see others doing what you want to do, challenge yourself and go after what it is you are seeking. While at Microsoft, Lisa took her position from directing a large sales team to a consultant with contract work. She paved her own path based on using her valuable skills in sales and strategic project management.
[12:08] In consulting, you get to choose who you work with. However, it takes courage, self-discipline, and clarity on your values.
[15:46] When going from a corporate role to consulting, one of the biggest challenges can be the transition of generating the business and managing the administrative side while still growing and taking on new clients.
[21:02] Companies must tap into the right talent pool now, more than ever, with the expanding gig economy providing more options and opportunities for employees.
[23:55] Lisa sees the most successful managers thinking about their Teams and being aware of the opportunity cost of hiring full-time employees.
[31:12] Lisa and her team at Simplicity Consulting work with their clients within the cultural norms and structure communication in a way that works efficiently within their specific company.
[33:51] When transitioning to a consultant role, it is important to set yourself up for success and work first on what you know and where you feel comfortable.
[35:43] Oftentimes roles need to get filled ASAP, and Simplicity Consulting can help provide an On Demand team that provides SPEED (Success, Plan, Execute, Evaluate, Decide).
[40:49] Simplicity Consulting focuses mainly on Marketing, Communications, and Project Management.
[45:23] Seek out brands that align with your values and make you excited to be part of the team.
Resources:
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Navigating the Talent Shift: How to Build On-Demand Teams that Drive Innovation, Control Costs, and Get Results, by Lisa Hufford
Simplicity Consulting
Be You: Five Steps To Living Your Personal Brand, by Lisa Hufford
Best-selling author Kim Scott joins the show again to discuss her important work and bestselling book, Radical Candor. She’s also working on a new book right now - about gender dynamics at work and how radical candor applies to that. She and I discuss this important topic, as well as what has been surprising about her work, and her personal experience as a thought leader and woman working with many top leadership teams. She also gives practical advice on how we can engage more, be allies at work, and care about people personally while challenging them directly.
Key Takeaways:
[7:13] Radical Candor is about treating others with respect and compassion and challenging them directly at the same time. A common misconception is that a boss is not being “nice” or “kind” by giving an employee criticism but often times people are shocked when they are let go and they feel blindsided that no one had helped them grow.
[9:14] When we solicit feedback, we come at it with a growth mindset. When we feel as though it’s being directed at us without any end goal or reason, we often become defensive or push back.
[13:09] We have to bring emotional intelligence to the conversation and express care in a larger cultural context.
[17:01] We shouldn’t spare short-term feelings for long-term growth.
[25:00] One of the areas where we need radical candor the most but solicit it the least are issues of diversity, inclusion, and gender.
[26:20] Kim shares the powerful experience of a time in her career was when she was accused of creating a hostile work environment.
[37:39] Great leaders make an effort to prevent people from saying hurtful things for the greater good of the entire team, and company. They hold upstanders accountable and follow through with holding everyone accountable.
[50:01] The 5 Ds of standing up as a bystander:
- Direct
- Distract
- Delegate
- Delay
- Document
[57:15] When we are talking about issues and beliefs, it can elicit a very emotional response. This is why it’s very important to tell the truth and shed light on issues but with compassion and understanding.
[58:02] The way you express radical candor is different when you are expressing unconscious prejudice vs. conscious beliefs. You must make sure you are attending to your own personal dignity first.
[66:57] We tend to generalize erroneously. Managing against this is important.
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Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity, by Kim Scott
HollaBack!
Thinking Fast and Slow, by Daniel Kahneman
RadicalCandor.com
Kevin Kruse is a New York Times bestselling author and entrepreneur who has a mission of reaching over 100 million leaders. He joins me on the show this week to talk about his new book, Great Leaders Have No Rules, adapting a leadership strategy in modern society and creating conversations that lead to deeper clarity and understanding about values.
Key Takeaways:
[4:47] As a graduate of Rutgers University, Kevin was the first in his family to go to college. He is originally from Orange County but his family moved out to the East Coast in his teenage years.
[12:02] In using baseball as an analogy for business, shortening the season may have benefits, but it’s important to keep sight on how revenue would continue to be generated.
[12:50] In this fast-paced and ever-changing society, great organizations learn to modify and adjust how they do business and engage with their customers.
[14:20] The stronger the connection is internally between leaders and their team, the greater the customer experience will be.
[17:21] Great leadership starts in the hiring process with the right people aligned with the company values and goals.
[18:09] Kevin’s inspiration to flip the script on traditional leadership led him to write his new book, Great Leaders Have No Rules.
[20:14] Every time we bump into a rule, it shorts us of making a decision and makes us feel less involved.
[22:04] Rules crowd out relationships.
[24:04] Rules start from a good place, but over time, when the rule is broken or unmet, it causes defensiveness and dishonesty.
[25:33] A conversation must be had about the expectations and boundaries within the rules. The more a team understands why the rules are there in the first place, the more likely they are to be compliant.
[26:07] Set boundaries as a team.
[26:33] When we bump into a rule it is not the end of the world but an opportunity for feedback and a teachable moment.
[36:47] Constant screen time impacts our ability to be immersed in the moment and connect fully with others. In Kevin’s Chapter, “Turn off Your Smartphones,” he proposes checking it to process the information and then setting it aside.
[38:59] LeadX created an experimental AI-powered executive coach who can answer questions and give action items based on leadership and management essentials.
[45:55] Kevin’s goal is to work with a team and impact over 100 million leaders.
Resources:
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KevinKruse.com
Adam Silver and Bill Simmons
Leadx.org
Great Leaders Have No Rules: Contrarian Leadership Principles to Transform Your Team and Business, by Kevin Kruse
Marc Lesser is someone who sits right at the crux of what has become a huge moment in the business world, bringing mindfulness into work. He shares how a book about baking bread ended up leading him to a Zen Monastery in San Francisco and forever changed his life. He also talks about his Executive Coaching and Leadership Development work, the Search Inside Yourself Program and his work with Google, and why more businesses are now mixing the practical and the mystic. He also gives us some great information from his new book Seven Principles of a Mindful Leader and how work gives us a great opportunity to practice mindfulness and awareness.
Key Takeaways:
[7:04] Marc jumped fully into the mindfulness world when he was quite young. What he thought would be a one year break from Rutgers University in the early 1970s, instead ended up with his living at a Zen Center in San Francisco.
[10:19] One of the things that came as a surprise to Marc while in Tassajara was the realization of how important work was. He found the focus of work itself and was a practice in mindfulness.
[15:35] Marc went back and finished his undergraduate degree at Rutgers and then got his MBA at NYU. He took a great interest in learning more about leadership roles that were socially aware responsible.
[18:51] Marc explains the difference between Zen and Buddism, and how it came to be that more Zen communities formed in the 1960s in San Francisco.
[22:26] Marc founded BrushDance, a greeting card and calendar company, one of the first companies in the world to make items out of recycled paper. He loved how the company married art and words in a tangible product.
[25:43] After leaving BrushDance, Marc followed a path of becoming an executive coach. He now had the experience of running a business and felt that was crucial to truly be able to lead his clients in the right direction.
[31:06] Marc teamed up with Google’s Meng and Norman Fischer to develop the Search Inside Yourself Program. They were now teaching mindfulness to a very different environment and Marc describes it as a steep learning curve.
[33:49] Marc feels as though mindfulness is so popular right now in the business world because we are seeing that in order for a business to be successful there is a need for emotional intelligence and collaboration. Where we once thought we should take the human mask off, now we see it needs to be on.
[36:08] Marc and Meng launched the Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute and created it with the intention to make the program more available inside of Google and to serve as a vehicle to bring mindfulness to an already very successful business team.
[39:30] The Seven Practices of a Mindful Leader:
- Love the work.
- Do the work.
- Don’t be an expert.
- Connect to your pain.
- Connect to the pain of others.
- Depend on others.
- Keep making it simpler.
[43:02] We are seeing the world of business and even athletics merge more with the personal growth and spiritual world.
[45:16] We shouldn’t assume someone will not be into learning more about mindfulness or develop an “us” vs. “them” mentality. We don’t know what others are thinking and feeling, and it’s important to approach others with a curiosity and openheartedness.
[47:43] The roles we have matter but underneath that, it’s important to look at how we are developing our own self.
Resources:
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Wisdom 2.0 Conference
The Zen Of Business Administration
Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute
Seven Principles of a Mindful Leader
The Tassajara Bread Book
Tassajara
“How Businesses Can Make the World a Better Place”
Social Venture Network
Blaire Palmer, author of three books, including What’s Wrong with Work, host of the podcast A Brilliant Gamble, and founder of That People Thing, joins the show this week to talk about her fascinating background into the world of coaching, speaking, and writing. From a start in radio at the BBC, to owning her coaching business, Blaire helps leaders bring about significant change in their organization and life. We talk about what’s wrong with work and what we can do to make it better. She also gives some examples of great leaders and organizations that get it right, how we can better understand the evolution of our workforce, and where to begin when taking bold action.
Key Takeaways:
[4:26] Blaire was always fascinated by the media, and particularly radio. She worked her way up in commercial radio to a few key positions, including the producer role on the well-known BBC show Woman’s Hour.
[6:22] As we go along in our life and careers, our idea of the “dream job” changes. Blaire saw that coaching was more of a fit than broadcasting so she left the BBC and started to run a coaching business.
[7:28] Leaders face more pressure today than ever.
[8:01] Blaire’s focus is two-part: to support others in an ever-changing work environment and to help them find a way to get more creative in how they work and find value out of their contribution.
[11:28] In a future where AI and bots are very much real, organizations need to keep up. Blaire sees most companies running on an antiquated model. This leads to less productivity, wasted time through too many meetings, and putting profit over customer and employee needs.
[16:49] We need to manage people because we don’t think their heart is in the right place, and we don’t trust them. This is why Blaire calls for companies to manage the process, not the people.
[22:12] When companies employ the self-management technique, employees will seek advice, but in the end the decision is theirs.
[27:02] It’s important to ask the right questions before even taking a jump. What does work mean to you? What does work mean to your family? What are you really looking for — freedom? Time? Financial freedom? These important questions will get answers aligned with what the outcome is you seek from taking a risk.
[36:02] It doesn’t even need to be a huge jump. If you like dipping a toe in the waters first, try to stay connected with your company and possibly move to a consultant role.
[48:15] Shaking things up takes a willingness to try without a guaranteed outcome, and vulnerability.
[48:46] Blaire decided to shake things up herself and travel in an RV with her daughter. The experience was great and she also discovered two very important lessons. First, you take “you” with you wherever you go. Second, freedom looks different to everyone.
Resources:
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TED Radio Hour
Woman’s Hour
What’s Wrong With Work, by Blaire Palmer
Zappos
That People Thing
A Brilliant Gamble
As the Chief Experience Officer and co-founder of CivicActions, Aaron is dedicated to creating and supporting a culture of excellence, compassion, and authenticity. A longtime friend of mine, Aaron and I have intersected throughout many different points of our lives and careers. In this episode, we talk about how he blended his experience in the worlds of personal growth, tech, politics, and business to create CivicActions with Henry Poole. We also discuss the differences he witnessed in going from partnering with client in the nonprofit world to government. And, we talk about his time working in the White House with the U.S. Digital Service. Aaron sees the importance of organizational culture as a transformative agent and knows that the more we work together, the stronger we become.
Key Takeaways:
[6:18] Aaron has had a deep interest in personal growth for quite some time. He is passionate about using his skills in communication to foster healthy relationships and help others realize and accomplish their goals.
[7:13] San Francisco has been a part of Aaron’s family for many years and also a large part of his background in tech and ability to see what’s on the forefront of the modern digital era.
[8:12] Aaron co-founded CivicActions in 2004, with technologist Henry Poole whom he appreciates for his brilliant tech and business acumen. As the Chief Experience Officer, he is responsible for company culture and professional development.
[10:14] Just a few of CivicActions clients include Departments of Agriculture, Education, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Justice & Veterans Affairs, Executive Office of the President, Federal Communications Commission, House of Representatives, Smithsonian National Museum, and California DMV. They had two tracks: to build a public infrastructure with content management systems that fostered openness and to empower the constituents in a network.
[16:41] Aaron and I both saw Barack Obama speak, and wondered if one day he could possibly run for President.
[17:31] Great leaders recognize that the people we meet can be helpful to us and we can be helpful to them, at many stages along our careers. As you transition through your career and grow, it’s important to build a network of others that you respect and admire.
[20:43] Aaron and Henry took a look at what they thought was the most needed and it was clear — to raise the consciousness of the world and connect us with the impact our actions have on our earth and each other. They chose the vehicle to be the government and took a strong interest in modernizing the government and creating a more open and transparent space.
[27:13] CivicActions is a fully distributed team, and everyone works out of their home office. Aaron and his family live in Costa Rica and he is able to make a great living while working remotely.
[33:20] Aaron gives us the inside look at working in the White House during the Obama administration. He was brought on to work in the United States Digital Team and worked to help them spread the word and principles for creating a culture of inclusiveness and productivity.
[45:38] Despite the craziness in the White House today, Aaron sees firsthand the amount of talented and dedicated public servants still there.
Resources:
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TED Radio Hour
CivicActions
Aaron Pava LinkedIn
Henry Poole
Wisdom Course
Green Wisdom: A Guide for Anyone to Start, Engage and Energize a Sustainability Team,
by Nikki Pava
In today’s episode, the first official one with the new name of the podcast (We’re All In This Together), I reconnect with my friend and former teammate, Chris Draft. Chris played baseball with me back at Stanford when he came in as a freshman in 1995. A two-sport athlete, Chris also played football at Stanford and then went on to have an incredible, 12-year professional football career in the NFL. Today, we talk about the characteristics of great teams. We also discuss Chris’s dedication to using his platform to educate and inspire others, as well as how he’s turned tragedy into purpose in his life.
Key Takeaways:
[0:58] The name of the podcast has changed to We’re All In This Together (which is the title of the new book I’m working on). The show will remain the same for the most part but will also include more about creating a positive team culture and why every role matters.
[2:01] It wasn’t easy to come in as a freshman and play on the Stanford baseball team, but Chris did it. In 1995 we were ranked #1 in the country and went to the College World Series. He also was a star football player and went on to have a 12-year career in the NFL.
[2:52] In addition to his success on the field, Chris started a foundation in 2006 and used his platform to raise money and awareness in.
[3:17] Chris retired in 2010, and experienced a sudden and shocking loss when his wife passed away in 2011 due to lung cancer. He decided to take that pain and turn it into his own mission and continues to focus on helping the community of those struggling with cancer and their families.
[6:10] Chris grew up in Anaheim and was a football player in high school as well. He taught himself defense and would be moved around in the game to fill in different positions that were necessary for the team.
[11:44] Chris gave his everything to both teams, and would often practice for two hours at baseball and then leave for two hours of football practice. He knew that in order to give his best at one, he had to make the tough decision to commit to football.
[16:22] Chris got drafted by the NFL in 1998 and loved the feeling of being connected to a community.
[27:22] The best teams know they have a job to do, and appreciate every role in the team. When we are engaged fully helping the team win and understand our roles, magic happens.
[32:43] One of the biggest blessings in Chris’s life was the ability to walk beside his wife during her fight with lung cancer. He got to see first hand her strength and was grateful to be there with her and take that experience to
[44:27] Chris had started his foundation in 2006, with a focus on bridging the players and the community. Their campaign to Change the Face of Lung Cancer was to stress the importance of research along with prevention, and give confidence to the survivors that they are not alone.
[52:37] The Foundation was also inspired by two people with cancer who showed immense strength and character that also is a key component of success in the NFL.
Resources:
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Chris Draft Family Foundation
Team Draft
George Stewart
Sam Bennett is a creativity and productivity expert, author, and a woman who proudly won’t be under fluorescent office lights for too long. Today, we talk about her background in acting and her time at The Second City in Chicago, and how those experiences helped guide her to a profession that helps others identify and call forth their own creative genius. We also talk about the difference between creativity and artistic ability, some tips to overcome procrastination, and how we can begin to have more meaning and impact right where we are.
Key Takeaways:
[4:04] Samantha explains that she decides to go by Sam on her books because men still sell more books than women.
[9:08] Sam is a true theater kid at heart, and while at Second City from 1986 to 1994 she worked almost every job possible in the building in addition to being an actor and performer.
[14:03] While attending college and university certainly has benefits and opportunities, it is not the only path to success. What matters, even more, is a drive to work hard and keep going, making the right connections and telling yourself a story of success rather than limitation.
[20:17] Sam knew she wasn’t cut out for full-time office life and was a trendsetter in the gig economy. When she got a job at the Sam Christensen Studios in identity definition and personal branding, she felt a calling and loved she had the ability to help others express the truth of who they really are. This set her on a path to create a workshop called “Get It Done,” and the rest is history.
[23:37] Her book, Get it Done, explains that while there is no one way for multi-talented creatives to make the best decisions with a surefire success rate, we can break things down into chunks and tackle them one small step at a time.
[25:03] There is a difference between creative and artistic. We all have creative genius inside of us. Often times we take it for granted because it’s no big deal to us, and feels just as natural as the air we breathe.
[30:01] One of Sam’s great tips: turn your feelings into art. Dance, sing, write, or draw a picture and capture how you feel through colors, textures, and shape.
[33:50] Procrastination has many different reasons underneath it. First, you just actually may not want to do it, and it’s a “should” you could even remove from your responsibilities. Second, it seems too big and daunting. This is where Sam advises trying taking the smallest possible baby step for 15 minutes a day and seeing after some time if it is worth proceeding in the present moment.
[38:09] We need time and space to create.
[42:53] Sam’s next work will really dive into creative dichotomies when two things are equally true and they appear to be opposite. She has experienced that we don’t have to choose one route, but try to bring these two things closer together and surf the tension between them.
[44:50] Goals and deadlines can help us create accountability and a realistic timeline.
[50:28] We have many more opportunities for creativity and creation in our life than we think we do. One way to get started right away is to ask yourself: “How can I show up 10% more today?”
[53:01] Start Right Where You Are reminds us to use the resources, people, and opportunities around us right now to move forward on the path towards our dreams.
[54:59] Spend 15 minutes a day before you check your email on the projects that matter most to you.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
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Mike Robbins Podcast
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TED Radio Hour
The Importance of Every Role and Person on the Team
Get It Done: From Procrastination to Creative Genius in 15 Minutes a Day, by Sam Bennett
Start Right Where You Are: How Little Changes Can Make a Big Difference for Overwhelmed Procrastinators, Frustrated Overachievers, and Recovering Perfectionists, by Sam Bennett
Beautiful Writers Podcast
Second City
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, by Elizabeth Gilbert
The Real Sam Bennett
Conflict is inevitable in relationships, with teams, at work, and in life. My guest today is an expert in compassionate leadership and conflict resolution. Nate Regier is an author, speaker, psychologist, and the CEO of a consulting company called Next Element. He shares with us how his unique upbringing shaped his view of compassion and drove him to develop a methodology to better solve conflict without casualties. He explains what the compassion cycle is and how we can resolve even the most difficult conflicts at work and at home. And, when we do this, our teams.
Key Takeaways:
[4:54] Nate’s family did missionary work in Africa, which led to him living there and attending an ambassador school that represented 35 nationalities. He knows firsthand what it is like to exist in a culture with different perspectives and languages.
[7:40] Nate has had to reconcile the two driving forces inside him of being both very competitive and goal-oriented versus the ethnic setting of pacificism and peace.
[13:43] Nate and his team started Next Element when they saw a great need for a model that encouraged mental health mixed with productivity in the workplace.
[16:45] We often think that conflict needs to be managed, mediated, or reduced when it is simply just a gap between what we want and what we are experiencing. It is neither good or bad, but the gap takes on energy depending on how we assign and label it. At Next Element, Nate and his team look at what people do with the energy, and the psychological behavioral dynamic behind the gap.
[18:04] Conflict becomes destructive when we bring our need to be justified in, along with the conditions of being okay that we put on each other.
[24:04] It’s the uncomfortable conversations inside the room that get messy, but these are also the ones that truly address and solve conflict.
[25:49] A compassion cycle is made up of three core skills that people can learn to apply and manifest compassion: openness, resourcefulness, and persistence.
[27:37] A common conflict in the workplace is unmet expectations. When the team has developed a safe environment, they can begin to be curious about what is at stake, how both parties are feeling, and the true emotions attached to the situation.
[43:12] Nate’s new book, Seeing People Through is about looking through the lens of dealing with individual differences in an authentic manner.
[44:58] LinkedIn is one example of a company Nate feels is doing it right in the area of team development and conflict resolution.
Resources:
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TED Radio Hour
Conflict without Casualties: A Field Guide for Leading with Compassionate Accountability,
by Nate Regier, Ph.D.
Beyond Drama: Transcending Energy Vampires, by Nathan Regier, Ph.D., and Jeff King, MSW
Next Element
Leadership and Self Deception: Getting Out of the Box, by the Arbinger Institute
Nate’s Blog
Liz Fosslein and Mollie West Duffy join the show to talk about the inspiration behind their fantastic new book, No Hard Feelings, and how we understand and integrate our emotions at work. They share insights about how we can communicate successfully in today’s diverse global business environment, some practical tips to strengthen your team’s connection, and why your company may benefit from having a crying room.
Key Takeaways:
[4:43] Liz and Mollie met when Liz was going on platonic friend dates as she just arrived in NYC. Liz is an information designer and illustrator, and Mollie is an organizational designer.
[9:09] The more global and connected our organizations become, the more we need to understand that different cultures and locations process negative feedback and communication differently.
[13:26] In their new book No Hard Feelings, Liz and Mollie have created foundational guides and resources for strengthening social awareness and relationship management.
[16:44] We have five generations working together for the first time in history: Silent Generation, Boomers, GenX, Millennials, and GenZ. It is important to find the right balance and share our information across generations to help each other.
[24:37] Leadership does demand some level of extroversion, but the most powerful leaders we have come to know in society have the traits of an introvert. It is crucial to be open about your preferences if you need alone time or blocked off days for reflection.
[29:53] Sending agendas out before gives introverts time to process their thoughts ahead of time.
[33:17] Women receive much less specific feedback than men, and the small nuances of how we interact are still designed by men.
[39:23] Crying is not always sadness. It is a signal of caring, anger and even passion.
[43:29] We try and suppress our feeling of envy or jealousy when really that gives us great information on what we may really want.
[47:27] No Hard Feelings is meant to help others understand we are going to have an array of emotions and we can use them to bring out the best of us and others around us rather than pretending they don’t exist.
