Say It Skillfully®: Recent Episodes
Molly Tschang
Molly Tschang's Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly's guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. She helps everyone from CEOs to interns to recognize that we are all both part of the problem as well as the solution, and that the path to solving any problem is to say what needs to be said. Molly is a rare breed: tough enough to advise CEOs and company boards, but empathetic enough to understand the human costs of not allowing talent to shine. She has helped dozens of management teams navigate the human after-effects of mergers and acquisitions, and her show brings her expert guidance to a wider audience. Listen for Say It Skillfully® every Tuesday at 8 AM Pacific Time/11 AM Eastern Time on the VoiceAmerica Business Channel.
In episode 233 (Our Voices #44) of the Say It Skillfully® podcast, Molly sits down with Thando Lamula—Chartered Tax Advisor, board chair, and Mrs. Africa—for a raw conversation about what it really takes to find and use your voice, even after outward success.Thando shares her extraordinary path: growing up on a sunflower farm in South Africa, navigating two faiths at once, and earning the nickname “General” in university for her fearlessness. She built a career in tax law—finishing her master’s degree with her newborndaughter waiting in the car outside night class so she could slip out to breastfeed—and has since chaired boards, won awards, and been crowned Mrs. Africa.But Thando opens up about the six years she spent staying silent, even as everyone around her called her fearless. She shares what changed after reading Say It Skillfully and attending INSEAD, and the courage—and consequences—that came with finally speaking up for herself.Honest and hard-won, this episode is a reminder that being fearless for everyone else is not the same as being fearless for yourself—and that the second kind is the one that changes your life.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Molly and Thando Lamula01:48 Thando's early life and childhood on a farm05:04 Her journey through education and career in tax law10:09 The importance of resilience and self-belief15:07 Balancing family life with a professional career20:01 The power of speaking up and authenticity29:47 Lessons from setbacks and redirections39:49 The significance of community and sisterhood49:55 Reflections on future aspirations and growth01:00:07 Final thoughts and encouragement
In this episode of the Say It Skillfully® podcast, Molly sits down with Noel Moldvai—entrepreneur, CEO, and co-founder of Augment—for an inspiring conversation about resilience, emotional intelligence, and what it truly means to lead.Noel shares his journey from leaving Yugoslavia as a young boy to navigating life as a first-generation immigrant in Canada and California, learning English as his third language, and finding his path from Berkeley to Google to Rubrik before taking the leap into founding his own company.He opens up about the hard-won lessons that shaped him as a leader: why EQ matters more than IQ, how he learned to manage his own emotional reactions before trying to lead others, and the near-death moments at Augment that tested everything he had. He also shares the surprisingly personal origin story behind Augment (a platform now being called the Robinhood for private markets) born out of his own frustration trying to access locked-up startup equity just to buy an engagement ring and a home.Honest, grounded, and deeply human, this episode is a reminder that naiveté can be both a blessing and a curse, and sometimes, it's exactly what it takes to build something the world has never seen.Chapters: 0:00 EQ, IQ, and the importance of people 0:33 Molly introduces Noel Moldvai and Augment 2:34 Noel’s earliest memory and leaving Yugoslavia 3:52 Leaving family behind and starting over 6:28 Learning English in Canada 8:03 School, math, physics, and childhood mischief 11:05 Belonging, family traditions, and growing up between cultures 13:12 Returning to Hungary and Serbia 14:24 College, self-motivation, and finding his path 19:23 Becoming a self-starter and learning to build teams 21:41 Google, Rubrik, and realizing he wanted something different 28:00 Why EQ matters more than IQ 30:42 Managing emotional reactions and making better decisions 33:53 Meditation, exercise, and creating stillness 35:37 The backstory behind Augment 36:57 Unlocking private equity and the problem Noel wanted to solve 40:52 Building the Robinhood for private markets 41:29 Co-founding Augment and learning from differences 47:52 Respect, empathy, and high-performing teams 48:43 Ego, rejection, and the pain of startup life 50:48 Reducing risk one step at a time 52:49 Hobbies, family, ice baths, reading, and motorcycles 53:42 Introversion and heavy metal 54:53 Noel’s do-over: taking it easier in college 55:55 Rapid-fire: next life, nicknames, and favorite food 56:42 Noel’s top takeaway: the blessing and curse of naiveté 57:03 What it was like for Noel to share his journey57:58 Molly’s closing reflections 58:29 Final thought: people and the connections among them 58:58 Say It Skillfully closing message
In episode 230 of Say It Skillfully®, Molly welcomes back Sandy Ogg, CEO of Curve Sports and founder of CEO.works, for an inspiring conversation about baseball, leadership, and creating opportunity for others.Sandy shares how sports shaped his life from childhood through college, teaching lessons in teamwork, perspective, resilience, and character. He also reflects on how that lifelong connection to baseball evolved into a larger mission: helping underserved young athletes access pathways to education, growth, and opportunity.From stories of youth teams and scholar athletes to reflections on leadership, privilege, AI, and the uniquely human skills that cannot be replaced, Sandy offers a powerful reminder that success is not just about winning games — it’s about helping others discover what is possible.A heartfelt conversation on purpose, impact, and using the gifts we’ve been given to give back.Chapters00:00 Introduction: Sandy Ogg’s Leadership and Baseball Journey02:41 Where Sandy’s Love of Baseball Began04:22 Baseball, Family, and the Coast Guard Academy06:42 Lessons from Youth Sports and His Father08:08 Learning Context Beyond Winning11:16 Coaches, Leadership, and Team Development13:43 Recognizing an Uneven Playing Field16:18 Building a Team with Access and Opportunity17:49 Scholar Athletes, Grades, and College Jerseys20:33 Life Lessons Beyond the Field22:05 The Parent-Coach-Athlete Triangle24:40 Defining What Winning Really Means26:06 Gratitude, College Jerseys, and a Doorstep Moment27:59 Realizing the Gift Was Also for Him30:16 Giving Back to the Sport That Gave So Much30:50 Curve Sports Foundation and Scaling Impact33:29 How Others Can Help Young Scholar Athletes34:35 Scholar Athletes as a National Treasure36:24 AI, Human Skills, and What Cannot Be Replaced38:14 Personal Side: Trumpet, Introversion, and Creative Tinkering42:16 Favorite Food and Childhood Memories42:59 Top Takeaway: Learn What AI Can’t Replace45:04 Reflecting on the Conversation46:24 Molly’s Closing Reflection
In Episode 229 of the Say It Skillfully® podcast, Molly welcomes chemical engineer, researcher, and Cornell University professor Lynden Archer. A leader in the field of biomaterials and sustainable energy innovation, Lynden shares insights from his groundbreaking work developing environmentally responsible materials that could transform industries ranging from plastics to batteries.In this inspiring conversation, Lynden reflects on the pivotal role of mentors in his life and how he found his way from growing up in Guyana to graduate school and a distinguished academic career. He shares the experiences and influences that helped shape his path and the lessons he learned along the way about perseverance, curiosity, and staying open to opportunity.Filled with insights on innovation, leadership, and scientific discovery, this episode offers listeners a compelling look at finding your north star and how bold thinking and collaboration can drive meaningful change.
In Episode 228 of the Say It Skillfully® podcast, Molly welcomes back storyteller, entrepreneur, and founder of Tell My Story, Jason Reid. After the tragic loss of his 14-year-old son Ryan to suicide in 2018, Jason transformed unimaginable grief into a mission to help families better understand youth mental health and create spaces where young people feel seen, valued, and supported.In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Jason shares the inspiration behind his new film Shift: Do What Moves You, which highlights how purpose, passion, and personal interests can help young people rise above depression and anxiety. The discussion explores the importance of creating safe conversations around mental health, the role of parents in supporting their children’s emotional wellbeing, and why having a hobby or passion outside of work or school can be life-changing.Jason also reflects on personal growth, the power of curiosity, and why learning about emerging technologies like AI is essential in a rapidly changing world. From parenting insights to leadership lessons, this episode is filled with practical wisdom for anyone seeking to live more intentionally and help others do the same.Jason’s message is both hopeful and practical: finding what moves you—and encouraging others to do the same—can create profound change in both individual lives and communities.Chapters00:00 Introduction – Molly welcomes Jason Reid01:04 Jason on intentional living and personal growth03:55 Why lifelong learning matters in a rapidly changing world04:50 Jason’s focus on understanding AI and future technologies06:09 Navigating political division and understanding different perspectives08:44 Why everyone should start learning about AI now09:01 Podcast recommendations for understanding AI10:39 The origin of Tell My Story after the loss of Jason’s son Ryan12:40 How parents can start conversations about mental health with kids15:47 The importance of asking direct questions about suicide18:52 Why medication alone doesn’t solve mental health struggles20:20 The inspiration behind the film Shift: Do What Moves You21:48 Why everyone needs a passion or purpose beyond work24:32 Jason on hobbies, creativity, and trying new things26:50 Expanding your life through curiosity and interests30:05 Finding your aptitudes and creative outlets32:35 Helping kids discover hobbies and passions35:14 Self-care and support for adults struggling with mental health37:06 Therapy, support networks, and unexpected help from AI39:00 Jason’s advice for aspiring filmmakers and creators40:57 The impact of Jason’s work and films41:55 What Jason is most proud of as a leader43:31 Jason’s final advice: Find what excites you in life44:16 Closing thoughts and takeaway on AI and the future
What does it take to lead when the stakes are life-and-death, failure is inevitable, and doubt never fully disappears?In this episode of Say It Skillfully®, Molly sits down with Lieutenant Colonel Riel Erickson — one of Canada’s first female fighter pilots, senior Royal Canadian Air Force officer, instructor, and leadership mentor.Riel shares her extraordinary journey from farm life to the cockpit, revealing the internal battles behind elite performance: self-doubt, fear, identity, and resilience. She explains why embracing failure is essential to growth, how leaders create psychological safety, and what it really means to move from doing the work… to leading people… to shaping institutions.This conversation is a masterclass in grounded leadership, courage under pressure, and using humanity — not perfection — as your greatest strength.You’ll learn:• Why failure can be freeing• How to manage fear instead of eliminating it• The hidden cost of masking to fit in• What great mentors actually do• How leaders scale impact through othersIf you’ve ever questioned whether you belong in the room, this episode is for you.00:00 — Introduction: Leadership Where Stakes Are High00:01 — Riel’s Background & Breaking Barriers02:09 — International Women’s Forum & Finding Belonging05:57 — Early Life & Choosing the Military Path09:17 — Culture Shock of Military Training11:13 — Hating Pilot Training… at First12:57 — The Freedom of Detaching Identity from Success14:16 — “Embrace Failure” as a Life Mantra15:18 — Discovering Love for Flying & Challenge16:27 — Family Support & Sacrifice19:17 — Overcoming Self-Doubt22:29 — Managing Fear Under Pressure26:15 — Career Path: From Pilot to Instructor to Leader29:06 — Being the Only Woman in the Room32:12 — Leadership & Psychological Safety34:16 — Moving from Doing → Teaching → Leading Systems35:32 — Work-Life Integration, Not Balance40:07 — Mentorship That Changes Careers44:55 — Why Mentoring Others Matters47:10 — The Moment She Realized Her Visibility Matters
In this episode of the Say It Skillfully Podcast, Molly sits down with Darcy Verhun — a rare kind of leader who builds companies by putting people first, not as a strategy, but as a way of being.From growing up between city life and the farm in Alberta, to becoming a management consultant for 25 years, to scaling a business to a $2B market cap, Darcy shares the values, habits, and leadership mindset that shaped his journey.Darcy also opens up about leading through culture change inside Canada Diagnostic Centres, why “smiling” became a serious leadership priority, and how small daily behaviors can transform an organization from the inside out.They close with a powerful “say it skillfully” moment: the one question Darcy asks at the end of meetings that can completely change outcomes — and create space for people to finally use their voice.If you’re a leader, coach, or someone trying to build a culture where people feel safe, seen, and motivated to grow — this one’s worth your time.Chapters00:00 Intro: A leader who builds by putting people first01:18 How Darcy and Molly met (Marshall Goldsmith connection)02:39 Darcy’s upbringing: farm life, work ethic, and humility06:12 The reading rule that became Darcy’s “superpower”07:03 Sports, skiing, and coaching elite athletes08:38 Why Darcy’s coaching style is built on stories10:00 What Darcy learned early: honesty, caring for others, open home12:13 Mentors and the professor who still challenges him today14:17 MBA + the unexpected path into consulting15:21 25 years in consulting: leadership, culture, and hard problems16:13 The shift from advising to owning the mission17:13 Purpose as a decision-making compass (“enhancing life”)20:39 A defining leadership moment: doing the right thing, not the textbook thing25:43 Entering healthcare: culture challenges + rebuilding trust29:13 The “CDC” framework: Culture, Deliver Care, Operational Excellence31:59 “Culture change doesn’t take years—it starts with me”32:57 Why Darcy focused on smiling first (and why it matters)35:03 The “High Five” habit: leaders connecting with their teams37:14 Measuring what matters: Clinic Excellence Index40:17 Daily Questions: Darcy’s personal growth habit42:29 Investing in health to lead better (getting back on the bike)43:37 The best meeting question: “Is there something you’re thinking or feeling you haven’t said?”45:11 Reading, mountain biking, and being an introvert leader46:09 The “candy cheat” for connecting with people46:51 A surprising fun fact: loving winter driving47:20 Regret: investing more in learning earlier48:23 Proud moments: family + the people he’s worked with49:06 Rapid fire: artist life, “Tarzan,” fries + ice cream50:04 Final takeaway: be yourself and don’t be afraid51:19 Closing quote + wrap
In this episode of Say It Skillfully®, host Molly Tschang engages in a deeply human, candid, and inspiring conversation with Ron Carucci — bestselling author, executive coach, and co-founder of Navalent. Together, they trace Ron’s extraordinary journey from a chaotic Long Island childhood to becoming one of the most trusted voices in leadership, organizational transformation, and personal growth.Ron opens up about the trauma and humor of growing up in a loud Italian household, discovering his love for the arts, navigating early career pivots, and finding purpose in helping leaders use their voices to serve the greater good. He shares vulnerable insights about therapy, impostor syndrome, mental health, parenting, marriage, failure, and what it means to truly “play big.”This episode offers profound lessons in honesty, self-compassion, resilience, and leading with integrity. Ron’s wisdom — centered on the belief that “nothing in life is irrevocable except death” — invites listeners to rethink how they show up in their work, relationships, and inner lives.A powerful celebration of growth, shared humanity, and the courage to become who you are meant to be.00:00 Introduction to Ron Carucci01:00 Growing Up in a Loud Italian Family02:51 Childhood Dynamics, Bullying & Identity04:36 Juilliard, Early Dreams & Family Expectations05:44 Pivoting from the Arts to Purpose-Driven Work06:29 A Transformational Moment with a Young Soldier07:10 Discovering the Power of Story07:47 Sibling Relationships & Processing Trauma09:36 Therapy, Internal Parts & Self-Understanding11:10 Entering the Corporate World & Early Lessons12:24 Learning the Language of Leadership Development13:03 Navigating Marriage, Partnership & Life on the Road14:05 Long-Distance Love & Building a Family15:36 Early Career Ambition & Realizations20:12 The PepsiCo Chapter — Politics, Ego & Hard Lessons23:09 Imposter Syndrome & Speaking Truth to Power25:26 Struggles with Diplomacy & Authenticity26:58 Parenting, Repair, and Generational Healing29:15 Mentorship & the Legendary Toby31:19 Writing as Validation, Craft, and Inner Work34:16 Wrestling with the Mental Health of Book Writing35:06 Tennis: Self-Care, Mental Health & Mastery38:31 What Tennis Reveals About the Self38:57 Symbolism in Collecting Keys, Doorknobs & Mugs40:57 Identity, Introversion & Misconceptions42:13 Career Do-Overs & Lessons Learned43:44 His Proudest Accomplishment: Fatherhood44:28 Rapid-Fire Questions45:28 Top Takeaways & Ron’s Life Philosophy46:36 Final Reflections & Closing
In this episode of Say It Skillfully, host Molly engages in a profound conversation with Mini’imah Shaheed, an inspiring leader in education. They explore Mini’imah’s journey from her roots in East Oakland to her impactful work in founding a school based on love and community. The discussion delves into the challenges faced in the education system, the importance of resilience, and the vision for empowering women leaders. Mini’imah shares her personal experiences, including her battle with cancer, and emphasizes the need for grace and self-compassion in leadership. This episode is a celebration of growth, community, and the transformative power of education.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Manaima Shaheed’s Journey
03:03 Growing Up in East Oakland
05:50 Navigating College Life at UPenn
08:48 Teach for America Experience
11:57 Teaching and Leadership in Atlanta
14:32 Challenges in Education and Systemic Barriers
17:38 Resilience and Personal Growth
20:46 Influences and Role Models
23:40 Starting a School and Educational Innovations
31:28 The Power of Love in Education
34:37 Leadership as a Labor of Love
37:29 Navigating Difficult Conversations
41:10 Exploring Hobbies and Personal Growth
43:07 Understanding Introversion and Stoicism
44:11 Reflections on Regrets and Do-Overs
45:35 Future Aspirations and Legacy Projects
48:20 Empowering Women Leaders
50:27 Celebrating Personal Accomplishments
52:08 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Insights
54:31 Final Reflections and Takeaways
In this inspiring episode, Molly welcomes Jeff Greenwald — world-class coach, bestselling author, and founder of Fearless Tennis and Mental Edge Sports. Jeff shares his remarkable journey from rising junior player at the legendary IMG Academy to competing on the pro tour, and ultimately transforming setbacks into a career helping athletes master the mental side of performance.
00:00 – Intro: The Mental Game of Tennis
Molly introduces Jeff Greenwald, bestselling author, world-class coach, and founder of Fearless Tennis and Mental Edge Sports, framing the conversation around performance, mindset, and authenticity.
01:16 – Jeff’s Early Journey
Jeff shares how he fell in love with tennis, from choosing the sport at age 12 to training at IMG Academy and playing on the pro tour.
03:40 – Struggles on the Court
Jeff opens up about being a hothead, battling frustration, and learning hard lessons after being suspended from competition — experiences that planted the seeds for his later work.
05:27 – Discovering Sports Psychology
How reflection, journaling, and a deep curiosity about mind-body connection shifted Jeff’s approach to competition and eventually led him to sports psychology.
10:03 – Family Influence & Choosing Tennis
Jeff reflects on his family’s role in shaping his drive, resilience, and perfectionism, and why he chose tennis over team sports.
13:09 – Life at the Academy
Stories from his intense training days, the pressures of competition, and the early lessons about discipline and self-reliance.
17:14 – Contemplating Quitting the Tour
Jeff recalls moments of burnout, the challenges of constant travel, and how curiosity ultimately pulled him toward coaching and psychology.
20:03 – Coaching in Germany & A Defining Match
How his time coaching abroad — and one match where he dropped fully into the “zone” — revealed new possibilities and sparked his shift into mindset training.
23:12 – Building Fearless Tennis & Mental Edge Sports
Jeff describes the evolution of his work, blending his personal experience with research to help athletes of all ages trust themselves under pressure.
26:43 – Playing Loose & Finding Perspective
Practical insights on setting match intentions, letting go of perfectionism, and why gratitude and perspective are as important as technique.
33:16 – Handling Pressure & Negative Thoughts
Jeff shares how even sports psychologists face nerves — and the tools he uses to reset and refocus in high-stakes matches.
34:42 – Writing The Mental Edge for Young Athletes
Why Jeff wrote his latest book, how it helps kids, parents, and coaches, and his belief that sports can be a powerful teacher for life.
39:10 – Parenting Lessons from Sports
Candid stories about guiding his own children through sports and the balance between supporting and over-coaching.
44:07 – Reflections & Accomplishments
Jeff shares his biggest “do over,” his proudest achievements, and the importance of curiosity and authenticity in his ongoing journey.
46:23 – Closing Thoughts
Molly and Jeff wrap up, reflecting on the energy of the conversation and the message of embracing the process, authenticity, and “incremental becoming exponential.”
Jeff opens up about his own struggles with frustration and self-doubt, and how reflection, journaling, and psychology shaped his ability to play with freedom under pressure. He discusses the importance of perspective, gratitude, and resilience — lessons that extend far beyond the court. Molly and Jeff also dive into his latest book, The Mental Edge for Young Athletes, offering practical tools for kids, parents, and coaches to navigate the challenges of competition while enjoying the journey.
Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or simply striving for your personal best, Jeff’s insights on mindset, curiosity, and “incremental becoming exponential” will leave you inspired to embrace the process and show up authentically in every area of life.
