When is Now: Recent Episodes
Capella Fahoome
Welcome to When is Now with Capella Fahoome. Capella has been in the film industry for over twenty years and remains committed to the relational experience of filmmaking. With a concentration on enhancing collaborative environments, she works to build relationships grounded in trust, respect, and mutuality. These conversations with Capella and multi-industry experts will touch on curiosity, passion, emotional intelligence, and leadership with all roads leading to empowering yourself and everyone around you.
Today we're joined by Dr. Laura Morgan Roberts, renowned scholar, professor, and CEO of The Alignment Quest Enterprise LLC, to discuss the transformative power of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in fostering creativity and innovation in the workplace. Dr. Roberts shares insightful strategies on how small acts of affirmation, or "micro-validations," can significantly enhance workplace culture and drive positive change. She emphasizes that DEIJ is not just about addressing disparities but is essential for nurturing an environment that values creativity and diverse perspectives.
Dr. Roberts also underscores the importance of individual responsibility in shaping a more inclusive culture through everyday kindness and fairness. Join us to learn how these foundational elements not only promote a healthier work environment but are also crucial for personal and organizational success.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Dr. Laura Roberts https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauramorganroberts/ https://www.facebook.com/drlauramorganroberts/
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Heather Denniston, a seasoned expert in bridging the gap between personal well-being and professional excellence. With a rich background that transitions from chiropractic care to empowering corporate leaders and teams, Dr. Denniston shares her insights on preempting work stress through strategic, small adjustments akin to those in chiropractic treatment. Her approach emphasizes the critical role of deep thoughtfulness in fostering healthy workplace environments, underpinned by the wellness of body and mind.
Dr. Denniston introduces the concept of "Energy Leakage," explaining how unresolved stressors can deplete our resilience and vitality. Drawing from her 25 years of experience and her work with organizations including Microsoft, she outlines practical steps for performing an "Energy Inventory" to identify and address these leaks. Her Wellness Amplifier Performance Program, combined with her roles as a keynote speaker, coach, and author of "Three Day Reset," positions her as a vanguard in linking health to career success. This episode is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to enhance their productivity, resilience, and overall well-being in the fast-paced corporate world.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Heather Denniston https://www.wellfitandfed.com/
In an uplifting episode with Dr. Ellen Cole, a beacon in the field of positive aging, we delve into the challenges and misconceptions surrounding getting older. Dr. Cole, who pivoted to a groundbreaking new career at 69, passionately dismantles ageism, presenting it as both a personal and societal health crisis. She brings to light the compelling evidence that those with a positive perspective on aging not only live longer but lead happier lives.
The conversation illuminates the mutual benefits of intergenerational relationships, the significance of aging in place, and the critical role of social connectivity in combating loneliness. Through her inspiring journey and the concept of prospecting—always having something to look forward to—Dr. Cole embodies the profound message that starting anew in your 70s isn't just a possibility, but a pathway to a fulfilling life.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Ellen Cole https://www.lps.upenn.edu/degree-programs/mapp/stories/ellen-cole
Today we have the pleasure of welcoming Jongnic “JB” Bontemps, a modern maestro of film composition, whose dynamic journey from a Silicon Valley entrepreneur to a celebrated composer epitomizes a fusion of technological savvy and artistic passion. JB, who has made significant waves with his scoring of Paramount Pictures’ "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" and has been a pivotal figure in projects like "Creed II" and the Netflix hit "Wedding Season," shares his insightful journey and perspectives.