[48:59] Creating the space to have conversations and process emotions is extremely important.
Resources:
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Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
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Mike Robbins on Instagram
TED Radio Hour
No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work, by Liz Fosslien
and Mollie West Duffy
Six Illustrations That Show What It’s Like In An Introvert’s Head
Liz
Mollie
IDEO
Chip Conley
Gretchen Rubin
Claude Silver takes her title as the Chief Heart Officer of VaynerMedia quite literally. Her role at the firm started by Gary Vaynerchuk is to bridge the gap between a winning team, great work, and deep connections amongst the human beings involved. Today, she talks about how she brings authenticity into her work, the importance of empathy in company culture, and how to approach tough conversations at work and in life.
Key Takeaways:
[4:40] Claude has quite a large team at VaynerMedia, made up of 900 human beings. She thinks of HR as the “heart” of a company and takes the responsibility on for leading the way to infuse self-awareness, kindness, and empathy into their everyday work. Through in-person meetings, she is able to assess cultural patterns and social nuances that are going well and those that may need a boost.
[6:02] Claude is very proud to work with Gary Vaynerchuk and feels there is no one quite like him in the advertising agency business. He demonstrates the important qualities that leaders should possess to inspire and ignite the team on the frontlines.
[9:34] Claude finds that creativity comes when we are in the flow and focused on activities that expand and open our mind and hearts. She has been known to ask her team to bring in poetry that inspires them, just to get out of the everyday grind and into the space of creation and imagination.
[12:53] Human beings are wired to connect and be in a community. Great leaders create a safe space by also providing areas that their team members can go to be accepted and feel as though they belong.
[19:36] We are all capable to extend generosity and compassion, no matter where we came from.
[26:44] Giving feedback from a place of cognitive empathy and understanding is a gift and an act of caring. Often times “nice” is code that we don’t want people upset with us, or to rock the boat by challenging them. However, even when our feedback does come with specific action items to move forward, it’s ultimately up to the individual to motivate themselves.
[33:34] Claude works with her team to create a culture of meritocracy and family first. They want their teammates to be champions, and while culture needs to be blessed from the top, it is everyone’s responsibility to grow and stay true to the mission.
[39:12] A large part of success as a corporation is the ability for the workers to feel the safety net of having a space to speak with candor, and that they are valued. The more interconnected different teams can be, the more everyone realizes their role is important to the overall success.
Resources:
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TED Radio Hour
Claude Silver
VaynerMedia
Claude Silver Twitter
Claude Silver LinkedIn
“Why Belonging Matters”
Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity, by Kim Scott
Plain and simple, Keith White loves people. As the Division EVP of Loss Prevention and Global Sustainability at Gap Inc., he lives and breathes making a difference in the lives of his team. In our conversation, Keith shares some of his fascinating career journey, how the ideals of inclusion and belonging apply to teamwork, and why we can look at diversity and differences as opportunities for growth and connection. We also discuss the fundamentals of leadership, why he encourages mentorship, how he deals with challenges, and his principles for high performance
Key Takeaways:
[3:44] It’s not about just managing people towards a goal or expectation, it’s about making sure they are comfortable and that they feel confident with their training. When we take care of the small fundamentals, it helps us create a platform to jump to the bigger things.
[5:04] A servant-minded approach is that they can always come and ask for help or resources.
[5:54] Loss prevention represented the perfect opportunity for Keith to meld together his two interests of law enforcement and business leadership.
[11:28] Leaders must set the tone for inclusion and belonging first before they expect it from their team.
[14:47] Oftentimes we see diversity as what may be taken away, or why we are different, but Keith sees it as an opportunity that can propel us forward.
[22:39] When we are interested in others authentically, it takes us from our differences and puts the focus more on a human-to-human connection.
[32:06] A stretch goal or ‘North Star’ usually makes the annual objectives look much more achievable.
[34:23] There is a huge difference between mentoring and sponsoring. While a mentor gets to know someone and helps them with their skills, a sponsor will advocate for them, and go the extra mile to be in the room fighting for their person.
[39:08] Leaders need to step outside themselves and take a broad look at who could best benefit from sponsorship and those looking for an advocate should also look for someone that feels could really understand their potential and help them grow and go after opportunities.
[41:56] One thing Keith loves about Gap Inc. is how committed they are to supporting communities and shaping leaders of tomorrow.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
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Keith White LinkedIn
GapInc
In today’s global business environment, there is a crucial need to reframe the way we think about diversity and inclusion. Eric Severson, Chief People Officer at DaVita, returns to the podcast for an impactful discussion on the concept of belonging, and why it matters so much in business today. Through his roles at DaVita, Gap Inc., and Macy’s, Eric has been a key leader throughout his career in developing innovative strategies and communities that foster belonging. Eric discusses why belonging is critical for an engaged culture, the challenge most diversity programs face, and ways to shift our mindset into connecting at an even deeper human level.
Key Takeaways:
[5:07] The concept of diversity and inclusion began in the United States during the landmark legislation that arose during the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Employers shifted their focus to being compliant with the movement in inclusion to avoid charges of discrimination and lawsuits.
[7:58] Belonging is such a universal need and desire that it is mentioned in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.
[10:08] The beauty of developing a culture of belonging in both our professional and personal lives is that we are able to connect on the human level. This erases the emphasis on distinction and the “us vs. them” mindset and instead, highlights our common similarities.
[13:34] An engaged workforce and customer population is one that not only welcomes people from all backgrounds but one that also is aware of ways they don’t. This is only when they can actively make strides in customizing the system to accommodate all.
[23:08] A culture of belonging also encourages us not to judge our implicit cognitive bias but to understand it and really take in how it affects our decision making.
[24:08] There is fear among some that their opportunities will be taken away in diversity programs. This can be alleviated by showing programs that create more opportunity for all and an environment with equal expectations of high performance.
[31:27] In this ever-growing world of global communications and connection, success is found in asking the right questions that lead to finding common ground.
[42:37] Airbnb is a great example in the movement of belonging and feeling welcomed no matter where you find yourself throughout the world.
[44:39] At DaVita Village, leaders encourage everyone to identify a time in their life that they did not belong. This leads us to get in touch with the core emotions and attitudes of what it feels like to be on the outside.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
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Performance for Life with Eric Severson
Eric Severson on Twitter
Eric Severson on LinkedIn
DaVita
The New Year is a great time to clean the slate, set new intentions, and get super clear on goals. Today, I will be talking about some subtle yet profound shifts we can make to focus on how we can step into this year with positive momentum. We talk about the power of positive intention, the balance between vigilance and allowance, and some questions to ask yourself as you create and experience your highest vision of your life in 2019 and beyond.
Key Takeaways:
[3:10] When we set intentions and goals and focus on the positive rather than a negative, we create space for positive outcomes.
[8:05] As we set our intentions and goals, we can establish trackable actions and practices to keep us on a steady path. It is a balance of staying vigilant to our goals, and relaxing to trust and allow the blessings and opportunities unfold organically in our life.
[12:31] When we lose a loved one, we often are gifted with the lesson of investing in the people and experiences that really matter most, rather than spending our time sweating the small stuff.
[13:55] Ask yourself: what it is that you want, and why it is important? What can you gain from getting or obtaining this goal?
[15:53] Often times, relationships, jobs and material wealth are really just ways we seek connection, vitality and joy.
[28:20] Spend time reflecting on what it is you want to create and experience this year, and also what habits are you willing to let go of to let the new and higher value results in.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
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The Secrets of High Performing Teams with Pat Lencioni
Nothing Changes Until You Do
Setting Intentions for a Successful New Year
New Year: Be You
TED Radio Hour
A Year to Live by Stephen Levine
This week I am honored and fired up to be speaking with Patrick Lencioni. Pat is the founder of The Table Group, author of 11 books which have sold over five million copies, and one of the world’s leading experts in team performance and organizational health. His mega-bestselling book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, is one of the best books ever written on the subject and continues to be on the Wall Street Journal bestseller list, even 16 years after it was released. His latest book is called The Ideal Team Player.
In this interview, Pat talks about what got him interested in the subject of teamwork and leadership, gives a glimpse into writing his writing process, and shares some specific tips that allow leaders and teams to thrive. We also talk about how to create a culture where people put the needs of the team, organization, and vision above their own, and why vulnerability is key to trust.
Key Takeaways:
[3:31] Pat discusses the two seminal experiences that interested him to seek a path working in leadership and organizational health. The first was in his youth witnessing his dad complain about the management at his own job, and the second was working at a management firm and seeing the need to fix dysfunction from the inside out before adding even more projects to the list.
[4:56] The Five Dysfunctions of a Team came out in 2002; Pat explains why his books tend to sell better over time. They are short, compelling, and there are truth and soundness in the model. People discover that the methods work and spread the information by word of mouth.
[6:53] Pat has been a writer from his early adolescent days, and he was the first to go to college in his family. He took his love of writing to creating and developing books where he could help others and give them permission to be authentic.
[12:01] The team’s performance is what matters most. We must care about the team’s overall performance first and foremost and yet it is common for employees to defend their own department.
[14:13] There are moments where we do need to defend our team because we think it is for the overall good of the mission. The key is to be transparent about the need to defend your department and upfront about why you feel this way.
[17:19] We build trust by showing others that we are vulnerable and take accountability for our actions. It is important to create a culture where leadership displays vulnerability for others to model and show that it does get rewarded.
[20:12] Pat names his company’s core values, which he later discovered were the prerequisites to overcoming the five dysfunctions: Be humble, hungry to go above and beyond, and smart about how you treat people and how it impacts them.
[23:37] When it comes to organizational health and a culture that breeds pride, just because it’s not quantifiable or tangible doesn’t mean it’s doesn’t make a huge difference.
[31:39] We must slow down to go fast. The more we detach from our adrenaline addiction, the more time and space we have to create the life we really want.
[35:42] Pat got sage advice early on to not let work get in the way of his family and involvement at home.
Resources:
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Pat Lencioni
The Table Group
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, by Patrick Lencioni
Getting Naked: A Business Fable About Shedding The Three Fears That Sabotage Client Loyalty, by Patrick Lencioni
The Ideal Team Player: How to Recognize and Cultivate The Three Essential Virtues, by Patrick Lencioni
If you’ve ever attended a play, sporting event, or concert, chances are you paid primary attention to the people on the stage or field, but not as much to all the people behind the scenes working to pull off what made the event so fantastic. Whether it’s an organization of 3 people or a group of 3,000, we thrive at work when everyone does their part. On this week’s episode, we talk about teamwork and collaboration, the distinction between our job and our role, why we must embrace the specific role we have and appreciate others if we’re going to be able to win and sustain success.
Key Takeaways:
[5:36] During a recent trip to see the Broadway Show Anastasia, I couldn’t help but notice the amazing people that went into the whole production. The lead star was important, but the “support cast” of the orchestra, costumes, lighting also all helped to make this story so captivating. This is a metaphor for work — sometimes we are the star, often times we are supporting the mission. Whatever level it’s at, it’s important to recognize that everyone’s role matters.
[10:43] Every role is fundamental in the overall collective.
[13:31] There is a difference between our job and our role. Our job is to help the team win. Our role is the actual set of skills and responsibilities we have within our organization.
[16:57] Sometimes we like our role and feel it’s a fit for our level of qualifications; other times we wish we were somewhere else. We must determine if our role is something we can make work for us and if not, move on towards one that is. Whining does us and our team no good.
[18:37] Our first team is the team we are a member of, and the second team is the one we manage. When you get leadership teams that are aligned, collaboration and accountability flow easily.
[23:01] Not only are we in this together, but operating from that place makes us thrive. One of the most powerful ways we can do that is to appreciate each other.
[28:41] When we show people our appreciation, it makes them feel valuable in their role.
Resources:
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Mike Robbins Podcast
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“The Power of Giving with Scott Harrison, Founder of Charity Water”
Join the Spring — Monthly Giving Community with Charity Water
Anastasia
Conscious Business: How to Build Value through Values, by Fred Kofman
Pat Lencioni
The Power of Kindness
Today’s episode covers something the world can use a whole lot more of right now — kindness. The media loves to continue the narrative that the world is unsafe, full of conflict, and divided. And while there is some truth to this, as I travel around the country and the world, and interact with lots of different groups and people, I see something else. There is lots of kindness and compassion going on around us already and sometimes it helps just to tune in and connect with it rather than getting swept up in stress and drama. On this episode, we talk about the power of kindness, why it really starts with ourselves, and how we can bring compassion to work (and life) in an authentic and useful way.
Key Takeaways:
[2:30] As I work on my new book, We’re All In This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Inclusion (working title), the importance and power of kindness is something that rises up to me as an extremely important asset of company culture and thriving as a human.
[6:10] Kindness drives the outcome that we want. The kinder we are, the more others will feel safe, heard, and open to connecting.
[6:29] Kindness starts with us. In order to radiate compassion out into the world, we must appreciate and be kind to ourselves.
[6:58] It is a humbling experience to see people of all different backgrounds and beliefs come together to help one another in a time of a crisis. The recent fires in California were an example of people reaching out to give what they had to those that needed it.
[11:45] It’s easy to have animosity and it’s part of the human experience in this modern day. Holiday rush, travel, even family can cause stress and friction in times where we need kindness most.
[13:11] There is a difference between being kind, and being nice. While kindness is authentic and stems from empathy, niceness can often sweep issues under the rug. This leaves important dynamics to still be acknowledged and the core of the issue still ignored.
[18:50] It feels good to appreciate others for their service and good behavior without expecting anything in return.
[20:16] The more we are authentically kind with ourselves, the more it paves the way for others to do the same.
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- “It’s hard to hate people up close.” @mikedrobbins
Resources:
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“The Power of Giving with Scott Harrison, Founder of Charity Water”
Join the Spring — Monthly Giving Community with Charity Water
Good Life Project
Seth Godin
Be a Force for Good
On this special Giving Tuesday episode I have the honor of talking to Scott Harrison, founder of Charity Water. For the past 12 years, Scott and his team have worked in 26 countries to help 8.4 million people get clean water. The water crisis is one of the largest humanitarian issues on the planet - there are still 663 million people without access to clean water in the world.
On today’s show, Scott shares his remarkable journey from New York City nightclub promoter and addict, to founding Charity Water and transforming his life. He talks about Charity Water’s important mission, shares personal stories about the impact of their work, and invites all of us to help by joining The Spring, a community of monthly donors worldwide supporting the live-saving work Charity Water is doing.
Key Takeaways:
[4:08] Charity Water is focused passionately to end the water crisis. Based in New York City, they started 12 years ago, and seek to bring clean water to the 663 Million people currently affected by the water crisis, drinking contaminated water.
[6:22] Giving Tuesday was a response to the commercialization of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
[11:13] Dirty water harms more people in the world than all forms of violence. Many women suffer from violence, rape, and animal attacks as they travel far from their home seeking clean water.
[14:43] Scott referred to his former self as a “degenerate, disgusting club rat in New York City.” He attended NYU and promoted at nightclubs on the side. On the outside, he had material wealth, but on the inside, he felt emotionally and spiritually empty and knew he needed to turn his life around and rediscover faith.
[23:29] Scott shares the story of his choice to follow the humanitarian path, and how he did join a mission as a photojournalist and writer, but still had to pay his way. He went cold turkey on all his vices and sailed away to Liberia on a 52-year-old, 522-foot ocean liner that was gutted and now a giant hospital ship. He soon realized that no one in the country had running water, sewage or even running electricity with one doctor for every 50,000 people. He then made it his life’s mission to both provide everyone on the planet with drinking water, and create the perfect charity that people could trust.
[32:58] The core principles of Charity Water are:
- A business model where 100% of all donations went directly to the cause and the work itself.
- The ability to prove that the money donated had an actual impact.
- A well-designed and excellent charity with language focused on building a culture of generosity and blessing.
- The actual work on the ground must be led by the locals in each of this country. They would get the credit and be the heroes.
[42:47] More leaders and celebrities are donating their birthday to raise funds for specific campaigns, and Scott talks about raising $59,000 when he donated his birthday one year.
[51:13] The Spring Community arose when Charity Water wanted to connect members of the community and create an ongoing dialog of how much their donation helps. They anchored it at $30/month, and it has grown to over 104 countries around the world.
Resources:
Join The Spring - Monthly Giving Community for Charity Water
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Charity Water
Thirst
Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls
Nexus
Rachel’s Gift
Charity Water Video
Today’s solo episode focuses on the importance of team chemistry and culture. Regardless of how much talent a team has, the strategy, or even the value of the specific service or product being created and offered, without a strong culture, a team can’t truly succeed. I share some principles and examples of great culture, and ideas for what you can do to infuse your team with winning chemistry.
Key Takeaways:
[1:50] Announcement! I have signed on to write my next book with the wonderful publisher, Hay House Business. The working title, subject to change, is We’re All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and Inclusion.
[5:05] The culture of our group is more important than the strategy or plan.
[6:29] The chemistry of a team, or culture of a business, absolutely has a profound impact on the success and the results of that organization.
[20:25] I share an example of how my time in baseball and sports taught me to leave it all on the field and give my best effort despite circumstances out of my control.
[24:15] One example of a company I have partnered with that does an excellent job creating a culture of both high performance and family is Hughes Marino. They continue to win awards of the Best Place to Work, and this is in large part due to their team’s core values:
- Always do the right thing.
- Deliver excellence in everything we do.
- Enjoy the journey.
- Embrace the family spirit.
- Build lasting relationships based on trust.
- Nurture your personal and professional life.
- Pursue growth and learning.
- Generously give to others.
- Proactively communicate with everyone.
- Be authentic, grateful, and humble.
[27:07] Three steps you can take to have a profound impact on your company culture:
- Be real and authentic. The more open and vulnerable you are, that’s contagious.
- You can control two things — your attitude and your efforts. Be proactive and positive.
- Express genuine appreciation for others around you and receive it back with a simple “thank you.”
[28:51] Golden State Warriors exemplify great culture. They play with joy and have fun while rooting for each other.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
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Mike Robbins on Instagram
“The Art of Fulfillment” | Tony Robbins
“The Keys to Creating a Championship Team” | Mike Robbins
Hughes Marino
Golden State Warriors
Scott Shute means business when it comes to bringing your whole self to work. As the Head of Mindfulness and Compassion Programs at LinkedIn, Scott develops and delivers programs that assist in the well-being of leaders, teams, employees, and customers. On the podcast today, he shares his story of growing up as a small town kid from Kansas, with a dual capability in both engineering and the arts. Scott details his own personal experience with meditation and mindfulness practices, and how he has now made a full-time career of normalizing it and advocating for it at LinkedIn and in the larger tech and business world. We talk about compassion as a leadership quality, why it’s so important at work specifically, and how LinkedIn is leading the movement. Scott is committed to changing work from the inside out.
Key Takeaways:
[10:20] Scott grew up in Kansas, and was raised to have confidence in his many abilities, both in the arts and business. This exploration of dual interests now supports him today when developing mindfulness programs as a business executive first.
[16:09] As the former VP of Global Customer Operations, Scott led a very large team, and was a resource of wisdom and counsel.
[22:34] The demand for Scott to share his mindfulness exercises grew in number, and he saw big success in a 30-Day Challenge when 1,600 people signed up.
[32:34] Scott sees his role under the Learning Development Team at LinkedIn as it serves to develop curriculum around compassionate and conscious choices.
[33:02] Since Scott comes from a business background, he has a drive for LinkedIn to be a leader in getting hard, quantitative positive results with his programs.
[33:53] Scott’s new role took some getting used to. Going from a team of over 1,000 to a team of two was liberating, exciting, and uncomfortable all at once.
[37:45] The same way we exercise to stay healthy, both Scott and I see mindfulness moving in the same direction. In a few years, it may not be uncommon for someone to say they are going to a mindfulness class, the same way they would to a spinning or a yoga session.
[42:46] We have a free and always available meditation tool inside of us built it in — our breath.
[43:18] Compassion at work is fully expressed when an individual works to serve their team, the team serves the company, and the company serves the greater good of mankind.
[48:42] We are in the dawn of a new era, where success will be more about service and love, rather than just achievement and winning.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Scott Shute LinkedIn
Wisdom 2.0
Headspace
In a world where we are constantly posting our achievements, our successes, and the highlight reel of our vacations on social media, it’s understandable that we would feel jealous from time to time. On this week’s episode, we talk about jealousy and the impact it has on our relationships, our work and even our own feeling of worthiness. We talk about how to deal with the energy of jealousy when it shows up, and even when a little jealousy might be good for us. If you ever find yourself challenged by jealousy in your life it's important to remember it's rarely the feeling that holds us back, it's what we do with it that matters most.
Key Takeaways:
[4:34] We all have different situations that trigger jealousy. For some, it’s about money, fame, or public success while for others, it’s the jealousy over someone else’s love or relationships.
[8:32] Feeling jealousy is part of the human experience. It’s what we do with the feeling that matters. The four steps to move through jealousy are:
- Recognize.
- Acknowledge
- Forgive
- Change
[9:10] Most of us (myself included many times) tend to recognize our jealousy and even acknowledge it, but yet continue to punish ourselves and then repeat the same patterns. The real shifts happen when you forgive yourself for feeling jealous and change your behavior upon accepting the feeling.
[9:29] When we feel jealous, it’s common to fall into the trap where we believe if we prove our accomplishments we will be good enough. When we truly believe that we are enough, we are just being our authentic self, and not needing to prove it to the world.
[16:44] In work, relationships, and life in general, we typically get the results of which we believe we are worthy.
[18:11] Standing in the place of worthiness is something many of us are not taught in childhood even up to early adulthood, but it is an important skill we can practice daily.
[18:25] Know the difference between positive and negative competition. Positive competition is healthy, motivating, and brings out the best of us and the people around us. Negative competition breeds jealousy and the idea that someone must lose for us to win.
[26:05] Notice the energy that comes up when you feel jealousy. Usually, these feelings relate to a time in our development that we are still stuck in or a place where we are continuing to believe old stories or patterns.
- “Am I Getting Enough?” — Child
- “Am I Good Enough?” — Adolescent / Teen
- “Am I Doing Enough?” — Young Adult
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Brené Brown
One of the most important things we can do in our work and our life is to trust the process. This is about trusting ourselves, others, and the overall journey, even when things seem difficult or confusing. Patience and trust are essential in business, family, and just about every other aspect of life, but they can be tough to practice, especially when things don’t seem to be going the way we want them to go. Today, we talk about specific ways we can trust the process more effectively and the mindset shift that goes along with accepting (and maybe even welcoming) uncertainty.