In this inspiring episode of Say It Skillfully, host Molly Tschang sits down with Vicky Serany, founder and president of Southern Studio, to explore her unexpected path from architect to business owner. Vicky shares how her passion for design became a mission to create joyful spaces and build a company where people love to work. Through real-life lessons in entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth, Vicky opens up about the power of letting go of control, leading with empathy, and navigating tough conversations with grace. She and Molly talk candidly about the challenges of running a business, finding your voice, and living a life aligned with your values—both in the office and at home. Whether you're a creative professional, business owner, or just someone striving to lead with heart, this episode offers rich insights and practical wisdom you won’t want to miss.
Topics Covered:
• Designing a business that puts people first
• Building a values-based culture
• Leading with authenticity and vulnerability
• The intersection of work, family, and fulfillment
• Tips for skillful conversations as a leader
00:00 – Intro: Designing for Joy & Leadership
Molly introduces Vicky Serany, founder of Southern Studio, and frames the conversation around leadership, values, and personal growth.
02:45 – Vicky’s Journey: From Architect to Entrepreneur
Vicky shares how she unexpectedly became a business owner and the evolution of her design career.
08:10 – Creating a Joyful Work Culture
Discussion around building a company where people genuinely love to work, and why joy is at the center of her leadership philosophy.
13:20 – Letting Go of Control
Vicky reflects on how releasing the need to control every detail has been key to growth, both personally and professionally.
17:45 – Leading with Empathy & Vulnerability
They explore how empathy, especially in tough conversations, builds trust and emotional safety in teams.
23:15 – Designing with Heart: Purpose-Driven Work
Vicky explains how her firm uses design to create environments that uplift and support clients’ lives and values.
29:40 – Finding Fulfillment Beyond Work
A candid look at how Vicky navigates the balance between running a business and nurturing her personal life.
34:55 – Advice for Future Leaders
Vicky offers insights for aspiring leaders on building something meaningful without sacrificing their values.
38:40 – Rapid-Fire Reflections
Fun, fast-paced questions about leadership, learning, and what Vicky’s most proud of.
41:15 – Closing Thoughts from Molly
Molly wraps up the episode with a reflection on skillful leadership and living fully.
In this inspiring episode of Say It Skillfully, Nat Ware—Rhodes Scholar, social entrepreneur, and founder of Forte and 180 Degrees Consulting—shares his journey from a modest upbringing in Sydney to building global systems that unlock human potential. Nat breaks down his revolutionary Forte model, which funds education and healthcare without cost to individuals or governments, by leveraging future tax revenue from increased employment. He also reflects on resilience, happiness, and the mindset that’s fueled his impact—including surviving a gunshot wound the night before Forte’s first launch. A must-listen for anyone passionate about creating scalable, sustainable change.
Learn more at: www.sayitskillfully.com
00:00
Introduction to Nat Ware's Journey
02:55
Childhood and Family Background
05:48
Academic Influences and Early Interests
08:42
First Steps into Philanthropy
11:40
Transition to Global Awareness
14:38
Founding 180 Degrees Consulting
20:32
Pursuing Higher Education and PhD
23:50
Introducing the Forte Model
29:51
Impact Stories and Future Vision
33:59
Unlocking Human Potential through Education Financing
37:56
Scaling the Model Globally
41:07
Innovative Approaches to Education Quality
42:43
Resilience in Entrepreneurship
46:19
The Importance of Partnerships
47:53
Understanding Happiness and Expectations
53:31
Living a Life with No Regrets
01:00:13
Reflections on Personal Growth and Future Aspirations
Molly is joined by Dan Berger, an Israeli-American entrepreneur whose life experiences shaped his understanding of identity, belonging, and resilience. Dan shares his journey from being an orphan to creating spaces for connection through his ventures, including Social Tables and Assemble Hospitality.
00:00 Introduction to Dan's Journey
01:51 Trauma and Belonging: A Personal Narrative
06:10 Life in Israel: Early Memories and Identity
11:51 Navigating Adolescence: Moving to America
20:07 Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Its Impact
23:50 The Role of Entrepreneurship in Healing
29:58 The Transition from Social Tables to Assemble Hospitality
31:38 The Journey of Selling a Company
34:20 Exploring New Ventures and Personal Growth
36:01 Understanding Belonging: A Personal Perspective
39:45 The Four Belonging Personas
41:22 Lessons Learned Through Research and Self-Discovery
43:55 Navigating Tough Conversations
47:22 Hobbies and Personal Interests
49:25 Reflections on Life and Accomplishments
50:43 Future Aspirations and Passions
53:17 The Importance of Addressing Men's Issues
From military missions to life lessons, Steveo Bermudez brings the real talk in this week’s Say It Skillfully! His journey is one of resilience, leadership, and the power of showing up for others. Whether navigating deployments, balancing family, or owning mistakes, Steve-o shares the hard-earned wisdom that has shaped his success. You’ll laugh, reflect, and walk away with insights to level up in work and life.
Stay tuned—this is one episode you won’t want to miss!
00:00 Introduction to Steve-o's Journey
04:04 From Military Brat to Air Force Veteran
10:48 Leadership Lessons from Family Dynamics
14:03 Understanding Military Deployments
18:04 Success in Military vs. Civilian Life
21:07 Receiving Feedback and Personal Growth
24:44 Navigating Ambiguity in Leadership
27:17 Dealing with Difficult Team Dynamics
31:35 Balancing Work and Family Life
37:47 Navigating Home Life After Deployment
42:01 The Importance of Communication in Relationships
45:59 Overcoming Insecurities and Building Confidence
50:00 The Meaning of Service and Selflessness
55:51 Personal Insights and Hobbies
01:00:38 Transformative Relationships and Personal Growth
01:01:20 Reflections on Sharing Life Experiences
Molly is joined by Ayse Birsel, a renowned industrial designer, as they explore her unique journey from Izmir, Turkey, to becoming a leading figure in design. The conversation delves into her educational journey, the challenges of adapting to life in New York, and the significance of imagination and creativity in both design and personal growth.
Show Notes
00:00 Introduction to Ayse and Her Journey
06:04 Ayse's Early Life and Influences
11:59 The Impact of Family and Culture
17:57 Moving to New York and Adapting
23:47 The Design School Experience
30:06 Understanding Industrial Design
35:48 Empathy in Design and Ayse's Philosophy
39:03 Navigating Self-Doubt and Optimism
41:36 The Journey of Starting a Design Firm
43:20 Love and Partnership in the Design World
48:15 Balancing Motherhood and Career
53:49 Overcoming Challenges in Business
56:01 The Joy of Designing for Better Living
58:45 Redesigning Life Through Design Principles
01:01:44 The Art of Skillful Communication
01:03:20 Rapid Fire Insights and Reflections
In this episode of the Say It Skillfully Podcast, Molly has a conversation with Rachel Ziering, the Founding Executive Director of Muddy Paws Rescue. Rachel shares her journey from a musical upbringing to her passion for dog rescue, detailing her experiences and the challenges she faced while building her nonprofit organization. The conversation highlights the importance of following one's passion, the lessons learned from both music and nonprofit work, and the impact of community outreach in animal welfare. In this conversation, Rachael shares her experiences and insights from leading a nonprofit organization focused on animal rescue. She discusses the importance of managing volunteers, the challenges of nonprofit leadership, and her motivation to continue her work. She also talks about the vital role of fostering in animal rescue, the strategies for fundraising, and how she handles criticism and online reviews.
Trisha Cunningham, President and CEO of the North Texas Food Bank, joins Molly Tschang on the Say It Skillfully podcast to share her inspiring journey from corporate leadership to nonprofit work, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, self-discovery, and mission-driven leadership. Trisha discusses her early life challenges, the importance of education, and the pivotal moments that shaped her leadership style. She talks about her work at the North Texas Food Bank, highlighting the need for strong governance and effective practices to serve the community better. Trisha reflects on her personal growth, the significance of listening as a leader, and the impact of her experiences on her current role.
Ganesh Iyer, CEO of Etnyre International, joins Molly on the Say It Skillfully podcast to share his inspiring journey from a humble upbringing in India to navigating the corporate world and becoming a CEO. He discusses the importance of putting people first in business, the challenges of leadership, and the philosophy of optimizing profit while improving lives. Ganesh reflects on his experiences, the lessons learned from mistakes, and the significance of work-life integration. The conversation emphasizes the value of kindness, adaptability, and the pursuit of meaningful work.
Molly is joined on the Say It Skillfully Podcast by the design director for the elite sportswear company designing for the best athletes in the world, including the women's Olympic gymnastic team, Jeanne Diaz.
One of the creative geniuses behind the stunning women's patriotic blinged out leotards from this year's Olympics, Jeanne joins the show to share her story, including how she chose to follow her passion, navigating and building a career in the fashion industry, and recently working with amazing athletes like Simone Biles while designing Olympic sportswear.
Since leading fashion designer Robby Geller moved to LA from Germany at a young age, he has never stopped learning. He discusses the array of learning curves he has faced throughout his personal and professional journey- whether that be at age five or 35, with language and even fashion. Most importantly, he emphasizes the need of active contribution to get things done.
Hear about the not-so common path of a world renowned fashion designer and how contributing to the conversation can be fully life changing.
Unexpected social media sensation David Loimer joins Molly for this episode of the Say It Skillfully podcast and delves into the "behind-the-scenes" of his iamgrateful Instagram page. David authentically shares his journey, from his childhood in Iowa and Kentucky through his adult life, telling tales of his career, relationships, and finding himself.
He further tells us the duality between joy and true fulfillment. David goes beyond his everday work life and dives into balancing it with the intricacies of parenting and mental health.
Finally, he teaches us how intentional gratitude and personal reflection are the greatest shields against mental health issues.
In Episode 211 of the Say It Skillfully podcast, award winning Wharton professor and best selling author Stew Friedman joins the show to talk with Molly about his love for rock music and tennis, his university years, working as a taxi driver, and much much more.
Visit https://www.totalleadership.org/ for free videos, book chapters, articles including the 50+ that he's written for Harvard Business Review and more from Stew.
Also, follow Stew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewfriedman/
Molly Tschang sits down for a conversation on the Say It Skillfully podcast with former WD-40 CEO, Garry Ridge.
The conversation revolves around personal and professional growth, cultural understanding in international business, and the importance of authenticity and purpose in leadership. Garry shares his experiences and insights on how to navigate life's journey with clarity, speed, and self-compassion. He emphasizes the significance of values, people-first mindset, and effective communication in achieving success. Garry gives personal anecdotes from his career and life, and mentions key factors in building positive relationships and gaining respect in international business.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 209 is the 41st monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Evan Wolfson, who founded and led the Freedom to Marry campaign; winning marriage equality in the U.S. after a 30+ year battle. Sharing Evan’s world-changing movement wraps four years with VoiceAmerica. Thank you for the amazing opportunity to amplify so many amazing voices! Evan joins the show to share the story of his long battle for marriage rights, dating back to his time in college, where he wrote his thesis on same-sex marriage long before it was in the national conversation. He’d move on to appear before the supreme court, write a book on “Why Marriage Matters”, and found Freedom to Marry. As a kid, Evan saw law as a means to politics, government and shaping history—hear his career path to literally doing so. Many gems from his fight for marriage, and his mentality when faced with setbacks and feeling like the world is against him. Don’t miss Evan’s thoughts on what being an activist means, as well as how he felt when the battle for same-sex marriage rights was won with similar reasoning to his 1983 thesis. Then, we talk a bit about what’s next in the fight for a better world. Evan inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves. Molly’s thought for the week from renowned meditation teacher, Shinzen Young: “Untangle and be free.”
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Here is Episode 208 for you, featuring Paul Lambdin, owner of North Carolina staple Cary Car Care. Paul joins the show to share his story, from a struggle-filled childhood that had him and his brothers in a constant battle with his alcoholic father, to becoming an entrepreneur with a success story that will leave you inspired. Tune in to hear key moments and turning points from Paul’s come-up, as well as lessons he learned along the way on teamwork, self-belief and communication. Don’t miss Paul’s reflections on his journey, including an inside look on building a successful small business, how he is raising his family differently than he was raised, and how he finally let go of anger he’d been holding inside for a long time. Paul inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: The gap between knowing what you want and going after it is where fear thrives. You don’t need enough courage for the entire journey. You only need courage for the next step.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Here is Episode 207 for you, featuring Top 100 Most Influential Yoga Teacher Alison West. Alison joins the show for a conversation about what she’s done, how she got there, and her biggest epiphanies along the way. She’s studied in almost every major yogic lineage including in India with the Iyengars and with Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. She’s taught since the 80s and more recently founded “Yoga Union”, a premier NYC studio, as well as Yoga Union Backcare & Scoliosis Center. Don’t miss hearing the ups and downs of Alison’s journey, including an in depth look at moments of spiritual awakening, the process of learning and re-learning when it comes to different yoga lineages, and how she was drawn to yoga after originally being invested into ballet. Alison inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.Molly’s thought for the week: “Increase the peace.”
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Here is Episode 206 for you – respected Canadian Armed Forces Officer Kelly Williamson’s unlikely journey inspires us to live up to our own potential. Kelly joins the show to share her story, starting with the massive change of scenery brought about by joining a military college after graduating from a performing arts high school. Hear captivating stories and insights from her journey throughout the process of attending military school and becoming an officer for the Canadian Armed Forces. She shares first-hand accounts of assisting with humanitarian aid in Afghanistan in 2011, Haiti in 2010, and Nepal in 2015. Don’t miss hearing lessons that Kelly learned along her amazing career, including the necessity of not being too proud to ask for help, and accepting that you might not “fit the mold.” Molly’s thought for the week (Thanks, Kelly): “Be kind, be brave, be you.”
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 205 features successful professionals and what’s top of mind for them. Molly’s first caller, Kris, is facing a situation that’s challenging emotionally and a significant new responsibility as he steps in to handle his grandmother’s finances. The bureaucracy, change of financial advisors, lack of responsiveness, and errors are extremely frustrating, yet he’s got to make it work. He and Molly talk about ways to reset his own mindset, so that Kris can create a productive relationship with the new advisor. Hear him reflect on his tendencies and embrace taking a step back to create space to move forward in a better way. Next Onwar, who is early in career, opens up about a defining career moment! He is in an apprentice program and being considered for a permanent position (which would be a gamechanger in his ability to support his family). He shares his non-traditional path into software engineering, as the college route proved not to be a fit for him, and learnings in navigating the corporate workplace. He and Molly talk about his strategy to understand the evaluation process and how best to position himself. And don’t miss Onwar’s openness to new ideas for how to reach out to his boss’ boss (16:15). Then Hugi is keen to reach out for paid board and consulting assignments and utilize his risk, automation and multicultural expertise. Molly suggests informational interviewing as a way to get to know organizations and building relationships to have an internal sponsor. With Latino heritage Hugi also asks about diversity as a dimension he brings. Molly offers thoughts for him in considering how an organization values diversity in the broadest sense and to be specific about the ways he can be value add (37:10). Tune in and learn how to navigate work and life while being invaluable and true to yourself! Molly’s thought for the week: “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” And—she invites you to check out her 1st LinkedIn Learning course, “Leadership Communication in the Flow of Work.” In this post, click on the LinkedIn Learning logo under the video (on the left) to access free for 24 hours. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mollytschang_sayitskillfully-communicationskills-passion-activity-7099873982077657088-L-qC?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Here is Episode 204 for you – don’t miss the brilliant Bob Roth, widely considered one of the leading experts on Transcendental Meditation. Molly and Bob sit down and go over what meditation is, and how it can work for anyone, regardless of whether or not you believe in it. Hear all about Focus, Open Monitoring, and Self-Transcending, the three main branches of meditation. Bob explains he came to meditation in 1969, a time when those who practiced were “certifiably weird,” and even though he was “a practical sort of guy,” he had so much trust in and respect for his teacher, that he opened himself up to learning. Now, in 2023, he has devoted his life to bringing Transcendental Meditation to a million and counting children. Bob says his journey started as a way to lessen his stress and has ended up as “a tool to help make a big difference in the world.” Don’t miss Bob reminiscing on the 60s and 70s, reflecting on how meditation became a widespread movement back then, and maybe even saved his generation. The cultural uproar Bob remembers will help you fully understand why meditation going mainstream came at the perfect moment. Bob talks about how inspiring Maharishi Mahesh Yogi was to him because while everyone else fixated on his working with The Beatles, and that level of star-power could have gotten to his head, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi stayed completely focused on researching how meditation was beneficial to physical and mental health. Bob expands on what these health benefits are, explaining how he has helped establish forums for top medical researchers to look into the correlation between meditation and better health. Bob wraps up this episode by sharing his two keys to success in all areas of life. Tune in to hear what they are! Don’t miss this wisdom-filled episode of Say It Skillfully®! Molly’s thought for the week: Your body hears everything your mind says — Naomi Judd P.S. Bob leads to his full potential by communication to influence and inspire! To help you do the same, I created my 1st LinkedIn Learning course, “Leadership Communication in the Flow of Work.” Here’s the link for free 24-hour access bit.ly/3sETIgg
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Here is Episode 203 for you – don’t miss the inspiring economist, Jeremy Bess, whose journey to success reminds us all to never give up, regardless of the adversities we may face. Jeremy reflects on his challenging teenage years, when he was functionally homeless and dependent on friends and his brother for a place to sleep. His decision to study economics at the University of Tampa was motivated by these years of uncertainty. This choice brought him to advising Fortune 500 companies starting when he was just 24 years old. Often facing push back for being so young in rooms full of older C-suite level executives, Jeremy now tries to lend a hand to the next generation interested in economics. Listen as Jeremy looks back and reflects on periods of stress and self-doubt. Today, he says, “I felt confident that if I just kept going that it would slowly figure itself out, which it kind of did.” Putting faith in yourself and luck has paid off big time! Tune in to hear Jeremy reflect on the philosophies of economics and how they affect your everyday life. His conversation with Molly developed into discussing how COVID was a shock, not just to him, but to the global economy. He tells how he thinks it changed the game, and how we are still feeling effects from this hit today. He offers advice on how to grow your business in a way that can last. Don’t miss this inspiring episode! Jeremy empowers us all to trust in ourselves and work hard.Molly’s thought for the week (Thank you Jeremy): Just work really, really hard. Keep going.P.S. Jeremy leads to his full potential by communication to influence and inspire! To help you do the same, I created my 1st LinkedIn Learning course, “Leadership Communication in the Flow of Work.” Here’s the link for free 24-hour access bit.ly/3sETIgg
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 202 is the 40th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Nozipho Tshabalala, a conversation strategist and global moderator. Nozi reflects on growing up in South Africa under Nelson Mandela, and how she inherited her parents’ strident work ethic. Their dedication to her education helped Nozi always set the highest bar for herself, fueled by “failing was not an option for me.” You’ll be surprised by how she picked her major! Her inner confidence stems from what her parents instilled: “I am smart, but I am capable, and I’m teachable.” Hear Nozi’s unlikely foray into one of the world’s biggest conglomerates, Tata Group (from none other than its chairman)! This led to unexpectedly shooting a documentary for CNBC Africa. She was on screen for only 15 seconds, but those 15 seconds changed her life. Only two weeks after the documentary aired, she was offered a news anchor position with CNBC Africa, covering development and finance (compelling her to delve into topics she knew zero about). Nozi knew the first time she moderated live that it was her calling. “Conversations are the birthplace of action, and in the absence of conversation, we absolutely get nothing done.”Today, family reigns supreme for Nozi. She has an intellectual match in her husband and a gift of a son. With her hard-earned stability, she paid for her mother to return to and graduate college as a newly certified teacher. Balancing motherhood on top of her constant travel for business is one of Nozi’s self-described top accomplishments. Don’t miss this inspiring episode. Nozi empowers us all to aim high and land high. Learn more at: http://www.theconversationstrategist.com/ and follow @therealnoziMolly’s thought for the week – a lyric that inspires Nozi, from Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey: “We were moving mountains long before we knew could.”P.S. Nozi leads to her full potential by communication to influence and inspire! To help you do the same, Molly created a 1st LinkedIn Learning course, “Leadership Communication in the Flow of Work.” Here’s the link for free 24-hour access bit.ly/3sETIgg
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 201 features successful professionals and what’s top of mind for them.Listen to the full episode—Say It Skillfully: https://www.sayitskillfully.com/podcastsLaura from Connecticut (not NY...) calls in first for a new approach to a team member who delivers the sales numbers, BUT also over-delivers on negativity. This is not helping the team dynamic. Laura sees the person trying but the 2 steps forward and 3 back isn’t cutting it. Hear a few new strategies, including clarifying consequences for behavior that don’t serve the greater good..Then Sean, after a fulfilling career in the military, opens up about his transition to private sector. He’s mindful of the culture shift and keen not to communicate in ways that may come across as “harsh.” He and Molly talk about the positives of experiencing a very different environment and embracing it so that the organization fully benefits from Sean being new and seeing things differently (13:35)Finally, Sophie shares her struggles in figuring out the appropriate approach to negotiating total compensation in start-up environments. An experienced COO, she reflects on the early days of leaving way too much on the table, as well as pivoting to the other extreme. Don’t miss a lively chat on making the most of comp discussions, including gaining key information around the people and culture fit that are crucial to assessing if an opportunity is right for you (33:35). Tune in and learn how to navigate work and life while being invaluable and true to yourself.Molly’s thought for the week: “Make a choice to build a life you don’t regularly need to escape from.” —Venus WilliamsAnd—Molly invites you to check out her 1st LinkedIn Learning course, “Leadership Communication in the Flow of Work.” In this post, click on the LinkedIn Learning logo under the video (on the left) to access free for 24 hours. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mollytschang_sayitskillfully-communicationskills-passion-activity-7099873982077657088-L-qC?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode #74 is Molly’s #1 “growth” episode for you. If you’ve had self-doubt, if you’ve been confused about what’s next… if you’re a parent, please have a listen (perhaps with your kids)—without judgment and with compassion. She hopes you’ll be a better you for doing so. Molly’s guest is Noah Fense, hip hop artist, entrepreneur, event curator, and founder of Foresee—a music and arts collective label (4C: Conscious Conduits Constantly Connected). He shares his journey; one that is simultaneously sobering, humbling and enlightening. After years of suffering from drug addiction, mental illness, homelessness, low self-confidence and legal issues, Noah rediscovered himself at his lowest and realized the unlimited potential that we all possess within. His spiritual awakening led to a complete transformation as he met the essence of his true self. “Calculated rhymes, carefully spiced and layered with thought-provoking word play, emotional concepts and storytelling, multisyllabic rhyme schemes, ill punchlines, hard bars and deep metaphors...” Noah now creates music with the intention to uplift and drops gems that if caught, can transform the listener into something greater than who they believed themselves to be. As he fulfills his potential, Noah inspires others to realize theirs. This episode will help you reconsider the meaning you give to life. Tune in and learn how to navigate life while being invaluable and true to yourself. More at www.noahfense.com and follow Noah on IG:@noahfensemusic and FB: @noahfensebeers Molly’s Thought for the Week, from a Taoist parable: “Who knows what is good and what is bad.”