He delves into the importance of representation in Hollywood, revealing how the industry can evolve to embrace inclusivity through actionable strategies, and highlights the significance of taking leaps of faith and the impact of social media on creativity. JB’s philosophy extends beyond mere networking, advocating for excellence and genuine connections as the bedrock of success. His story is a testament to the power of pursuing one's passion, the art of storytelling through music, and the impact of creating opportunities for all, making this episode a beacon for aspiring creatives and industry innovators alike.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Jongnic Bontemps https://www.bontempsmusic.com
Today we are excited to have Dr. Angelica Leigh, Assistant Professor of Management and Organizations at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. She delves into the often overlooked yet critical intersection of race and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in organizations. She sheds light on how mega-threats, such as highly publicized societal events affecting racial minority communities, impact the behaviors of underrepresented employees. Dr. Leigh offers insights into how employers can support their workforce during these challenging times and emphasizes the importance of building authentic connections and fostering cross-cultural conversations to promote DEI in the workplace. Drawing from her extensive research and practical experience, she provides actionable strategies for leaders to navigate these complex issues and cultivate a more inclusive organizational culture.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Angelica Leigh, Ph.D Assistant Professor of Management and Organizations Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business http://www.angelicaleigh.com/ https://linkedin.com/in/angelicaleigh
Today we are happy to have Liz Lerman as we explore a transformative technique for managing judgment and neutralizing feedback to propel teams toward peak performance. Liz emphasizes the challenge of maintaining values in today's world and highlights the importance of consistent practice. The Critical Response Process (CRP) takes center stage as a game-changing method for providing constructive critique that counters negativity bias and defensiveness, promoting a culture of growth. CRP not only guides structured feedback delivery but also teaches the art of receiving feedback effectively.
Liz advocates for infusing creativity into the workplace, leveraging the power of the Creative Arts to shape a positive culture. Surprisingly, critiques, when approached with curiosity, can foster trust within teams, contributing to an environment of continuous improvement. This episode encourages leaders to embrace innovative strategies for building a resilient and high-performing team culture.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Liz Lerman https://lizlerman.com/
This week I'm excited to talk with Mario Armstrong and engage in a thought-provoking conversation on VIA Character Strengths survey, drawing insightful comparisons with our own results. While previous episodes explored fostering positive team culture in corporate settings, this episode dives into the unique dynamics of creating a work culture within a family.
Mario shares a powerful question that guides his decision-making process: "Who do I fight for?" This question aligns with his top character strength of fairness and equality. Throughout the discussion, we explore themes such as overcoming fear, embracing vulnerability, shifting perspectives from problems to possibilities, and transforming nervousness into excitement. Join us for an inspiring dialogue that navigates the intricacies of personal growth, leadership, and the pursuit of a meaningful life.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Mario Armstrong Host, Entrepreneur, Podcaster and Public Speaker https://www.instagram.com/marioarmstrong/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/marioarmstrong
This week we're excited to talk to Dr. Robert Quinn as he delves into the groundbreaking field of Positive Organizational Scholarship that he co-founded. As a pioneer in the study of purpose, leadership, culture, and change, Dr. Quinn discusses the symbiotic relationship between transformational and transactional relationships, emphasizing the necessity of both. He explores the profound impact of the fear of marginalization on human behavior and highlights the role of Positive Deviants in propelling cultures forward.
Dr. Quinn shares insights on the competing values framework and underscores the power of inquiry and honesty as crucial leadership tools. With a remarkable track record in teaching and speaking, including a viral talk at Google on purpose, Dr. Quinn remains a driving force in fostering positive leadership and organizational change.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Dr. Robert E. Quinn Co-Founder of Center for Positive Organizations at University of Michigan Thought Leader on Leadership and Change Best-selling Author & Speaker https://robertequinn.com/
This week we're excited to host Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, the 49th Mayor of Baltimore and current Chair of Airbnb's Housing Council, as she shares valuable insights. As the first and only African American woman to serve as president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Stephanie discusses the changing dynamics of political communication and the importance of authentic leadership. Reflecting on her tenure as mayor, she highlights the achievements in crime reduction and economic revival.
Stephanie's leadership extends to her role as the Executive Director of the NBPA Foundation, where she transformed player engagement and philanthropy. The conversation explores topics such as the promise of Gen Z, the necessity of a genuine inner circle for leaders, and the balance between transactional and transformational leadership.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Stephanie Rawlings Blake https://instagram.com/stephanierawlingsblake https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-rawlings-blake-84951673/
This week we're excited to have Dr. Carl C. Jefferson, Executive Advisor, CEO Coach, and Visionary Board Leader, delve into the transformative world of people-centric management and leadership development. With a rich background in Human Resources and Organizational Leadership, including roles as Chief People Officer and VP of Human Resources, he shares valuable insights on the power of discipline, the balance between emotion and logic, and the significant impact of listening in saving companies billions. Tune in to discover the keys to effective leadership and the importance of finding the right executive coach. One last tidbit about Dr. Carl, he and Capella have been best friends for over 30 years!