Key Takeaways:
[2:47] The four different aspects of trust that are important to remember: trusting ourselves, others, the group, and life.
[6:05] When we step into a new realm of growth, some of our most limiting patterns and beliefs will show up as a protection mechanism. It’s the ego’s way of thinking we are protecting ourselves from the unknown. Instead of accepting the growth mindset, we go into a ‘fixed’ mindset.
[8:56] Being in the vulnerable state of uncertainty also breeds space for creativity and flexibility.
[9:30] Dr. Brené Brown defines vulnerability as risk, emotional exposure, and uncertainty. We all fluctuate in which of those feelings and states feel uncomfortable, which feel exciting, and which make us feel a mixture of both.
[12:08] I share my personal experience of trusting the process while launching my own business and branching out as a speaker and author. Continuing to trust the path led to Richard Carlson, whom I admire and is one of my inspirations, to write the foreword of my book.
[18:29] Inspiration for those of you who are facing or will face rejection for your dreams, and motivation to keep plugging away: my first book proposal was rejected a total of 25 times. The process was arduous and there was no progress forward until I decided I was really ready to write the book, no matter what it took.
[26:43] It’s common for folks to dedicate ourselves to work harder or longer if we want to accomplish something, but many times it’s about patience and trust.
[29:13] It takes a lot of courage and faith to trust the process of your life and your work, no matter what’s unfolding right now.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
“How to Ask For Help”
“The Power of Trust”
Peaceful Media
Tim Ferriss
Brené Brown
Nothing Changes Until You Do: A Guide to Self-Compassion and Getting Out of Your Own Way, by Mike Robbins
Richard Carlson
Dan Millman
The Shortest Distance Between You and a Published Book, by Susan Page
Challenge Day
For as much as we love to lend our support and help others, many of us find it awkward or uncomfortable to ask for help ourselves. Today, we talk about the top reasons people don’t seek support and ways to shift the mindset on what it actually means about us when we’re willing to reach out to others. When we ask people for their time, feedback, or support in a gracious way, it creates a win-win for everyone. Asking for help is a way to practice vulnerability, which is a necessary aspect of bringing our whole selves to work and to life.
Key Takeaways:
[5:09] There are a few different reasons we have trouble asking for help. We are afraid to be judged or come across as weak, we don’t want to burden people or annoy them, or we are afraid of rejection. Also, we are hesitant to ask for help because often times… we think (know) we can do better.
[9:35] When we keep our world small and enclosed in only our perspective, it limits how big and vast our experience can grow and expand to.
[11:26] Asking for help is a great way to practice being authentic and vulnerable, which allows us to connect and have empathy for and with other human beings.
[18:40] We will always stay at “no” if we don’t ask. If we ask for help, we may actually get some help.
[19:03] Our strongest fears about what will happen when we ask for help rarely happen. The worst case scenario is usually getting a “no” or an inauthentic yes.
[20:07] When we ask for help, we give others the opportunity the joy and satisfaction that comes of helping.
[27:42] Some of us take pride in being a martyr, or think it’s admirable to be burdened with doing it all on our own. However, there is courage in asking for help, and empowering those around us in a generous and abundant way.
[29:53] Challenge for the week: What ways can you start asking for help?
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Better Man Conference “How to Turn Disappointment Into Power”
Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. by Brené Brown
Peaceful Media
One of my personal challenges, especially in recent weeks (and years), has been exploring how to advocate for things I find important, without creating more division and separation. Learning how to effectively navigate situations that may be different than our vision of the way things should be, without a sense of self-righteousness, is a tricky yet essential aspect of being a good leader.
In groups, teams, and organizations of all types and sizes, it’s common to see divisiveness. It’s important to speak up about this, now more than ever. In today’s episode, we delve into ways we can navigate this so that we create more connection, curiosity and positive change.
Key Takeaways:
[8:42] When we apply the sports mentality of radically cheering for our team no matter what, and apply it into politics, it often leads to an irrational “us vs. them” spirit that blocks us from making real change.
[12:27] The working title for my next book is “We are In This Together.” In it, I plan to share the conditions for high performance and success for teams and organizations where people can do their best work while feeling safe and included. We will dive into racial inclusion in the diversity of thought, and ways to realize we are all trying to do the best we can, and being a human can be scary for everyone.
[14:01] Politicians have used the tactic of creating fear and hate by rallying people together and splitting them up into “good and bad”, or “us and them.” It’s time we changed that within our own community and how we interact with others on a daily basis.
[17:08] Showing up with vulnerability is more powerful than showing up with self-righteousness. The first core principle in Bring Your Whole Self to Work is authenticity.
[17:50] When we act self-righteous, it creates separation, and stirs up an energy of defensiveness.
[20:03] There are other ways to see an issue and we are all limited and biased on some level of our worldview and pre-existing biases.
[24:19] Be aware of self-righteousness, and observe when it pops up around you. Spend time with people who have challenging viewpoints and worldviews other than your own. Curiosity is a great way to move through self-righteousness.
[26:23] Take ownership of your mistakes, and have empathy for the impact they have on others. Apologizing is not a sign of weakness.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Better Man Conference Oakland A’s
Houston Astros
Central Insurance
This week, we continue exploring the themes of gender, equality, and inclusion and discuss finding a common ground in this time of intense polarization. It’s often a challenging and uncomfortable conversation, but I feel it is a crucial one in order for us to show up authentically and really bring our whole self to work and life. I believe it’s time we stand up, speak up, really listen to each other, and then see if we can find common ground from a place of authentic connection and vulnerability.
Key Takeaways:
[5:22] We have been polarized as a country for a long time. The divisiveness over oppression and victimization of people seems to be at an all-time high, and action must be taken.
[11:34] Explore your own personal ideas on what finding common ground would like to you. How would we debate and even disagree with each other in a respectful and supportive manner?
[12:29] It’s not just politics where the “me vs. you” battle exists. In work, we also tend to find like-minded people, and then make the “others” seem less than or our adversaries.
[16:17] I share a story where a heated argument on a plane turned into finding some sort of common ground through vulnerability and curiosity.
[22:09] We may not understand or relate to the story of others, but having empathy for all is key.
[24:25] As human beings, we are all filled with tons of contradictions, and that is why having a two-party system often feels antiquated.
[26:16] We need the space to safely debate, discuss, and even fight with each other at a deep level.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Better Man Conference
Good Life Project
Sen. Flake Viral Video
For so many reasons, not the least of which is the current news dominating all forms of media here in the United States right now about the Supreme Court nomination of Brett Kavanaugh, gender is such an important issue for us to address. I hear things from women all that time that leave me humbled, confused, angry, and feeling like something has got to change in a big way. Gender can be a messy and confusing topic to talk about for many reasons, but it’s a conversation that must be had in order to move the world towards a real sense of equality and inclusion. As we cover in this episode, it’s so important for us to listen, pay attention, and remember that we are all in this together.
Key Takeaways:
[2:07] The recent news of Brett Kavanaugh’s sexual assault accusations has become an intense hot-button issue in politics that reflects a microcosm of where we are in our culture.
[5:27] Just a few generations ago, there were only three primary professions for a woman in the working world: nurse, secretary or teacher. There are opportunities now that weren’t available; it is still not an even playing field on a fundamental level.
[9:30] At a workshop I attended, when our presenter asked a room full of women and men when the last time they felt physically unsafe was, almost 80% of women said they felt this way within the last 24 hours.
[12:54] Research has shown that men are more likely to apply to job postings when they don’t meet the criteria called for within the job description. Women may turn away from applying even when they meet 4 out of 5 criteria.
[17:59] We all have our own background and our own story, but can we empathize with other people? How do we get to the place where we can speak up for others that aren’t like us?
[26:09] Whether they are conscious or unconscious, we have double standards in expectations for gender that must be brought into the open through discussion and curiosity.
[29:50] This is a moment in our country and culture where there is much more work for us to do in gender inclusion and equality.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
“Why Women Don’t Apply for Jobs Unless they Are 100% Qualified,” by Tara Sophia Mohr
Sheryl Sandberg
“Why We Need Women to Lead with Will Marré”
Trust is something I’ve been focused on for most of my life. Sometimes it’s been easy to trust myself and others and sometimes it’s been a real challenge. Today, I’ll share my own insights and breakthroughs on trust and the four different types that are important in every aspect of our life. Trust me, it will be a good one!
Key Takeaways:
[2:55] This episode covers the four different types of trust that are important to everything we do in life and our relationships with ourselves and others. Trust in: ourselves, others, our groups, and life.
[3:44] Trusting yourself doesn’t always mean being right. It means having faith in your instincts, making decisions that come from our opinions and taking actions based upon your own creative process. It can also mean forgiving ourselves when we make mistakes.
[5:13] Oftentimes, our lack of trust in others has to do with the lack of trust in ourselves. I share an experience where I discovered this firsthand and had a breakthrough leading me to trust in myself and propose to my wife.
[12:41] Learning to trust others more easily is an important skill in life, even with the knowledge we might get hurt or disappointed. Practice granting trust to others, and trust to yourself to set up boundaries if they break that trust.
[14:41] Trust at a group level brings us psychological safety. We grow and learn when we are in an environment that will still accept us even when we take risks and speak our own thoughts.
[20:39] Sometimes the need to fit in comes at the expense of our own voice. The more real and authentic you are in a group, the more it gives other people space to do the same.
[22:09] A basic trust of life helps us navigate the many twists and turns along our windy path. Even with the pains, and challenges, there is always a lesson and always an opportunity to grow.
[26:37] Think of the most trusting person you know and their ability to trust people. What can you learn from them to take into your own life?
[27:54] Focus on the good stuff in life. Know that the universe does provide and find reasons daily to back that up with gratitude and trust.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Shadow Process
Project Aristotle
Amy Edmondson
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Life Loves You: 7 Spiritual Practices to Heal Your Life, by Louise Hay and Robert Holden Ph.D.
The Universe Has Your Back: Transform Fear to Faith, by Gabrielle Bernstein
This week, we are joined by a powerhouse of a life coach, university lecturer, public speaker, and author, Lauren Handel Zander. Lauren has over 20 years’ experience of challenging people to tell the truth, change their habits and really “cut the crap” in their life. She talks about the steps in her life that led her to found the Handel Group, an International Corporate Consulting and Life Coaching Company, that employs her no-nonsense and practical approach, the Handel Method. Her coaching methodology is not for the faint of heart and is sought out in over 35 universities and institutes of learning around the world including MIT, Stanford, and NYU.
Lauren practices what she preaches, and shares the way she takes the principles of her book, Maybe It’s You: Cut the Crap. Face Your Fears. Love Your Life, and uses them in her work with CEOs, teams, and organizations.
Key Takeaways:
[2:23] Lauren brings her whole self to work and life and encourages others to be transparent, and act in a way where what you see is what you actually get.
[5:33] Lauren’s job at the United Nations showed her she cared about the environment but felt like an imposter working in a situation that wasn’t a definite “yes” to her. She traveled instead down the self-help path and shares the journey of how she stepped out on her own and worked hard to get 40 clients out of the gate.
[12:46] Both Lauren and I agree that education could have an even larger impact by adding more in the realm of teaching young people how to eat healthy, interpersonal human communication skills, and just generally be a capable and responsible human.
[14:24] Lauren’s class at Stanford, and pretty much any work she does, is for people that are truly ready to disrupt, change, or face everything in their lives.
[16:25] When we lie and bury our secrets, we are actually keeping it stuck in our lineage for generations to come. Issues are handed down, and we must do things differently to change the patterns of our past, present, and future.
[25:34] Lauren starts from the top down when working with a corporate team. She teaches the whole culture how to have difficult conversations, sniffs out who no longer should be at the job, and cleans up toxic relationships so the company can function as a connected unit.
[32:25] Lauren mixes up the voice and tone of her company by employing 30 other coaches besides herself. Depending on the type of person a company or individual clicks with best, she most likely has a coach that fits it.
[35:02] There is pride in owning your secrets. It is erroneous to think that our hidden secrets will go unnoticed, as they almost always have a vice attached to them.
[40:46] Our political climate now is a prime example of needing to tell the truth and deal with the reality of what is actually happening in our life.
[43:41] Whether it’s our weight, debt, relationship or something in our jobs, we must tell the truth and face it for what it is. Then, the real progress and growth come.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Handel Group
Maybe it’s You: Cut the Crap. Face Your Fears. Love Your Life, by Lauren Handel Zander
Lauren Handel Zander at Stanford
InnerU (Use the promo code WHOLESELF75 for a $75 discount)
The Current Reality Quiz (Free coaching tool from Lauren Handel Zander)
In today’s solo episode, we pull the cover off a “dirty word” almost all of us, myself included, try so hard to avoid — disappointment. I talk about what happens when we avoid it, how to recognize it and move through it, and what to do when someone or something disappoints us — or even worse — we disappoint others. Authentically feeling disappointed can actually allow us to unlock greater success and fulfillment.
Key Takeaways:
[4:59] A recent session with my coach Eleanor brought up some truths about why I was engaging in certain habits that didn’t align with my highest and healthiest self. We got to the core of what I was avoiding — the feeling of disappointment.
[7:47] We tend to view emotions as “good” (joy, love, fulfillment) or “bad” (anger, fear, shame). The emotions aren’t actually positive or negative, it’s our ability to authentically feel them. There is power in expressing our emotions, and liberation on the other side. It’s often the withholding that is the most detrimental.
[10:42] Often times, we will create patterns and behaviors to avoid feeling vulnerable. Eating more than we need to or overdoing unhealthy foods can be one way to distract, but other behaviors can also manifest as procrastination, mindless scrolling on the internet or indulging in too much work.
[23:19] The emotions live inside us — it’s not always the external circumstances, people or events that rain the emotions upon us. I give some examples of how publishing my books led to the ups and downs of feeling excited and fulfilled, disappointed and then accepting.
[26:28] Think about the ways you are holding back, playing small or saying yes (or no) to things because you are afraid of disappointing yourself or those around you.
[28:26] Embrace the feeling of powerless. If we feel the emotion, we can dissipate it and move through it. The paradox is the resistance or avoidance is much more detrimental to the feeling itself.
[29:49] Trust that if you feel disappointed, it may hurt, but you will live and move on.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Nothing Changes Until You Do: A Guide to Self-Compassion and Getting Out of Your Own Way, by Mike Robbins
Focus on the Good Stuff: The Power of Appreciation, by Mike Robbins
Be Yourself Everyone Else is Already Taken: Transform Your Life with the Power of Authenticity, by Mike Robbins
Mike-robbins.com/meditations/
On today’s episode, I talk with Kelly Palmer. Kelly is the Chief Learning Officer at Degreed and Co-Author of the brand new book, The Expertise Economy, How The Smartest Companies Use Learning to Engage, Compete, and Succeed. Prior to that, she was the VP of Learning at Yahoo and Chief Learning Officer at LinkedIn.
Kelly’s passionate about shaking up the antiquated models of learning and development in the corporate world and is an advocate of using technology to support an environment that fosters growth in an adaptable and modern way.
Key Takeaways:
[3:12] One of Kelly’s first experiences of seeing people bring their “whole self” to work was while she was at LinkedIn as the Chief Learning Officer.
[3:55] Kelly’s love for, and background in, education, leadership, and technology led her to blend them into creating a modernized method of how people seek out and receive curated content.
[5:42] Many forward-thinking learning leaders of today came from the business world and apply business principles to the field of learning.
[8:23] The three trends that exemplify a deep need for a new way of corporate education:
- Acceleration
- Digitization
- Automation/AI/Virtual Reality
[12:12] People love to learn when they feel the information is useful and of value. In the corporate world, there is a tendency to force people to learn things that benefit the business first.
[13:24] Continuous learning is imperative both to individuals and companies.
[16:43] Satya Nadella, CEO at Microsoft, brought in Carol Dweck to discuss the Growth Mindset. He wants Microsoft employees to be “Learn-it-alls, not know-it-alls.”
[20:18] Learning should become part of the flow of work in a blend of different platforms and interactive learning systems.
[26:12] Shifting from a mindset that focuses on credentials and education to one based on skills and experience starts with expanding the parameters of how we hire managers.
[36:03] The willingness to try and to volunteer is an important characteristic of accomplishing and succeeding in life.
[37:46] People must invest in their own learning and career.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Wisdom 2.0
Degreed
The Expertise Economy: How the smartest companies use learning to engage, compete, and succeed, by Kelly Palmer and David Blake
Kelly Palmer on LinkedIn
The Expertise Economy website
LeanIn
In today’s episode, I talk with leadership author, speaker, and entrepreneur Drew Dudley. Drew inspires us to appreciate leadership in all forms and rewire the way we think of what it truly means to be a leader. He shares some practical tips on how to discover the leader within ourselves, the power in recognizing leadership in ways that may not be traditional, his famous lollipop story from his viral TED talk, and the low down on why Canadians are so polite. Drew’s brand new book, This is Day One: A Practical Guide to Leadership That Matters just came out last week.
Key Takeaways:
[4:14] Drew fell into his current path by accident. He recounts his time and takeaways from Cystic Fibrosis Canada and a role at Leadership Development at the University of Toronto. He loved mobilizing the college students and translating corporate and business speak into a youthful language.
[6:26] Often in leadership, the terms “accessible, practical, and simple” can be seen as pejorative. Drew feels that precisely the opposite is true. Leadership should be open to all, streamlined and tangible. One of the reasons he wrote This is Day One, is to meet people exactly where they are in leadership. We no longer should be intimidated by the term leader, and don’t have to wait for a title or paycheck to validate how little or much we matter.
[10:24] We are surrounded by leaders every day. Most of the leadership on this planet comes from people that don’t see themselves as leaders and Drew traces it back to education and socialization. It’s hard to feel like a leader when it feels like your validation comes from outside other than yourself.
[15:54] Education should provide a safety net for making mistakes and failing. When the youth starts out as “perfect” with points taken away for what is viewed as a failure, it takes away key characteristics such as courage and resilience.
[19:55] Most of us feel like imposters from time to time, but the brave ones acknowledge it and talk about it to empower those around us.
[21:49] When Drew works with leaders of all forms, the Top 3 values that usually come up are integrity, honesty, and respect. He works with folks get crystal-clear on those values, prioritize them, and give credit for exemplifying them throughout their day.
[25:18] There is a strong distinction between real leaders and catalysts for harm. Real leaders expand the capacity for others and remove fear in order to succeed and expand. Catalysts for harm add fear in order to win for themselves or just their select and chosen group.
[31:28] We explore the idea of management as a business skill and leadership as a human skill.
[34:26] We talk some cross-border leadership, and Drew encourages us to love Canada from afar.
[36:13] It’s important to show people that they matter and have the ability to impact the world. When we feel as though we don’t matter, that breeds helplessness and fear, which turns into anger and hatred.
[37:16] Drew shares how to start living Day One as a leader, and to turn core values into actionable demonstrations. Pick a value, define clearly what it means by asking yourself the phrase “this value is a commitment to _____?”, create a question you can’t answer without living it, and then recognize when you or those around you embody it.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Drew Dudley
This Is Day One: A Practical Guide to Leadership That Matters, by Drew Dudley
Entrepreneur.Com/DrewDudley
Drew Dudley: Everyday leadership
During this week’s episode, Kevin Eikenberry, Chief Potential Officer of The Kevin Eikenberry Group and author of many influential leadership books joins me to discuss his new book, The Long-Distance Leader: Rules for Remarkable Remote Leadership. Kevin expresses the importance of an achievement mindset, how to encourage better choice management and the process of building trust through interactional, not transactional experiences.
Key Takeaways:
[2:40] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Kevin.
[4:25] The difference between management and leadership.
[9:01] The Long Distance Leader is clear about their intentions and expectations.
[20:50] Building trust in an organization when people don’t see each other.
[33:30] Challenges in the current business landscape.
[40:29] It’s choice management, not time management.
[45:30] Tips for tuning out and taking a break.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
The Kevin Eikenberry Group
The Remarkable Leadership Podcast
The Long-Distance Leader: Rules for Remarkable Remote Leadership, by Kevin Eikenberry
and Wayne Turmel
My guest on this week’s episode, Carley Hauck, is the founder of Living Well Awake. Her organization blends mindfulness, resilience, and responsible leadership with profitability through executive coaching and well-being consultations. Inspired by the Art of Happiness, by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Carley creates a curriculum designed to make others feel safe bringing their authentic selves to work and to inspire them to have a positive impact on the world. She teaches at Stanford, UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business and has worked with LinkedIn, Pixar, Bank of the West, and others.
Key Takeaways:
[2:43] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Carley.
[3:29] Carley is a spiritual seeker who found her place in the corporate space.
[8:54] Ecological debt and economic debt are connected.
[18:09] How Carley links well-being with being profitable within businesses.
[31:09] People, profit, and the planet are highlighted in Carley’s forthcoming book, Shine.
[42:14] How to get a free gift from Carley.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Living Well Awake
Living Well Awake on Facebook
The Mindful Living Workbook
My guest on this week’s episode, Dave Blum, transforms different places in the world into living board games. He is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Clue, a team-building treasure hunt that builds trust, camaraderie, and empathy within the teams of some of the largest organizations in the world. His games give team members a common goal outside of the traditional office environment. He created his unique business based on what he thought he could contribute to the world. I'm grateful to have been part of Dave’s inspiring and creative organization early in my career.
Key Takeaways:
[4:14] Dave explains what Dr. Clue is and why he created it?
[10:48] The process of building a treasure hunt.
[14:52] Why Dave chose collaboration and comradery over competition.
[21:28] Do we limit ourselves because of technology?
[23:31] How empathy plays a part in team building.
[28:51] What teams can do to build trust and empathy.
[40:23] What the phrase 'bring your whole self to work' means to Dave.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Dr. Clue website
In this week’s episode, I speak with a top expert on diversity and inclusion, Jennifer Brown. She is the Founder, President, and CEO of Jennifer Brown Consulting and author of the best selling book, Inclusion: Diversity, The New Workplace & The Will to Change. Jennifer works with Fortune 500 companies all over the world to equip people with a clear diversity roadmap and to educate them about why inclusive behaviors are good leadership behaviors.
Key Takeaways:
[3:39] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Jennifer.
[6:58] Jennifer beat the odds to become a successful business owner.
[17:20] Give straight, white men a chance to speak about diversity.
[24:28] The myth of meritocracy.
[34:31] How to find common ground with other human beings.