Say It Skillfully® is the show where Molly Tschang expertly guides you in how to honestly speak your mind at work in the most positive and productive manner. In milestone Episode 200, Molly’s guest is her mentor, Marshall Goldsmith. An executive coach to some of the biggest CEOs in the world and an author and editor to 55 books with over 3-million copies sold, Marshall shares his wisdom inspired by his Buddhist practice. One of the earliest believers in Say It Skillfully®, Marshall says Molly’s dedication to effective communication stuck with him. Saying what you mean is the key to making a positive difference. Marshall talks about finding long-term happiness and using his Buddhist principles as a guiding star. Molly gets some live coaching from Marshall on the importance of happiness in the moment. He says people have to choose to be happy every day. Marshall speaks on how his Buddhist beliefs have impacted his coaching process, influencing his clients to “let go of the past, develop adaptability, and find joy in the present moment.” Molly and Marshall wrap up by talking about making a positive impact on other people’s lives and personal legacy! Tune in to hear about MarshallBot, and how Marshall Goldsmith envisions his technological alter-ego will live on.Molly’s thought for the week ( the 1st thing she learned from Marshall)Let it go.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 199 features successful professionals and what’s top of mind for them.Chris kicks the show off, and Molly is thrilled to hear his growth from when he first joined her on January 7, 2020! He’s upfront about where he was—obsessing about the “title” before the person was getting inside his own head and holding him back. He opens up about his journey to greater self-awareness, and one of his challenges now, getting buy-in from team members. As he’s in project management, leading and navigating change is a constant, and Molly shares some tips.Next Kiera raises a common question, “How exactly do I know when to say something vs. just keep quiet because it’s not so big of a deal?” Molly and Kiera unpack a situation many can relate to—how to handle roommates with varying ideas of what “neat, clean and tidy” are! Kiera shares her learnings in considering others are “just like me” and offers how greater kindness toward herself helps her be more kind to others. “Transparency is your friend” is one of her top takeaways (19:15).Then Yody (thanks for taking Molly’s LinkedIn course!) is keen to push her boss, but not seem pushy! She is eager to build her technical skill, though an outreach to her boss for additional development has been unanswered. She and Molly consider different lenses for Jyoti to see the situation through, including how she can see herself differently. And she’s game on to actually record herself in order to gain awareness for how others might perceive her (36:45)!Tune in to these courageous human beings and learn how to navigate work and life while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 57 is Graham Weaver’s humor-filled, inspiring and at times unbelievable journey. His youth in blue-collar, small town Ohio laid the foundation for an insatiable appetite to learn, grow and push the limits. 1000’s of hours of self-help cassettes—listened to while mowing lawns—and wrestling ignited in Graham the magic of pursuing big goals. Disbelief in first jobs out of college paves the way for a remarkable journey founding Alpine Investors, a 19-year old PE firm putting people first. He talks of conversations on diversity and asks about helping his Stanford students navigate to their true north. Feel the aliveness, passion & make-it-happen zeal that propels Graham & Alpine to lift people and businesses to new heights. Tune in learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 151, Molly is joined by Christina Rahm, who shares her story, persevering through more personal and health issues than you might imagine, and making a positive change in the world in her unique way. Growing up in a small Missouri town where she felt like an outsider and was bullied by other kids and even a teacher, Christina talks about learning to see the bright side of things. Thankful to her parents for exposing her to a wide variety of music, sports, travel, and higher learning, she tells us about how—though seeming overly harsh at times—her parents taught her many important lessons in perseverance, dedication and humility. Christina’s passion for helping others was cultivated from a young age. As early as age five, she recalls aspirations to make change in the world and help humanity as she’d seen by figures such as Gandhi and Mother Teresa. She talks about her first instance of helping people professionally, an internship helping gang members and abused children—something her parents didn’t agree with for fear of her safety and even temporarily cut her off! Christina describes how her passion evolved from wanting people to feel good, to wanting people to achieve their absolute best in life. She opens up about her battle with lyme disease throughout college and how, with motivation from her parents, she pushed through (which includes working as a hotel maid). She describes that, while extremely tough at the time, she is grateful for the wisdom and mental toughness gained. Moving past lyme disease, Christina faced myriad of issues while advancing in the pharmaceutical and biotechnical industries, including a brain tumor, cancer, miscarriages, divorces, and multiple unplanned pregnanices. She talks about how her drive and dedication helped her to always be an outstanding performer in ultra-competitive environments while facing these problems head on. We can all draw inspiration from Christina’s struggles and take her story as proof that, even with the odds stacked against us, we can find ways to prosper and positively impact the world. Don’t miss Christina’s learnings on what we can do to lead healthier lives and find physical and mental wellness from within. She also offers how listening to and embracing ideas and different points of view from everyone has been key in her success growing companies. Christina inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: Look forward more than you look back. Check out https://drchristinarahm.com/, and her new book, “Cure the Causes”.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 198, Molly is joined by her friend Jason Castano, a shining example of a young person who took the bull by the horns, found his passions and never stopped believing in what was possible. For Jason’s parents the only way to leave Colombia with hope of America was entrusting a total stranger with their lives and life savings to fly to Mexico, swim across a river at night with their young daughter, fly to California, and then to New York. His father made $3/hour washing dishes and his mother was a maid. Jason overwhelmingly recalls gratitude for their “hard work” and a happy childhood, always having what he needed. Admittedly shy, skinny and insecure as a child, Jason talks about being bullied and then transformed by being part of a karate fight team. He reflects about the opportunity to be top 8 out of 300 as the first time he really wanted something. The good fortune of joining a military program for high schoolers completed his metamorphosis to a self-confident, strong youth with a new lease on life. Hear how Jason played the long game in boldly embarking on his first career as a physical trainer, which took him on private jets and a chance to see the world. Living his core values with his clients, endless work ethic and penchant to always exceed expectations helped him break through. And in 2015 when a client offered him an opportunity to move into real estate, Jason found his “dream job” as portfolio asset manager and agent for River 2 River Realty. Hear how he now supports family members to immigrate and make better lives for themselves. Many nuggets to be gleaned from Jason’s journey! Don’t miss how he was “chest up, shoulders back” and always grateful when people entrusted him. Jason inspires us to be the very best versions of ourselves. Molly’s thought for the week – a quote from his uncle that keeps Jason alive and motivated, “Be a creature of progression”. p.s. Jason is on his way to leading with his full potential. To help you do the same, check out Molly’s 1st LinkedIn Learning course, “Leadership Communication in the Flow of Work.” Here’s the link for free 24-hr access bit.ly/3sETIgg
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 197 is the 39th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, you’ll gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by the indomitable Alison Thompson, who always looked up to Mother Teresa, and has emulated her in serving others for the past 25 years as a global humanitarian volunteer. Alison joins the show to share how she came to her passion and has served countless around the world impacted by disasters—from ground zero during 911 and Syrian, Afghan, Venezuelan and Ukraine refugee crises to the 2004 Asian tsunami, the front lines of the Ukraine war and the latest August, 2023 Maui bushfires. In 2001 she founded Third Wave Volunteers, which deploys 30,000 volunteers, and inspires everyone to action with the message of “everyone is needed.” Among many honors, Aliso has won the Governor’s Hurricane Service Agency award, Hope Prize at TEDX Talk, Dr. Martin Luther King humanitarian award, and Rethink Energy Florida award and was selected as the Woman of Peace in 2019. During the covid pandemic in 2020, she and her all-women volunteer rescue teams, delivered over 2 million N95 masks across America to 50 states, including 1000’s of disadvantaged communities, nursing homes, prisons, the Navajo and other tribal nations, Puerto Rico, Bahamas, Peru, Haiti and Australia. In 2022, Alison received “The Presidential Lifetime Service Award”, the highest US civilian award from President Biden. she believes that the secret to happiness is service to others. Don’t miss an opportunity to appreciate how each of us can make meaningful and positive change in our world. Alison shows what it is to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard. More at thirdwavevolunteers.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 196, Molly is joined by one of the world’s greatest leaders, Alan Mulally, who led Boeing to the global leader of commercial airplanes and Ford to the #1 automotive brand in the USA. Alan shares his leadership journey and his “Working Together” System, honed as he’s led hundreds of thousands of people in creating value for all the stakeholders and the greater good.We dedicate this episode to the indomitable Frances Hesselbein, who taught us:“Work is love made visible.”“Who you are as a person is going to have more to do with your leadership, service and contribution than anything else.”The foundation of Alan’s life of service started at home in Lawrence, Kansas. He reminisces about the daily words impressed upon him by his parents, not least of which included:“Remember Alan, to serve is to live.” “Seek to understand before you seek to be understood.”“It's nice to be important. But it's more important to be nice.”If you don’t hear it for yourself, it may be hard to believe Alan’s career path… He recounts an early epiphany as bag checker at the grocery store—from humble beginnings and struggling to fit in, to the very top echelons of business Alan was always guided by humility, love and service. He delves into how being grounded in your authentic self is the key to saying it skillfully (authenticity = alignment between your beliefs, values and behaviors). And Alan offers how being who you are and developing an integrated life (vs. balancing work and life) has made all the difference!Don’t miss learning about Alan’s Working Together Strategic, Operational and Stakeholder-center System, which has underpinned his and his organizations’ success. Reference materials will be available on Molly’s LinkedIn post https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollytschang/ for you to follow along and help you put the system into practice.Join Alan and Molly in being the change you want to see in our world! Be a “Working Together” Leader—I to we and me to service!Molly’s thought for the week (Thank you Alan’s Mom): The purpose of life: love and be loved—in that order!P.S. To help you in “Working Together”, amp up how you communicate as a leader! Take Molly’s 1st LinkedIn Learning course, “Leadership Communication in the Flow of Work.” Here’s the link for free 24-hr access bit.ly/3sETIgg
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 195 is the 3rd edition of “Tough Talks from the Top” and is sure to be chock full of lessons on living a meaningful, purposeful life! Molly’s guest is the quintessential role model of finding one’s values and living them fully day in and day out. Harry Kraemer, Jr. is currently Clinical Professor of Leadership at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and executive partner with private equity firm Madison Dearborn Partners, having served previously as Chairman & CEO of $12 billion global healthcare company, Baxter International, Inc. Over a 23-year career Harry worked his way to the top echelon of corporate America with his values-driven leadership leading the way to his storied ascent. Harry will share his roots, what most shaped him, and how he stayed true to himself while navigating the corporate waters to the top. Don’t miss work and life learnings. You’re sure to be inspired to find your true north and pursue success on your terms. Learn more at https://harrykraemer.org/ including Harry’s three books and numerous recommended readings.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 194, Molly talks with professionals about challenges they face in the workplace. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work and career transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 193 Molly is joined by the soulful singer-songwriter, Tony Arata, sharing his unexpected journey to the limelight of his craft, without that ever being his intention. Garth Brooks, to date, has recorded seven of Tony’s songs, and “The Dance” won song of the year at The Academy of Country Music and received both a Country Music Association and a Grammy nomination, as well as a most performed song in Radio and Records Magazine. This is what Garth said about Tony, “He has to be one of my favorite songwriters. He’s a cat who doesn’t care about appearances. He doesn’t care about money. He cares about his children, his wife & his music. That’s neat.”
Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2012, Tony has also had No. 1 records with “Here I Am” for Patty Loveless, “I’m Holding My Own” for Lee Roy Parnell, and “Dreaming With My Eyes Open” for Clay Walker. Other artists who have recorded his songs include Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, Bonnie Raitt, Trisha Yearwood, Delbert McClinton, Don Williams, Reba McEntire, Suzy Bogguss, and Hal Ketchum. Tony will take listeners inside his creative process, people who have influenced him and how he’s stayed true to himself. Don’t miss what is sure to be a grounding and heart-warming account of achieving success on your terms. Tony inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard. https://www.tonyarata.com/
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 192, Molly’s guest is banker, philanthropist, performer and executive producer, Mark Axelowitz. Mark will share how his career progression happened in the unlikeliest of ways. And certainly starring opposite Robert De Niro was not in the plan! He’ll reveal how he made his way to Wall Street, how his role as an actor came out of nowhere, and the role acting plays in his own growth and life. Hear how meditation also plays a game-changing role in his success. One constant is the longevity of Mark’s relationships—married 34 years and knowing his business partner for 43 years—and his support of organizations helping those most in need. His journey shows how our passions sometimes find us when we least expect it. Don’t miss what will be a very entertaining and enlightening conversation. Mark inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 191, Molly talks with professionals about challenges they face in the workplace. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work and career transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 190, Molly talks with professionals about challenges they face in the workplace. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 189 is the 38th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, you’ll gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Abeer Abu Ghaith, a champion in social activism and creating economic opportunities for her fellow Palestinians and people in the MENA region through her entrepreneurial ventures and technological knowledge. Abeer joins the show to share her story, living in a refugee camp until age 12 and being in a conflict zone the majority of her life. She opens up about personal struggles and the ups and downs of being the “first high-tech women entrepreneur” in Palestine. Don’t miss insights from a bright soul who sees doors where others see walls. Abeer inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 188, Molly is joined by Larry McManus, an old friend who made a bold mid-career move into investment management after being a leader in international management for companies like Cisco Systems and Ericsson. Larry joins the show to share his journey from the start—including personal struggles you might relate to, learning to balance career and family, and his leap of faith into a new field. Don’t miss insights from a proven leader! Larry inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 76, Molly is joined by Matt Giordano, who shares an enthralling journey to his passion and purpose as internationally-known yoga instructor. He talks of a pivotal guide in art teacher Mrs. Walk, and the painful wake-up call of an intervention of friends saying they didn’t like who he was becoming. Hear of Matt’s remarkable curiosity, self-reflection and open-mindedness from a young age, which helped him first land on a yoga mat; there was no turning back! He’s upfront about travel burnout and working 4 a.m. to midnight, leading him to intentionally shift his business approach (which luckily set him up well to adapt to Covid times). Matt also adds perspective for those who might consider yoga, and those for whom it may not be a fit. Don't miss his wisdom around embracing change, the power of observing your own thoughts and behaviors and keeping your ego in check. Then, Keishla joins Molly keen to help a friend confront her micromanaging boss in a positive and productive way. Tune in and learn how to navigate life while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Thought for the week, inspired by Matt: Build humble confidence.
Learn more: https://www.instagram.com/theyogimatt/ https://www.youtube.com/user/TheYogiMatt https://www.facebook.com/TheYogiMatt https://twitter.com/TheYogiMatt
Effortless Mastery: Liberating the Master Musician Within, by Kenny Werner was an “a-ha” read for Matt!
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 16 is the 37th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, you’ll gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Farhan Hasan, who talks about her journey to success—leading technology implementation for Delta, teaching business intelligence at Georgia State, and founding HerWILL with a goal to create an equal opportunity world. Don’t miss an inside look at how she’s empowering women by offering resources for mentorships, financial literacy, STEM training, personal branding, and entrepreneurship. Farhana inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 186, Molly is joined by Brian Requarth. Brian joins the show to share his roller coaster life’s journey as an entrepreneur and the events that led up to and followed selling his company for over $600 million. Don’t miss key moments from along the way, as well as Brian’s current ventures, including being a Shark on Shark Tank Mexico and enabling other entrepreneurs through various channels. Brian inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 185, Molly talks with professionals about challenges they face in the workplace. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 184, Molly is joined by the inspiring Dave Clark. After being diagnosed with Polio at 10 months old, Dave was left unable to walk without crutches or braces. Polio, however, never stopped him from succeeding where he wanted to, moving on to become the only player to ever pitch in the MiLB from crutches. Today he boasts a more than 55 year career in pro sports as a coach, owner, manager, speaker, author and disability advocate. Don’t miss lessons and stories from Dave’s journey, one that will inspire you to dream AND do!
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 183, Molly talks with professionals about challenges they face in the workplace. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 182 Molly talks with entrepreneur, executive and early-stage investor Naveed Lalani. He joins the show to share his story, starting his entrepreneurial ventures at just 10 years old after moving to the US from Pakistan. Don’t miss a heartwarming account of how Naveed took risks in pursuit of the American dream and found his own path to success. He inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 181, Molly talks with Jason Reid, a successful leader, entrepreneur and CEO coach who became an activist on a mission to end teen suicide after the tragic loss of his 14-year-old son. He’s an amazing advocate for owning our kid’s mental health and will share what he’s learned about himself and others through his organization, “Tell My Story”. Don’t miss an inside look at an emotional journey that will leave you inspired to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves. For more about Tell My Story, visit https://www.chooselife.org/home.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 180 is the 36th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Grace Francisco. Grace is a sought-after speaker, CMO and Head of Developer Relations at Pangea and was previously the VP of Developer Strategy at Cisco. Grace joins the show to share her journey, opening up about her struggle with making friends in her early years—crediting American TV as her human connection. Don’t miss her inspiring evolution of going from “painfully shy” to speaking to thousands of people on center stage. Grace includes her tips on being comfortable in your own skin, as well as insights from her leadership roles throughout the years. She inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves. Sharing my thought for the week, on embracing diversity, from President Martha Pollack at Cornell University (Thank you Robert Glazer for sharing!): “Learning to engage with difficult and challenging ideas is a core part of a university education: essential to our students’ intellectual growth, and to their future ability to lead and thrive in a diverse society. As such, permitting our students to opt out of all such encounters, across any course or topic, would have a deleterious impact both on the education of the individual student and on the academic distinction of a Cornell degree.”