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Dr. Carl C. Jefferson https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccjefferson/
This week we are honored to have Dr. Betty Kilby Baldwin as she shares a poignant journey of desegregating a Virginia High School, expressing the daily struggles and resilience that kept her committed. Despite facing adversity and derogatory remarks, Dr. Kilby persevered, earning multiple degrees, including an honorary doctorate, emphasizing her intelligence and capability. Known for her historical autobiography "Wit, Will, and Walls" and co-authorship of "Cousins" with Phoebe Kilby, Dr. Baldwin's work delves into confronting the past and navigating paths to reconciliation. Featured in documentaries and holding a Doctorate of Humane Letters, her remarkable experiences underscore the ongoing importance of recognizing Black history.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
This week we're excited to talk to Dr. Amrita Subramanian! As a seasoned professional with over 23 years of experience, she shares her expertise in turning moments of crisis into opportunities for strength and empowerment. As a faculty member at the University of Pennsylvania and guest lecturer at the Wharton School of Business, Amrita specializes in post-disruptive growth, focusing on sense-making of organizational paradoxes, inter-group dynamics, and intergenerational workforce productivity.
She sheds light on the evolving understanding of power in the world and the crucial link between knowledge and wisdom. Amrita's mission, as an author, speaker, and executive coach, is to spread the message of intentional growth and hope, emphasizing the significance of maintaining healthy mental boundaries for leaders. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on intentional growth, wisdom, and leadership strategies in the face of uncertainty.
Capella Fahoome https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Amrita Subramanian, Ph.D https://www.linkedin.com/in/amrita-v-subramanian-ph-d-a8687057
We are so excited to kick off season 2 with an impactful conversation with Dr. Isaac Prilleltensky, Professor of Educational and Psychological Studies at the University of Miami and distinguished Mautner Endowed Chair in Community Well-Being. With 12 books and over 140 articles to his name, Dr. Prilleltensky deeply explores the concept of mattering, our human need to add value and be valued. Dr. Prilleltensky, along with his wife, co-authored "How People Matter: Why it Affects Health, Happiness, Love, Work, and Society," offering a compelling exploration of wellness and fairness. Enjoy this transformative episode that examines mattering and its impact on individual, organizational, and collective well-being. Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Isaac Prilleltensky, PhD www.professorisaac.com
On this special episode, we welcome Durreen Shahnaz, founder of Impact Investment Exchange (IIX) and author of "The Defiant Optimist". Durreen's groundbreaking work began with the world's first stock exchange for social enterprises, igniting a movement to reshape our financial systems.
In her book, Durreen shares her unwavering belief that systems designed to benefit a select few can be revolutionized for the greater good. She unveils the vital requirements of investing in marginalized individuals and communities excluded from networks of power and opportunity. Durreen fearlessly advocates for placing women, the underserved, and the planet at the center of these systems.
We discuss Durreen's childhood lessons in interdependence, to her experiences as a trailblazing woman of color on Wall Street. We also talk about her determination to challenge the imbalances within the financial system, ultimately leading her to establish her own social impact investment company.
Durreen discusses the struggle to create an inclusive financial market that benefits more than just the top 1%. She talks about how sometimes sacrificing battles of feminism is necessary to win the war of inclusion. She also talks about the power that emerges when fear is overcome and why changing large systems often requires infiltrating and transforming them from within.
Be sure to stick around until the end for an exclusive offer! We'll provide a special discount on Durreen Shahnaz's book, "The Defiant Optimist." Join us for this thought-provoking conversation with a visionary leader and champion of positive change, as we explore how to foster defiant optimism and reshape systems for a better future.
It's been an exciting season with great guests! To wrap things up, I'm bringing my team in for one final episode this season. We discuss our thoughts on the guests and our favorite moments.
This week I am very excited to have Janet Pierson on the podcast! For fifteen years, from April 2008 to Oct 2022, Janet was responsible for the vision, programming, and execution of the SXSW Film Festival (now SXSW Film & TV Festival) and the film and episodic focused content within the SXSW Conference. As of October 2022, she transitioned to Director Emeritus for SXSW, with a strong involvement in programming and mentorship while she continues to champion and support emerging and established filmmakers. Before joining SXSW for the 2009 event, Janet spent over 30 years championing independent films and filmmakers in a variety of roles including exhibitor, producer's rep, financier, co-creator & executive producer, and segment director of the IFC cable TV series Split Screen, now available on the Criterion Channel.