[46:32] Living outside of our comfort zone.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Jennifer Brown Consulting
The Will to Change Podcast
Inclusion: Diversity, The New Workplace & The Will to Change, by Jennifer Brown
Better Man Conference
In this week’s solo episode, I talk about what it takes for us to push past our self-imposed limits and step out of our comfort zone. What limits us from taking risks in life and at work? What makes us stand on the edge and look over but not move forward? Consciously stepping out of our comfort zone is required for us to grow and develop but it can be scary to try new things. Making commitments, having clear deadlines, and being curious can help us make real progress towards growth. What risks are you willing to take?
Key Takeaways:
[2:15] Life begins at the end of our comfort zone.
[7:58] Are we willing to try new things at work?
[13:59] What limits us from taking risks?
[21:15] Making commitments and creating benchmarks that challenge us.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
In this week’s solo episode, I share three different topics that are necessary for us to bring our whole selves to work and to life - taking breaks, creating healthy habits, and asking for help. Taking breaks is an essential part of our growth and success process, but can be challenging given the nature of technology, expectations, and the way we work and communicate these days.
When we rest, it allows us to reflect, recharge, and gain important perspective and insight - all things that are necessary to do our best work and live our best life. Taking breaks is one of many important habits we can incorporate into how we live and work, which can provide huge benefits to us and those around us. And, when we ask for help we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, to get the support we need, and to give other people the opportunity to do something most people love to do...help another human being.
Key Takeaways:
[2:00] The importance of taking breaks.
[12:15] Habits — supportive and forgotten.
[19:57] Three things that keep us from asking for help.
Tweetables:
Taking breaks and resting is an important part of the growth and success process. @mikedrobbins
There are people in your life right now that would love to help you. @mikedrobbins
Which habits do you want to create for how your team interacts so you can be the most connected and effective? @mikedrobbins
In this week’s solo episode, I contemplate our ability to have authentic conversations about the divisive nature of the news and the complex issues we’re facing in our country and our world right now. By way of an example, I describe an interesting and challenging conversation I had on an airplane recently. The person was willing to share his passionate and very different political views with me. What if we took time to listen to each other’s views without self-righteousness? Could these conversations be a way for us to grow and evolve? It’s hard, especially right now, but so important.
Key Takeaways:
[2:18] Conversations with the opposite ‘vex.’
[14:21] Do we have the courage to honestly engage with people around us?
[17:30] Are protests and demonstrations the way to achieve connection, peace, and unity?
[22:33] The problems are complex and the divides are deepening.
[28:00] A call to action.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
In order to bring our whole selves to work and to fully engage in our lives we need to make taking care of ourselves a priority. In this week's episode I share some of my own current challenges with self-care and explore how we can take better care of ourselves. The way we work and live these days doesn't always lend itself to prioritizing our well-being. And, if we're going to do our work with authenticity, depth, and impact, and live our lives in a healthy and productive way, we have to figure out ways to care for ourselves that nourish us.
Key Takeaways:
[2:36] We all have busy lifestyles.
[7:29] Are you on vacation or just working from a different place?
[12:56] Technology can be a Pandora's Box.
[17:23] The importance of taking care of ourselves.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
In today’s solo episode, I use the Golden State Warriors as an example of a team that exemplifies a true championship team. As a lifelong fan of the Warriors, born and raised in Oakland, I’ve witnessed plenty of failure from this franchise over the years. The current incarnation of the Golden State Warriors, who just won their third NBA title in the past four seasons, however, is arguably one of the greatest teams in basketball history.
And, not only have they been incredibly successful on the court, they have built a team culture that is remarkable (which I believe is one of the keys to their extraordinary performance). It doesn’t matter if it’s in business or in sports, when we make a commitment to each other and to the chemistry of the team, incredible things can happen. In this episode, I outline five specific things the Warriors have done to create their success, which I think any team can emulate in order to enhance their culture and performance.
Key Takeaways:
[7:49] Play with joy.
[13:10] Root for each other.
[17:38] Stick together.
[20:53] Keep things in perspective.
[24:17] Chemistry matters.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Today’s episode is the final solo podcast in which I discuss the key themes of my new book Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance. During this episode, I review each of the five principles. I also detail specific actions and practical applications that can be implemented independently or collaboratively in a team environment.
Key Takeaways:
Action ideas for the five key principles of Bring Your Whole Self to Work:
[5:10] Be Authentic
[8:22] Utilize the Power of Appreciation
[13:20] Focus on Emotional Intelligence
[20:22] Embracing Growth Mindset
[25:51] Create a Championship Team
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Today’s episode is the fifth in a series of solo podcasts in which I discuss each of the five principles of my new book Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance. During this episode, I unpack the fifth and final principal, Create a Championship Team. A positive culture is an intangible, foundational element of teams and organizations that achieve peak performance. Building a strong culture and good team chemistry involves fostering a psychologically safe environment where people can be real, develop, celebrate, connect, and embrace their humanness.
What can you do to bring your whole self to work and create a championship team around you?
Key Takeaways:
[3:01] Driving culture and chemistry in a positive direction.
[8:34] Distinctions in teams.
[16:13] The two key drivers of high performance.
[24:51] The importance of inclusion.
[27:47] Successful teams celebrate.
[30:58] Culture is the heart of a company.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Today’s episode is the fourth in a series of solo podcasts in which I discuss the five principles of my new book Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance. During this episode, I talk about the importance of embracing a growth mindset. Growth mindset is a powerful concept introduced to the world over a decade ago by Stanford professor Carol Dweck. Our ability to adapt to change, take feedback, and look at everything that comes our way, even and especially challenges, as growth opportunities dramatically impacts our success and fulfillment at work and in life.
Key Takeaways:
[3:36] Understanding a growth mindset.
[9:43] Change can trigger a fixed mindset.
[11:20] The Stop, Start, Continue Framework.
[18:25] Becoming open to and accepting feedback.
[23:11] Leaning into failure.
[28:41] Bringing personal growth commitments to the forefront.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Today’s episode is the third in a series of podcasts in which I discuss the five principles of my new book Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance. During this episode, I talk about emotional intelligence and the core components that characterize it, as well as the importance of expressing our emotions at work and how we can listen more effectively. I also touch on blending mindfulness into our connected world and the essence of trust.
The five principles of my new book are #1 Be Authentic, #2 Utilize the Power of Appreciation, #3 Focus on Emotional Intelligence, #4 Embrace the Growth Mindset, and #5 Create a Championship Team.
When you order copies of Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance in bulk from 1-800-CEO-READ, you’ll get a nice discount on the books and you can contact us for additional bonuses and offers.
Key Takeaways:
[2:53] Success at work is largely based on emotional intelligence.
[6:42] Emotional Intelligence has two aspects and two components within each aspect.
[8:27] Dealing with and expressing our emotions at work.
[16:44] Blending mindfulness with technology at Wisdom 2.0.
[24:26] The Three Levels of Listening.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Wisdom 2.0 Conference
Today’s episode is the second in a series of podcasts in which I discuss the five principles of my new book Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance. During this episode, I talk about the power of appreciation and how to take on a mindset of gratitude. I also offer ways individuals, leaders, teams, and organizations can start practicing and utilizing appreciation to create a positive, healthy culture at work. Imagine if we all showed up to work today and made the choice to be grateful for all of it, even the stuff that ruffles our feathers.
The five principles of my new book are #1 Be Authentic, #2 Utilize the Power of Appreciation, #3 Focus on Emotional Intelligence, #4 Embrace the Growth Mindset, and #5 Create a Championship Team.
When you order copies of Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance in bulk from 1-800-CEO-READ, you’ll get a nice discount on the books and you can contact us for additional bonuses and offers.
Key Takeaways:
[2:40] The distinction between recognition and appreciation.
[12:19] Learning how to receive appreciation from other people.
[21:40] Gratitude is the mindset of appreciation.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
Today’s episode is the first in a series of podcasts in which I discuss the five main principles of my new book Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance. During this episode, I address the foundational first principle, Be Authentic. This principle is important because it is the one all the other principles in the book build upon. It's not always easy to be authentic. It takes conscious effort, mindful intention, and real courage. I share the authenticity equation and a group activity that help can help you, your team, or any group move through the fear of being vulnerable and demonstrate the human connection we all share.
Over the next few episodes, I will be exploring the additional four principles of my book. They are #2 Utilize the Power of Appreciation, #3 Focus on Emotional Intelligence, #4 Embrace the Growth Mindset, and #5 Create a Championship Team.
When you order Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance from 1-800-CEO-READ you will get a nice bulk discount price when buying multiple copies of the book for your team or organization.
Key Takeaways:
[3:39] Being authentic is hard, but it is important.
[9:40] What does it mean to ‘Be Authentic’?
[11:40] When do we justify being phony or inauthentic?
[17:02] The Authenticity Equation.
[27:00] The ‘If you really knew me you would know…’ exercise.
[39:23] The two types of credibility - personal and professional.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
800-CEO-READ
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins on Instagram
My new book is officially available today! During this episode, I share the behind-the-scenes reality of making this book and podcast come to life, and some of what made it challenging. I discuss and explore the nature of creativity, grief, and inspiration, and how all of these things were aspects of me writing my new book...and, how you can embrace your own journey, wherever you may be right now.
Order Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance and you will have access to special audio bonuses. And if you live in the Bay area, you can join me on May 5th for a live book launch at Book Passage in Corte Madera at 7 pm.
Key Takeaways:
[3:13] Nothing Changes Until You Do is a very personal book.
[8:29] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to me.
[13:20] Why I waited for life to calm down to write my new book.
[16:10] The inspiration behind this podcast.
[38:12] Infusing our lives into our work.
Resources:
Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
My guest this week, Susan Stiffelman, is a parenting expert. She started her career as a teacher and a therapist. In her books, Parenting with Presence and Parenting without Power Struggles she acknowledges that parents are transforming and growing along with their children. She speaks to large organizations, like Google, and was the parenting expert for AOL and the Huffington Post for many years. She has been featured on the Today show and partners with other experts and authors in her online summits and programs.
My book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection and Performance comes out officially May 1, 2018, but you can pre-order it now and receive special audio bonuses. And, you can join me on May 5th for a live book launch at the Book Passage in Corte Madera at 7 pm.
Key Takeaways:
[3:21] Susan explores a person's ability to transform and grow while raising kids.
[7:29] How Susan works with organizations to assist parents who often spend a lot of time at work.
[10:47] Advice for parents who are knee deep in the early years.
[16:43] Acknowledge the times when you are not present with your children.
[27:04] The next big wave of support for parents is coming to organizations.
[30:25] The difference between working mothers and working fathers.
Resources:
Pre-order Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Susan Stiffelman
Susan Stiffelman Books
Susan Stiffelman Membership Community
My guest this week, Aaron Schiller, is a coach, counselor, the co-host of the Muse + the Catalyst Podcast, which I will be a guest on next week. He blends his varied career experiences of working in education, business, and as a trainer and consultant at Yale University’s Emotional Intelligence Lab, to coach executives and start-ups on gender awareness and emotional intelligence.
My new book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection and Performance comes out in two weeks (on May 1st), but you can pre-order it now and receive special audio bonuses.
Key Takeaways:
[3:33] What the phrase “bring your whole self to work” means to Aaron.
[4:37] Alcohol was kryptonite for Aaron.
[17:39] Do people resist their own transformations?
[20:52] Parenting expectations in today's world.
[26:56] Working with businesses to increase emotional and gender intelligence.
[28:40] Gender differences are deeply ingrained in our society.
[41:21] Diving deep into the world of feelings
[47:51] When things get scary, ask for help from the universe.
Resources:
Pre-order Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material.
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Elizabeth Gilbert TED talks
Muse + the Catalyst Podcast
Coach Aaron Schiller
My guest this week, Bob Burg, has been speaking, writing and inspiring people for over 30 years. His books have sold over a million copies. His groundbreaking book, The Go-Giver, came out a decade ago. It inspired a movement and has become a real phenomenon. The American Management Association named Bob one of the 30 Most Influential Leaders and he is one of Inc. Magazine’s 100 Great Leadership Speakers. During our conversation, he shares the inspiration behind his new book, The Go-Giver Influencer, the 4th in the Go-Giver series. This new book is all about how to communicate tactfully without compromising your views and the essence of influence.
My new book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection and Performance comes out on May 1st, but you can pre-order it now and receive special audio bonuses.
Key Takeaways:
[4:01] How Bob's sportscasting experience turned into a speaking business.
[7:16] The essence of influence.
[14:08] The Go-Giver Books explain how-to make everyone a winner.
[19:26] How to communicate and influence people in a healthy way.
[30:38] Every generation has their own set of skill sets.
[33:47] Mastering your emotions and stepping into another person’s shoes are main themes in The Go-Giver Influencer.
Resources:
Pre-order Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
The Go-Giver Website
The Go-Giver Books
My guest this week, Ariane de Bonvoisin, has led a fascinating life. After attending London’s School of Economics and Stanford Business School, she had a prosperous business career in the media industry based in New York City. Ten years into her career her heart started calling her elsewhere. She wrote the book, The First 30 Days: How to Deal with and Go Through Change and built a company to support it. Again, her spirit told her she had a different path to follow so she started a spiritual journey which took her around the globe where she met her husband. She has written three spiritual books for children and is an Entrepreneur in Residence at the TED offices in New York.
My book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection and Performance comes out officially May 1, 2018, but you can pre-order it now.
Key Takeaways:
[4:23] What does the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ mean to Ariane?
[5:31] After a career in finance, Ariane ventured out to find her true self.
[13:03] Liberating ourselves from our parents and nurturing our inner child.
[20:26] Ariane’s soul was calling her to get back into her body.
[28:05] Living in South Africa forced Ariane to slow down.
[34:12] There was a lack of children’s books about spirituality so Ariane wrote three.
[49:02] Ariane will be an Entrepreneur in Residence at TED in NYC.
Resources:
Pre-order Bring Your Whole Self to Work and Access to Bonus Material
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Ariane de Bonvoisin
The First 30 Days: Your Guide to Making Any Change Easier by Ariane de Bonvoisin
Spiritual Life Lessons for Kids Books by Ariane de Bonvoisin:
- You Are Loved
- Giggles & Joy
- Being You
The Mindful 365 App
The Spiritual Child, by Lisa Miller
My guest this week started his entrepreneurial journey early. By the time Ty Bennett was 21, he and his brother had created a multi-million dollar direct sales business. He was drawn to leadership training and public speaking. He sold his half of the business to his brother and pursued speaking and writing professionally. His books The Power of Storytelling, The Power of Influence, and Partnership is the New Leadership showcase his innate understanding of business leadership. He attributes his faith as a guiding influence in his career and his family life.
My book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work comes out May 1, 2018.
Key Takeaways:
[5:24] How Ty became a successful entrepreneur.
[10:09] How faith played a part in Ty’s work and home life.
[16:11] Talking points that connect people.
[21:35] The evolution of relevant leadership.
[30:18] How Ty shares his wisdom with different generations.
[36:58] Being present is the best way to balance a career and a family.
[39:14] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Ty.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Ty Bennett
Ty Bennett Books and Resources
Leadership Inc.
My guest this week is an Author, Speaker, Life Coach, Mother, and one of my favorite people on the planet, Amy Ahlers. For almost two decades, she has provided business coaching and support for people, leaders, and companies such as Google and Oracle. Her books, Big Fat Lies Women Tell Themselves and Reform Your Inner Mean Girl are both bestsellers. Her podcast and her Inner Mean Girl Reform School, Find Your Calling and Lift Off Business Academy programs help women (and us men too) find balance and success in both life and in business, as well as to tune into their voice of truth.
Key Takeaways:
[4:47] The perils of showing your work to the world.
[5:59] Amy’s career journey includes trading life coaching in exchange for office work.
[11:46] How has the corporate environment changed in the last few years?
[18:37] The expectations men and women put on themselves.
[25:49] Why it’s important for women to be in leadership positions.
[35:08] Tuning into inner wisdom.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Wake-Up Call Coaching
Inner Wisdom 5-Day Challenge
The Amy Ahlers Show podcast
My guest this week, Jim Kouzes, is a fascinating and accomplished man whom The Wall Street Journal calls one of the 12 best executive educators in the U.S. His groundbreaking work with Barry Pozner in organizational culture and leadership behavior is considered the foundation for many executive leadership programs in place today.
Jim is a best-selling author and an award-winning speaker. During our conversation, he shares his personal journey from eagle scout honor guard who got invited to JFK's inauguration, to serving in the Peace Corps, to becoming a pioneer in the world of executive development, to writing the ground-breaking book The Leadership Challenge with Barry Posner, to the work he is doing today to empower leaders, teams, and organizations all over the world.
Key Takeaways:
[3:42] JFK was an influential person in Jim's life and career choices.
[10:47] The early days of Executive Development work.
[18:15] The Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership Model.
[22:27] Encourage the heart and create community spirit.
[35:04] The importance of good leaders.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
The Leadership Challenge Organization
The Leadership Challenge: How to Make Extraordinary Things Happen in Organizations by James Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner
Stop Selling and Start Leading: How to Make Extraordinary Sales Happen, by Barry Posner, Deb Calvert, and James M. Kouzes
My guest today, Susan Peppercorn, is a Speaker and Coach who focuses on Positive Psychology through her organization, Positive Workplace Partners. During our conversation, she shares key strategies for shifting perfectionism into excellence, the importance of feedback from others, and the benefits of an accountability partner from her new book, Ditch Your Inner Critic at Work: Evidence-Based Strategies to Thrive in Your Career.
My book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work comes out May 1, 2018.
Key Takeaways:
[2:12] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Susan.
[3:14] Susan attended the first Positive Psychology course given by Tal Ben-Shahar.
[9:19] The challenges of finding work we love.
[15:41] The difference between the dream, perfectionism, and excellence.
[23:34] How do we authentically embrace failure in a productive way?
[27:04] The importance of support, accountability, and feedback.
[38:21] Strategies to Ditch Your Inner Critic at Work.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Positive WorkPlace Partners
Ditch Your Inner Critic At Work: Evidence-Based Strategies To Thrive In Your Career,
by Susan Peppercorn
Are You in the Right Job? Assessment Tool
My guest today, Joe Sweeney, is passionate about his work and living the best life possible. His diverse career has included being a Sports Agent representing Brett Favre, President of Wisconsin Sports Authority, an Investment Banker and a Private Equity Investor. He has written three books, Networking is a Contact Sport, Moving the Needle, and his most recent, After Further Review, is a book that encourages readers to take a timeout, take stock of their lives and inspires them to live a better life.
During our conversation, we discuss how to navigate life, death, and change, with appreciation and gratitude.
My book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work comes out May 1, 2018.
Key Takeaways:
[2:09] Networking is a Contact Sport.
[7:41] Does birth order affect how you navigate life?
[11:52] Is it better to lose or to win?
[24:21] The art of letting go.
[32:48] After Further Review focuses on inspiring people to live a better life.
[36:57] What is your ‘why’?
[41:19] What ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Joe.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Joe Sweeney
Joe Sweeney Books
Think and Grow Rich: For Men and Women who Resent Poverty, by Napoleon Hill
Halftime Institute
When change happens, be it an individual change, an organizational change, or changes in our family, navigating through the disruption is easier said than done. We are often more comfortable when things stay the same. In this solo episode, I share my thoughts and personal experiences on dealing with the necessary and inevitable subject of change. I present three strategies to using change as a tool for personal and professional growth.
My book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work comes out May 1, 2018.
Key Takeaways:
[1:33] Sometimes we choose change and sometimes change chooses us.
[6:05] Dealing with change and managing chaos.
[13:47] Three ways to navigate through and grow during change, uncertainty, and chaos.
- Feel your feelings.
- Ask for help.
- Stay in the present moment as much as possible.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
My guest today is someone who has had a profound impact on my life. My friend, Ray Arata, is the founder of the Better Man Conference and co-founder of the Inclusionary Leadership Group. He's the author of Wake Up, Man Up, Step Up: Transforming Your Wake-Up Call into Emotional Health and Happiness, and the forthcoming book, The Power of the Heart: A Guidebook for Inclusionary Leaders. Ray encourages change by leading by example.
Ray is an integrative leadership coach who is focused on teaching and inspiring men to be allies for the support and advancement of women in the world.
Key Takeaways:
[2:51] Ray felt stuck by recent events but is now hopeful for the future.
[5:09] Choosing to opt out of the gender conversation.
[14:16] How men can make an impact in women’s lives.
[19:01] The Better Man Conference is focused on engaging men as allies.
[24:17] Aware men can push, promote, and protect women.
[32:04] Recognizing blind spots and having an open mind.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Better Man Conference
Inclusionary Leadership Group
#BetterMan on Twitter
Wake Up, Man Up, Step Up: Transforming Your Wake-Up Call into Emotional Health and Happiness, by Ray Arata
My guest today is Ron Carucci. Ron is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Navalent, a consulting firm working with top-level executives from influential companies. Ron and I discuss how leaders can show up fully to fill the enormous expectations placed on them, the common pitfalls many new executives face and how leaders can anticipate and preemptively tackle the challenges that arise from being placed in a position of power.
Ron contributes to the Harvard Business Review and Forbes. His most recent book, Rising to Power: The Journey of Exceptional Executives and his TEDx Talks focus on power and influence in the world of business.
Key Takeaways:
[1:44] What the phrase “bring your whole self to work” means to Ron.
[5:40] Common pitfalls newly appointed executives face.
[10:08] Bringing other people’s stories to life.
[14:51] We are still sending leaders into battle unprepared.
[22:28] The unregulated world of business and life coaches.
[25:41] Abandoning power is abusing it.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Navalent
Navalent— Free Ebook
Ron Carucci on Youtube
My guest on today’s podcast, Andy Molinsky, is an expert in cross-cultural adaptation. He is a Professor at Brandeis University’s International Business School with a joint appointment in the Department of Psychology. He received his Ph.D. and a Master’s from Harvard. He holds a Master’s in International Affairs from Columbia and a BA in International Affairs from Brown. He has been featured in and written for Harvard Business Review.
During our conversation, we discuss the importance of authenticity, courage, and inclusion, as well as his books, Global Dexterity: How to Adapt Your Behavior Across Cultures Without Losing Yourself in the Process and Reach: A Strategy to Help You Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Rise to the Challenge. Andy delves intothe concepts of cultural fusion and the art of cross-cultural relations.
Key Takeaways:
[1:41] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Andy.
[3:31] Liberal Arts, International Relations, and Brandeis University.
[8:34] Andy’s education is a blend of hands-on learning, mixed with programs from top-shelf universities.
[17:21] The core principles and ideas behind Andy’s books, Global Dexterity and Reach.
[34:03] Andy’s inspiration behind writing Reach.