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 179, Molly is joined by Brennan O’Dowd, owner and operator of Raleigh Paint and Improvement. Brennan shares his story of how addiction tore him down from a good path, and how he fought his way back up with determination and a knack for painting. Don’t miss hearing what he learned through his struggle and takeaways from running a 5-star painting business. Brennan inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 174, Molly talks with professionals about challenges they face in the workplace. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 177, Molly is joined by former professional tennis player and Grand Slam doubles champion Murphy Jensen. Murphy opens up about the wild mental and physical journey of being at the top of the world of tennis, surviving a near-death cardiac arrest experience, and battling with addiction. He’ll share all the things he’s learned throughout his recovery and give tips for all of us to be in a better relationship with ourselves. Murphy inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 176, Molly is joined by Art Stevens, who joins the show to share his unexpected journey from substitute teacher to a public relations mastermind who’s worked with many big name clients including American Express and Johnson & Johnson. Don’t miss stories from Art’s rise to success, as well as his thoughts on public relations and communications. Art inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 175 is the 35th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, you’ll gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Cordell Carter, a sought after speaker and board advisor who works in pursuit of a society where everyone belongs and has equal opportunities to thrive. Don’t miss insights from a leader who’s been recognized all over the US.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 174, Molly talks with professionals about challenges they face in the workplace, including facing imposter syndrome and self-doubt. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 173, Molly is joined by Lori Shemek, a leading fat cell researcher, health and weight loss expert, keynote speaker and award-winning author. As the two time “#1 Global Health Influencer” and a pioneer in inflammation awareness, Lori has a plethora of knowledge to share on how to feel good, mentally and physically. Don’t miss tips from one of the world’s leading health, fitness and diet experts on how we can change our diet and habits to change our life. Lori inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 172, Molly is joined by Alonzo Brown, rapper, executive producer, expert promoter, and an amazing, positive force of a human being, who joins the show to share his story, from an upbringing in Harlem around a time when New York was in turmoil, to meeting Andre Harrell and forming their group, “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”, finding success in the world of music. Alonzo moved on to work on tv shows, movies, and many other forms of entertainment. Don’t miss the story of a young man who aspired for more, and went out and got it. Alonzo inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 171 is the 34th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, you’ll gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Rima Assiryani, who made her journey to the United States from Jordan in 2001, and has accumulated over 20 years of experience in design, construction, and facility management. She’s a champion of developing workplace strategies with sustainable design and technological solutions at the Federal Reserve. Rima joins the show to share what it was like integrating into U.S. culture, and to give us an inside look on the world of architects. She inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 170, Molly is joined by Michael Levine, an amazing writer, PR expert, and author, who founded his own PR company and has now represented 58 Academy Award winners, 34 Grammy Award winners, and 43 New York Times best-sellers. Michael joins the show for a conversation about how he worked through childhood struggles to find success in a big way, as well as sharing stories and his top lessons learned along the way. Don’t miss insights from a man deemed the “Michael Jordan of entertainment P.R.” from an over 40 year career at the top of his field that’s still going strong. Molly will also host callers to unpack tough conversations top of mind for them. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 169, Molly talks with professionals about early experiences in managing a team and offers thoughts for people at all levels to embrace change as a means of growth. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 168, Molly is joined by Kevin Koch, CEO of Koch Enterprises, Inc., who gives an inside look into running a family owned business that was founded in 1873 and has successfully served customers for over 150 years. Kevin will share his story, including the ups and downs of his youth, college days, and early career, and how he eventually joined and made a meaningful impact in the family business, making sure it continued to thrive in a world where most businesses don’t last one generation. Don’t miss an amazing account of Kevin finding his place in the world and keeping a good thing going strong. He inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 167 is the 33rd monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, you’ll gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Ezekiel Andrew, a performing artist who’s sung in operas and operettas, performed in musical theater productions, and acted in Shakespearean plays—portraying some of the best-loved musical characters, including the Phantom in “Phantom of the Opera” and the Beast in “Beauty and the Beast”. Ezekiel joins the show to talk about his journey, from being raised by a gospel singing father and being an “art kid” in high school, to finding success in multiple fields of performance, recently making his Broadway debut in one of the longest running shows, “The Lion King”.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 166, 23-year old Carly Jump shares her journey, leaving Oklahoma after high school with a one-way ticket to New York City. Hear how she navigated the ups and downs of growing up and working her way to unexpectedly being brought on as business partner and executive director in America’s first “Pop Culture Bakery”—Funny Face Bakery—a venture that uniquely combines art and baking (and is Food Insider’s #1 chocolate chip cookie in NYC). Do not miss a remarkable story of a young person finding her way that inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves. https://funnyfacebakery.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 165, Molly talks with professionals about early experiences in managing a team and offers thoughts for people at all levels to embrace change as a means of growth. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 164, Molly is joined by Frank Sciame, a builder with an architect’s vision who founded Sciame Construction in 1975. Frank, highly sought out as a construction partner to top designers, explains the ins and outs of the business and shares his story—learning to use tools from his father at a young age, eventually embarking on the wild ride of starting his own company and growing it to one of the tri-state’s leading construction management firms, with current projects underway valued at over a billion dollars. Also, Frank will touch on the personal side of things, sharing bits from his upbringing and family life that we can learn and draw inspiration from. Frank inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 163 is the 32nd monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, you’ll gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Navy SEAL Commander Rorke Denver, who was officer in charge of BRAVO Platoon of SEAL Team THREE in Iraq’s Al Anbar Province in one of the most combat-heavy deployments of any regular SEAL team since Vietnam. He has led hundreds of crucial missions and his team is widely credited with helping neutralize Iraq’s insurgency. Don’t miss invaluable learnings Rorke learned along his intense journey. Also, Rorke will talk about his roles as New York Times best-selling author and actor, as well as keynote speaker, who inspires organizations to perform at their highest levels. Rorke inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves. For more about Rorke, visit: https://rorkedenver.com/
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 109, Molly’s first caller, Stephen, shares a culture clash of a recent merger, which isn’t good for the organization or employees. He stresses empathy-trust-relationship as the core—”If people can’t talk openly across all levels and we think anyone is better than another, something is seriously wrong...” HUGE opportunity for leaders to step up! Then Taylor, two years out of college, is challenged to “say no” to her boss when she’s drowning in work. She shares (great) awareness of how her pride and desire to be needed and seen as reliable hold her back. Taylor and Molly talk through how she empowers herself to positively and productively chat with her boss (and cross-functional team members) about right-sizing her workload (18:30). Next, high school student Alev opens up about an uncomfortable situation with a friend as she approached her about forming a new club at school to empower women. Hear her early learnings on the subject of “titles”—sure to be useful in the years ahead (34:00)! Finally, Molly shares a scenario re: research showing how email stresses people out (see below) and offers additional ways to be proactive, one of those from her friend, Garry Ridge, Chairman & CEO of WD-40, who leaves nothing to chance. His email footer is: I may be working in a different time zone to you, and I am sending this message now because I am working. I don’t expect that you will respond to, or action it outside of your preferred working times (46:30). Join the show to unpack these challenges and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself! Molly’s thought for the week:When you learn that a person’s behavior has more to do with their internal struggle than it ever did with you, you learn grace.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 129 is the 24th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly is joined by Eduardo Rallo, who shares an epic entrepreneurial journey—selling sweets as a child in Mexico to starting a restaurant chain to co-founding the first US-Mexico cross-border VC firm, Brainstorm Ventures, early investor OpenTable and Zappos! Eduardo grew up in Cuernavaca—a small town outside Mexico City with freedom to pretty much do what he wanted as a child. Son of a refugee from the Spanish Civil War, he attributes his risk-taking and entrepreneurship to his mother and her entrepreneurial family. Unlike most kids, Eduardo was driven to expand his possibilities, and at age 17, he set off for UC San Diego—one family friend the only soul he knew. He recounts early fears and forging a few life, including working through school (a work ethic ingrained as a kid, selling American candies and Hallmark stickers in his hometown…) Hear how an innocent question at age 10 led him to Harvard Business School. His successful food-based business ventures continued post HBS, when he and friends opened a store selling burrito “wraps”—working 7am to 1am, they had lines out the door from the start and VC funds followed… Eduardo talks vulnerably about his first consulting job post-UCSD as the first Deloitte & Touche employee. Enjoy a defining moment: tasked to use Excel spreadsheet skills that he said he had, but didn’t... (and pulling 3 all-nighters). Don’t miss Eduardo’s learnings on his entrepreneurial journey, how he and his wife Sylvia partnered in business, and his early mid-life crisis—leading their 10-year plan to achieve their personal and professional goals. Eduardo is moved by bringing ideas and people together to succeed and shares massive gratitude for his diverse international global community. Privileges he's had in life have made his work with Silicon Valley Foundation meaningful. Many valuable gems, including:-Balance the trade-offs to create business growth AND maintain healthy relationships.-Learn to say “no.”-Organizational skills and discipline to keep routines and prioritize, while staying flexible.Eduardo’s courage to “have dreams and shoot high,” his work ethic, family focus, and joie de vivre inspire. He shows the way to succeeding on your terms and being your true and best self.Molly’s thought for the week: “With privilege comes responsibility.”More ways to help you #sayitskillfully!* Project the Right Energy https://lnkd.in/gWaaQ8J * All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 162 features the 2nd episode of “Tough Talks from the Top”—helping listeners to learn from those who’ve served in senior-most executive positions and how they’ve been able to stay true to themselves, say what needed to be said AND thrive in big corporate settings. Jeannie Diefenderfer shares her amazing story, from migrating to the U.S. at age 13, not even knowing English, to becoming a powerhouse Fortune 20 executive during times when women in top management were rare. Hear top takeaways from her time leading groups with 10,000 staff and operating budgets of $1 billion dollars and capital programs of over $10 billion. Also, Hear about her current endeavors, including how she’s helping develop leaders and organizations to sustain economic and social value. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 161 is the 31st monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, you’ll gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Molly is joined by Lola Adedokun, who shares how growing up with Nigerian heritage while living in the US Midwest shaped her sense of self, and how she unexpectedly began a career of seeking to expand opportunities for access to health and prosperity for people living at the world's margins. Tune in for a personal point of view on the wonderful work Lola has done and is doing, including a 15 year tenure as the director of child well-being at the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. Lola inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 160, Molly is joined by Dustin Plantholt, who shares his inspiring and at times poignant story, from a youth that included foster care and more than a kid’s fair share of trauma and dysfunction, to becoming a zealous entrepreneur. Dustin is Founder and CEO of Plantholt Advisory Group, Life’s Tough Media, Crypterns.com, and LifesTough.com. He is ??also internationally recognized for his outstanding work in the new and dynamic field of crypto, advising celebrities including astronaut Buzz Aldrin, boxer Evander Holyfield, pianist John Tesh, and rapper Sir Mix-a-Lot. Living by the motto, “we are going to change the world, one heart at a time,” Dustin is on a mission to transform the lives of as many people as possible. He will give us an inside look into hardships along his journey—the not-so-glamorous parts—and will delve into how “failures leave the biggest clues”. Dustin inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves. https://www.lifestough.com/ https://dustinplantholt.com/ https://podcast.bitcoin.com/s3-Bitcoincom-News-Interviews
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 159, professionals call in with challenging conversations and sensitive situations they’re dealing with now, including how to effectively promote yourself without coming across as bragging. Hear how they find ways to speak up—productively and positively. Yes, you can be who you are and say what needs to be said! Molly will also offer options when you find yourself with a “toxic” boss… (keep the faith). Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 158, professionals call in with challenging conversations and sensitive situations they’re dealing with now. Hear how they find ways to speak up—productively and positively. Yes, you can be who you are and say what needs to be said! Molly will also share thoughts on how to handle when you’re “asked” to take action that you don’t see being in the best interests of the organization. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 157, Phyllis Kurlander Costanza shares her story of making mistakes, dusting herself off, and learning to overcome anything. From a young age, Phyllis had a great sense of responsibility and independence. She talks about cleaning houses with her best friend at only five years old for a nickel, which helped spark her entrepreneurial goals. And, Phyllis tells the story of when she learned to have thick skin when handing out political flyers in “enemy territory”. Don’t miss stories from Phyllis’ work as an entrepreneur and around the world in private and nonprofit sectors, including recognizing in government “your currency is your influence”, the tough conversation when she had to fire somebody for the first time, and leaving a dream job in Albany working for the Governor. She shares insights into the different sector needs and how to create win-win collaboration, including how she managed to get one chance from UBS that led to growing their Optimus Foundation from $10 to $200 million. Phyllis also goes in depth about her battle with cancer. She shows gratitude for her family, and shares the ways they supported her during this long endeavor. Phyllis talks about her company, OutcomesX, and how she is helping Ukraine, where she previously spent time living, by supporting children and families in Ukraine and those that have fled. She is focused on improving mental health and learning outcomes of children. Phyllis inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week, from Nelson Mandela: “History will judge us by the difference we make in the everyday lives of our children.”
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 156 is the 30th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly is joined by Mariana Sanz shares how values of liberty, freedom and hard work passed through the generations from descendants who fled the Spanish civil war. Mariana is thankful for how her parents influenced her as a child—entrenching good values, making her adverse to laziness, helping her to be self-confident, and always opening new roads for her. Hear all about her early years, including the meeting of her mentor, Rossana, who helped her every step of the way and ignited her love for communications. Then, Mariana talks about her early career years, aspiring to be communications director at the White House, eventually moving to work in PR. Hear about the tough times she faced while working as a public servant in Mexico... having to separate herself from corruption, feeling like she never fit in, eventually realizing she would never be happy as a public servant. Also, don’t miss the story of how—after falling behind on family expectations for having children—Mariana met her husband in a way that you might not expect. Mariana shares top takeaways that she’s learned over the years as an expert in communications, including the importance of being yourself and following your values, and what the most important part of being a good communicator is. Mariana not only leads the way in solving complex communications challenges, but also in nurturing a positive family life with her husband and two amazing sons. She inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week (thanks Mariana!): Be present. Be where you are.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 155, Molly is joined by Dan Neiditch, who opens up about his remarkable rags to riches journey, one that will inspire you to consider the legacy you want to leave to future generations. Dan overcame the odds to achieve success beyond what was imaginable and to do so on his terms. He inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 154, Dr. Steffen Pauls tells his story of ups and downs, from attending summer school in the U.S.—barely knowing English—to working his way up in the world of fintech and private investing. Steffen grew up in a strict and disciplined home in Wiesbaden, Germany. Expectations were high; he was told he must go to university AND get his PhD. Hear memorable stories from his childhood that shaped who he is today, including his dad opening his eyes to the realism of playing piano professionally. Hear about Steffen’s time at Harvard summer school. He started at age 19, barely knowing any English, and ended up staying for over a year and writing his master’s thesis (you won’t believe what he did to overcome his lack of English… talk about grit). With great gratitude, Steffen talks about how this fueled his dreams of working internationally and enabled him to pursue roles in consulting and investment banking that laid the foundation for him as an entrepreneur. Don’t miss lessons learned from his journey that included leaving roles without knowing what was next, doing a start-up alongside his wife, the loss of their 1st child, and priceless experiences with KKR in the early days of the firm. Hear how Henry Kravis himself imparted how powerful it is to know: you are important. And Steffen shares how it was essential for him to believe in himself while starting Moonfare. Don’t miss this captivating account of what it takes to find your true north and have the courage to find success on your terms. Molly’s thought for the week: When you see something others don’t, that's an opportunity. Do something about it.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 153, troubles with communication for a start-up are at the top of the list. Molly talks with professionals about early experiences in managing a team and offers thoughts for people at all levels to embrace change as a means of growth. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 152 is the 29th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly is joined by JeVon McCormick, who shares an amazing story of turning extreme adversity into strength. JeVon is the son of a 1970's pimp (with 23 children) and a mother who ended up as one of his father’s prostitutes; he has faced more adversity than is conceivable to most. He grew up on welfare, was sexually abused, sometimes left with no supervision for weeks, forced to eat out of trash cans and go weekends without food, and ended up homeless at thirteen before reuniting with his mother. On top of all this, when he was academically tested at fifteen years old, he scored at a fifth grade level. JeVon eventually acquired his GED after failing to graduate high school. His first jobs were cleaning toilets and working in a mailroom. Tune in to hear how, despite all of this, JeVon never felt sorry for himself and became CEO of Scribe Media and author of the hot off-the-press book, Modern Leader. Don’t miss top takeaways from JeVon’s inspiring journey, including how to find the positives in the most negative of situations, his inspiration to be the best at whatever he’s doing, and his up and down internal battle that led to him finding peace within and accomplishing what was never expected. JeVon inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: We all make mistakes in life and in business, but only fail if we stop trying—so don’t ever stop trying. Learn more about JeVon here: https://jevonmccormick.com/modern-leader/ https://scribemedia.com/
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 151, Molly is joined by Christina Rahm, who shares her story, persevering through more personal and health issues than you might imagine, and making a positive change in the world in her unique way. Growing up in a small Missouri town where she felt like an outsider and was bullied by other kids and even a teacher, Christina talks about learning to see the bright side of things. Thankful to her parents for exposing her to a wide variety of music, sports, travel, and higher learning, she tells us about how—though seeming overly harsh at times—her parents taught her many important lessons in perseverance, dedication and humility. Christina’s passion for helping others was cultivated from a young age. As early as age five, she recalls aspirations to make change in the world and help humanity as she’d seen by figures such as Gandhi and Mother Teresa. She talks about her first instance of helping people professionally, an internship helping gang members and abused children—something her parents didn’t agree with for fear of her safety and even temporarily cut her off! Christina describes how her passion evolved from wanting people to feel good, to wanting people to achieve their absolute best in life. She opens up about her battle with lyme disease throughout college and how, with motivation from her parents, she pushed through (which includes working as a hotel maid). She describes that, while extremely tough at the time, she is grateful for the wisdom and mental toughness gained. Moving past lyme disease, Christina faced myriad of issues while advancing in the pharmaceutical and biotechnical industries, including a brain tumor, cancer, miscarriages, divorces, and multiple unplanned pregnanices. She talks about how her drive and dedication helped her to always be an outstanding performer in ultra-competitive environments while facing these problems head on. We can all draw inspiration from Christina’s struggles and take her story as proof that, even with the odds stacked against us, we can find ways to prosper and positively impact the world. Don’t miss Christina’s learnings on what we can do to lead healthier lives and find physical and mental wellness from within. She also offers how listening to and embracing ideas and different points of view from everyone has been key in her success growing companies. Christina inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: Look forward more than you look back. Check out https://drchristinarahm.com/, and her new book, “Cure the Causes”.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. This week, we celebrate 150 episodes of Say It Skillfully® with Molly’s brilliant friend Bruce Kasanoff, who shares his journey, learning to take initiative and succeed in a wide variety of fields (and even be selfish). Eventually, he became one of about 125 original LinkedIn influencers, and excelled writing about “how to do well by doing good” and “bring humanity back into business.” He’s settled into where he truly feels at home—as a co-creator and ghostwriter. Growing up in Boston, very unhappy with his surroundings, Bruce recalls “giving up” after 6th grade and coasting through high school. He opens up about the confusion he felt hearing his parents say “You can do anything you put your mind to”, but seeing them stuck in their lives. He believes their early deaths are partly attributed to this feeling of entrapment. At the same time, he recognizes how the unconditional love they showed him gave him the freedom to try and fail and eventually succeed. Bruce shares the 30 seconds that changed his life: a few sentences from a production manager compelled him to take initiative for the first time, moving up from $3/hour stage crew, to crew chief! This also created one of his first “say it skillfully moments”, in which a friend clued Bruce into his “bossy” side. Bruce is amazed that four decades later, it’s still hard to find the right words in uncomfortable situations. In another great example of initiative, Bruce tells the story of a time at WGBH/Boston in which he bet on himself and went to his boss’s boss’s boss (yikes) to escape from his current role (it ends well). Bruce gives us a rundown of his work across many different fields, and how after finding success as an original LinkedIn influencer, he followed his heart and settled in as a co-creator—helping to magnify the talent of talented people. Don’t miss Bruce’s “far and away best lesson he’s ever learned”— intelligence is having something valuable to say, but much more importantly, knowing what’s valuable to different people. Mastering this concept has helped set Bruce apart from others in all channels of his life. Raising 3 kids, Bruce talks about the ups and downs of this hectic family life and regrets, including situations where he wishes he showed more empathy for the desires of others. Bruce inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week, inspired by Bruce: “Be yourself, but not obsessed with being yourself.” Visit Bruce’s website and LinkedIn page for outstanding life and business tips, newsletters and more!: https://kasanoff.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasanoff/ Molly’s brand-new Say It Skillfully mini course: https://bit.ly/3SgwLaS
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 149, Molly’s first caller, Abhijit, a career coach in India and in leadership development for 15 years, shares an out-of-the-blue team dilemma. He thought the team was “on plan” and overnight, it wasn’t. How to handle his team interactions and his own shock and fears in possibly missing deadlines and not delivering? Next Erin, in her second job after studying civil engineering, is keen to make the most of her first performance review with her new boss. She also shares her success story in pivoting to this new role, with unexpected help from a LinkedIn post (21:15)! Then, Roger, in workforce development, shares a year-long whirlwind that went from being let go without any warning, to managing an entire training center (that he never imagined), and finally being recruited for a dream job he never envisioned, much less thought was possible. He role models the power of patience, taking the high road and seizing opportunity. His new employer is the institution at which 30 years ago he’d wanted to play football. Destiny has its way (39:30). Finally, I share 3 different styles of adapting to change (thank you Janet Frood of Horizon Leadership): 1. Leapers get things going 2. Road Builders improve and smooth the way 3. Tradition Holders preserve important parts of the organization’s history. Easy to think one is better. The fact is, we need all styles and I offer a fun and informative activity for your team to understand the make-up of your change styles and take best advantage of them (50:15). Don’t miss these enlightening conversations and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself! Molly’s thought for the week: “Once people know you care, they're going to listen to you more.” —Jack Clark, University of California Head Rugby Coach Here's a NEW way to learn how to #sayItskillfully... Molly’s brand-new Say It Skillfully mini course shows you how to handle tough or sensitive situations. Jumpstart your skillfulness at your own pace. It's free, fun and incredibly useful: https://bit.ly/3SgwLaS
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 148, Molly is joined by sisters Tia and Talia, who’ve been “business partners” since ages 5 and 6! They share how their entrepreneurial parents ignited their spark for learning and creating. Experimenting with their Mom to create better gluten and dairy-free options led them to star in “Tia & Talia’s Tasty Treats”—80 YouTube episodes that took them around the world to help kids eat healthy. “You are what you eat!” Hear how they complement each other’s skills (and their pet peeve when people think they’re twins). Having filmed their show in the US, Mexico, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, France, and Germany, they also talk about what they appreciate about traveling (and about being back home). Avid about reading and writing and the book series, “Wings of Fire,” were the catalyst for their 2nd enterprise—in 3D printing! Intrigued by this high tech device from their dad, note how he—skillfully—challenged them to earn money to buy their own. Ta-da! TT3D was born, with its first product line of colorful dragons, yes dragons. The girls share why they find dragons inspiring, and talk of their customer service experience, and starting to get an appreciation for “the numbers.” Tia & Talia open up about what they appreciate about each other and their super supportive parents. When the world may at times seem too heavy, enjoy this light, open-hearted and joyous account of two bright lights in the prime of their youth—learning, growing and shining. We hope it ignites a bit of youth for you.