In this episode we'll discuss Janet's early years in film, education and training, our shared interest in positive leadership, and what it means to be a thoughtful leader.
Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Janet Pierson SXSW Director Emeritus https://www.instagram.com/grainyms/
This week I'm happy to have Mark L. O'Brien join me! Mark is a trauma survivor and author of Crashing: I Love You. Forgive Me, a memoir exploring guilt, grief, and growth in the aftermath of tragedy. He is a non-profit executive and cross-sector consultant with over fifteen years of experience in aligning policy, practice, and people to successfully achieve ambitious goals that make life better for individuals and communities. Mark received a B.S. in Law and American Civilization from Towson University, a Master’s degree in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, and a law degree from Georgetown University Law Center.
In this episode we discuss accidental death, tremendous forgiveness, the science behind post-traumatic growth, and how to move on when the unthinkable happens.
Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Mark L. O'Brien Author and Change Maker https://marklobrien.com https://traumapolicy.org https://www.instagram.com/marklobrien/ https://twitter.com/marklobrien
We have a very special guest this week: Kentavius Jones! The man behind our theme song is not only a musician, but also a non-profit executive. Kentavius grew up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, a place that has rich American history. After traveling some of the conventional musician paths, he realized it was his hometown community that gave him his biggest support and opportunities.
In this episode, we discuss not letting perfectionism stop you from creating, community building, honoring your audience, not following a traditional path, choosing a healthier definition of success, and making art anywhere and everywhere.
Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Imari Tuakli Musician and Non-Profit Executive https://www.instagram.com/kentavius/
This week I'm very excited to have Dr. Kim Cameron! He is Professor Emeritus of Management and of Higher Education at the University of Michigan. His book, Positively Energizing Leadership: Virtuous Actions and Relationships That Create High Performance, has been called the perfect blend of science and practice, and is highly recommended by the former President, International Positive Psychology Association, Ed Diener.
In this episode we talks about success, the best way to change your behavior, positively energizing leaders, and most importantly, we discuss why building the case for why some of the old ways of Hollywood and big industry need to change. Enjoy!
Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Kim Cameron William Russell Kelly Professor Emeritus of Management & Organizations Ross School of Business
Professor Emeritus of Higher Education School of Education University of Michigan
This week I'm excited to have Imari Tuakli join me! Imari loves big ideas. As a former filmmaker, he took this passion and brought thought-provoking content to hundreds of millions of viewers around the globe. Now, as a personal development coach, Imari takes big ideas and uses them to change the lives of high-caliber individuals and high-impact organizations around the globe. As a keynote speaker, he delivers big concepts in practical ways so that audiences from Silicon Valley to Skid Row can build confidence, deepen connection, and find purpose.
Besides talking about coaching and his thoughts on personal development, I asked a question that prompted his thoughts on masculine energy, feminisim, and gender roles. I definitely got more than I bargained for in what turned out to be an excellent conversation. I hope you enjoy!
This week I'm very excited to have Jodi Wellman join me! Jodi is a speaker, coach, and thought leader on well-being and living lives worth living. Most of all, though, she wants people to die happy. Jodi has a TEDx talk that was published in 2022, and out of the top 100 most watched talks for 2022 she was ranked #14! In her TEDx, she talks about how in a normal life span you'll get around 4000 Mondays, and her goal is for you to use those Mondays to the fullest.
We do talk about death, but this episode is full of life. We talk about the best kept secret for living a more zesty life, living with intention and attention, and living life with a broad vitality and with depth and meaning.
Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Jodi Wellman Four Thousand Mondays www.fourthousandmondays.com
Meet Todays Guest: Dr. Oneeka Williams! Dr. Williams knew she wanted to a be doctor from an early age. After doing her undergrad at Johns Hopkins University, she completed her MD and MPH at Harvard. She’s now one of the Top Urologic Surgeons in the U.S (Black women urologists represent 0.001% of all physicians in U.S.). She’s also a speaker, writer, and author of the children’s series featuring Dr. Dee Dee Dynamo, to encourage kids to live a life without limits. She’s brilliant and beautiful! She’s a Positivity Catalyst and an AKA!!!! I know you’re going to be inspired by this conversation. Enjoy!!!!
Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome Dr. Oneeka Williams www.myislandofpositivity.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/DrOneekaWilliams/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DrOneekaWilliams/
This week I'm honored to have John Paul Stephens as a guest! He is researcher, educator, author, speaker, and an Associate Professor of Organizational Behavior at Case Western Reserve University. His work focuses on coordinating collective work & how it intersects with beauty, embodiment, emotion and adaptation. He was also my personal advisor for my final work at UPenn. In our conversation we discuss how to be a great leader when your teams are transient, similarities between the film industry and construction business, a simple change leaders can make to break down barriers, and why you never want to lie to get ahead. Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome John Paul Stephens, Ph.D. https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpaulstephens
This week I'm excited to have Devon Still on the show! Devon is many things. An author, speaker, coach, thought leader, and former NFL professional athlete to name a few. He also hosts the popular podcast "REALationships" with his wife, Asha Still. Devon and his daughter Leah created the Still Strong Foundation after Leah won her battle with cancer in 2015, and through the foundation, they provide assistance to other families whose children are battling cancer.
Devon and I met as classmates at UPenn in the Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) program, where he was the star pupil in our cohort. Devon is a special guest, not just because of his accolades and philanthropy, but also because he is the catalyst behind this podcast. We'll discuss that in this episode, and also talk about gratitude, resilience, and subjective well-being. Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome Devon Still https://devonstill.com/
This week I'm so excited to have Kelley Kali on the show! She is an LA native, Howard University & USC School of Cinematic Arts MFA, and has directed, written, and produced award-winning films. Recently, she was selected as a recipient of the 2021 Academy Gold Fellowship for Women in directing. In 2018, Kelley wrote, directed, and produced LALO’S HOUSE, which went on to win the 45th Annual Student Academy Award and was in consideration for the 91st Annual Academy Awards.
She wrote, directed, produced, and starred in the original feature film, I’M FINE (THANKS FOR ASKING), which was an early pick for narrative competition at the 2021 SXSW Film Festival. It went on to win a Special Jury Recognition for Multi-Hyphenate Storyteller (an award they created for her). She recently finished directing the feature film JAGGED MIND for 20th / Hulu and is in post-production for the MPI and BET Original Feature Film, KEMBA, based on true events.
In this episode, we'll give you a peek into the filmmaking industry. We'll discuss the difference between urgency vs emergency, the role psychological safety plays in creating the best work possible, and how a great team, grit, and a stimulus check turned into an award-winning film.
Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome Kelley Kali@IamKelleyKali
I'm excited to have Jenn Beatty join me on this episode! She's a doctoral student at the University of Washington in St. Louis in the Diversity Science Lab. There she researches interventions for long-term bias reduction, power dynamics, and intergroup relations. Jenn’s research is not only implicit bias, but correcting for it. Because it’s not enough to know you’re biased, it’s what you do with that information afterward.
We start by talking about her growing up in Los Angeles, and how childhood experiences can shape our narratives into adulthood. We also dive into the nuance and nature of objectivity, soft skills and why that's a terrible term for them, how you know you're intelligent, who gets to decide that, and more. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!
Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Jenn Beatty LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-beatty-13b44a23/
Welcome to the When is Now Podcast! My name is Capella, and in this short episode, I want to introduce myself and give you some insight as to what to expect from this podcast. I've worked in the film industry for over 20 years, and believe that it's at its best when we include practices of respect, trust, inclusion, and emotional intelligence.
In each episode, I'll have one-on-one conversations with extraordinary multi-industry leaders on a wide variety of topics. We'll hear about the experiences that shaped their lives and work, what they learned, and practical tools that we can implement today! These conversations energized me, and I hope they will energize you too! I am so excited to get started! Let’s go!!!
Capella Fahoome Linktree: https://linktr.ee/capellafahoome
Welcome to When is Now! Hi, I'm Capella! This podcast is based on a chapter in my book, "The Outsiders Guide to Film Making and Life in General."