[37:24] Five key roadblocks to keep people from stepping outside of their comfort zone.
[41:04] Three core insights to help you step outside your comfort zone.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Andy Molinsky
Global Dexterity: How to Adapt Your Behavior Across Cultures without Losing Yourself in the Process, by Andy Molinsky
Reach: A New Strategy to Help You Step Outside Your Comfort Zone, Rise to the Challenge and Build Confidence, by Andy Molinsky
My guest on today’s podcast, Anese Cavanaugh, is a pioneer in the field of corporate wellness programs. At a time when few corporations were investing in their organization’s welfare, Chevron hired Anese in the 1990s to develop a health and productivity leadership program. She has since started her own consulting firm, written the influential book, Contagious Culture, and raised two children. During today’s show, Anese walks us through her IEP (Intentional Energetic Presence) method, how leaders can show up more powerfully, and how business culture is created.
Key Takeaways:
[1:42] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Anese.
[2:27] Anese’s career and life journey.
[11:30] Anese’s business is a family business.
[25:18] Contagious Culture and the IEP method is about showing up.
[30:30] Embodying the athlete mindset to make the most of our body’s full potential.
[38:18] How organizations are using IEP to thrive.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Anese Cavanaugh
Contagious Culture: Show Up, Set the Tone and Intentionally Create an Organization that Thrives, by Anese Cavanaugh
Showing Up, on Inc.com
My guest on today’s podcast, Will Marré, is a passionate women’s leadership advocate. He has worked for over 25 years helping corporations like Gap Inc., Nike, GE, and Johnson & Johnson create cultures of inclusiveness. During our discussion, Will shares the history of women in the corporate system, why male behaviors are favored in the hierarchal structure, and why the system needs to change in order for a corporation to flourish. He also shares five things women and men can do to create a workplace with a higher emotional intelligence and equal opportunity.
Key Takeaways:
[3:18] Why Will became a women’s advocate.
[8:48] Why are ‘alpha’ male behaviors favored in the corporate system?
[23:16] Creating cultures of inclusiveness that soften the hard edges of hierarchies.
[27:05] Unpacking sexual harassment.
[41:17] Why women disengage in the workplace.
[53:04] Five things men can do to give women equal opportunities.
[56:15] Five things women can do to empower themselves.
[1:02:55] How Will stays mindful and conscious in his work.
[1:08:20] The Institute for Leadership Synergy.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Will Marré
A Million SMART Women
A MIllion SMART Women on Facebook
Save the World & Still Be Home for Dinner: How to Create a Future of Sustainable Abundance for All (Capital Cares), by Will Marré
Leadership BS: Fixing Workplaces and Careers One Truth at a Time, by Jeffrey Pfeffer
Happy New Year! 2018 is now officially upon us. I know it’s common for us to make a new year’s resolution at this time. However, this can be tricky for a number of reasons. On this week's episode, I share the process I use to set my intentions and goals for the new year. The key to this process is a series of questions I ask myself. As we discussed last week, there are six completion questions that help us reflect on the past year and bring closure. There are also five creation questions that really shine a light on what is most important for us and what we hope to achieve and experience in the next 12 months.
You might find this process helpful as well.
Key Takeaways:
[3:56] The six completion questions to ask yourself before you create your intentions for the new year.
[6:31] The difference between fixing and changing.
[8:55] Setting intentions for the domains of your life.
[15:27] Five creation questions to ask to set yourself up for success in the new year.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
One Word that Will Change Your Life, by Jon Gordon, Jimmy Page, and Dan Britton
Tweetables:
Take the good, leave the bad and be grateful for all of it. @MikeDRobbins
Instead of focusing on "New Year, New You," I like to focus on "New Year, Be You." @MikeDRobbins
Without a goal, intention, or focus, it’s hard to know where we are headed or what is important to us. @MikeDRobbins
It has become my tradition to use the week in between Christmas and the New Year to reflect back on what transpired during the year and take a personal inventory of any wins and challenges I experienced. 2017 has been quite a year, eh? In this final podcast episode of the year, I share the six completion questions I ask myself to consciously complete any items I don’t intend to bring forward into 2018. This is a powerful process we can use to make space for creativity and opportunity in the New Year.
Key Takeaways:
[5:00] Completion questions used for reflecting on the past year.
[13:14] Taking inventory of the wins and the challenges.
[15:24] Making space for the new by declaring the old completed.
[19:01] Take time for yourself.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Men... We Have to Do Better blog post
This week I talk with writer and speaker, Scott Stabile. Scott is a fascinating guy who shares his life experiences in his book, Big Love: The Power of Living with a Wide-Open Heart. The book is a collection of essays that developed from the stories of love and authenticity he posted on his Facebook page. During our discussion, he openly reveals the challenges he faced after losing his parents in a tragic act of violence at the age of fourteen, why he shares his personal story with others and overcoming his fear of being judged, and how he finds the courage to bring his whole self to his work, his writing, and his creativity.
Key Takeaways:
[1:53] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Scott.
[3:37] Scott shares the challenges he faced after losing his parents in a tragic way.
[11:56] Why do we have a hard time talking about loss, death, and grief in our culture?
[19:45] A Facebook page was the catalyst Scott needed to start sharing his personal story.
[24:35] How Scott deals with digital and analog negative criticism.
[40:46] Is the writing process selfish or selfless?
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Scott Stabile
Scott Stabile on Facebook
Big Love: The Power of Living with a Wide-Open Heart
This week I chat with Diana Chapman. Diana is a trusted advisor to senior leaders within some of the top companies in the world. She is an advocate for personal growth, personal responsibility, and conscious leadership. I find her no-nonsense approach to life and business refreshing. Diana is the co-founder of the Conscious Leadership Group and the co-author of 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership: The New Paradigm for Sustainable Success. During this episode, Diana shares her important outlook on life, leadership, and success.
Key Takeaways:
[2:54] What the phrase 'bring your whole self to work' means to Diana.
[4:03] The work of Gay and Katie Hendricks changed Diana's life.
[8:38] Selling soft skills to businesses.
[15:12] How to create conditions to have effective sweaty-palmed conversations.
[22:31] 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership
[29:00] Finding a playground that is fun to play on.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Diana Chapman
15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership: A New Paradigm for Sustainable Success,
by Diana Chapman, Jim Dethmer, and Kaley Klemp
This week I speak to someone who shares my passion for authenticity, Henna Inam. In 2010, she left her successful corporate job to start her own consulting company, Transformational Leadership Inc. Henna works with leaders and organizations - helping them enhance their team culture and performance. Her approach to authenticity starts at the foundation of awareness and appreciation of self. Her book, Wired for Authenticity, and her keynote speeches help people shift perspectives and deepen trust.
Key Takeaways:
[2:00] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Henna.
[6:18] The motivational differences between genders and generations.
[14:43] Henna separates her identity from her authentic self.
[28:29] Befriending our bodies.
[40:24] Give yourself an ‘A’ for Appreciation.
[44:18] Moderating who you are in the moment.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Transformational Leadership Inc.
Wired for Authenticity: Seven Practices to Inspire, Adapt & Lead, by Henna Inam
This week, I speak to the inspirational Gay Hendricks. I have respected and admired Gay for many years. Through his best-selling books, especially The Big Leap and Conscious Loving, he helped shift my mindset and my approach to relationships and success. For 45 years, Gay has been a leader in relationship transformation, peak performance, and mind/body therapies. He joins me today to share his insights, perspectives, and examples of what bringing your whole self to work means to him. Gay’s curiosity and passion have made him a true Renaissance man.
Key Takeaways:
[2:52] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Gay.
[7:51] The benefit of having an alignment of a life’s purpose and purpose at work.
[9:42] Figuring out your genius.
[13:11] Dealing with Upper Limit problems.
[20:17] Expressing emotion through sweaty-palmed conversations.
[33:19] True leadership is free of blame and criticism.
[41:45] How to break through the Upper Limit barrier.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Gay Hendricks
Gay Hendricks Books
This week I speak to my dear friend Kristine Carlson. I met Kris through her late husband, Richard. Richard mentored me and generously helped me to get my publishing career started. His groundbreaking bestseller, Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff, impacted me like no other book ever has. During this episode, Kris and I fondly remember Richard’s selflessness, discuss how our culture deals with loss, and Kris tells me about her very personal new book, From Heartbreak to Wholeness, which will be released in June 2018.
Key Takeaways:
[5:42] What ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Kris.
[11:14] The birth of the Don't Sweat the Small Stuff series.
[18:12] There were many things to admire about Richard.
[23:16] Kristine’s book, Heartbroken Open came directly from her journal.
[28:58] How our culture deals with loss, in life, and at work.
[40:03] From Heartbreak to Wholeness is a collection of personal wisdom.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Kristine Carlson
Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff — Live The Big Stuff Podcast
This week I have the pleasure of talking to Kim Scott, the Author of the New York Times bestselling book, Radical Candor: Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity. Kim has had a very successful career in technology - working for startups and tech giants Apple and Google, and then working as a CEO coach and advisor at Dropbox and Twitter, among others. During our conversation, Kim shares her insights about gender, leadership, teamwork, writing, and her important work around radical candor.
Key Takeaways:
[1:55] Why do we put pressure on ourselves to be something different than who we really are?
[7:06] Before writing Radical Candor, Kim wrote three novels about relationships.
[12:50] Both Google and Apple are relationship-driven companies.
[14:52] Kim describes the theme of her book, Radical Candor.
[26:20] Being consciously aware of your gender.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Radical Candor
@candor on Twitter
Candor, Inc. on Facebook
This week I talk to the multi-talented and inspiring Jenna Ushkowitz. You may know Jenna from her work on Broadway, as Tina on the hit TV show Glee, or from one of her podcasts. Last year, I had the pleasure of being on an episode of her Infinite Positivities podcast. Her new podcast, Epic Fail, asks actors to share what they believe to be their biggest failure and what they learned from that experience.
During today’s show, Jenna talks about being committed to the career in show business she started at age three, what it felt like to be involved in a project (Glee) that changed her life and the lives of others, the importance of embracing vulnerability in her work and life, and her new film Hello Again.
Key Takeaways:
[5:05] How authenticity integrates into Jenna's work.
[8:59] What early life was like for Jenna.
[15:23] Glee set Jenna's career and soul on fire.
[23:56] Jenna's latest project is an Epic Fail.
[32:04] What it’s like to be in the tabloids.
[34:49] “Hello Again” is a movie about human connection.
[43:02] What ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Jenna.
Resources:
The Epic Fail Podcast
“Hello Again” movietix
Infinite Positivities Podcast featuring Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Recent natural weather-related disasters and the abundance of political crises prompted me to verbalize my thoughts about the fundamental uncertainty of life. When we are not pushed into decisions by things that are out of our control, how much risk do we actually take? How many unknown journeys do we embark on? It is always easier to stick with what we know but how does that help us grow?
What would embracing uncertainty look like in your life?
Key Takeaways:
[:58] Braving the Wilderness that is our world.
[5:31] What would you take if you had to leave in an emergency?
[11:35] Leaning into and embracing the fundamental uncertainty of life.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone, by Brené Brown
In this solo episode, I explore how human beings engage with one another, how we take a stand or speak up, and how we express ourselves when faced with hot-button, emotional issues. Last week, the President publicly commented about the athletes and teams who are taking a knee during the national anthem to protest racial oppression and inequality. And as a former pro-athlete, who always stood with my hand over my heart in front of the flag during the national anthem, I wonder what I will do the next time I am at a sporting event and the national anthem is played? I believe this issue goes deeper than politics, deeper than the social commentary it’s about who we are as human beings.
How do we respectfully take a stand for what we believe in?
Key Takeaways:
[1:07] Taking a knee and what it says about who we are as human beings.
[6:24] It's hard for 'privileged' white men to talk about race and inequality.
[16:51] Using dehumanizing language is at the genesis of genocide.
[21:37] The false choice we are faced with.
[25:17] Embracing each other even when we disagree.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Focus on the Good Stuff: The Power of Appreciation, by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone, by Brené Brown
In this solo episode, I examine how we can be a force for good in the midst of all the intense, difficult and challenging things happening in the world right now. In the wake of a negative political climate, natural disasters, and the events in Charlottesville, among other things, it can be challenging to focus on the good stuff. Focusing on the good stuff doesn’t mean always being positive or accepting a spiritual bypass — I mean being a force for good.
How can we show up and be a force for good when times seem dismal?
Key Takeaways:
[2:43] A question to ask yourself when facing difficult circumstances.
[6:14] Sometimes just listening is enough.
[8:15] Five Things we can do to be a force for good.
● Look for ways we can help.
● Be proactive with complaints.
● Don’t get caught up in the drama.
● Speak up with authenticity.
● Focus on gratitude.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Focus on the Good Stuff: The Power of Appreciation, by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
At age nine, after a fire burned 100% of his body, John O’Leary was given a 1% chance to live. John chose life. During his physical recovery, John was inspired by the people who were rooting for him to rise above the hardships and to live life to its fullest. His parents, classmates, and even a total stranger believed in his ability to overcome the tragedy. So he did. John embraced who he truly was and chose to be a victor.
Today, John is a husband, father, author, podcast host, and a keynote speaker. Through his organization, Rising Above, John inspires others to embrace all the possibilities life has to offer and to live life ‘On Fire’.
Key Takeaways:
[3:05] What ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to John.
[4:24] The significance of January 17, 1987.
[10:26] How the legendary Jack Buck transformed John’s life forever.
[20:26] Heroes seldom wear capes.
[23:00] John has been overwhelmed by the love he has received during his charmed life.
[26:20] Choosing to be the victor over the victim.
[30:17] Effective leaders have purpose, vision, and humility.
[33:09] Where John finds sources of inspiration.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Workshop at 1440 Multiversity: Sept 15-17, 2017
John O’Leary Inspires
The Live Inspired Podcast
On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life, by John O’Leary
My guest this week, Sarah Brubacher, is remarkable and quite an anomaly in Silicon Valley. She has been with the tech giant, eBay, for 13 years, she has survived two different forms of cancer, she and her husband recently welcomed a new baby into the world, and she inspires other women through keynote speeches at her Alma Mater, Cornell University.
During our discussion, Sarah shares openly about her experience as Chief of Staff, serving on Devin Wenig’s leadership team. As well as how it feels to be part of the community at eBay dedicated to inclusion and diversity.
Key Takeaways:
[2:49] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Sarah.
[6:19] Starting a relationship based on raw honesty.
[13:03] The eBay community gave Sarah the opportunity to try new things.
[27:46] eBay has always been a community of inclusion.
[33:48] Sarah speaks on being a female executive in Silicon Valley.
[42:17] How having a child has changed Sarah’s perspective on work.
[51:53] As tragic as having cancer is, it gives you a different perspective on living.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Workshop at 1440 Multiversity: Sept 15-17, 2017
Tweetables:
“eBay is not just a place to buy and sell. It’s fundamentally a place to belong.” - Sarah Brubacher
“If I’m here for only a limited period, I want to live and die in the most graceful way I can.” - Sarah Brubacher
“The emotional wear and tear of having cancer was as bad, if not worse, than the physical wear and tear.” - Sarah Brubacher
My guest this week, Prakash Raman, is the Senior Consultant in Executive Development at LinkedIn. Prakash facilitates conversations and programs that drive diversity and inclusion, among other things, within the organization. The primary goals of his work are to usher in compassion and awareness by understanding the values and differences of everyone in the company. Prakash’s passion lies in paying it forward by participating in Marshall Goldsmith’s 100 Coaches Project, and volunteering for the Sponsors for Educational Opportunity.
Key Takeaways:
[3:04] What does ‘bring your whole self to work’ mean to Prakash?
[9:42] How LinkedIn is driving diversity, inclusion, compassion, and success.
[18:21] How Prakash tries to bridge the gaps in understanding the values and differences of others.
[22:10] Success should be measured in habits, not in outcomes.
[29:38] The 100 Coaches Project.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Workshop at 1440 Multiversity: Sept 15-17, 2017
Prakash Raman on LinkedIn
The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team With Positive Energy,
by Jon Gordon
Conscious Business: How to Build Value through Values, by Fred Kofman
Sponsors for Educational Opportunity
100 Coaches Project
When you heard about the hate march in Charlottesville, Virginia how willing were you to talk about it? Did you discuss it at work? Did you discuss it with others who are different than you? Did you consider how your personal history influenced your views? This week I explore the topics of gender, race, and diversity. I reflect on the privileges afforded to straight, white males, and how being aware of those privileges may be the key to unlocking empathy and compassion for others.
Key Takeaways:
[1:38] Reflecting on my Open Letter to My Fellow Straight, White Men.
[5:50] Being aware of privilege and difference can open up the door to empathy.
[12:23] How willing are we to talk about gender and diversity issues?
[19:23] Is justifying prejudice based on actions racism?
[21:36] Understanding what makes up how we see the world.
[27:08] How much do you cover your authentic self?
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Workshop at 1440 Multiversity: Sept 15-17, 2017
This week’s episode comes on the heels of the finishing of my manuscript for Bring Your Whole Self to Work. I feel a sense of accomplishment in having my work completed, and I realize having a deadline was a motivator for me. But, did I enjoy the process? Starting any creative project opens us up to vulnerability and discomfort, because we don’t know how it will turn out. What if we could be satisfied with the growth that accompanies the creation, not just the achievement that is the finished product?
What can you do to support and empower yourself in a positive way to grow and engage in the things that mean the most to you?
Key Takeaways:
[:19] Sign up for the “Nothing Changes Until You Do” workshop September 15th -17th at 1440 MULTIVERSITY in Santa Cruz.
[1:38] The power of completing what we set out to do.
[4:52] The shitty first draft.
[9:16] Being obsessed with, and attached to, an outcome limits our power.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Workshop at 1440 Multiversity: Sept 15-17, 2017
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life, by Anne Lamott
I am recording this week’s podcast close to midnight on the eve of my manuscript’s due date. I happily share with you that I have finished the manuscript and will be sending it to Hay House (my publisher) after finishing my final review and writing the Acknowledgements. This week I was provoked to consider my motivation for wanting to change, fix, and heal myself through my personal development work, which is something I wrote a bit about in the book. What if instead of criticizing ourselves for things we feel are lacking, we practiced love, acceptance, and forgiveness? How might we grow, if we had gratitude for our whole selves?
Key Takeaways:
[:35] Sign up for the “Nothing Changes Until You Do” workshop September 15th -17th at 1440 MULTIVERSITY in Santa Cruz.
[4:59] Growth mindset is about looking at everything that comes our way as an opportunity to learn and grow.
[5:56] Forgiving instead of fixing helps keep you whole.
[13:41] What's the motivation behind your growth?
[19:46] Aging — it happens.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Workshop at 1440 Multiversity: Sept 15-17, 2017
Now Discover Your Strengths, by Marcus Buckingham
Strengthsfinder 2.0, by Tom Rath
I am recording this week’s podcast from a hotel room near Napa, CA, where I’m focused on finishing the manuscript for my book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work. As I write the growth mindset chapter, it’s forcing me to take an introspective look at the areas of my life in which I employ a growth or a fixed mindset. Growth often require us to be vulnerable and uncomfortable What triggers us to stay in a fixed mindset, when we know growth and development come from our willingness to try and to fail?
Key Takeaways:
[1:15] Sign up for the ‘Nothing Changes Until You Do’ workshop September 15th -17th at 1440 MULTIVERSITY in Santa Cruz.
[4:16] The growth mindset is a willingness to fail and to learn.
[12:45] Why we avoid the things we think we will fail miserably at.
[16:25] Discovering our inner ‘grit.’
[20:56] The immediate feedback loop is more satisfying than delayed criticism.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Workshop at 1440 Multiversity: Sept 15-17, 2017
“What Having a Growth Mindset Actually Means,” by Carol Dweck
The First 20 Hours: How to Learn Anything... FAST, by Josh Kaufman
I am recording this week’s podcast from a hotel room in Calistoga, CA where I’m focused on finishing the manuscript for my book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work, which is due August 1st. I find myself knee-deep in the creative process, having completed about 37,000 words of my intended 60,000 word objective. I’ve been thinking a lot about what it takes to inspire my creativity, specifically my writing, and how we’re all creative in some way, even if we all demonstrate it differently.
In this week’s episode, I talk about how we can understand and embrace our creative process with more awareness and self-compassion. So often the hardest part of the creation process is dealing with ourselves, not the project itself. What do you need to have in place to nourish your own creative process?
Key Takeaways:
[1:27] I have a love-hate relationship with writing.
[5:29] We all create in different ways.
[10:49] Embrace your creative process.
[13:39] Writing is more than the physical, practical process of the written word.
[15:46] The vulnerability of the creative process is what holds many people back.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Hayhouse Radio
Nothing Changes Until You Do: A Guide to Self-Compassion and Getting Out of Your Own Way, by Mike Robbins
Focus on the Good Stuff: The Power of Appreciation, by Mike Robbins
The First 20 Hours: How to Learn Anything... FAST, by Josh Kaufman
During this week’s podcast, I have a conversation with my dear friend, Dr. Robert Holden. Robert is a well-known author and spiritual psychologist from the UK. He has been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show and Good Morning America, and his books, including Happiness NOW!, have made him a sought-after speaker. But, Robert is much more than his accolades. He is a husband, a father and a teacher with a deep understanding of the human experience.
During this interview, he kindly shares his insights about why we feel inadequate, why it’s important to define our own success, the beauty of being honest and the four aspects of intelligence.
Key Takeaways:
[2:46] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Dr. Holden.
[8:36] Considering the possibility of wholeness beyond our persona.
[14:55] Honesty and truth are core values of Dr. Holden’s company, Success Intelligence.
[19:54] Dr. Holden describes the many aspects of physical intelligence.
[27:38] How much do you enjoy being you?
[31:54] Spiritual intelligence is ultimately about knowing who you are.
[34:39] Being authentic is frightening, but being inauthentic is more frightening.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Robert Holden
Robert Holden on Facebook
Shift Happens Radio
The Happiness Project
Success Intelligence
This week’s podcast is a conversation with the authors of the new novel B.S., Incorporated, Jennifer Rock and Mike Voss. The duo met at Best Buy, a company based in the “nice” city of Minneapolis, MN. They spent the better part of two decades in corporate America writing speeches and running Internal Communications. This experience contributed to their innate knowledge of the B.S. that resides in most large groups of people and lends itself to their insightful, and funny, commentary on work today.