Molly’s thought for the week, whether cooking or dragon-making: “The most important ingredient is always LOVE.” —Tia & Talia
Check out the amazing dragons and other toys and support Tia & Talia’s entrepreneurial dream at: TT3D.org (and their delicious recipes at: https://www.tiatalia.com/)
Invite you to be part of the solution! Take advantage of the wisdom of youth—you won’t regret it http://bit.ly/38i5sbU
And here’s a tip to communicate effectively: http://bit.ly/35jL4nk
Sign-up for Molly’s free mini-course and access all her resources here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 147 is the 28th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. Timing is everything. Molly’s guest Christopher Haight admits, “right now” he’s in the perfect place to share his journey, as adopted, gay and Asian. He shares what it’s taken to not just understand, but to embrace the elements of his identity as strengths vs. things to deal with. He attributes “raised as a middle-class white kid” as key to early self-confidence and never letting others diminish who he is. Growing up amongst adopted Korean kids in mixed race families also made his life very normal! Christopher reveals how the most obvious part of his identity—being Asian—took him some time to come to grips with. Thanks to his career in development with Cornell University, he talks gratefully about his eye-opening move to New York City, meeting all sorts of people—especially Asians—and their multitude of stories. “New York can make you a much better person if you let it.” YouTube and his work played critical roles in how he came to learn about and appreciate his Korean culture! Visiting Korea, he shares moments of loneliness, as well as comfort, when he realized that he’d always have a home there. In transition professionally to an exciting opportunity with Stanford, Christopher poignantly reflects on being comfortable within, and how his own groundedness paved the way for a very meaningful life relationship (also an adopted Korean!). He owns up to tending to “compartmentalize” and hold his cards close, though less so in the last 5 years. The opportunity to lead and grow a team at Cornell proved pivotal as he took this responsibility of being entrusted with people seriously. He freed himself “to be me,” in order to signal to his team to do the same. And he reminds, “Your words and actions teach others, even if you don’t realize it.” Christopher offers the wisest words around DEI, “Culture is not policy, it’s practice. It’s not a solvable now challenge.” Don’t miss his sage advice for leaders, including celebrating bad news. He implores people to confidently ask for what they need, to empower themselves to break bamboo & glass ceilings! Forget “pay your dues” mindsets, pave the way so that others aren’t challenged by the same barriers! Christopher models for us what “do the work” can look like and the riches of doing so. Don’t miss how he inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thoughts for the week (thanks Christopher): 1. Relationships take work. 2. Please bring problems even if you don’t have the solution. 3. By being you, you bring power and strength to others
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 146, Molly is joined by Slava Hazin, who endured a childhood in which he moved between three different continents, including coming to the U.S. as a young child—knowing no English and working several jobs to help support his family. Slava will tell us all about his journey, from tough beginnings to finding success in the world of law and in other avenues of life. Tune in for his experience on a unique path in life. Slava inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 145, navigating and leading change are top of mind. Molly talks with professionals about early experiences in managing a team and offers thoughts for people at all levels to embrace change as a means of growth. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Molly will help callers empower themselves and say what needs to be said, at work and home. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work transitions while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 144 is the premiere episode of “Tough Talks from the Top”—helping listeners to learn from those who’ve served in senior-most executive positions and how they’ve been able to stay true to themselves, say what needed to be said AND thrive in big corporate settings. Seasoned financial services and fintech executive Mark Parsells joins Molly to share experiences when he served as President of Citibank Online, where he turned around the business to create the United States’ #1 ranked online bank, and at American Express—as Founder & General Manager of the Government Services Division and Chief Compliance Officer. You’ll hear firsthand how Mark evolved his career and learned his own strengths and how to play to them in large corporate settings. He’ll also provide a glimpse of his current work at Montpelier Ventures, his Financial Services and FinTech management consulting and investment firm, and the meaning he finds, particularly in supporting entrepreneurs succeed in ways they hadn’t imagined. Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 143, Molly will take calls from professionals around the world and help them with their challenges in saying what needs to be said at work and home. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 142 is the 27th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, you’ll gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, Professor William Hsiao joins Molly to share his unlikely journey, growing up in America not knowing English well and struggling with no parents around, eventually becoming a professor and one of the world's foremost experts on healthcare, economics and financing, regularly advising government and non governmental organizations. Tune in to hear what it was like moving from China to the U.S. at 12 years old and the adversity Hsiao faced before he found success, as well as how he got into his first career and his perspective on the healthcare industry and the politics that go along with it. Bill inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 141 will feature a lively conversation with Marshall Goldsmith—New York Times #1 bestselling author and one of few executive coaches who has worked with over 200 major CEOs and their management teams. Having written or edited 51 books that have sold over 3 million copies, he is the only living author with two books on “Amazon’s 100 Best Leadership & Success Books Ever Written”—Triggers and What Got You Here Won’t Get You There. His newly released book The Earned Life: Lose Regret and Choose Fulfillment is already a New York Times bestseller and encapsulates Marshall’s lifetime of work. He will talk with Molly about how the book came to be, what it means to him and his learnings from writing it. Hear some of his favorite parts of The Earned Life, as well as how Marshall handled Covid life and his thoughts on what’s next for him. Hundreds of his articles, interviews, columns, and videos are available (at no charge) online at www.MarshallGoldsmith.com. People from around the world have viewed, read, listened to, downloaded, or shared his resources tens of millions of times. Don’t miss this opportunity to tune into one of the greatest thinkers influencing management, who will delve into living an earned life—when the choices, risks and effort we make in each moment align with an overarching purpose in our lives. Marshall inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 140, Molly is joined by Mike Rutstein, who shares his story, from an uncertain childhood to becoming an extraordinary creative writer and communicator; he ascended the corporate ladder to thrive in the world of advertising and helped to build some of the most famous and successful healthcare brands in the world. When Mike was 5, his parents divorced. He recalls feeling lost in a household full of uncertainty. He shares how he’d escape into his imagination, his love for commercials, and how his father was his greatest inspiration. Sports was also a guiding light for him. After graduating in a recession, Mike talks about his early career and (brutal) job hunt. Don’t miss a hilarious story of how lying about knowing how to type to get a job ended with him gaining a great mentor! Also, hear about a “make or break” moment when his mentor threw him—last minute—into the limelight of a big presentation (it ends well…). Mike sheds light on how he thrived in big companies and talks about adversity faced during his career, including getting into political firefights for taking strong positions on what he believed was best for the company. No longer willing to “play the game,” he opens up about how building his own business was at times extremely difficult. Mike shares his gratitude for an amazing business partner and lessons learned over the years, including the difference between hearing something and listening, and how supporting each other is key to break past mediocrity. As one who seized opportunity and never looked back, Mike inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week (thank you Mike!): The greatest meeting room in the world is around the dinner table. More about Mike and Strikeforce Communications: http://www.strikeforcenyc.com And Molly’s #sayitskillfully resources for you at https://sayitskillfully.com * How you, as a leader, react to a dissenting perspective speaks volumes about your culture. https://bit.ly/2uHaD0B
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 139, Molly is joined by master of media and creative genius, Rich Melcombe. He joins the show to share his story—growing up minutes away from Universal Studios, moving on to create 10 TV shows, produce 5 movies, over 2000 On Air TV promotion spots, and dozens of TV commercials and sales tapes. Growing up with a love for film and wanting to be a TV producer, Rich talks about his childhood and his journey to becoming comfortable in his own skin and gaining confidence. He tells us about his time in film school, including butting heads with a professor that he didn’t agree with. Rich talks about his first jobs out of film school and gives us an inside look at film industry politics. He describes an encounter which taught him that some people in the industry can’t be trusted. At one point broke after being fired from one of his first jobs, Rich came up with “Brownie Points” on a whim. Don’t miss the story of how this idea took off and led him to working with Ted Turner at Turner Broadcasting. Hear about Rich’s time at Turner, where he showed promise in marketing and paved many paths, including presenting a business plan that would form into the start of Home Shopping Network. Rich shares lessons learned from his time in the industry, including learning to listen, and not worrying about things he can’t control. He also talks about his family life and the importance of making time for his kids. Tune in to hear about his startup, Richie Knows, which is building a local social network and creating mental health solutions for gamers. Hear about what he learned when interviewing hundreds of gamers and his goal to improve mental health. Rich inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: Follow your heart. Live in the present moment. More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * This video explains metaskills—your ability to consciously decide what energy you project https://lnkd.in/gWaaQ8J * All Molly’s resources here! https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 138 is the 26th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly is joined by Carolyn Chun, Assistant Professor of Mathematics at the US Naval Academy, shares her journey from childhood “math geek” to researcher and educator and now advocate for social justice in higher education. Growing up with her twin sister and two younger brothers with a mix of privilege, potential and naivety, Carolyn recalls being ”sheltered within her own mind, not really understanding what was going on around me.” Half Caucasian, half Asian in a predominately white school, she describes her younger self as “unaware of her race”—not picking up on racial epithets from other kids—and open that to this day she’s still figuring out how she perceives herself and how others perceive her. Daughter to two professional mathematicians, Carolyn always found math easy. Despite her love for it, she wasn’t 100% set on graduate mathematics; Peace Corps and corporate jobs were on the table. Hear how she eventually followed her heart to LSU, studying under James Oxley, a world leader in his field. Carolyn sheds light on gender discrepancy within STEM fields. She first felt the “us against them” while studying at Rutgers, when ideas and solutions from her and other females often would come under scrutiny and be shot down, unlike for male peers. In this case, her naivety was a benefit—not being discouraged by extra barriers women in STEM face—and she stuck to “optimization mode”; earning numerous degrees: BS in physics; BS/MS/PhD in mathematics, and Masters of Fine Arts with distinction. Today, she has a reputation internationally as a leader in her field. Carolyn delves into teaching at USNA—the good and not so good—including an undervaluing of female contributions in the classroom and a “military bias” in which students tend to idolize military faculty members despite at times their underachieving in learning outcomes. Carolyn talks about the disconnect she sees: while being in the best interest of all parties to work together, leadership has created a culture of competition between the military and civilian faculty. Don’t miss Carolyn share what she’s proud of in life and her career, and some things she’d do differently! She inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: The arc of the moral universe is long but it bends toward justice. —Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Learn more about Carolyn and her work as a woman in STEM * https://www.usna.edu/Users/math/chun/index.php
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 137, Molly talks with early-in-career professionals about their job searches! Molly’s first caller, a recent college graduate, is having a tough time getting her foot in the door in children's educational media. Aviva shares how she expected to face rejection, but sees “success in failure”. She realizes finding people to connect with at the companies she’s applying to is basically a full-time job itself. They discuss how taking a position that isn’t necessarily your “dream job” can be vital for learning skills, showing your value and getting to know yourself. Next, Michael returns to the show after calling in to share his inspiring recent few years in China and Taiwan, where he developed his ability to teach English to 5-year olds! Now back in the states, Michael is exploring different avenues for the next chapter. He shares his strengths that he discovered while overseas, as a leader and in solving problems with people who think very differently than he. Molly helps Michael with potential interview questions, including an example of how he would explain his strengths to make sure that it lands in the best way possible, and the importance of knowing how your strengths connect with the tasks and needs of the job at hand (14:10). Then Alex calls in to share her post-college career journey, working for a tech consulting company for 9 years where she mastered their proprietary software, as well as the struggles of switching to a job in which that software mastery didn’t quite translate. Along the way, she was diagnosed with ADHD! Alex explains how, due to her ADHD, she worked extremely well under pressure and dealing with big problems, but struggled to stay productive when things were calm. She goes into depth about her job transitioning process, and opens up about how tough it was working 10-11 hour days then taking online courses after work to beef up her resume and build up her skills. Alex then talks about what she learned about herself during this very worthwhile process. (31:55) Molly’s last caller, recent college grad Emma, is working two jobs while searching for a full time role. She calls in a day before an interview to discuss the best ways to present herself as a confident candidate. Emma and Molly role play some interview questions, including articulating her strengths, with examples of situations in which these strengths have come up at work. Molly then helps Emma with the best way to phrase her answer to the dreaded “What is your biggest weakness?” question (42:50). Don’t miss these conversations and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s thought for the week: ”When everything seems to be going against you, remember—the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” —Henry Ford.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 136, Molly is joined by 30 year high-ranking U.S. Army veteran Vince Buggs shares his journey to a career of service— building on decades of military experience to help people fulfill their aspirations and live meaningful lives. Vince admits he was never quite the academic scholar, but from a young age he excelled in situational awareness and always paid attention to the wisdom from his mother (who ended generations of being broke, and even got her PhD at age 73!). She made sure he understood things such as laws, rights, and what was happening in the world around him. This instilled within him a work ethic to always try to be the best at whatever his job was. Vince shares lessons learned from his parents and grandmother, who was a little girl during slavery, including the power and necessity of teaching others and serving the community. Vince was born in Louisiana in a time when remnants of segregation were still present. While he was young, his parents took a military assignment and moved to Germany to escape racism, civil rights issues and lack of good education in the south. He talks about how growing up outside of the U.S. allowed him to be a “normal kid” without biases. Vince shares his first experience with racism when moving back to the U.S. for college in 1985, and how he remained calm by embracing his grandfather's way of “hitting things with a pillow instead of a hammer”. Vince talks about military life: what it’s like to live on a military base, and how being “stuck” in the reserves for 5 years working civilian jobs helped him learn more about people and contributed greatly to his success in becoming a leader later in his career. He speaks about the challenges on his first active duty tour, and often being the only African-American in the room. Vince opens up about how being on a tour in the Army changed the way he looks at everything, and how it helped him focus on “the good”. Always staying busy, Vince talks about his post-military life including teaching history, starting his company—Embrace The Power—and being a father of 5 girls. Don’t miss Vince and Molly discuss what to do in situations in which you feel left out of the inner circle and your ideas are constantly shot down. Also, he talks about seeing things that don’t go your way in a positive light. Vince inspires us to help all be safe, seen and heard, and be our true and best selves. Molly’s thoughts for the week: “Care.” (Thank you Vince). Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth. —Muhammad Ali. More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 135, Molly is joined by U.S. Coast Guard Admiral Sandy Stosz, who shares 40 years of navigating more than her fair share of firsts. In times of crisis and complexity she puts action to the words “leading with integrity.” (And for those dealing with a “bad boss,” don’t miss how to handle this!) “Shy and unconfident” is how Sandy started. Parents who instilled “you are your core values” and her tomboy youth with 3 younger brothers prepared her well to hold her own and work with men. Her disarming honesty is in abundance as she’s forthright about continually being “rendered humble” by not being the smartest, fastest or best looking... “very average!” Athletics and coaches were gamechangers in Sandy’s limitless hard work and perseverance. “No silver platters… it was always, always hard.” She talks of not realizing she was even “breaking glass”— Title IX was just starting to support women in sport, as she was in the 3rd USGG class to have women (60% attrition). In the Coast Guard, role changes were every 2-3 years, never letting one find their stride for long: adapt, adjust, be agile were the only options. As the first woman to command an icebreaker on the Great Lakes and lead a US armed forces service academy, she shares numerous “aha” (some painful) learnings with men who didn’t believe she belonged (and how women weren’t exactly super supportive of one another). Resignation letter in hand, she came sooo close to giving it all up. A must hear for those who need to amp up their “competence—confidence” in the eyes of others… Sandy’s mantra: “always swing the bat.” And all the “poor leadership” taught her: #1) Somehow get along w/ that leader – humble yourself to understand this boss #2) Learn what you don’t want to do… This fueled her quest to be the very best leader she could be. Numerous leadership and life lessons abound in this open-hearted account of how Sandy persevered to take the burden of being the first and turn it into an opportunity of a lifetime. And don’t miss 40 decades of leadership gems in Sandy’s book, “Breaking Ice & Breaking Glass”—inspiring us to help all be safe, seen and heard, and be our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week (anonymous): What consumes your mind controls your life. More on Sandy here: https://sandrastosz.com More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * Feel suffocated by your boss’s micro-management habit? http://bit.ly/3sY8Gtq * All Molly’s resources here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 134, Molly will take calls from professionals around the world and help them with their challenges in saying what needs to be said at work and home. Call in (866-472-5790, Int’l collect: +1-480-398-3352) and ask Molly how to handle that tough conversation or situation you’ve been avoiding. Or email from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Join the show live for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 133 is the 25th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly is joined by first-generation American Chioma Iheanacho, who shares her journey from swanky law firm to single mother persevering to find a job, to Silicon Valley and finally her own business! Born to a father from Nigeria and a mother from Barbados, Chioma felt out of place navigating American culture. Bullied for her personality and ethnicity, she recalls insults such as “you think you’re so smart” and other kids laughing at her name. Chioma opens up about how this made her “shrink... at one point even asking her mother if her name could be changed to Linda Brown! Poignantly, she goes in depth about how trauma that shrinks you shapes your views and what you accept for yourself. Chioma talks about her early struggles as a single mother, overcoming the feeling of defeat in a tedious job search while raising her son, then eventually finding a tech support position in which she wore many hats. Learning about compliance, procurement, software, contracts, licensing, budgeting, risk management, business operations, and many more skills enhanced her career as employee, consultant and entrepreneur. With guardedness, Chioma shares her insights and learnings, including how she keeps implicit biases at bay and how leaders can create safe and inclusive spaces. Don’t miss Chioma detail the how and why behind katchimedia, her media company, which she admits she could have started sooner! Hear her passion in helping entrepreneurs and organizations optimize business operations & practices, ensure compliance and deliver online in a way that beautifully reflects their gifts and services. Tune in for heartfelt ups and downs of Chioma’s unexpected path in life and in business. She inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: Never reduce your dreams to the level of the event, which is your immediate experience. — Howard Thurman. More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * Minimize fear and transform “mistakes” into valuable learning moments https://bit.ly/2JynAEB * All my videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 132, Molly is joined first by Eric, who shares two fascinating projects that confront our use of language! They talk about not so subtle shifts in words that help teams design how they work with sharp focus on “the whole” vs. individuals doing (or not doing) their work. He shares work at NYU in “re-languaging” the category known as prison literature, and the imperative to see the writing itself, not from where it’s been written! Next, Cindy opens up about a painful experience in which she feels she spoke up about what wasn’t working in the department, but in a way that did not reflect well on her. Cindy and Molly discuss the need and power to surface people’s different experiences with the intention to help the group be better vs. come across as self-interested (17:45). Finally, Chris displays courage and vulnerability in sharing his autism and the numerous struggles he and those like him face in fulfilling their potential in the workplace. So often, he has the experience of “feeling like everyone else got the memo, except me.” And he shares the lack of “auto-pilot” to interpret social interactions, and the challenge in interviewing when asked what seems a very general question, “tell me about yourself…” Chris and Molly talk about self-assuredness and sharing the positive, vs. disabling, aspects of autism and his vital role in educating those unfamiliar with it (38:05). Don’t miss rich dialogue and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s thought for the week: Trust the goodness in yourself and the goodness in those around you. That’s the ultimate show of confidence. —Jeff Warren More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * How to be heard at work https://bit.ly/2UXFyBl * All my videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 131, Molly is joined by Randy Paterson, PhD psychologist and author, who offers gems galore on our mental well-being—from the parent trap to depression changing our motivational structure to helping youths realize how passions are created, not discovered! Born and raised (and still) in Vancouver, BC, Randy self-describes as nerdy and bookish. He recalls “knowing” he wanted to be a psychologist and writer (and forest ranger, by the way). After his B.S. in psychology, he’s open about having felt inadequate for graduate school, and then stumbling onto an opportunity with prominent psychologist Ann Triesman that changed his life forever (Ann received the 2013 National Medal of Science from President Obama for pioneering work in the study of attention and was married to Nobel Prize Economist Daniel Kahneman). Randy shares his path to “anxiety disorder guy,” including thinking he’d be kicked out of the PhD program at Western University, and unexpectedly landing a job helping those with depression. He talks about those with Anhedonia (losing interest to do things you like to do). He helps people not trust the instincts to do what makes them feel worse! He also offers lessons learned for those keen to be in private practice with a reality check in working for others vs. yourself. Randy and Molly also talk about his sub-specialty—“failure to launch”—in young adults and the “parent trap” that supports their dependence, not independence. Don’t miss this engaging episode! Randy helps us talk and learn about mental health. He inspires us to help all be safe, seen and heard, and be our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week. Thank you Randy: Failure is a normal part of life. Failure exposure is one of the best things we can do. Check out a wealth of resources from Randy: http://www.randypaterson.com https://psychologysalon.teachable.com YouTube Channel – type PsychologySalon Books: How to be Miserable, How to be Miserable in Your 20s, The Assertiveness Workbook, Private Practice Made Simple, Your Depression Map. More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! Tactfully pushback on those meandering, endless meetings… https://lnkd.in/eHScYf9 All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 130, Molly is joined by Navy officer, board-certified physician in emergency medicine, and entrepreneur Christopher Sidford, who shares his learnings in navigating high stakes with a level head and open heart. Chris grew up with five brothers