Currently, Jennifer and Mike provide communication support to top level executives as well as small business entrepreneurs. During this week’s episode, Jennifer and Mike share how their idea of writing a book morphed from a patio bar conversation into a fun fiction and why storytelling is the best way to engage an audience. Their insights are relevant to how all of us can cut through the B.S. of work and show up more authentically.
Key Takeaways:
[1:56] The inspiration behind and crafting of B.S., Incorporated.
[8:15] Midwestern companies are full of nice, passive-aggressive people.
[14:44] B.S., Incorporated addresses gender issues in the workplace without trying to make a statement.
[19:44] Why is there so much B.S. when large groups of people get together?
[27:20] The art of storytelling in business.
[30:57] Powerpoint is a necessary evil but not recommended.
[35:38] What the phrase 'bring your whole self to work,' mean to Jennifer and Mike
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Rock and Voss Books
RockdotVoss
Tweetables:
We are humans. Just because someone is successful and has a big job doesn’t mean they don’t get nervous. @mikedrobbins
Being a good storyteller is a skill and it needs to be developed. @mvoss23
A female character, Anna, is looked down upon because she is assertive and ambitious. It’s not “nice.” @jenniferrock
From the moment we are aware our first child is coming, we become parents. We continue to be parents for the rest of our lives. We don’t stop being parents when we show up at work, have a date with our spouse, or when we end a relationship. During this week’s episode, I speak with Vicki Hoefle about all aspects of parenting.
Vicki Hoefle is a professional parent educator and certified ICF (International Coaching Federation) coach with over 20 years’ experience. She is the author of Parenting as Partners, Duct Tape Parenting, and The Straight Talk on Parenting. She shares her wisdom and perspective on the expectations placed on both mothers and fathers, how to raise respectful, responsible and resilient children, how corporations can support parents in the workplace, and how parents can transfer the relationship skills from their home life into their work life.
Key Takeaways:
[2:29] What the phrase, ‘bring your whole self to work,’ means to Vicki.
[6:06] Vicki’s personal journey accidentally led to a full-time teaching career.
[9:52] The importance of having a system to get a family through the bumpy moments.
[15:31] Parents can integrate the skills they are practicing at home, to create healthy relationships at work.
[19:15] Expectations and equitable distribution of parenting duties between mom and dad are highlighted in Vicki's new book, Parenting as Partners.
[36:07] In order to get to courage, you need to go through vulnerability.
[44:31] How can companies support employees around personal home/life issues?
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
I’m Okay, You’re a Brat! by Susan Jeffers
Option B, by Sheryl Sandberg
Vicki Hoefle
Vicki Hoefle Parenting Books
My guest on this week’s podcast is Tami Simon. Tami is the Founder and CEO of Sounds True, a wonderful publishing company in Boulder, Colorado that disseminates spiritual wisdom. Tami started Sounds True in 1985 with live conference recordings of Ram Dass and Stephen Levine. Over the last 32 years, Sounds True has grown and evolved. They continue to produce spiritual audio and learning programs, as well as books and apps.
I met Tami a few years ago at a Wisdom 2.0 conference, and at the most recent Wisdom 2.0 conference she gave a speech, which was all about bringing your whole self to work and creating a healthy work culture. During today’s episode, Tami shares her thoughts on what it means to bring your whole self to work, how she navigates through tough business issues holistically, how people are hungry for meaningful work, and what she and her team at Sounds True do to create a productive culture.
Key Takeaways:
[2:30] What does ‘bring your whole self to work’ mean to Tami?
[5:03] How Tami makes a safe and conducive environment for authenticity.
[11:51] How a leader deals with disagreement is simple on the surface but deep.
[21:19] Navigating technological changes as a provider of audio.
[24:37] You can't bring your whole self to work if you are not in touch with yourself.
[30:29] Tami’s personal guiding principles for how to navigate tense situations.
[35:17] People are hungry for meaningful work.
[39:13] Tami has found more meaning in just being than in accomplishing things.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Sounds True
Insights at the Edge Podcast
Being True: What Matters Most in Work, Life and Love, by Tami Simon
This week’s episode focuses on leadership and having an attitude of gratitude. My guest,
Cindy Elkins, joins me to share how her experiences at Genentech and as a board member of Weight Watchers International, have shaped her perspective on life. Cindy acknowledges she didn’t always bring her whole self to work, but during her journey, she did create environments where people could flourish within corporate communities. Binding people together without using functional, structural strategies is what makes Cindy’s cultural leadership qualities a powerful asset in life and in business.
Key Takeaways:
[3:14] What does the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ mean to Cindy?
[7:29] Cindy is acutely aware of what it feels like when someone doesn’t feel safe to bring their whole self to work.
[12:37] Sometimes people in senior roles need to be vulnerable.
[21:57] How Cindy came to be on the board at Weight Watchers.
[27:55] The body image differences between men and women.
[37:11] Practical strategies to link the corporate world to a world fueled by gratitude.
[49:44] Intangible cultural leadership attributes are hard to quantify.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Cindy Elkins on LinkedIn
There’s No Good Card for This, by Kelsey Crowe
Option B, by Sheryl Sandberg
This week I spoke with my friend, the amazing Gabrielle Bernstein. You may know Gabby from her appearances on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday, The Dr. Oz Show, The Today Show, or maybe you’ve read one of her New York Times bestselling books, like her latest, The Universe Has Your Back. During our conversation, Gabby shares some of the key moments of her life which called her to her life’s work. She shares some insights, tips, and suggestions for how we can step more into our power and do the work we are meant to do. Gabby believes there will be more and more people waking up and being called...and that bringing our whole selves to work is as important as ever right now!
To find out more about Gabby’s free video training and her Spirit Junkie Master Class, visit Mike-Robbins.com/Gabby
Key Takeaways:
[3:49] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Gabby.
[5:12] There are few other addictions that get you as much praise as Workaholism.
[13:46] The Universe Has Your Back was Gabby’s most vulnerable book.
[22:57] Gabby created The Spirit Junkie Master Class to help people step into their power and the work they were meant to do in the world.
[36:20] Gabby believes deeply about her intention, and is clear about her mission.
[47:16] Gabby is grateful for the people who show up for her every day.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Gabby Bernstein Website
The Universe Has Your Back (book)
Gabby’s Free Video Training
Tweetables:
If you don’t like the career path you are on, the more you look for joy in your environment, the more you will be led to what you want. @gabbybernstein
There is the fine line between passion for what we do and workaholism @mikedrobbins
It’s important to be the light wherever you go, especially when you are feeling uninspired. @gabbybernstein
This week’s episode looks at how we can be empathetic and compassionate towards people in our lives who are experiencing grief or other difficult situations. The author of the There is No Good Card for This: What to Say and Do When Life is Scary, Awful and Unfair to the People You Love. Dr. Kelsey Crowe shares her insights based on her many years of research on the subject. During the conversation, we touch on things organizations can do to gain loyalty by respecting their employees as whole beings, what to do and what not to say when someone you know experiences grief, and how we can become empathetic and compassionate during difficult times.
Key Takeaways:
[2:23] What the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ means to Dr. Kelsey Crowe.
[6:10] Kelsey details the inspiration behind There is No Good Card for This: What to Say and Do When Life is Scary, Awful and Unfair to the People You Love.
[11:26] What should I do when something happens to someone I love?
[15:08] The more humane policies we have around people’s difficult trials, the more we are respecting people as whole people.
[22:49] What to say to make a connection, and comments to avoid when speaking with the bereaved.
[31:31] How to become empathetic and compassionate to people.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Help Each Other Out
There is No Good Card for This
In this week’s episode, I have the pleasure of talking with Chef, Author, Speaker, and Podcast Host Chris Hill. Making the Cut is the title of Chris’s book and podcast; both are interview-based explorations into the success principles of entrepreneurial elite.
During the podcast, Chris describes his journey from being in a high-profile marketing position to switching gears and following his dreams to become a chef and restaurateur. Chris eventually turned his blogging into a book and his love of cooking into an enterprise. Chris shares the inspiration behind his forthcoming book, Lead Like a Chef, and about the ups and downs that accompany being a leader and changemaker.
Key Takeaways:
[2:32] What does the phrase ‘bring your whole self to work’ mean to Chris?
[3:31] Chris describes the path he took to becoming a chef and an entrepreneur.
[10:26] The challenges of the restaurant business.
[22:53] While writing Making the Cut, Chris is privy to an example of a chef who brought his whole self to work.
[33:16] The challenges and benefits of writing, speaking, podcasting, and being a thought leader.
[40:10] Chris describes the attributes of his new book, Lead Like a Chef.
[42:37] Why it is important to focus on the process, not the result.
[52:56] Chris is grateful for his relationship with his girlfriend.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Chris Hill Online
Making the Cut Podcast
What It Means to Bring Your Whole Self to Work Podcast Ep. 10
Making the Cut Book
Tweetables:
You only get one chance to make something of this day. @chrishillwriter
Pain pushes until the vision pulls. @mikedrobbins
We are always going to have challenges, but we should allow our workplace to be our safe place. @chrishillwriter
In this week’s solo episode, I examine how we deal with loss, the passing of time, the aging of our bodies, grief, and being human. I’m currently reading Facebook COO, Sheryl Sandberg’s book, Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience and Finding Joy, and it reminds me we all are going through some type of loss. As humans, when we go through something painful, we just can’t snap our fingers and move on. We still have to be responsible, show up for work and be there for our families. So how do we deal with loss and grief in the workplace?
Permission to be human in the workplace is what my book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work, is all about. In this episode, I explore ways in which we can be even more human and vulnerable with ourselves, and others - especially when facing big challenges and changes.
Key Takeaways:
[1:19] Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience and Finding Joy is not just about grief.
[8:36] Using the phrase, “If you really knew me you would know this about me…”
[13:28] Seeing the physical representation of the passage of time.
[18:35] How do we interact and engage with people who have gone through loss?
[23:29] Why do we feel shame and embarrassment when we are emotional?
[25:11] Pain is a great teacher of kindness, resilience, and empathy.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience and Finding Joy by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant
Tweetables:
Seeing the physical representation of the passage of time demonstrates that life continues to move forward. @mikedrobbins
We learn from successes and failures, but we tend to pay more attention to failures because they are painful. @mikedrobbins
We are all just people trying to do what we can, traversing the ups and downs, and twists and turns of life. @mikedrobbins
In this week’s solo episode, I discuss trust and how we can expand our ability to trust. Many of us believe trusting is naive. We spend a lot of time and energy shielding ourselves from being embarrassed, taken advantage of, or compromised. But, what are we really protecting ourselves from? Vulnerability is power, and trust is a generating energy. What would happen if we learned to embody trust and lead from a place of trust? How would our lives be different?
Key Takeaways:
[1:06] What does authenticity mean?
[3:42] Being a leader means we go first.
[6:50] How much time and energy do we spend protecting ourselves?
[13:02] The hardest person to trust is ourselves.
[15:49] The concept of basic trust
[19:41] The impact of the lack of trust in our lives
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
"The Power of Authenticity" TEDx talk, by Mike Robbins
Be Yourself Everyone Else is Already Taken, by Mike Robbins
Life Loves You, by Louise Hay and Robert Holden
In this week’s solo episode, I explore stepping out of our comfort zone. I was inspired to discuss this topic based on my experience of walking through the streets of Bangalore, India. When traveling to a place with a different language or culture, our self-sufficiency is stripped. It forces us (or gives us the opportunity) to be vulnerable in a purified way. When we stay in our comfort zone, we stay away from risk and discomfort. Can innovation or revolution happen without risk?
What does it take for you to have the courage to be bold, to show up, to step out of your comfort zone and bring all of who you are, to everything you do?
Key Takeaways:
[5:14] Chris Sacca's travel question exposes vulnerability.
[8:52] Are we really challenging ourselves to get out of our comfort zone?
[11:44] Opening yourself up to discomfort and risk can encourage the use of your inner resources.
[12:33] We all exist on a continuum of fixed and growth mindset.
[13:43] Admiration for those who constantly change and adapt.
[18:02] A broadway musical based on the life of Alexander Hamilton.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
In this week’s solo episode, I explore the topic of inner work and how it relates to our lives and our careers. One of the ways we can bring more of ourselves to the work we do, is to focus on the work we do internally. It is so easy to get caught up in the “doing-ness” of life and business. However, what goes on within us, has so much to do with what shows up around us.
How committed are you to your inner work? Doing work on ourselves and really looking within can be challenging, emotional, and, at times, even painful. However, it is essential to our journey of growth, success, and fulfillment. I recently attended another Hoffman workshop and did some great inner work, which prompted this episode. The more willing we are to do our personal work, the more likely we are to create the kind of life and results we truly want. We are all spiritual beings having a human experience. We are all works in progress.
Key Takeaways:
[1:43] The Hoffman Process focuses on healing issues we assumed when we were young.
[4:30] I have a bipolar relationship with self-compassion.
[8:00] Recognize, acknowledge, forgive, and change.
[12:55] My lack of self-compassion is a big piece of inner work for me.
[15:16] The roots create the fruits.
[18:08] The premise of my book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work.
[25:00] How do we make a commitment to our inner work?
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Nothing Changes Until You Do
Nancy Collier joins me this week on the podcast to discuss her book, The Power of Off: The Mindful Way to Stay Sane in a Virtual World. She looks at the addictive side of technology, and how it is capable of removing us from our human relationships. Nancy believes we humans are giving up our capacity to think for ourselves, and are forfeiting the precious gaps between stimuli when our minds used to be free to run wild.
Nancy shares her personal intention to make technology a tool at her disposal instead of a consumption engine which eats away at the moments in her life. I know this idea will resonate with many of you who feel, as Nancy says, Twired, tired and wired. Being able to bring all of who we are to work our and our life, requires us to unplug and turn off our devices at times, in order to think, feel, and re-engage with ourselves and each other.
Key Takeaways:
[2:25] What prompted Nancy to write The Power of Off?
[7:54] Technology has discouraged us from realizing our brilliance.
[13:32] We are using life to build our brand.
[16:35] How to use technology, not have it use you.
[20:51] Why it’s important to practice mindfulness.
[26:16] Overcoming the idea that you have to be doing something every minute.
[30:44] Is technology feeding the well-being you desire?
[36:04] The pseudo-intimacy created by texts.
Resources:
Nancy Collier
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
My guest on today’s podcast is a true inspiration, to me and to so many other people in Silicon Valley and elsewhere. My friend Gopi Kallayil is a yoga instructor, a musician, an author, and has worked at Google for the past 11 years. Gopi manifested his own position, Chief Evangelist of Brand Marketing, because he wanted to do something he loved at the company he loves and feels honored to work for.
In addition to his successful career in technology and at Google, he is the author of The Internet to Inner-Net, which came out in 2015 and is published by Hay House (my publisher as well). He is working on his second book, The Happy Human, which should be out next year sometime. Gopi is a true renaissance man of technology, mindfulness, business, philanthropy, community, spirituality, and creativity. He exemplifies bringing his whole self to work as well as just about anyone I know.
Key Takeaways:
[4:03] What does ‘bring your whole self to work,’ mean to Gopi?
[6:04] Gopi has had four seminal things happen in his life.
[10:34] Gopi has two MBAs, one from Wharton, in the U.S., and one from the Indian Institute of Management.
[17:05] Three truths Gopi has learned along the way.
[21:32] Gopi admires Google for retaining the elements of its original mission.
[28:18] How Gopi approaches networking.
[33:56] Do what you love, and figure out how to build a career around it.
[40:15] The 5 essential pillars of Gopi’s life.
[46:12] Gopi has 100 things he wants to do in his life before he dies, and one of them was to write a book, so he did.
Resources:
Gopi Kallayil
The Internet to the Inner-Net, by Gopi Kallayil
Kirtan Lounge CD
Focus on the Good Stuff: The Power of Appreciation, by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
In this week’s solo episode, I delve into the phenomenon of things that get in our way. There are many things we conjure up to sabotage ourselves. We may have limiting beliefs about not being good enough, or we may be afraid of putting ourselves out there, due to fear of judgment. The common theme these things share is, they are all self-imposed. They are all stories we are telling ourselves.
We are the common denominator in all of our relationships and experiences. Therefore, nothing changes until WE change.
Key Takeaways:
[1:06] Nothing changes until you do.
[5:34] What is it we are protecting ourselves from?
[8:47] There is risk associated with sharing your passion and creativity.
[12:43] A “Real” fear of stepping out of the box.
[17:00] The only thing holding me back is me.
[18:26] My experience is not your necessarily your experience.
[20:49] We have a choice.
Resources:
Nothing Changes Until You Do, by Mike Robbins
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
This week’s episode is a fascinating, behind-the-scenes glimpse of a venture firm. My guest, Brett Berson, works with founders of startups as a Partner with First Round Capital. In 2000, Brett was immersed in NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts filmmaking program. He wanted his summer internship to broaden his horizons. So, Brett made a list of the talented people he knew and the list led him to First Round Capital. After graduation, Brett has moved forward within the organization to become a partner in less than 9 years.
Brett shares the attributes innovative leaders of successful companies have, what First Round Capital looks for when vetting a company for investment purposes, and why now is a great time to start a company.
Key Takeaways:
[2:37] What does ‘bring your whole self to work,’ mean to Brett?
[5:14] Brett was looking for something different when he came upon First Round Capital.
[8:13] The craft of filmmaking is very similar to building a company.
[9:48] Execution and focus are key defining factors of successful founders.
[18:22] Small companies adopt the CEO’s personality traits as their culture.
[24:29] Obsession, perseverance, and intensity are attributes of successful leaders.
[29:55] First Round Capital is in a constant state of experimentation.
[35:31] What big changes in Venture has Brett seen in the last 9 years?
[40:16] Brett is grateful for the amount of luck he has had.
Resources:
First Round Capital
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
This solo episode was, in part, inspired by a post from Facebook’s COO, Sheryl Sandberg. In the post Sheryl addressed a policy she implemented at Facebook to give employees additional days of bereavement leave - 20 days total. But what had a deeper impact for me was how Sheryl shared her own personal experience of going through the sudden loss of her husband at the end of 2015, and how hard that was and still is for her. Having lost my father, my mother, and my sister Lori just a little over a year ago, I know a lot about loss and grief, and what an intense journey it can be.
In a business with employees, it is important to have policies and parameters around people showing up at work, in the face of losses or other life changing events. In this episode I talk about how business leaders and influencers can create a work environment that is more conducive to allowing people to be human beings.
Key Takeaways:
[4:02] In the midst of bereavement, life goes on.
[6:56] Are the conditions in which we work conducive to us being human?
[10:14] If you want to connect with people, you have to let them see you laugh and cry.
[12:49] Technology has changed the way we work.
[13:54] Being present at work when your mind is calling you elsewhere.
[15:15] How going through an experience can change your perspective.
[21:36] We are always influencing the environment around us.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead, by Sheryl Sandberg
My guest today on today’s show is my friend Rachel Macy Stafford. She is sharing bite-sized portions of her personal revelations in a beautiful new book, Only Love Today: Reminders to Breathe More, Stress Less and Choose Love. Her previous two books were best sellers, and her blog, HandsFreeMama.com, has been read by millions, and referenced by Arianna Huffington during a Wisdom 2.0 conference. The reference, and a recommendation from my wife, prompted me to reach out to Rachel a few years ago, and we’ve become friends since then.
Rachel was once one of the many people who let their phone take precedence over their time, their children, and their life. She had what she calls a breakdown/breakthrough moment, which miraculously provoked her hand to put down the phone. In an effort to take her life back, she started with a small break from the technology, so she could start to breathe again. Her story resonates with so many of us, because many of us are experiencing the same struggles, especially in the fast-paced, technology obsessed world in which we live. In today’s episode, Rachel and I discuss how to take back our lives and focus on what truly matters.
Key Takeaways:
[2:49] What does ‘bring your whole self to work,’ mean to Rachel?
[3:55] Rachel was often asked how she did it all.
[6:30] How can the people we love connect with us, if we don’t slow down?
[10:48] The Hands Free Mama blog held Rachel accountable to her goals.
[14:23] Rachel describes the challenges and opportunities of living a Hands Free Life.
[21:48] Rachel was surprised at how relieved she felt to get her time back.
[24:05] Inspiration came from a child’s face and a message from God.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Hands Free Momma
Hands Free Revolution on Facebook
Only Love Today: Reminders to Breathe More, Stress Less, and Choose Love,
by Rachel Macy Stafford
My guest on this episode is Jen Glantz. Jen is definitely someone who brings all of who she is to everything she does. Jen has done a number of things in a relatively short amount of time. After graduating with an English degree, Jen was told she had two options, become a teacher or a lawyer. Knowing she had to create her own opportunities, she headed to New York City to follow her dreams and begin her career as a Creative Writer.
Today, Jen runs her own bridal consulting business, has recently released her second book, Always a Bridesmaid (For Hire), has 15-20 monthly revenue streams, writes a successful blog and has an inner sense of urgency which propels her forward to do great things.
Key Takeaways:
[3:10] What does ‘bring your whole self to work,’ mean to Jen Glantz?
[4:42] From English major to professional bridesmaid, Jen shares her story.
[11:42] Jen finds inspiration in the books, The Catcher in the Rye and Self-Help.
[14:35] An inner sense of urgency pushes Jen to write and produce.
[17:04] Copywriting for a tech startup gave Jen the ability to write in different people’s voices.
[21:50] Jen has 15-20 different income streams every month.
[26:31] Jen’s Always a Bridesmaid business has taught her most people just want someone to listen to them.
[35:54] Attracting an audience by being candid, open and raw.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Always a Bridesmaid (for Hire): Stories on Growing Up, Looking for Love, and Walking Down the Aisle for Complete Strangers, by Jen Glantz
Jen Glantz
The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger
Self-Help, by Lorrie Moore
In this week’s episode, I share my thoughts on the paradoxical nature of working hard. The value of hard work is foundational to so much of what we have been taught about how to succeed in our culture. The harder we work, the more effectively use our time, the more we demand of ourselves (and others), are all things which are validated everywhere in our society. But does hard work equal success?
In contemplating the difference between healthy hard work and workaholism, as well as the challenge of “efforting,” I wonder if maybe hard work isn’t all it's cracked up to be. Maybe the myth of hard work is actually getting in our way of real success and fulfillment?
Key Takeaways:
[2:40] The woman who worked hard.
[6:53] Is it possible to get things done effectively and in a timely manner?
[9:52] Managing our energy and managing our time.
[12:03] Validation for workaholism.
[14:27] The difference between healthy hard work, workaholism, and efforting.
[19:32] The emotional journey of creating anything great.