very close in age. He recounts a highly energetic youth of “go outside and play” and jokes that regular ER visits foreshadowed his future. You may be surprised by his “defining moment” in selecting emergency medicine (hear how in the 70s this discipline emerged as a specialty). No one was more surprised than Chris that he joined the Navy, having staunchly sworn off serving, but it paid for medical school and opened his eyes to travel to unlikely destinations and the realities of “medicine on the road.” He opens up about a challenging military culture, in which medical decisions may be subjugated to rank. Chris talks of vulnerability for doctors starting out and translating great grades in medical school to saving lives. Shifts in Boston City Hospital’s trauma unit, a.k.a “the knife and gun club,” visualizing how to handle cases, and even the TV series MASH contributed to his early steep learning curve. Chris and Molly talk about self-care challenges—working sleep-deprived was a necessary skill—and tips for delivering tough news with compassion. Eventually, he went an entrepreneurial route with his consultancy, Black Bag Emergency Medicine. Chris offers Covid travel tips: * “Fully vaccinated” (3 shots + 4th booster) considered most effective in preventing death * Relaxing mask mandate may be have premature (3M N-95, NIOSH certification recommended) * Travel requirements are a moving target. Resource: https://www.iata.org/en/youandiata/travelers/health/ * Have a healthy respect for the illness – avoid big crowds, find places with fewer people and maximize your time outdoors. Molly’s favorite quote of his: “Feeling intelligent is an arrested state of development.” Don’t miss Chris’ combination of humility, self-assuredness and passion to give people peace of mind. He inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week—top of mind for Chris: Take your job seriously, but don’t take yourself so seriously. More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * You can deliver bad news in a good way, like this https://bit.ly/3fYveUE * All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 129 is the 24th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly is joined by Eduardo Rallo, who shares an epic entrepreneurial journey—selling sweets as a child in Mexico to starting a restaurant chain to co-founding the first US-Mexico cross-border VC firm, Brainstorm Ventures, early investor OpenTable and Zappos! Eduardo grew up in Cuernavaca—a small town outside Mexico City with freedom to pretty much do what he wanted as a child. Son of a refugee from the Spanish Civil War, he attributes his risk-taking and entrepreneurship to his mother and her entrepreneurial family. Unlike most kids, Eduardo was driven to expand his possibilities, and at age 17, he set off for UC San Diego—one family friend the only soul he knew. He recounts early fears and forging a few life, including working through school (a work ethic ingrained as a kid, selling American candies and Hallmark stickers in his hometown…) Hear how an innocent question at age 10 led him to Harvard Business School. His successful food-based business ventures continued post HBS, when he and friends opened a store selling burrito “wraps”—working 7am to 1am, they had lines out the door from the start and VC funds followed… Eduardo talks vulnerably about his first consulting job post-UCSD as the first Deloitte & Touche employee. Enjoy a defining moment: tasked to use Excel spreadsheet skills that he said he had, but didn’t... (and pulling 3 all-nighters). Don’t miss Eduardo’s learnings on his entrepreneurial journey, how he and his wife Sylvia partnered in business, and his early mid-life crisis—leading their 10-year plan to achieve their personal and professional goals. Eduardo is moved by bringing ideas and people together to succeed and shares massive gratitude for his diverse international global community. Privileges he's had in life have made his work with Silicon Valley Foundation meaningful. Many valuable gems, including: -Balance the trade-offs to create business growth AND maintain healthy relationships. -Learn to say “no.” -Organizational skills and discipline to keep routines and prioritize, while staying flexible. Eduardo’s courage to “have dreams and shoot high,” his work ethic, family focus, and joie de vivre inspire. He shows the way to succeeding on your terms and being your true and best self. Molly’s thought for the week: “With privilege comes responsibility.” More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * Project the Right Energy https://lnkd.in/gWaaQ8J * All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 128, Molly is joined by Kris Maynard, who shares his journey from humble beginnings to Executive Chairman of 100% employee-owned Essential Ingredients! Hear the ins and outs of Kris’ story, accumulating massive student loan debts, working a post-college nighttime gig for extremely low pay, and eventually co-founding Essential Ingredients: a company that partners with consumer brand companies and contract manufacturers to provide quality personal and home care ingredients. Kris shares from a young age his penchant for risk-taking, including spending three months in Russia (11:35) and losing his job for planning to start a new company. Tune in for an inside look at the start of Essential Ingredients, and how Kris learned from early struggles, to find his true north and live his values, when this wasn’t necessarily the way things worked. Don’t miss the many lessons Kris learned along the way, including what it was like to “wear many hats” (hello,... forklift driver!) as a co-founder and how his early Board of Directors helped them focus. He was quick to figure out surrounding himself with talented people smarter than him was a winning strategy (18:45). Also, Kris explains how he built a successful business with a purpose of being a blessing to others, rather than maximizing profitability, with the ultimate aim of lasting 100 years. He also reveals a (now humorous) story about a time when he lost his level head in a heated moment where a distributor betrayed his trust (22:00)! Here’s an opportunity to reflect on your own values and how you put people first. Learn from how Kris led himself to stay true to himself and succeed on his terms. He inspires others to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard. Molly’s Thought for the Week: The Maynard family motto—”Nothing’s easy.” More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * You’re the dissenting vote and the most junior person https://lnkd.in/gV3MP7K * All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 127, Molly is joined by Jordan, an HR professional just 90 days into his new company, who stepped into a confusing situation: an employee who’d just received a solid raise came back asking for an additional one. How to listen, hold ground with empathy and ensure this individual feels valued? They also talk about a new focus on mental health and an early positive reception with how they’re approaching this vital arena. Next, Marc and Molly have a lively conversation around how he goes to bat for his team of on-site desktop support services (we know how key these folks are) when the rest of the organization has the benefits of working remotely. He’s keen to ensure burnout isn’t an issue and the team stays motivated. Key takeaways: “timely, specific and heartfelt feedback as a way to engender loyalty, and “ask for what I need.” (21.15). Finally, Gabe has a two-fold quandary: meaningful consulting with a client who could lead the way in engaging with a community of color, and deciding if it’s a right fit. This leader’s “cringeworthy” (yikes) communication has Gabe doubtful… He reflects on what’s going on within, and Molly reinforces his “choice” in clients is crucial. Empower yourself (39:30)! Don’t miss these real-time conversations, helping you navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s Thought for the Week: “Cosmic humor, especially about your own predicament, is an important part of your journey.” —Ram Dass More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * Give yourself a few minutes of peace—a guided gratitude meditation, http://bit.ly/2Udl4Vi * Effective communication http://bit.ly/35jL4nk * All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 126, Molly is joined by a childhood friend of hers, Andrea, who shares an awesome success story of returning to work after 16 years raising her daughter. Hear how she had the foresight to “never go away” and intentionally stayed in the game and nurtured relationships that helped her return to work on her terms—terrific tips! And an inspiring example of how confidence in ourselves is the starting point! Andrea and Molly also talk about her experience with going from virtual back to the office and how, after being recruited to a firm that was a better fit, she was forthright about why she was leaving and left on a high note. Then, Jennifer is keen on ways to put method to the madness in the barrage of x-functional projects for her team… all of which are seemingly “priority.” Jennifer and Molly talk about how to handle the in-the-moment requests, as well as strategies to help all stakeholders appreciate her team’s workload and need to best “serve the whole.” They also cover ways to be even more effective in soliciting feedback, and addressing a possible disconnect—her boss seems satisfied, though she’s unsure other stakeholders are on the same page (even she and her team don’t feel they’re doing so well. 27:15).
Don’t miss these lively conversations, helping you navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Molly’s Thought for the Week: “Teamwork makes the dream work.” —Charles Leclerc, Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 driver, 2022 Australian Grand Prix winner
More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * Here’s how to create that job-sharing win-win! http://bit.ly/3rITn77 * All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 125 is the 23rd monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly is joined by Dynamo mother-son duo, Ngozi and Okezue Bell, who share their journeys and learnings across continents and generations. Creating possibility never gets old! Born during civil war, growing up in Nigeria a very sick child, Ngozi had a mom and grandma filled with faith that she’d make it. Both parents were focused on education, but it was her chemist mom who declared, “Go do physics. As a woman you’ll have a chance to work in pioneering science.” Doing just that, Ngozi studied engineering and then went to Bell Labs/AT&T Electronics, was an appointee for America’s first Black President, and managed over $1B in revenue. She attributes opening that first door to tenacious hard work, saying, “I promise—if you give me the opportunity, I’ll be the hardest working person.” Growing up in Pennsylvania, youngest of four, Okezue talks of his unsurprising focus on academics as part of his early identity. Hear how a 6th grade lab dissecting frogs exposed him to science beyond the empirical and was a game changer. He’s honest about a teacher who told him “you won’t last in math and computer science.” Okezue decided to prove him wrong, fueling his go-getter spirit. Recently being 1 of 80 in the world selected as a Research Institute Scholar at MIT is just one of many achievements… Okezue shares his experiences with stereotypes and personal mission to integrate the next gen into STEM & technology, in ethical & responsible ways. He offers what he’s learned from both his parents, laughs about his “only-child vibes” and cherishes his sibling relationships. Career-wise, Ngozi became one of the very few females in a rarefied space. She reflects that organizations really weren’t looking to embrace diversity, but rather wanted a “diverse person.” She’s open about mistakes made, and wishes she had endeavored to bring about change in a different way. They’ll continue this in a future episode! Tune in to hear what mother and son appreciate most about one another. Celebrate their kinship and connection, and hear the wisdom, confidence and commitment of youth front and center! Molly’s thought for the week—Thank you Ngozi & Okezue! Go with the flow. #sayitskillfully Resources: * Take advantage of the wisdom of youth—you won’t regret it http://bit.ly/2s0P0KM * All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 124, Molly has a lively conversation with Ryan Berman, who inspires us to “fear more”! Don’t miss this incredible journey and many gems that help us choose courage and succeed on our terms. With gratitude, Ryan acknowledges his lucky start. He grew up with supportive parents in a “very safe bubble” with a big brother showing him what NOT to do! ;-) Innately competitive, he was driven to play many sports, though always with a smile. He shares the game changing experience of his youth, along with his childhood demon: the label of “being good with people.” He’s open about internalizing this as “I’m the dumb one” and taking a decade to finally let that go. The unintended benefit was his obsession to outwork everyone. A tv/radio major in college, Ryan talks fondly of his chance opening to pursue his love of creativity in New York City and the “madmen” era of advertising (have a chuckle at his first foray at “jingles”). He’s confident that “our jobs pick us!” A self-proclaimed “compensated observationalist,” he encourages hearing what’s NOT said. Much to learn from his perseverance and patience! Ryan shares undertaking his book and the realization in hindsight that he needed the book! And he notes how his different experiences have all contributed to his ability and success in founding Courageous, a change consultancy that helps companies operationalize courage. Ryan shares his “put it all on the line” moment as he took a leap to start anew—embracing “fear more” (not a fan of the term “fearless”). Ryan and Molly also cover his focus on “believership vs. leadership” and the distinction between resilience as a response to change and courage, to proactively drive it. Ryan’s antidote to the great resignation involves clarity, conviction and a great story. There’s much to digest personally and professionally in this episode. Join this master storyteller and hear his—you’ll appreciate his mantras: “Courageous ideas are the only ones that matter.” “Mistake it ‘til you make it.” Learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s thought for the week: “Don’t just look at the world differently, do the world differently.” —Ryan Berman. Choose #Courage! The Book: Return on Courage http://www.returnoncourage.com/ The Podcast: Courageous Podcast https://lnkd.in/dYXsXvv The Company: Courageous http://www.couragebrands.com/ Your Challenge: Are You Courageous? https://vimeo.com/417691766 Resources to help you #sayitskillfully
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 123, Molly is joined by Kristen O’Leary, who inspires us to #ChooseKind and empower all children to thrive academically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially. Kristen models the courage she ignites in her students, though she never thought she’d be in education! Born and bred in Yonkers, NY, she recalls being bullied as the “odd man out”, though that taught Kristen to have the backbone to stick up for herself. While loving her college studies in theatrical/stage design, she realized it wouldn’t be a fulfilling career path. An innocent question from friends was all it took to open an unexpected door in the field of education for this 19-year-old. Kristen fell in love with teaching kids and talks about how her field work was critical to her studies. Thanks to her aunt, a chance internship at a school for the deaf led to a turning point. As she delved into special education, Kristen was moved by being immersed in the day-to-day struggles—part of a child and their family’s personal journey—and called by the opportunity to help and in many cases change the trajectory of people’s lives. Kristen is open about integrating married life and being a mom... the reality of daycare being way more expensive in the real world! Working part-time was their solution and created the path to her now dream job. Learn how her faith, community and early start in theater provided the foundation for Kristen to find her passion to help every child meet his or her potential. She offers thoughts for parents to best support their children, including not berating yourself for wishing you did something sooner or differently! And she encourages compassion in all, “we have no idea of what’s gone on for that person this morning.” Hear what she wishes for her own 17-year-old son, and don’t miss the many nuggets about leading oneself to choose kind, succeed on your terms and be the change you want to see in the world.
Learn more about the amazing John Cardinal O’Connor School, dedicated to children with learning differences: https://johncardinaloconnorschool.org
Resources to help you #sayskillfully: * Honoring a Dissenting Opinion https://bit.ly/2X39S0D * All Molly’s videos by category here https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 122, Molly is joined by Jim, who shares that the results of a recent employee survey don’t fully jive with what he’s heard from his team. He’s keen to understand the disconnects. How to handle this so that people really tell him what they’re thinking? They cover the power of walking in others’ shoes, and what it means to lead. Next, Adriana is project managing a move of the entire company to a new facility, along with a new phase of people coming back to the office. She’s keen to enroll people in driving change and feeling empowered. Adriana and Molly discuss the criticality of clear messaging on why being in the office is a good thing and the power of transparency in project managing the move (21:00). Finally, Vanessa is in an exciting next career phase... building on her cleantech experience and moving to a new area, ESG, and as a manager. Well aware that team members have expertise and experience that she needs to learn from, she’s keen to make a strong first impression, build trust with the team and come across as a strong leader. They talk about the role of vulnerability and her interest in being likeable as well as admired (36:45). Don’t miss these lively conversations that help you with how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s Thought for the Week, from marketing guru Seth Godin: “The roads not seen almost always matter more than the potholes we hit along the way.”
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 121, Molly is joined by David Shrier, who shares an epic journey of embracing creative chaos. Growing up, the message he heard was “fit in” and “specialize”; he was drawn to anything but. A wannabe marine biologist, studying theater arts and neuroscience, he was drawn to creating community-bonding experiences. While stubbornness can be a vice, David harnessed it as a virtue in the workplace. At GE-owned NBC, he stubbornly resisted naysayers and outperformed everyone else in the group by 500%; then, quickly learned how key it is to bring others along to avoid “immune response” to innovation! He shares a stint in NYC, interning (as in “clipboard holder”) for the director of RENT, where he got a taste of working graveyard shifts for no money. David was keen to “do art and make money.” He found the latter on Wall Street and honed his business and financial acumen. Bouncing around for 20 years in things he didn’t like so much, David is open that he really had no plan, until age 40, when he did, and re-booted with a job at MIT—a new beginning. Don’t miss David’s vivid account of making change happen. He translates academic theory into business practice and applies technology to solve big problems at scale in business and society. Join David and Molly to learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Molly's thought for the week, courtesy of David: People don’t buy technologies, they buy solutions to problems, so make sure you’re solving a problem.
More on David DavidShrier.com
sayskillfully resources for you:
- Own your mistakes (and grow….) https://bit.ly/2X39S0D
- All my videos by category here https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 120 is the 22nd monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Entrepreneur Jerome Myers, renowned for making real estate investing look easy, joins Molly for a heartfelt account of his ups and downs. Son of a soldier and stay-at-home mom, Jerome grew up in a diverse setting of North Caroline and credits his parents (likely intentionally) for never talking of race—enabling him to never feel “disqualified”. He went from basketball to baseball to tae kwon do, enjoying academics and cultivating an identity as one involved in everything! He shares how one mentor, Mr. Blackwell, insisted Jerome be in the school’s academically gifted program, in one fell swoop changing his life trajectory. Jerome is open with the disappointment in those who “looked like me” not stepping up to support him like this “white guy” did, and how this fueled his passion to “make people think it’s possible!” He notes the shock of hearing his father talk about racism, and appreciates the constant messaging he’s received to “be the best you can be, remove race from the conversation and do all that you can.” He encourages: “embrace who you are, be with those who accept you, focus on what you can change and control…you are wonderfully made!” Jerome delves into what led to being a “corporate dropout, including the crushing blow when told he had to lay off his team that had delivered on $20 million of new business. Hear his growth from “they made me do it” to embracing the agency he had and committing to no longer be part of the problem. Jerome shares poignantly his journey through marriage, divorce and parenting his two beloved daughters. “All relationships end... by choice or circumstance. Tune in to hear Jerome being authentic, genuine and loving... inspiring all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. #sayitskillfully Resources: * Here’s how you create space for the quietest voices to share their valuable input https://bit.ly/3hJfV2p * All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 72 Molly’s first caller Ryan opens vulnerably by acknowledging his “bubble” of white, male privilege. Feeling disappointment and shame for events of the past 18 months, he’s keen to be a part of the solution. Jane then shares how she felt asleep at the wheel, witnessing a newly acquainted Caucasian, male professional—who should know better—say to an early-in-career Asian woman at his company, “I don’t understand how your Asian boyfriend doesn’t have an accent, but you do. We need to fix that.” How to respond in the moment? And Molly helps Jane, Asian as well, unpack her own feelings (10:30). Then Jason calls in with mixed experiences on diversity in corporate America. While optimistic, he’s seen firsthand the negative impact when transparency is lacking and senior leaders are left off the hook for poor behavior. They also discuss ways employees and managers can help all to feel safe, seen and heard (22:45). Thought for the week: “Learn to calm down the winds of your mind, and you will enjoy great inner peace” – Remez Sasson (52:30). Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 119, Molly is joined by Beth Porter, who has become a creator of some of the highest quality tech-enabled learning experiences for people around the world. Beth describes what it was like growing up “small but mighty” with a tall personality in a short body as well as having a love for academics AND athletics—jock meets geek! Her early confidence stayed with her, enabling her to go from wide-eyed college student with passion for learning and teaching, to CEO who’s done pioneering research and led product and engineering teams; she developed a digital learning software used by more than 55 million people worldwide. Beth shares valuable lessons from her early career including the importance of taking time for yourself and valuing that each person is special. Beth is no stranger to adversity, don’t miss out on hearing how she remained stalwart in the face of unavoidable self-doubt, nearly going out of business and mastering the art of learning through failure. And, hear her thoughts on having to work in a “man’s world” for certain companies, as well as female entrepreneurs being funding-challenged in starting their business relative to men. Don’t miss hearing her story unvarnished. Beth inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action, so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and be our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week—words from the Indian sage, Poonjaji: Stop. Stop everything. Then you will realize you are the freedom you have been searching for. Learn more about how Beth is transforming how we learn at: https://esmelearning.com. #sayitskillfully resources for you! * Questionable ethics? Here’s how you can lead and be part of the solution http://bit.ly/3a53gW7 * All my videos by category: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 118, Tulio shows courage in calling in even though English is not his native language (bravo, Tulio!). He shares a job that started well, but sadly didn’t stay that way. While not pleasant, the lesson was clear: a trusted manager/employee relationship is key. Next, Cyrill is keen for how to get out of the uncomfortable situation of feeling stuck on calls, wanting to stop someone from going on and on. How to finesse this (8:15)? Then, Claire has both excitement and trepidation about considering retirement and creating what exactly to retire to. Claire and Molly have a lively conversation about how to think about this…from personal passion and the role “work” has played for her for decades, to making the most of her skills and experience, staying relevant and making a positive difference (20:20). Finally, Molly shares a helpful post she found on what you can say when someone is grieving, and shared examples, including: “I’m here if you want to vent, or just to listen.” “Is there anything I could do to make your life easier right now?” (the.holistic.psychologist) My Thought for the Week: Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity —Simone Weil. More ways to help you #sayitskillfully! * Here’s how to create that job-sharing win-win! http://bit.ly/3rITn77 * Self-confidence starts with you! http://bit.ly/2NyZxHN * * All my videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 117 is the 21st monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, listeners gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In this episode, we are given a front row seat to the journey of Molly’s friend Peter Tavernise, whose tiger-like courage and self-assuredness inspires. Peter grew up a “military brat”, learning early the importance of serving others from his Air Force father and mother, who taught underprivileged students, some in extreme poverty. After college, Peter saw the possibilities of the Internet for nonprofits. Joining the “Circuit Riders” volunteer brigade, he introduced the Internet to many nonprofit executive directors from Florida to Chicago. He found his dream job at Cisco to literally “transform the nonprofit sector through the use of the internet.” He shares the best and worst as Executive Director of the Cisco Foundation from creating engaging math games for kids and creating Covid internet solutions to reconnecting regions after natural disasters. Peter opens up about the decline of his health—years of symptom after symptom cascading in—all the while test results not showing what exactly was wrong. After a former marine said, “You look like a prisoner of war,” he began to work from home. Peter was suffering and “begging the universe for just 5 minutes a week where I didn’t feel like I was going to die.” After 7 years and 32 different health professionals, one doctor finally cracked the code, and so began his road to recovery. Hear how he went from catastrophizing everything—fixated on relentless pain—to resilience, the power of somatics and invaluable life lessons. A few gems: If you can’t change your circumstances, you must change who and how you are within them When discouraged, encourage others It’s important to have an answer to “what’s next?” Like a plant needs water, sunlight and soil; people need safety, belonging and dignity Treat yourself as you would anyone else you care deeply about Peter’s past has indeed served its purpose; he inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to safety, belonging and dignity, so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week— Peter: May I be well, may I be healthy, may all beings be well, may all beings be healthy.