[23:08] Maybe hard work isn’t all it's cracked up to be.
[26:13] Familiar patterns are easy to shroud ourselves in.
[28:50] A challenge to break up beliefs about work.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
In this week’s episode, I talk with Jon Gordon. Jon is an author and keynote speaker, whose core message is positive leadership. During our conversation, Jon details the times he received divine inspiration, which led him to discover his ultimate purpose. Jon is open about his faith, and tells of how it helped him to overcome the fear of trying something he believed he was meant to do, even when he wasn’t certain he had what it would take. He also shares how he helps coaches create great teams through communication, connection, commitment, and caring.
Jon has written 14 bestselling books, including The Energy Bus and Training Camp. His tips have been featured on the Today Show, CNBC, The Golf Channel, and Fox and Friends. He works with companies and sports teams, including Southwest Airlines, Dell, the LA Dodgers, and the Miami Heat, to name a few.
Key Takeaways:
[2:22] What does ‘bring your whole self to work,’ mean to Jon Gordon?
[5:28] One of Jon’s early goals was to run for Congress, but after a City Council run, he decided against it.
[12:07] A spiritual moment inspired Jon to write.
[16:44] Jon has had many divine interventions in his life, including the idea to write his first book, The Energy Bus.
[21:09] Positive leadership and faith would become Jon’s core message and ultimate calling.
[24:02] Being open about faith in our distorted worlds.
[30:33] The greatest coaches and leaders are lifelong learners.
[35:32] Leaders who practice the “4C’s,” create positive and healthy work environments.
[39:50] What Jon believes it takes to be a great teammate.
[46:18] The Power of Positive Leadership book looks at leaders who inspire people.
[49:40] Jon is grateful for his 20-year marriage and his kids.
Resources:
Jon Gordon
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
In this week’s episode, I talk about our ability to fully express ourselves and bring all of who we are to the work that we do. We are just over a week into our new calendars, and many of us have started, or are preparing to start, moving forward with our intentions for 2017. Have you considered where you can bring more of who you are into the work that you do in 2017?
Bringing ourselves more fully into our work, requires us to be present and engaged on a daily basis. If we depend solely on the outcome of a project or goal, what aspects of ourselves will be left untended? How can we incorporate all of who we are, to become more fully expressed in our work? I discuss these and other questions related to this in today’s episode.
Key Takeaways:
[2:18] How will you show up for work in 2017?
[3:45] My personal journey to entrepreneurship.
[11:50] School wasn’t for me, so I designed my own curriculum.
[16:14] The Ten-Minute Sweaty-Palmed Conversation.
[18:53] Using the outcome of a project as a gauge, doesn’t always show the whole picture.
[21:43] Is it time to engage in subjects that scare you?
[24:11] Grappling with the challenges of male body image issues.
[26:07] We are all creative, and can express ourselves through our creativity.
[29:48] Facing our fears and insecurities, to create the 2017 we want for ourselves.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
In this week’s episode, I talk about how we can create the life we want for ourselves in 2017. This special time of year has an energy, a newness, and a freshness about it. It’s time to set our course for what we truly want from life. Setting our intentions for the year ahead should be done from a place of truth and authenticity. Are we able to accept ourselves more completely? Are we able to set goals and resolutions based on our heart’s desire, instead of from our ego’s demand? Are we able to recognize, acknowledge, forgive, and change things which may have held us back in the past?
If 2017 were your last year on this planet, what changes would you make in your life or in your work?
Key Takeaways:
[4:25] Completion questions to help you move forward to 2017.
[5:30] Creation questions to orient yourself with your intentions for the new year.
[7:13] Resolutions may include intentions, actions, goals and practices.
[9:58] Are fear and shame driving your New Year’s resolutions?
[14:06] Being unplugged from technology gave me time to contemplate.
[17:04] How to focus on your heart’s desire, and not your ego’s demand.
[19:58] Why are you living life in survival mode?
[22:41] How would you live your life differently, if this were your last year on this planet?
[24:44] Recognize, Acknowledge, Forgive, and Change.
[27:31] An enlightening interview with Christine Neff, highlights self-compassion.
[29:05] It’s ok to have specific, measurable goals for the new year, but do it from a place of authenticity.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
The Hoffman Institute
In this week’s episode, I talk about one of my favorite topics - consciously completing the year. We often focus so much attention on the new year ahead, that we don’t take the time to bring the current year to a close. This year has been challenging for many of us - with events in the world and politics, as well as in our personal lives. For me, 2016 was filled with lots of change, loss, growth, and challenge.
Whether we had a great deal, an awful year, or a mix of both, it can be really powerful and useful to reflect on the year as it comes to an end. I talk about some of the questions I ask myself and have asked my coaching clients over the years, and share some rituals you can use to bring the year to a close in the most mindful, helpful, and growth-filled way possible.
Key Takeaways:
[1:41] The world has seen a great many challenges in 2016.
[4:01] I have seen many changes in my life this year.
[8:38] Be careful not to rush through completion, to get to the new resolutions of 2017.
[10:05] The Hoffman Process Retreat reminded me to take the time to reflect and look within.
[15:04] Make a list of what you are proud of, and grateful for, and your challenges from 2016.
[18:42] Answer completion and creation questions, to help us acknowledge the truth of what happened.
[21:02] Take the good, leave the bad, and be grateful for all of it.
[21:55] Pain is part of the human experience. Suffering is optional.
[25:49] The powerful opportunity to complete 2016 in a ritualistic way.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
It is time to heal, and change, and transform. In this solo episode, I explore how we, Americans, can speak up and engage in an ongoing productive conversation, about things that are uncomfortable and disruptive. I explore how we can connect to each other, when there is an overwhelming desire to fight. I ponder about our abilities to adapt and adopt and engage in meaningful conversations, which could influence significant change.
Key Takeaways:
[1:48] Looking at the state of the U.S. and the state of the world, after the recent U.S. election.
[3:17] How to engage, when you feel compelled to speak up.
[8:19] What happens when you have the desire to fight.
[9:42] The undiscussed differences between males and females, in terms of physical safety.
[14:06] The tribal ‘us against them’ phenomenon.
[16:35] The third option of, we are all in this together.
[19:18] Do you have the courage to engage in uncomfortable but important conversations?
[23:40] Look for a solution and a way to connect.
[25:06] Adopting an awareness, having a willingness and being able to try.
Resources:
Charlie Rose’s Jon Stewart Interview
The Messy Truth with Van Jones
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Dan Henkle is a smart, successful industry leader who is one of the most humble and accessible people I have ever met. He started his career directly out of college, working for Oracle, and moved to Gap Inc., where he has worked for over 25 years. As soon as he started working for Gap Inc., Dan says he felt an immediate values connection with the management team. Employees were encouraged to share their input, wisdom, and expertise directly with the organization’s leaders.
Dan is currently the President of the Gap Foundation, an organization that leads initiatives in the developing world, as well as hiring programs for low-income youth in the communities where Gap Inc. does business. He also serves as the Senior Vice President of Gap Inc.’s Global Sustainability division. Dan blends cross-cultural awareness with humanness, to improve working conditions for employees in the U.S. and abroad.
Key Takeaways:
[2:46] What does ‘Bring Your Whole Self to Work’ mean to Dan?
[7:35] Dan lives in the protected bubble of the San Francisco Bay area.
[8:58] Oracle was only 900 people at the time, and Dan was able to work directly with Larry Ellison.
[13:26] Dan felt an instant values connection when he started working for Gap.
[18:23] In the early 90’s Dan initiated an education program for young employees, to inform them about HIV.
[22:52] Dan believes there is greatness in all of us.
[25:58] After 9 years in HR at the Gap, Dan shifted his career to the world of Global Responsibility.
[30:36] Dan worked within many different cultures, but the individuals were driven by the same mission.
[32:52] What did Dan uncover about himself while working cross-culturally?
[35:58] It’s necessary to stay calm and objective when dealing with complex issues.
[37:45] Dan integrated Gap’s global practices into his HR work to drive human-based leadership.
[40:01] The Gap Foundation has two comprehensive signature programs designed to improve the quality of life of women and low-income youth.
[45:48] Dan is grateful for his husband and kids.
Resources:
Dan Henkle on Linkedin
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mark Shapiro is the founder of AreYouBeingReal.com and the host of the podcast, The One and Only. Mark reached out to me about my work on authenticity a while back and invited me to be a guest on his podcast, right around the time I was planning to launch this podcast. We did the interview, hit it off, and he has helped me in some wonderful ways.
In this interview, Mark shares the story of what it took for him to trust and challenge himself enough to leave his 12-year, steady paycheck job at Showtime; how the breakdown of a personal relationship may have been the catalyst he needed to change his life; and how choosing to be authentic led him to follow his calling.
Key Takeaways:
[2:57] What does ‘bring your whole self to work,’ mean to Mark?
[4:17] Mark’s career dream was to have an impact on what aired on Showtime.
[15:26] Mark’s big wake-up call came when his boss told him his ideas were not valued.
[23:06] Going back to the drawing board, to figure out what you really want.
[25:51] Mark was told he was inauthentic when he presented to groups, or facilitated workshops.
[30:21] Creativity, and connecting with people, became Mark’s new pastime.
[34:42] Playing dual roles led Mark to realize he was chasing a title, but didn’t really want the job.
[40:33] If you have a calling which is deep within your heart, even if others don’t support you, you should go for it.
[44:13] Mark shares the most enlightening, and the most frightening, parts about following his heart and running his own business.
[46:48] Mark is grateful for the inspiring, encouraging people in his life right now.
Resources:
Are You Being Real?
The One and Only Podcast
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
This week I decided to do a special episode to share my thoughts, insights, and perspective about the election here in the United States. It’s just me on this one, no guest, and I share openly, vulnerably, and passionately about how I feel about the election and this past week, as well as where we go from here as a nation.
I also talk about how we can bring our whole selves to conversations about politics, even and especially when it is scary and uncomfortable…and, how authenticity is so important for all of us at this time. Whatever our views are on politics and the election, our country and our world are getting smaller – we’re all in this together.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Today’s guest is my friend Jonathan Fields, the founder of a mission driven media and education venture called Good Life Project. His books, Career Renegade, Uncertainty, and his brand new release, How to Live a Good Life, are his own soul-searching journeys, as he attempts to answer some deep and important questions that we all face as human beings. Jonathan enjoys hosting The Good Life Project podcast, where he shares powerful ideas and interviews with his global community on a quest to live more meaningful, connected, and vital lives.
Jonathan is thoughtful, curious, and passionate about learning. He gives amazing advice. He is someone I truly believes brings his whole self to work. And, he’s someone I’m grateful to know and to have had a chance to chat with here on the podcast.
Key Takeaways:
[4:16] What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work mean to Jonathan?
[5:56] The course, How to Live a Good Life, should be taught in schools, because not enough of us know how to do it.
[8:02] When did Jonathan start exploring human potential?
[9:50] Jonathan has always toed the line between art and entrepreneurship.
[13:13] Jonathan enjoys intensive learning environments, but when learning turns into practice he loses interest.
[15:19] An emergency surgery was the wake up call Jonathan needed to direct his energy towards wellness.
[21:37] Jonathan has always loved movement, functional anatomy, and kinesiology.
[25:15] Yoga was a business investment Jonathan could believe in. The studio he started in Hell’s kitchen is still a thriving community today.
[28:20] The intention of the Good Life Project was to bring people together and provide guidance for personal and entrepreneurial growth.
[32:17] Jonathan writes books to answer his own questions.
[33:38] Jonathan loves podcasting and working with his wife and his daughter.
[40:05] How can fathers support their children in a loving way?
[43:57] The goal of Jonathan’s company is to find the sweet spot between building something that is in service to others, and still keeping himself excited.
[46:54] A daily mindfulness practice is necessary if Jonathan plans to stay in a place of uncertainty.
[49:22] If How to Live a Good Life was a semester long class…
Resources:
Good Life Project
Good Life Project Podcast
How to Live a Good Life, by Jonathan Fields
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
On today’s episode I interview my new friend Tom Kelly. The first time I met Tom, he blew my mind. He is so full of life and love. My friend Robert recommended that we attend a yoga class Tom was leading. He truly brought all of himself to that class - it was extraordinary. After class, when Tom and I first spoke, there was an instant connection.
He is a one-of-a-kind guy with a one-of-a-kind story. In this conversation, Tom shares details and insights from his 25-years as a monk in the Self-Realization Fellowship, how he came to his decision to leave the ashram back in 1999, and how he lives and breathes love, every day of his life. He also talks about starting his own yoga studio, The Soul of Yoga, and his new venture, Love Force Revolution, Inc.
Key Takeaways:
[3:55] What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work mean to Tom?
[7:22] Tom began the connection to the deepest part of himself through yoga.
[9:55] When Tom added yoga to his life for the better, his friends were the first things to fall away.
[14:10] The decision to become a monk was easier said than done, but love kept him involved for 25 years.
[21:56] Writing down his fears along with their positive aspect, led Tom to leave the Self-Realization Fellowship.
[24:38] Tom had a spiritual friendship with his future wife at the ashram, before getting married outside the hermitage.
[29:05] The story of starting the Soul of Yoga studio in 2003.
[35:38] Source brings unity. Source allows a person to be in their calm center, in their authenticity, and to bring their whole self to work.
[38:10] “The greatest delusion is to think you have tomorrow.” ~ Buddha
[45:40] How Love Force Revolution helps us to integrate source into our practical world.
[49:30] Tom is grateful to be connected to the source of his life.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Tom Kelly on Facebook
Love Force Revolution
Love Stream on twitch.tv
I fly solo in this episode as I explore the common themes of these first fourteen episodes of my Bring Your Whole Self to Work podcast. I also share openly about some of what has been going on in my life, with my work, and behind the scenes with this project. I ‘ve been fortunate to have amazing thought leaders, business leaders, and changemakers on my list of interviewees. My guests have been gracious enough to share the experiences that have shaped their perspectives, and the wisdom they have acquired during their wide-ranging careers, life changes, and personal adjustments.
Recurring topics of conversation include passion, gender, change, sexual orientation, body image, leadership, culture, and more. Each guest has inspired me to look deeper within myself, to investigate what judgments I may have adopted in my own life, where I hold myself back, and how to bring more of myself to my work and life. I look forward to introducing my listeners to more amazing guests, on my quest to gain insights for my upcoming book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work. This episode is full of thoughts, ideas, and insights I have gained through these first interviews and as I continue to explore this multifaceted topic.
Key Takeaways:
[2:46] How the Bring Your Whole Self to Work Podcast came to be, and how it will be used for the book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work.
[4:19] So far, 2016 has been intense, in both challenging and wonderful ways.
[9:51] Truth telling can be difficult, if it is coming from a wound, as my friend, Glennon Doyle Melton shared.
[14:27] When we are dealing with things in our lives, how do we show up fully in all of our roles?
[15:01] The personal details my interviewees have shared on this podcast have been about growth, consciously or unconsciously.
[18:40] Change as a journey has been a human theme, weaving its way through the past interviews.
[23:04] Michael Bungay Stanier inspired me to look at the patterns of body image and appearance people have.
[24:17] The current election has me inspecting my own judgments, and exploring areas where I may be righteous.
[31:17] Just how much do we hold ourselves back in certain situations?
[33:20] The concept of bringing your whole self to work has simple aspects, as well as thought- provoking considerations.
[35:14] How does our gender, or sexual orientation, play into our ability to show up authentically?
[39:21] I am grateful you are here with me, as I find my way through the early days of my new podcast.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
My guest on today’s podcast is my friend Joe Greenstein. Joe’s latest creation, InnerSpace, focuses on teaching founders of startups how to take care of themselves and how to build cultures in line with their passions and products. Joe’s career history seems to align perfectly with what he is creating now. He had an entrepreneurial mindset as early as high school, and while in college a paper he wrote turned into a joint business venture with his professor at the time. His early attempts at the next big thing caught the public’s interest, but never showed the promise of longevity. It wasn’t until he created Flixster and acquired Rotten Tomatoes, with his friend and business partner, that he started to move the needle towards financial prosperity. While he is happy to have experienced the chaos of Silicon Valley during his start-up experience and the ultimate sale of his company to Warner Brothers, he is passionate about the work he and his team are doing at InnerSpace, and also about his new adventure of fatherhood.
Key Takeaways:
[3:00] What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work mean to Joe?
[7:57] Not all of Joe’s entrepreneurial ventures were financially successful, but his ideas were always sound.
[15:00] The business world is so disconnected from what happens in education.
[19:06] Joe had an idea to create a site to share movie reviews, called Whosawwhat.com.
[27:27] Rotten Tomatoes was buried under corporate bureaucracy at the time Flixster acquired it.
[29:53] Joe explains the emotional impact of selling a company he built from scratch.
[33:27] The downsides of getting caught in the web of inauthenticity.
[40:39] Joe left Flixster to experiment with what he wanted to do with his life, which turned into Inner Space.
[44:39] The same organizations entrepreneurs create to serve them, often become enemies of their well-being.
[46:44] Success is being loving and joyful.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Inner Space
My guest on today’s podcast is Anne Robie. I met her at a Wisdom 2.0 conference. IBM hired Anne immediately after she finished her graduate studies and sent her to Raleigh, North Carolina. She later transferred to the San Francisco Bay area to become the Head of People for StubHub and to spend time with her ailing father.
Anne has recently started Darshan Leadership Consulting, a private leadership consulting and executive coaching business. Anne joins me to discuss the diverse meanings of Bring Your Whole Self to Work, her process of personal grieving, the mindfulness movement in business, and how a person’s gender may impact their ability to be accepted authentically in this new era of leadership.
Key Takeaways:
[2:30] What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work mean to Anne?
[9:16] Does Bring Your Whole Self to Work mean sharing everything that happens in our lives?
[16:14] We all have the same fears, we all want to be seen and we all have the same stuff going on.
[19:11] How do we simultaneously appreciate, honor and value our differences without oversimplifying our circumstances?
[23:40] Having an open mind is not always easy or natural.
[31:15] How the opportunity to be the head of Human Resources for StubHub brought Anne to the San Francisco Bay area.
[33:45] The personal process of grieving and how it related to Anne’s work.
[37:38] What have other leaders done to allow employees to show up authentically and to gain insights into people’s lives?
[41:44] Does gender play a role in a person’s ability to show up authentically?
[46:01] For organizations to transform, it will take a lot of time and effort.
[47:17] Darshan Leadership Consulting is Anne’s new HR Consulting and Executive Coaching Business.
[50:32] What is Anne most grateful for in her life?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
Darshan Leadership Consulting
Anne Robie on LinkedIn
My guest on today’s podcast is Stuart Crabb. Stuart and I met five years ago at a Wisdom 2.0 conference (notice a running theme?). At the time, he was working at Facebook and was kind enough to take a small group of us on a tour of the social media company’s Palo Alto campus.
As the Head of Global Learning, Stuart helped design and grow Facebook’s Learning and Development program. When he started at Facebook there were about 500 employees, and when he left earlier this year, there were about 15,000. He has recently started a new venture, Oxegen Consulting, and shares a wealth of insight with us on the podcast today.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Stuart?
Stuart understands bringing your whole self to work isn’t just good for organizational cultures, it’s actually good for individual performance. The opportunity to be the same person you are at work and still be the same person you are when you are not at work is the essence of bringing your whole self to work. Stuart says when a person is able to live and work authentically, they are able to explore the natural strengths and full dimensions of their character. If a workplace celebrates what individuals bring to the team dynamic, high performing teams will develop.
Assimilation comes at a price. The energy people expend on fitting in gets lost and misdirected. Being able to leverage energy, to have it unencumbered for the innovation process is much more productive and beneficial to the organization.
The Strength Evangelist
In 2009, Facebook wanted to build a positive culture. They entrusted Stuart with creating a team with strength-based performance as its core. Stuart believes progressive organizations realize the manager trumps the brand. A company should never pay someone extra to become a manager. It incents people to want to lead for the wrong reasons. None of the perks matter if your manager sucks. Focusing on the larger social community is what is important.
Having the Sweaty Palmed Conversations
It goes beyond performance. It’s really all about people and their emotions. Organizations must be prepared to discuss the undiscussable. Stuart says people may misinterpret this science as “Happiology,” but it’s not. You can cultivate high-engagement and positive emotions in others if you are prepared and courageous enough to tell people what they need to hear.
Resources:
Oxegen Consulting
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
My guest on today’s podcast is my friend Chantal Pierrat. Chantal and I first met at a Wisdom 2.0 conference a few years ago. I remember being struck by her passion and her authenticity. She was in the process of leaving her job at Sounds True Publishing to found her organization, Emerging Women.
Chantal and I hit it off instantly and we began discussing, among other things, the importance of feminine leadership in business and the world. I appreciate the great work that Chantal and her team at Emerging Women are doing to empower female leaders and entrepreneurs, and all of us.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Chantal?
Chantal says the concept of the whole self has shifted for her over the last few years. To bring her whole self to work she needs to include her spiritual self. Part of being a whole human being is being a spiritual human being. Her belief that there is something larger than her at play in the universe should integrate with who she is at work.
Her Spiritual Quest
Chantal felt privileged to work at Sounds True, a publishing company who focuses on spirituality and consciousness. Sounds True allowed intention to be at the core of how business was done. Chantal believes this is the way business will be conducted in the future. So, why did Chantal leave Sounds True to start her own entrepreneurship?
Chantal felt called. She wanted to work each day with purpose while understanding her relevance on this planet. She had no idea what her business would be but she felt inspired to create something new. During her search for inspiration, she found that a lack of resources existed for women looking for support as they followed their own calling. It was then, her company, Emerging Women evolved into existence.
Emerging Women
Chantal was surprised how hard it was to start her own company. The nuts and bolts of getting a business off the ground was the key to seeing her vision realized. But, she felt she didn’t have a choice, it was her calling to see this through. She says energy comes when you are fueled from a place of vision. It is important to reconnect with your passion often and refuel so that you are not running dry.
Her Emerging Women organization is a global networking and content platform for women who are interested in leadership, specifically feminine leadership. Their mission is to increase the pipeline of women leaders throughout the world. The members of Emerging Women are tired of compromising themselves at work. They want to create a new paradigm. A paradigm that includes personal growth within the context of leadership.
Emerging Women Live - October 13-16, 2016 in San Francisco
Chantal believes it is time to step out and increase the feminine energy on the planet. This year’s Emerging Women Live Event takes place in San Francisco October 13-16, and will include incredible speakers like Glennon Doyle Melton, Anne Lamott, Marianne Williamson and more. My wife Michelle and I will be there again this year...it is an incredible event!