In Episode 116, Molly is joined by Joel Press, who shares a heartwarming journey—struggles in learning as a kid to a storied 50+ year career as CPA and hedge fund pioneer! Joel grew up struggling in school—being held back, nearly put into special needs classes, kicked out… and only as an adult realized he had ADHD. He opens up about what it was like being called stupid and the long-lasting impacts of that being ingrained in him. Joel wasn’t always open about his ADHD, but has learned that sharing his story can be powerful for others. He believes, “if you expose your own weaknesses with others, it helps them recognize their own” and talks passionately of using his learnings and experience to mentor parents of children with learning disabilities. “Normal brains can’t understand an ADHD brain.” He encourages those with ADHD to trust their judgment and recognize how doing things differently than others is ok and to never doubt yourself. Joel attributes much of his success to lessons learned from his parents who, while not having formal higher education, were smart and taught him well. Working in his father’s seltzer water business, young Joel drove truck routes at 4:00 am, 6-days a week—work ethic never in question. As a high school senior, he was voted least likely to succeed. Believing in himself, Joel applied to college, but was told by a guidance counselor, “Don’t waste your time!” Joel and parents ended up convincing them to accept him,... ultimately, he graduated number two in his class in accounting! Joel’s career unfolded with a start in accounting, rising to partner and member of a top firm’s national management committee, then starting the Global Hedge Fund practice at Ernst & Young, and several entrepreneurial endeavors of his own. Don’t miss Joel recount his early years, known as a rebel rouser, and saying what he thought, not what he “should have”... helping him turn what could have been career-ending screw-ups into great “luck” (must hear 43:05). Though he’s met “every famous hedge fund person,” Joel’s groundedness and humility are front and center. “Doing the right thing is paramount, and integrity is everything” have kept him true to himself, even in tough times. And he’s open about being broke and his family life on the rocks, with divorce both the greatest tragedy and best thing that happened to him. Joel stresses the importance of “believing in yourself, knowing you’re going to make mistakes, listening to what other people have to say, and never looking back on a decision.” He talks about the meaning he finds in his mentoring and community work and also offers an inside look at the world of Wall Street, including thoughts on diversity. “Never smart enough to deviate from the truth” Joel speaks from the heart, as he only knows how—inspiring us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. More on Joel’s work today: https://pressmgmt.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 115, Molly is joined by Tim Fitzpatrick. With three decades in the world of collegiate athletics, Tim shares how sports changed his life and can be a game changer for young people in school and life. Tim and his sister grew up lower, middle-class, and while his parents weren’t college-educated, they knew school would be the difference for their children. He speaks poignantly of the sacrifices his parents made, enabling him to attend private Catholic schools that created a rock solid framework of values and discipline that has served him his entire life. He reminisces of playing catch in the yard every night with his dad, his journey to being a college athlete and the realization that his ability to play sports was not a right, but a privilege. His career includes the athletics programs at many top-tier and NCAA Division 1 schools, including U.S. Coast Guard Academy, West Point, Texas A&M, Indiana University, University of North Carolina-Charlotte and University of Pittsburgh—holding numerous roles including athletic director. Tim gives us an insider perspective on the ever-changing world of collegiate athletics, the NCCA and how student-athletes are impacted by certain rules. Having raised millions of dollars and navigated these intense environments, he also talks about his own career transition that enabled him to leave the “rat race” and succeed on his terms. Don’t miss Tim’s perspective on the issues that youth sports are faced with in today’s world and an important lesson passed down from his father on being grateful. Join Tim and Molly for a thought-provoking conversation in an area with the potential to transform how young people feel about themselves. Molly’s thought for the week: “Don’t permit the pressure to exceed the pleasure.” —Joe Madden, Manager of the Anaheim Angels Major League Baseball Team
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 114 Christian calls in first with how to deal with a sensitive “elephant on the table” issue (it is the big boss!). Then Jason, soon to graduate from college, asks about the balancing act of “selling oneself” in an appropriate way. We also talk about preparing for interviews, including the “tell me about yourself” question, and the mindset that you are also interviewing the organization (11:50). Next, Veronica shows her vulnerability: recently promoted into a leadership role, she’s in new territory where influencing and collaborating across a broad set of stakeholders is crucial and requires a different skill set than executing on the work. Veronica and Molly delve into her “me-you-we” framework to help her in building strong relationships (32:15). Molly wraps with a scenario from The New York Magazine ethicist column (1/4/22) to provide the words to help someone diplomatically maintain appropriate boundaries in a professional relationship (49:30). Tune in to unpack these challenges and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself! Molly’s thought for the week: “A calm and modest life brings more happiness than the constant pursuit of success combined with constant restlessness.” —Albert Einstein (in 1922 he wrote this and noted to the bell boy that it would someday be worth more than a tip—in 2017 the note sold for over $1.5 million)
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 113 is the 20th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, listeners gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly starts the new year with a strong, young voice. “Never-giving up” 16-year old GenZ Lea Wilson delights in bringing a smile to young and old alike. Born and raised in New York City, Lea was diagnosed with dyslexia in the 3rd grade. Discovering this was itself quite a roller coaster ride. She talks about navigating many different schools and observes that she was never taught to consider her dyslexia as a disability, but instead a way of learning and thinking differently, as in being “neurodivergent.” Continually in circumstances with people not familiar with what it’s like, she opens up about the disheartening feeling around not reading well, and about handling sensitive conversations that accelerated her own skillfulness and strong sense of self-advocacy. “Don’t take others’ words to heart–they’re telling more about them than you.” Lea’s passion for art and sports also play a huge role in her sense of self, and her thoughts on “boy crazy-friends” bring a chuckle. She lets us into the struggle she’s having after an unexpected surgery that’s cast some dark clouds around her and impacted her studies, the stress of college applications, and how she seeks guidance from her parents. Learn from her mantra, “Suck it up and ask for help when you need it!” Don’t miss this opportunity to bask in the “lightness” and courage of a very bright light. Lea inspires us all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard. Molly’s thought for the week (Thanks to her friend Bonnie Reuben): A life full and rich with love knows no bounds. It is only contained by the room the heart makes for it. Resources to help you #sayitskillfully! —Take advantage of the wisdom of youth—you won’t regret it http://bit.ly/38i5sbU —Self-confidence starts with you! http://bit.ly/2NyZxHN —All Molly's videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 112, Molly is joined by Jillion Potter, captain of the 2016 USA women’s rugby team. When she was 5, Jillion’s parents split with a joint custody arrangement where her sister, twin brother and her moved each year. Adapting to different cities and different schools wasn’t an option. Jillion shares how sports were integral to her own groundedness, and an early, unpleasant example of how bias from her high school basketball coach—who kicked a player off the team for coming out—affected her emotionally. She recalls growing up very low income–living on food stamps, going paycheck to paycheck, standing by the oven for heat…all fueling her deep sense of empathy for others. Jillion shares her unique and unlikely rugby journey: being a complete beginner in college, meeting her wife Carol through the sport, and ultimately becoming an Olympic captain. As tough off the field as she is on, not only was Jillion able to recover from a career-ending type of neck injury, she also recounts her experience of overcoming cancer twice, not letting fear keep her from re-joining the Olympic team and deciding to raise a child despite her illness and uncertainty of the future. Jillion also dives into her transition to the corporate world, and what being a mother means to her. Tune in to hear how going with the flow and doing the absolute best she can led Jillion to succeed in multiple facets of life. Jillion inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 111, Molly’s first caller, Alisha, is excited about the transition of her company to a new owner, but mindful that her team may not all share her gusto. Alisha and Molly talk about bringing her team together to be even more cohesive through the change, including helping those who are fearful due to poor past experience in acquisitions. Then Steven, honored to be an elected official in his town, is open about feedback he received: ”You come across as dismissive.” Keen to be in service to his community and to avoid “smartest one in the room syndrome,” Steven and Molly talk through what’s going on for him, and how to be authentic and productive as he starts off in this new chapter of public service (17:50). Gary then calls in very curious about the nature of communications across generations, specifically with one’s superiors and in social media, where caution seems thrown to the wind. His experience is that earlier-in-career professionals come across less constructively with bosses than they think. Molly shares examples of young people empowering themselves to overcome challenges of working through Covid. And they discuss how the boss, or parent, might handle helping younger folks consider actions resulting in a “forever” impact or consequences completely out of their control. And they have a lively chat about embracing feedback as the ultimate in teamwork (36:40)! Tune in to unpack these challenges and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s thought for the week: “It’s ok to disappear until you feel like you again.” —Allison Aars
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 110 is the 19th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, listeners gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. In Episode 110, Molly is joined by NFL Hall of Fame running back Curtis Martin, who talks about pivotal people and moments in his life and career and how they shaped him. Curtis shares what it was like growing up in one of the most violent neighborhoods in the country, inside an even more volatile household with a mentally unstable father who was abusive toward his mother. By the time Curtis was 20, nearly 40 of his friends and relatives had been murdered, including his beloved grandmother. He talks of looking death in the eyes more than once, and believes his life was spared by a miracle (one involving a direct plea to God.) He’s open about how he used this trauma as fuel to turn his life around and how it gave him an ability to see outside of himself and put himself in other people's shoes to help them change their lives. While his NFL coach, Bill Parsells, was literally the 1st positive role model he ever had, he also recounts a not-so-positive coaching experience that changed his life's trajectory! You may be surprised to hear how football was NOT a passion…and what it took for Curtis to realize why football came into his life. He shares the one word that captures his essence, and an off-the-charts example of how he uses this to serve others. (35:40) There are SO MANY gems in Curtis and Molly’s conversation; here's just a small sampling: 1) Don’t let yourself be defined by the traumatic events you’ve experienced, the environment you come from, or how other people view you. 2) Face every problem in your life head on. (29:34) 3) From his coach, Bill Parsells: There’s a difference between routine and commitment—you have to be truly committed to something to take it to the next level. To this day, Curtis applies this principle to all facets of his life. 4) A leader shouldn’t sit on the mountain top yelling down commands—they must join the group in the valley and lead them out by example. 5) Walking in forgiveness is Curtis’ superpower! (1:05:25). Don’t miss Curtis speak poignantly about his role as husband and father (1:01:50). Curtis demonstrates what it means to live one’s values, find your true north and inspire others to do the same. Molly’s thought for the week (Thank you, Curtis :) When change is necessary, not to change is destructive.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 109, Molly’s first caller, Stephen, shares a culture clash of a recent merger, which isn’t good for the organization or employees. He stresses empathy-trust-relationship as the core—”If people can’t talk openly across all levels and we think anyone is better than another, something is seriously wrong...” HUGE opportunity for leaders to step up! Then Taylor, two years out of college, is challenged to “say no” to her boss when she’s drowning in work. She shares (great) awareness of how her pride and desire to be needed and seen as reliable hold her back. Taylor and Molly talk through how she empowers herself to positively and productively chat with her boss (and cross-functional team members) about right-sizing her workload (18:30). Next, high school student Alev opens up about an uncomfortable situation with a friend as she approached her about forming a new club at school to empower women. Hear her early learnings on the subject of “titles”—sure to be useful in the years ahead (34:00)! Finally, Molly shares a scenario re: research showing how email stresses people out (see below) and offers additional ways to be proactive, one of those from her friend, Garry Ridge, Chairman & CEO of WD-40, who leaves nothing to chance. His email footer is: I may be working in a different time zone to you, and I am sending this message now because I am working. I don’t expect that you will respond to, or action it outside of your preferred working times (46:30). Join the show to unpack these challenges and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself!
Molly’s thought for the week: When you learn that a person’s behavior has more to do with their internal struggle than it ever did with you, you learn grace.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 108, Bob Whalen shares his unexpected journey to becoming CEO of a company with the ambition of lasting 200 years under employee ownership! Eldest of four boys, Bob’s leadership training started at a young age. While he was the first of his family to actually go to college, it was always the expectation. Bob shares the impact and valuable lessons of both of his parents, including the words of his mother—“nobody is better than you, and you are no better than anyone else.” Along with his sports upbringing, this paved the way not only for his college decisions, but also for the evolution of his business values. With lightness, Bob shares how “he had no idea” what job he’d do after college, and offers one of his “cringeworthy” learning moments, showing how senior leaders must continuously learn. He stresses the importance of being receptive to feedback and admitting mistakes, and opens up about the beginning of the pandemic when he told his workers that it’s their societal duty to get vaccinated. After receiving feedback and reflecting, Bob concluded that while he does strongly feel this way, it’s not his job as CEO to choose what his employees’ values should be. Learn also about the company’s successful acquisition strategy. Join Bob and Molly for an engaging discussion about the impact of family, taking risk and leading in a way that creates meaningfulness in people’s lives. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that will help you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Read more to learn how a 100-year-old company plans to reach its 200th anniversary
https://www.tugboatinstitute.com/a-100-year-old-companys-plan-to-reach-its-200th-anniversary/
Molly's thought for the week (Thank you Bob): Strive to be the best version of yourself. Get a little bit better each day.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 107, Molly is joined by Dalith Steiger, top digital shaper and leading voice in the global Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem. Born in Israel, raised in Switzerland, Dalith shares how her start in school was hardly smooth and what it took to overcome teachers who bluntly said, “You don’t belong here.” She speaks fondly of a pivotal role model, her grandmother, now 101 years old! Her parents' belief in her was also essential, especially when she switched to a new school for a re-start, and began to excel in physics and math—which she describes today as “just another language.” After university, Dalith describes the influence of her family and starting her own in her first role as a software developer for a bank. Take note of how SHE drove her recruiting process! With parenting her primary purpose she shares how health issues with her oldest daughter presented a twist that led to building a design agency with her husband. Once her daughters were in high school, Dalith began to chase her true passion—“technology is where my heart beats.” Passion for the human and ethical aspects of AI and its impact on society and new business potential led her to team up with Andy Fitze and co-found the award-winning AI start-up SwissCognitive and the CognitiveValley Foundation. Today, Dalith lives her entrepreneurial dream as an AI advisor and speaker, as well as mentors young girls in tech, though she reflects on wishing it came about differently. Spreading her wings meant her marriage didn’t flourish, a reality that while we can have it all in life, we cannot necessarily have it all at the same time. Dalith is honest about the importance of staying true to her femine side—her love for high heels and dressing up—and opens up about gender bias in university and in business, including more recent than we might wish. Hear how she handled the naysayers and took the best of her cultural upbringing, and join us on a journey of vulnerability, courage and authenticity. Dalith inspires us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: David Shrier’s keys to effective learning: “Watch, do, explain.” Learn more about Dalith and how cognitive technologies help human beings, business and society: swisscognitive.ch
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 106, Molly’s first caller, Jeff, is in the midst of a job search. With strong skills and experience, he’s finding that potential employers have a hard time identifying a specific fit for his wide array of capabilities. They talk about the imperative of first articulating his own purpose, and clarifying his key criteria not only for a role, but also identifying appropriate industry sectors. They also cover the importance of networking and leveraging trusted relationships and of staying positive throughout the process. Next, Andrew is in the early days of a new job in a new organization with loads of complexity. In particular, he asks about how to approach a team member whose job title and activities don’t seem aligned. He senses the person isn’t so growth oriented, and we talk through the importance of direct dialogue with this team member to get on the same page. Molly and Andrew discuss how essential it is for him to be clear on his aims for the conversation, and the criticality of his own “energy” in a successful interaction. Plus, integrating “work-life” in these early drink-from-the-firehose days is also top of mind (20:15). Finally, Emmanuel, a scrum master, is keen for his team to be even more collaborative, and Molly offers one way for him to engage his colleagues for an answer (46:20). Join the show to unpack these challenges and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 105, Molly’s first caller, Lisa, shares an experience from 18 years ago, raising the topic of maternity leave at work, and how she and others successfully talked openly with management. They role model how one might raise some of the sensitivities that still exist today, with the ability to be in the shoes of both employee and employer key. And they delve into a WSJ piece about “Ruthless Productivity” at work! https://www.wsj.com/articles/was-the-office-always-this-distracting-get-ruthless-about-your-productivity-now-11635739260?mod=Searchresults_pos1&page=1 Next, Divan is keen on the topic of modernizing how people find jobs, with an eye to millennial, gen z youths… how to harness twitch, tik tok, etc. in an engaging way that helps level the playing field in applying and interviewing. He contrasts “growing up with an abacus” to digitally native kids. Then Priya joins Molly with a scenario on handling when the boss says, “You’re not fit for the role”—after being on the job just one month with no training! They also discuss how to interview a company to help ensure a good culture fit. Molly inquires about how much she contributes to discussions at work; Priya reflects and is honest about when she holds back. They talk about how she can be more forthright. Join the show to unpack these challenges and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly's thought for the week—thank you Zaza Pachulia! “Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction.”