Resources:
Emerging Women
Emerging Women Live Event
Emerging Women on Facebook
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
My guest on today’s podcast is Jay Allen. Jay recently retired from his role as the Chief Administrative Officer at Charles Schwab, which is where he and I met a few years ago. Schwab is one of my favorite clients and getting to know Jay and work with him and his team in recent years has been a real honor for me.
He retired last year to keep a promise to himself. Early in his work life, Jay vowed to have time to follow his passions. His career history before Schwab includes working for IBM, NBC, GE, a start-up, and his own consulting business.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Jay?
Jay shares a story of when he was given the role of manager over a group of people within his existing department. A peer who was also a friend was waiting in line to talk with him. When it was her turn she walked in and said something he will never forget. She said “They didn’t give you this job because they thought you could be a good manager. They gave it to you because they liked who you were.” Jay says it was an important experience for him and he felt lucky it happened so early in his career.
Valuing People
One of Jay’s core principles as a leader is to value people as individuals - appreciating who they are, not just what they do. Over the years of Jay’s career, the various companies and roles he had, he always made a commitment to connect with people and value them on a human level, regardless of their role, title, or performance. He believes this is an essential aspect of leadership and culture.
Charles Schwab
Charles Schwab is a purpose-driven financial services company. Jay’s mission as the head of HR was to take the core purpose of the organization and strengthen its foundation while preserving its ability to meet its financial objectives. His strength-based approach was capitalizing on what people were good at and letting them know what they were doing was worthy of their time. He asserts that one of the most important things a leader can do is make it known to people they are valued as individuals and deserving of respect.
Transparency in Communications
Jay admits to being very curious, almost bordering on nosey. Early in his career he wanted to know everything, including the why. Some senior people seemed uncomfortable with open and honest communication, which he found off-putting and strange. Jay has a firm commitment to transparent and direct communications. His aim as a leader has been to root out corporate speak and corporate spin to deliver a message as clearly as was possible.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
My guest on today’s podcast is my friend Michelle Gale. Michelle and I met at a Wisdom 2.0 conference back in 2011. Wisdom 2.0 is an organization that holds events all over the world which focus on bringing technology and mindfulness together. After working in sales, as a teacher, and as a recruiter, Michelle became a coach. Her experience as both a recruiter and a coach led her to an opportunity to work at Twitter in the early days of the company as it was beginning to grow.
Michelle left Twitter back in 2012 to focus on coaching full time. Today she works with organizations, as well as with parents and families, focusing on mindfulness.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Michelle?
Michelle believes it’s all about showing up as your authentic self at work. She says during part of a person's time at work they should be sharing their greatest gifts by working in their flow or their genius.
A Transformative Year
Michelle realized she was ready for something new after working amid chaos as a teacher in the Los Angeles area. She began to be triggered by unfortunate situations in her student’s lives. She yearned to be on a path of mindfulness and to incorporate meditation into her life. This desire led her to a year-long, transformational program at New Ventures West. Shortly after finishing the program she started coaching.
Her small coaching practice was the perfect accompaniment to her newly acquired motherhood duties. When the recession hit, it was an easy decision for Michelle to go back into recruiting to supplement the household income. She won a part-time recruiting contract with a company with whom she had a history. She advised the founders of the organization their corporate culture needed support through coaching. They gave her the go ahead and she was happy to find herself doing what she loved inside of an organization - coaching.
A former colleague of Michelle’s asked her to join her team at Twitter in the early days, as they were looking for good recruiters. She agreed to help with recruiting, as long as they allowed her to pursue her love of coaching. They appointed her their Organizational Coach and Learning and Development Leader. Twitter at the time was just ramping up and was an exciting place to be but Michelle was working 60-70 hour weeks which didn’t leave her much time with her kids. When she overheard someone talking about the Wisdom 2.0 conference she did some research.
The Mindfulness Movement
Michelle loved what she read about the conference and knew she would find like-minded people there. She says “The mindfulness movement is a response to what culture is serving up right now.” Michelle’s mindfulness practices include morning meditations and ‘I see you’ moments and texts with her children.
Parents Suffer in Silence
Michelle is excited about bringing support to parents who may be suffering in silence. She says in today’s world, both mom and dad are working and higher expectations are put on moms. Work constantly filters into personal time including time set aside for family vacations. Michelle’s goal is to see organizations go through a culture shift and see the benefits of supporting parents. She says that sparks are already being lit by champions of the cause inside of organizations, like Google.
Michelle would like to see other businesses adopt mindful parenting policies. She says it’s critical to weave parental support into business structures through more awareness, more conversations and practical solutions.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
Michelle Gale Website
Michelle Gale on Twitter
My guest on today’s podcast, Lisa Earle McLeod, is a good friend and the author of five books including Selling with Noble Purpose and Leading with Noble Purpose. Her consulting company created the concept of Noble Purpose which is a declarative statement about the impact an organization has on its customers. It incorporates telling the market what your company stands for and why your organization exists.
Lisa is an expert in sales and leadership. She writes for Forbes.com and she has been featured on NBC Nightly News, the Today show and Good Morning America. She has delivered keynote speeches all over the world for Apple, Pfizer, Hootsuite and many other well-known organizations.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Lisa?
The phrase bring your whole self to work makes Lisa feel relaxed. She relates it to her job as sales manager for a college newspaper when she was authentically herself without being conscious of it. In contrast to her first “real job” after college (in sales in the 1980s) where she felt she had to become a different person to fit in. An exercise she found exhausting.
Lisa finds it fascinating that mindset, words and behavior can completely change the outcome of a situation. When she realized the culture of a company resides in the language and interactions it had a profound effect on her. Even with this understanding, she found it hard to be authentic within her own business because she thought her clients expected her to be a certain way. Back in the mid-1990’s, people weren’t having the ‘how to be authentic’ conversation at work. They may have been having it outside of work but not at work she says.
Bringing Her Whole Self Together
Becoming a writer had never occurred to Lisa. She admits that somewhere along the line she missed the concept of great writing was made up of great ideas. When personal events inspired her to investigate meaning and purpose, she took a class on how to get a book published. She solicited advice from friends and shortly after doing so, her first book, Forget Perfect, just poured out of her. In her recent writing, she has connected her assertive business side with her purposeful side to create books that help leaders drive revenue by focusing on their noble purpose.
People want to hear the compelling story about what a company is doing to change people’s lives. Lisa wanted to show sales leaders how to create a company which is competitively differentiated so they could be unique in their space and all of their people would be on fire.
Her advice for companies who wish to implement this ideology into their culture, she says to start with these three things 1. Name and claim your noble purposes 2. Tell your backstory and 3. Bring customers to life in your organization.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins Podcast
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
McLeod and more Website
Noble Purpose Institute
Lisa McLeod on Twitter
Today’s guest, Melissa Daimler, is someone I’ve known for 15 years. She knows a ton about the coaching world because she was the very first employee of Coach University, which is one of the top coach training schools in the world. She moved from New York City, where she ran her own very successful coaching business and arrived in the San Francisco Bay Area in time for the dot-com boom.
Melissa’s desire to be part of a team led her to the Epylon Corporation, as their Director of People. She then moved to Adobe where she spent 10 years in various HR and Talent roles. Four and a half years ago she took a job at Twitter as their Head of Learning and Organizational Development. She sits on the board of the Association for Talent Development and she’s written articles for the Harvard Business Review.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Melissa?
Melissa has always been interested in how to use work as an opportunity to grow and learn. Throughout her non-traditional career journey, she has had both great and not so great managers who taught her who she wanted to be and who she didn’t want to be as a leader and at work. The managers she was inspired by used their jobs to become better. They also made sure the people on their teams were also growing and learning all the time.
The Joys of Team Membership
Melissa says she has always been attracted to the system piece of people, looking at where people are today and how to move them to the next level. After coaching for several years, she desired to be part of a team again and moved back into the system. She felt that if she understood a company it would help her to coach people better. She took over Adobe’s learning organization when there were 4,ooo people in the company and when she left, 10 years later, Adobe had over 10,000 employees.
While working at Adobe, a recruiter called her and asked her if she wanted to build something from scratch. She loves jumping into things that are exciting and scary so she accepted the position to build out the learning team at Twitter. She says it was a different world at the beginning, she learned how to be crafty and strategic at the same time and she leveraged her tribe. In all of the chaos, there are three things she has always stayed true to 1. Taking care of herself 2. Taking care of her team 3. Taking care of the business.
Melissa accepts challenges as learning opportunities. She says that one of the great things about Twitter is that you don’t have to ask for permission to re-evaluate, re-imagine or to be innovative. One of her current projects is re-imagining feedback to figure out what people truly want. The goal is to help leaders shift from the traditional every 6-month review to ongoing learning every day. During open conversations, a person can give feedback without starting with the phrase “So, I’d like to give you a little feedback.” Open, honest communication based on the trust which exists inside the relationship.
Generational Differences
Melissa says she sees more similarities than differences within generations but that maybe Millennials say what the Gen X-ers were thinking but didn’t have had the courage to say. Millennials are voicing what everybody wants and Millennials want what all people want, which is to align themselves with a company that has a meaningful mission and to know that an opportunity for growth exists.
Melissa says she doesn’t want to be one of those people who are falling behind in technology, so she asks a lot of questions. She shares her goals with her team so they can provide feedback to her as part of her ongoing learning philosophy. When asked about what advice she would give to her younger self she says “I would tell myself to speak up more and share my point of view.”
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
Melissa Daimler on Twitter
Harvard Business Review - Melissa Daimler Articles
My guest on this podcast episode, Matthew Luhn, worked for over twenty years at Pixar - helping create the stories for some of the most successful animated films in history: including Toy Story, Monsters Inc.,
Cars, UP, and Finding Nemo.
Today, he is a keynote speaker and consultant to some of most influential businesses and brands in the world like Apple, Charles Schwab, Google, Adidas, Disney and many others. These companies contact him when they want to know how to inspire creativity and innovation internally as well as how to make better connections with their customers. Matthew’s unique story creation experience with Pixar, Industrial Light and Magic (ILM), and The Simpsons, along with his anybody can succeed attitude, make his “Story for Business” seminars and workshops a sought after experience.
Fostering Creativity
With his father’s encouragement, Matthew attended the California Institute of the Arts instead of running the family’s popular toy store business. His father exposed him to obscure animation festivals and enriched him with a “there is no such thing as failing” attitude. At CalArts, he focused on learning everything he could. His first-year final was a short film, which got the attention of the creators of the Simpsons. They offered him a job as an animator but while working there he realized what he really loved was making people feel something. So, he went back to CalArts to study story creation.
His second student film caught the interest a small company named Pixar. He had seen some of Pixar’s animated shorts and was anxious to say yes to a job offer from them working on what was going to be with the first CGI feature-length animated movie, Toy Story. At the time, he did not realize he had agreed to a job as an animator even though his heart was in story creation. Disney decided to put the project on hold for a few months, so Matthew started freelancing doing storyboard work. When Pixar contacted him again they offered him a position on the story team and he never looked back.
How the Power of Story is Helping Businesses
Matthew is enjoying this second chapter of his life story by sharing his experience. He shares the tips and techniques of creating a great story with marketing organizations who benefit by using a story to make their customers feel something. Business leaders use his teachings to create a culture which inspires creativity and innovation and how to use collected data to make better connections with their audiences.
Creative Business Culture
Matthew learned a lot working on the Simpsons and at ILM in the early part of his career, and, of course, being at Pixar for over 20 years. He says that in those environments, they didn’t set out to create a “creative culture” per se, they just allowed people to be themselves, have fun, and create - without too much pressure or stress. He believes that some of the things his dad taught him as a kid are the key elements in allowing creativity to flow organically in business.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Matthew?
Matthew says that being true to himself and the people he works while knowing that it is ok to fail is what bringing your whole self to work means to him.
Quote
“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”- Steve Jobs
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
Matthew Luhn Story
Matthew Luhn on Twitter
My guest today, Bob Andrews, is someone I’ve known for many years. He is a dear friend and someone I greatly appreciate. Bob has had an interesting career - working as a teacher, then as a retail store manager, and ultimately building his career in the field of Human Resources. He was the head HR for Jamba Juice and held various HR jobs at Gap Inc. Bob is now working for himself, doing something he has always felt passionate about - executive and leadership coaching.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Bob?
Bob says the phrase “Bring Your Whole Self to Work” pushes a few of his buttons. He has been challenged by bringing his whole self at work throughout his career and has worked with others who struggle with being fully themselves and with showing up fully at work.
As an example, early in Bob’s career he completed a survey answering each question the way he imagined a strong leader would. He answered in the voice of the person he wanted to be instead of who he really was. Then, after 25 years of experience, Bob took the same survey again. This time, he answered straight from his heart and found that many of the answers he gave were the opposite of his previous results.
Moving Past the Fear
After years of paperwork and excel spreadsheets, Bob recognized that he wasn’t being true to himself or his work. He realized the part of Human Resources he loved was working with executives and leadership teams. In order to do this, he would need to create an executive coaching business of his own. He felt a tinge of fear in that being himself wouldn’t be good enough, that he wasn’t prepared to go out on his own and it wouldn’t pay enough to cover the cost of his lifestyle. Eventually, the business world evolved and started putting additional resources into talent development and talent management and Bob started working at Gap Inc. as an Internal Executive Coach, which then springboarded him to his current coaching business.
How Are Leaders Creating a Thriving Culture of Authenticity in the Workplace?
Bob says leaders who take care of themselves through holistic practices make better leaders and better communicators. Listening to employees with empathy is a common trait of successful leaders in today’s workplace. They allow space for others to breathe and learn to humanize their roles.
Quote
“Fear is just excitement without the breath.” - Fritz Perls
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
Bob Andrews on LinkedIn
Michael Bungay Stanier is my guest on this week’s episode of my podcast. He is the author of many books including Do More Great Work and, his latest, The Coaching Habit. Michael’s company, Box of Crayons, help organizations to do less good work and more great work.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Michael?
Michael references the insights in the book The Dark Side of the Light Chasers by Debbie Ford and how the ‘I Am That’ process allows a person to acknowledge all that they are and show up as their whole person. He says there is something about understanding how you are different in this world and doubling down on what makes you unique.
Embracing Discomfort
Balancing tension is hard. There is a fine line between strategy and guessing. Michael says to experiment in a way that limits risks is the way forward. He observes that most people don’t wrestle long enough with questions and they will generally default to safety.
An Inspiring Project
In Michael’s book, Do More Great Work, he advocates having a great work project. A project a person can pour all of their creativity, energy and resources into. He knew he had to have a project of his own. He wanted to have a bold impact and considered what was the cheapest unit of change at a global level. He brought thought leaders and other intriguing people together to write articles on how to access great work. And, then along with The Domino Project and Seth Godin, he published End Malaria a book which, when purchased, sends a donation to Malaria No More to purchase mosquito nets for families in need.
Keeping Things in Perspective
Michael believes that we sometimes take ourselves a bit too seriously, which ends up stressing us out and burdening us with unnecessary pressure. He thinks we should embrace all of who we are, even and especially the stuff that’s weird about us. This frees us up to do more great work and to not be so attached to the outcome.
Quotes
“I’d rather be whole than be good.”- Carl Jung
“When you argue with reality, you lose, but only 100% of the time.” - Byron Katie
“Take my advice. I’m not using it.” - David J. Henderhan
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
Box of Crayons
Michael Bungay Stanier Books
Today I’m speaking with my friend, Eric Severson. Eric has been working and studying the field of Human Resources for over 25 years. He spent many of those years at Gap Inc., which is where we met. At Gap Inc., he served as the co-CHRO in charge of global enterprise talent strategy and operations.
He is a leader who works to create culture and support the growth of talent. In 2014, Eric was appointed by the US Commerce Secretary to be a part of the National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NACIE). The organization's initiatives include looking at how to create organizations where people can bring their whole selves to work and be successful. They also focus on how organizations and corporations can be positive influences in society at large.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
Eric Severson on Twitter
CHREATE
National Advisory Council on Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Today I’m speaking with my friend Dr. Dacher Keltner, a professor at UC Berkeley who is also the co-founder and faculty director of the UC Berkeley Greater Good Science Center. He is a renowned expert in the biological and evolutionary origins of human emotions and he studies awe, compassion, beauty and love. He just wrote a new book, The Power Paradox, and has also authored two previous books, Born to Be Good:The Science of a Meaningful Life and The Compassion Instinct.
The Greater Good Science Center
The Greater Good Science Center began in 2001, as print magazine, with the intention of bringing peace and well-being to people. It has since become a place people go to for acquiring knowledge and learning how to put that knowledge into practice. The center capitalizes on core ethical ideas in our data-driven society.
A talk at Stanford led to an exciting opportunity for Dacher to partner with Facebook. The result of their partnership was the modification of Facebook’s approach and platform, which gave users the ability to be kinder and more compassionate when engaging with each other on Facebook. According to Dacher, “Social interaction is a fundamental challenge in today’s world.”
The Power Paradox
Today’s workplace is collaborative so the soft skills of leadership have become more important. Dacher teaches managers to build a culture of gratitude and respect. He shows leaders how to gain and keep power by doing good things for people. Service and humility are the last levels of great leadership. The more humble a leader is the more people will trust and follow them, yet power often leads people to do just the opposite.
Acts of Gratitude
Acts of gratitude help to build cooperative teams, and the small stuff leaders do matters enormously in an organization. If a person is in a position of power, their actions ripple through social networks. The actions and emotions that leaders bring to work can influence the mood of the entire company.
The “We” Generation of Sharing
Dacher interacts with students every day in his role as a professor and he believes this new generation is going to be amazing. They are more interested in the environment and the far reaches of the world than they are in buying a home or a car.
What does Bringing Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Dacher?
It’s about being open and listening to everybody who comes your way. To be open, to hear, to respect and to dignify is Dacher’s first goal.
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker Page
The Greater Good Science Center of UC Berkeley
Greater Good Science Center on Twitter
The Power Paradox
This is the very first episode of my new Bring Your Whole Self to Work Podcast. I really wanted to do something special for this first show and was so excited that my friend, the amazing Chip Conley, agreed to join me.
What I Know About Chip Conley
Chip is a business leader, a thought leader, and a person I respect and admire a great deal. At 26, he started the Joie de Vivre – which became the second largest boutique hotel company in the world. He sold the company back in 2010. Chip is the author of four books with a fifth one on the way and for the past 38 months he has worked as a mentor to the founders of Airbnb and a leader within the company as they’ve grown exponentially. He is a true renaissance man of life, business and of personal growth.
The Courage to Walk Down the Entrepreneurial Path
Chip remembers the advice from the Whole Earth Catalog, which was to “start cheap, stay small and stay local”. This advice allowed him to make mistakes and modify appropriately. Chip figured that if he had to shut everything down at 29 he would still have time to do something else.
What does Bring Your Whole Self to Work Mean to Chip
Potting your own personal plant in an orchard where it is most likely to grow and understanding what your innate talents and gifts are. These are the first steps to bringing your whole self to work. By gaining self-awareness you will gain clarity and know whether or not the company you are running or working for is a good fit for you.
Chip realized he has a natural aptitude for recognizing what is and what is not working in design and a gift for serving people. The hotel business is all about serving people so he bought a motel in a not-so-nice neighborhood and he started Joie de Vivre (The Joy of Life, in French). It’s a business name and a mission statement all rolled up in one. And, it was then that he became the style-minded, big-hearted, boutique entrepreneur. Fast forward 25 years and he was running the second largest boutique hotel chain in the world. All because he brought his whole self to work.
Democratising Culture Through Ambassadors
The good news about the hotel name no one could pronounce was that new employees could be taught about the name and the mission. He and his team created the Joie de Vivre symbol. It is a heart with 4-points or arteries, leading to the core missions of the organization. Employees were empowered to make a change if one of the arteries was not flowing properly. Chip democratized the culture by creating cultural ambassadors for each hotel. They were front-line employees who were elected by their fellow workers to serve in this position. This democratization worked so well that Joie de Vivre was voted as the second best place to work in the San Francisco Bay Area. Second only to Google.
The Whole Self is Everything
Chip says there are two things you can do to bring your whole self to work after a difficult time, and they are: 1) Divorce yourself from work for a little while to process everything that is going on, or 2) Feel you can be authentic and vulnerable enough to share with others in the workplace. Holding something back takes a lot of energy. The process of unleashing it frees up a lot of space in your mind and emotional space in your heart. It allows people to rally around you. If you feel you must hide things you are probably not doing your best at work.
Chip’s Forthcoming Book - Modern Elder
Chip gives us a glimpse of the experiences he is drawing from in order to create his next book, Modern Elder. Working with Airbnb has given him a new perspective on the digital society and the intergenerational transfer of wisdom in humans. Those of us who are a bit older have some important things to teach the younger generations. And, the younger generations have some important things to teach their elders at the same time.
Inspirational Quotes:
“Be yourself, everyone else is taken.” - Oscar Wilde
“The person you spend the most time with is yourself. Therefore you owe it to yourself to be both an interesting and happy person.” - Unknown
“My life is my message.” - Gandhi
Resources:
Mike Robbins Website
Mike Robbins on Facebook
Mike Robbins on Twitter
Mike Robbins Speaker
Chip Conley Website
Chip Conley on Twitter
Chip Conley’s Books:
● The Rebel Rules: Daring to Be Yourself in Business
● Peak: How Great Companies Get Their Mojo from Maslow
● Emotional Equations
So, why am I doing this new podcast? Well, during my 15 years of speaking, writing and coaching I’ve gotten to know some incredible business leaders, thought leaders and other fascinating people. As I started to work on my next book, Bring Your Whole Self to Work, I decided I wanted to interview some of these folks as research for the book. Then I decided it would be cool to record these conversations and share them with others. So, that was the inspiration for this podcast.
I want to learn about the twists and turns in their careers – their ups, downs, insights, challenges, inspirations, and more What has allowed them to bring all of who they are to their work? What makes this challenging? What have been the benefits of this in terms of their success and fulfillment.
I’m also curious about the things that entrepreneurs and business leaders do to consciously create a culture of authenticity, innovation, and creativity in their organizations. How do they make it safe and conducive for people to bring all of who they are to work?
I’m excited about this new podcast, looking forward to these conversations, and hope that we all get to learn, share, and grow in the process…and to challenge ourselves to bring even more of who we are to the work that we do.
Resources:
www.mike-robbins.com
https://www.facebook.com/mikerobbinspage/
https://twitter.com/mikedrobbins
http://mike-robbins.com/speaking/