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 104 is the 18th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. Explorer and entrepreneur extraordinaire Cason Crane sheds new light on overcoming adversity in our lives. The oldest of 5 siblings, Cason grew up in a household in which he was pushed mentally and physically from a very young age. As a 6th grader, he was already studying multiple languages and completed his first half Ironman triathlon! He shares how this pressure affected him at the time and how he grew to appreciate it. His strong mental capacity and the competitive nature in his household instilled his values of never giving up and believing in himself. Cason talks about the positive experience of coming out as openly gay as a freshman in high school and the process of coming into his own. He expresses deep gratitude, “Knowing my family would always accept me” and acknowledges the privileges in his life. At just 18 years old, Cason set a goal to climb the Seven Summits: the tallest mountain on each continent, including Mt. Everest. Being the first openly LGBT person to do so, he used his platform to raise $135,000 for the Trevor Project—raising awareness for suicide prevention and supporting LGBT youths. You may be surprised to hear his thoughts around athleticism vs will. While working several years as a consultant after college, Cason used the pandemic as a launch pad to combine his love for exploring the world with his desire to make it a better place and started his now award-winning coffee company Explorer Cold Brew. Cason’s family motto is “It’s all mental,” and he says, “The biggest obstacle that people face is their own lack of self belief.” These ideas, along with his belief that quitting is not an option, continue to push him forward in tough times... whether a mountain climb, triathlon, business venture, or life in general. Cason inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Tune in to hear him talk about the best parts of being an entrepreneur, and how to never say “I can’t…”—a motivating and heartwarming account of living one’s values, finding your true north and leading others. Molly’s thought for the week—Thank you Cason: “It’s all mental” and “give yourself permission to adjust your definition of success.”
sayitskillfully resources:
- As a leader, here’s how to demonstrate the non-negotiable behaviors for your team. https://bit.ly/30EDNgu
- How to amp up your self-confidence http://bit.ly/2NyZxHN
- All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 103 Emma calls in first and shares frustrations with leadership’s mixed messages regarding “making mistakes.” After owning up to a mistake, she feels management still may hold it against her; they talk about how to handle this, including avoiding perceiving meaning that others don’t intend. Then, Clare is enthusiastic about a career change—new job and new industry—and keen to get started on the best possible foot. She and Molly talk about numerous ways for her to be proactive as the new kid on the block and to ensure that people perceive her the way she would like (14:00). Finally, co-business owners, Julie and Corey, join Molly for a lively chat about their (wildly) different communication styles! They discuss the imperative of first owning what’s going on for each of them before considering the other, and how to meet each other part way. Being intentional in creating their “team alliance” also came up, a powerful way for them to model effective collaboration to their small business clients (29:00). Tune in to these real-time situations and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s thought for the week: It's easy to look tall when you feel tall. And check out #sayitskillfully resources to help you say what needs to be said. * The Power of Appreciation! http://bit.ly/389vRpB * Here’s how to dissolve defensiveness with your boss https://bit.ly/3lvuWXH * All Molly's videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 102 is the 17th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. World-renowned neuroscientist, Dr. Wendy Suzuki, joins Molly and shares the ups and downs of her journey and how she got UNconventional—off the rails—to find and follow her truth north! Growing up in California, Wendy reflects on her upbringing and what it was like for her parents, who spent time in a World War II Japanese internment camp. Education was revered, sense of community strong through the Buddhist church, piano taught her about the arts, and baseball, basketball, tennis had her active. She shares the serendipity on Day 1 of UC Berkeley—wow’ed by Professor Marion Diamond in “The Brain and Its Potential” seminar on how brains could change and get better... Wendy knew she was to be a neuroscientist. Now an award-winning professor of Neural Science and Psychology at New York University, she is frank about the tenure track and the costs; periods of being friendless, 25 pounds overweight, stressed out with insomnia. She admits to being an “anxiety hider” and describes her struggles with overcoming shyness and fear of being wrong. Her come-to-Jesus moment was in Peru river rafting, realizing, “I’m in my 30s and the weakest person on the trip.” Over 18 months, she got fit and got unconventional—doing the unthinkable for tenured faculty and switched her research focus to the transformative impact of movement on the brain, noting that doing so regularly stimulates new brain cells to increase memory. Wendy also provides a mini-talk on why anxiety is good! And she shares her favorite pandemic discovery—housework is aerobic—and how she created social connection while isolated. Don’t miss this empowering conversation, plus highlights of Wendy’s work—using exercise to make positive changes in our brains. With more than 31 million views on Facebook, her TED talk, The Brain-Changing Benefits of Exercise, was the 2nd most viewed in 2018! And learn from her about the oft misunderstood emotion, anxiety. You can harness the power of anxiety into unexpected gifts! Leading by example, Wendy inspires all to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: Be the change you want to see in the world. LEARN MORE and be happier and healthier through Dr. Suzuki’s books, Good Anxiety and Healthy Brain, Happy Life! https://www.goodanxiety.com #sayitskillfully resources: * If you see a colleague headed toward burnout, here’s how you can tactfully help: https://bit.ly/3hMpzke * All my videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 101, Cindy calls in first and shares thoughts on onboarding new people, in particular how to make it a two-way street. While it may seem “obvious” that all parties have skin in the game, employers who are proactive best set up newbies up for success by being explicit about training, and even more importantly they demonstrate “how” people work together. Then Gaby, who loves her job, shares how she didn’t exactly get off to a stellar start with her new boss and team; now a gossipy, combative setting is wearing on her emotionally and has her wondering if it’s worth it. Molly helps Gaby unpack this and shows how she can mend relationships and get back on track (11:45). Next, Roger is vulnerable about a very challenging period at an organization he’s been with for several years; promoted four times and then—boom—shockingly let go with a very bad taste for how it transpired. They discuss how to recover, stay high and turn this into a welcome opportunity to live his passion (28:00). Finally, Ben, immersed in change both personally and professionally, is now leading a bigger team and faces the need to grow his team, the organization and himself. Molly talks with him about leading people vs. managing work, and the imperative of increasing BOTH self-awareness and self-compassion (44:00). Molly’s thought for the week: Honor our teachers—past, present and future—especially the teacher within. Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. More ways to #sayitskillfully: * Here’s how to dissolve defensiveness with your boss https://bit.ly/3lvuWXH * Here’s how you can win your boss' support for your advancement in the organization https://bit.ly/3cmgY6x * You were fired. Here’s how to exit gracefully http://bit.ly/3qhbPTc
All Molly’s videos by category here: https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Celebrating the 100th episode of Say It Skillfully®, Marshall Goldsmith—World #1 Leadership Thinker, #1 Executive Coach and inspiration for Molly to create her videos that led to the radio show—joins her for a lively look into his life journey. Molly shares her deepest gratitude to all her amazing guests for sharing the ups, downs, twists and turns of their journeys, especially the struggles and “learning moments” that most define who we are. Thanks also to all her wonderful and courageous callers, who were willing to share on the air in the spirit of helping listeners around the globe be who they are and say what needs to be said! This milestone celebrates all of you! Thank you for using your voice and helping create an accurate shared reality!!!
Much to learn from Marshall’s journey and his coaching of more than 200 major CEOs and their management teams. Hear how he first met his wife, how his daughter’s feedback improved his earnings, about his spiritual journey, and about some of the most influential people who inspired his thinking and actions. An early epiphany: it’s easy to see our problems in everyone else; difficult to see our own selves in the mirror… Marshall shares his top learnings for you: 1) Work with great people! Make coaching about how great the client is—it’s about them, not you. 2) Mission in life: make a positive difference in people’s lives (not, prove how right or smart we are… Thank you, Peter Drucker). 3) Feedforward: ask people for input; then listen, thank them (don’t critique), and do what you can to try to get better. Don’t miss his most embarrassing moments, and the career path Marshall would have taken… He also shares tidbits from his book due out Sept, 2022, The Earned Life. Molly’s thoughts for the week—thank you Marshall! * Every time I take a breath, I’m a new me. * “Let it go.” (do it with me right now – raise one arm in the air, rotate your wrist a bit and exhale a big breath...) * Be happy now & here. Don’t miss the many wisdoms in this milestone episode, as well as what Marshall has been working on lately, as you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. If…“What have I done with my life—I want to make a difference” has crossed your mind, have a listen to Episode 99. Tracy Smith, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish Alabama, shares her journey to being known as a “cape-less superhero.” Tracy connects the dots from her youth... the tragic loss of her father when she was just 6 years old and the nurturing from her entrepreneur stepfather, which ingrained hard work ethic, the desire to be independent and valuing education, something that no one can take away from you. She recounts the image of her mom being supported by her closest friends and how all these “aunts” supported her and her sisters in the grief of daddy being in heaven. As a youth, Tracy made it a point to fit in with everybody, a skill that’s been core to her success as a nonprofit CEO. In raising her own children, she shares the power of “saying yes” vs. telling the kids “no” all the time; this has been pivotal to both her son and daughter finding and living their passions in life. The epiphany of “You can work for an organization with a mission” forever changed her trajectory. Tracy is upfront about “bad boss” experiences with people leading through their insecurities and egos teaching her how NOT to lead, and those with “great leaders” who inspired how she empowers others in her own leadership. Hear her thoughts on going with best case scenarios for maximum freedom and not creating policies based on worst case scenarios. LOTS of career considerations and leadership learnings, whether you’re early in career, or have been working for decades! Tracy and Molly have a lively chat about what private and non-profit sectors can learn from each other. And don’t miss hearing Tracy discuss how Make-A-Wish grants life-changing wishes for children with critical diseases and supports families in times of need. Tune in for heart-warming and inspiring thoughts and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s thought for the week: The way you respond to a situation has the power to change it. Tune in for an inspiring and heart-warming conversation and learn how you to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. More ways to #sayitskillfully: Inclusive vision—being a leader with vision, who also values others’ ideas http://bit.ly/2kgLHeK and all Molly’s videos by category here, https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 98, Mark Parsells, Founder and Managing General Partner Montpelier Ventures, shares a life journey that’s included Capitol Hill, running major, global multi-billion-dollar divisions for American Express, Bank One (Chase) and Citigroup, and being Chair and CEO of three private equity and venture backed FinTech businesses. Mark shares what it was like growing up the youngest of four boys with a minister-turned-entrepreneur father, who made being at the top the only option. He talks about difficult times at home and learning to embrace the truth that parents—and leaders—are people, too. Lively political conversations over dinner led to studying political science and then working for Senator H. John Heinz III, where Mark learned how things really work. Keen to cut his own path, he shares his decision process to business school and finding his way to the private sector (and his epiphany of a $20,000 summer internship vs. his annual Senate staffer salary of $18,500!). He chronicles his remarkable ascent and impact at American Express, where he succeeded at being entrepreneurial within the corporate bureaucracy—and was invited to the annual shareholder meeting to review his strategy that brought credit cards as a form of payment to government institutions for the first time in history. With humor, he recounts another epiphany of being a “terrible junior employee!” and is not bashful that he was horrible at taking feedback (and encourages you not to do what he did…). Unexpected twists and turns—in particular, a defining wake-up call overcoming lymphoma—and his time at Citicorp after being recruited by Father of the ATM John Reed and then a massive business turnaround for Sandy Weill are both sobering and inspiring. Don’t miss hearing how Mark went against everyone’s advice and chose to leave behind the world of corporate jets for his true north, one of happiness and no regrets. Learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s thought for the week (Thank you Mark!): Do what YOU think is the right thing to do.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 97, Molly’s first caller Rafael, who grew up mainly in Mexico, is eager to discuss a number of situations, some quite hysterical, of miscommunication across generations... from a younger colleague’s cryptic movie reference, to an “expert” presenting at a conference who managed to lose an entire audience, to a humorous encounter with his own daughter! We talk about ways to keep things light and work with emotions in the moment. Next, Matt raises a hot topic of how to effectively onboard new employees during Covid, from both the employer and newly-hired perspectives. We also cover tips for when you interview to turn the tables and ensure you’re better informed about the organization and role (20:15). Finally, Meredith asks about different ways to promote synergy across different functions and not succumb to organizational silos. We also have an unexpected exchange about her recent experience, where for the first time she’s in an environment in which challenging the status quo isn’t valued. Hear how she’s taking the bull by the horns to make a change (38:50). Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Molly’s thought for the week: celebrating the US Open and their “open” campaign, “When you’re open, you are a champion for all.”
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 96 is the 16th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change, level the playing field and help everyone live to their full potential. This may present a very different experience of... growing up, going to school, struggling, working and living; Molly hopes you’ll better appreciate and embrace our differences, so that we’re stronger for them! Her friend and special guest, Shalimar Adorno grew up knowing that she had to be great in life. It is remarkable that she saw “endless possibility”... Would you have seen if this had been you…? Born to a 17-year old mother in the South Bronx, Shalimar recounts not knowing where their next meal would come from, and not being able to safely play outside. She speaks fondly of 18 months living in Puerto Rico, where she could ride her unicycle outside, and food could always be found. Despite growing up in poverty, she highlights the richness of family ties and necessity of fearlessness and hope, and how her parents moved them always in search of a different beginning for a better life. Education was paramount—her mother sold her food stamps to enable Shalimar to go to a private school, knowing this was to be her lifeline. She talks about pivotal people without whom pivotal doors wouldn’t have opened, a dark decade after her brother was brutally killed and how she came to peace with it. Shalimar shares how she went from Spanish major and cohesive Hispanic community at Penn State to investment banking, and found her way to a life-changing role at the World Bank. She implores, “vulnerability is courage” and “bring your own folding chair when there isn’t a seat at the table.” Don’t miss this story of heart, grit and resilience—from a life not knowing abundance to the deepest appreciation of it. Tune in and be inspired to know no boundaries and for ways to take action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week: Strength isn't about how much you can handle before you break. It's about how much you can endure after you've been broken (unknown, adapted from Robert Tew)
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 95, Molly is joined by her friend Dorie Clark, top business thinker, key note speaker, consultant and described by the New York Times as an “expert at self-reinvention and helping others make changes in their lives.” Author of Entrepreneurial You, Reinventing You, and Stand Out, which was named the #1 Leadership Book of the Year by Inc. magazine, Dorie’s own career journey is a prime example of how one can navigate to their true north and develop a career that’s both meaningful and rewarding. She shares how getting out of her childhood in small town North Carolina couldn’t come soon enough and how joyous it was to be part of an early entrance college program. Dorie recounts an early setback being denied admission to graduate school, and how she navigated figuring out what came next; it included writing, politics and the most stressful job ever: running a nonprofit. She implores people NOT to let the “gatekeepers” hold you back and chronicles key learnings in starting her own business. Being responsive to what she saw in the market was key to iterating on her business focus. Dorie is open about what she saw in professionals who weren’t able to focus on the bigger picture and therefore didn’t establish meaningful goals and speaks about her soon-to-be-released fourth book, “The Long Game.” Key steps: 1) creating white space, 2) focusing where it counts, and 3) keeping the faith when it may seem things aren’t working. Dorie also suggests what companies can do to counter short-termism, and individuals to embrace being a “Swiss Army knife.” Molly’s thought for the week, in honor of Dorie: Show faith in yourself to lead others to have faith in you. Tune in for a lively and inspiring conversation and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Download Dorie’s free Long Game Strategic Thinking Self-Assessment at dorieclark.com/thelonggame Take advantage of her new book to help you to be more intentional—free up time, focus on what’s important and achieve your long-term goals. Pre-order here: dorieclark.com/longgame More ways to #sayitskillfully for you here: All videos by category https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 94, Tony, who’s had a long career in construction, asks about more effectively calling out people who show bias or otherwise aren’t creating the space that supports people being their authentic selves. He and Molly talk about the white privilege that others may see in him, and what he can do to change people’s perception of him. Next, for those feeling micromanaged, Molly shares 3 tips that don’t involve the other person... strategies to manage yourself and not let the situation get the best of you (11:30). Moeed then calls in for advice on getting co-workers onboard with the additional processes and procedures needed as their nonprofit gears up to double in size. They discuss how to handle folks who aren’t keen to speak up in a group forum and what he might do to encourage a culture of greater openness; they also address helping the group move towards a shared reality so they can operate at greater speed. He also realizes how he hasn’t appreciated some of the realities of others. Next, Iris shares a sensitive situation of being brought onto a project but not yet invited to some of the key leadership meetings, which she feels is important for the success of the project. She and Molly talk through how she might approach the conversation without coming across as entitled; she wants to advocate in a positive way so that she’s able to contribute fully and benefit the organization (35:50). Lastly, on the topic of bullying, Molly offer words you might use when you’re experiencing a boss’ bullying behavior that’s inadvertent, helping you to be a part of the solution (49:20). Molly’s thought for the week, with appreciation for the late American spiritual teacher, Ram Dass: Our journey is about being more deeply involved in life and yet less attached to it. Tune in for these conversations and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 93 provides insights into a key driver of economic growth—small businesses. In the U.S., they employ nearly half of workers, make up over 99% of all firms and account for 43% of GDP. Molly’s guest, Loren Feldman, shares his journalistic path to becoming founder and editor-in-chief of 21 Hats, a unique online community for business owners. Early obsession as sports editor of his college newspaper led him to being a sports writer in Columbus, Ohio in the days of typewriters (remember those?) and no internet. He found his way to the business desk, drawn to stories of business that kept score through financials instead of runs, baskets or goals. Loren recalls covering the gold rush of fast food. He’s open about struggles as a youth, including the passing of his father when he was just 13. Playing sports was a means to getting comfortable with himself. An early mentor, Bo Burlingham, was pivotal in his career that included covering entrepreneurship at Inc, Forbes and the New York Times, and he shares a dream job as editor-in-chief of Philadelphia magazine. Once in an Inc. focus group, a business owner stated, “I don't want to be told how to run my business by a 23-year-old kid working for a money-losing publication.” This is why Loren took heart in founding 21 Hats, to connect business owners and entrepreneurs so they can learn from each other. Through his “reality radio” podcast, the conversations are raw and real with learnings in business and life, including @Jay Goltz’s recent epiphany… “why do I spend time putting out fires… fire the arsonist!” Listen into how the 21hats community has served as lifeline for business owners persevering through Covid times, as Loren pursues what he’s always wanted to do. Learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Learn more about what it takes to run a business! https://21hats.com Latest podcast: https://21hats.com/episode-65-this-is-where-we-get-into-therapy/ And don’t miss the gems in Loren’s handcrafted newsletter: https://21hats.substack.com/
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 92, Jenn, Molly’s first caller, brings a refreshing outlook and is keen to empower female colleagues, who feel left out and marginalized by what they perceive as “good ol’ boys culture” of a senior male leader. As a statistician, she loves data: “trust in God; all others bring data” and wants to do her part to ensure someone’s reputation isn’t damaged based on hearsay. We discuss how to acknowledge her colleague’s feelings and encourage them to take positive action, vs. be a victim (Note to leaders: appreciating people, even in seemingly small ways, can produce outsized impact). Then Julie shares her inspiring story of becoming a small business owner; she's keen to position her services relative to the competition in order to gain new clients, but is concerned about coming across too aggressively (16:15). Finally, a 30-year veteran in financial services, Gary, calls in pensive about what it would take to leave a safe and secure career and pursue a dream of being his own independent boss. He asks Molly about her own leap of faith in exiting corporate America. Molly shares how vital it is to know yourself, what moves you, and where there is demand. “Managing the downside” is what enabled her to de-risk going out on her own. We also talk about having the conversation with family about making such a move as it impacts all members (34:50). Molly’s thought for the week: Stop pushing so hard on the door looking for happiness—it opens inward. Tune in for these action-provoking conversations as you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 91 is the 15th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field and helps everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, listeners gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for people to see a bit of themselves in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly’s friend and “way-finding” social intrapreneur, Nate Wong, leads the way; you can pursue meaningful purpose AND a career in big business! With grandparents who emigrated from China to Hawaii—picking pineapples—Nate’s father grew up in Honolulu, his Mother, Fiji. They met as she attended University of Hawaii on scholarship, and opened a Chinese restaurant before heading to the DC area where Nate grew up. While in a relatively diverse community, he shares experiences of not fitting in and struggling with his race—kids making fun of his school lunches, name calling in college—speaking too well to be fully Asian, yet not white enough for other settings. When a professor crossed the line, Nate took a stand with school administration, finding his voice when he needed it. He opens up about the deep introspection resulting from the recent anti-AAPI sentiments... helping him realize how he’s suppressed emotions and been complicit in stereotypes of a monolithic race, a model minority…, and assimilating to a white male leadership model. Molly and he discuss the immense gratitude their parents have for the opportunity to be in America, the constant hospitality they offered to others new to the states, and the lasting impact of their pay-it-forward spirit on their own values. Picking one of the 3 “right” majors—engineering—and earning his MBA from Yale, Nate talks about letting go of what he was supposed to do. He approached his work as testing different hypotheses, “zigzagging” a path to living his purpose. In 10 different countries, he partnered with the likes of the Obama Foundation, Acumen Fund and Endeavor and opened social impact units at Deloitte Consulting and at Boston Consulting Group. Nate also shares gems from his writings: challenging our view of successful innovation to be one that benefits many, not a select few. Molly’s thought for the weekL Lack of courage sabotages more people than lack of ability. Don't beat yourself before you start (FS.blog). Tune in for Nate’s journey, inspiring us to know no boundaries and commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 90 starts with a shout-out to every listener around the world—the show has passed 100,000 listeners in more than 160 countries around the world! Molly’s heartfelt gratitude for you encouraging those around you to be who they are and to skillfully say what needs to be said! Thank you! Her first caller, Bill, shares that the transition back to the office has him worn down with meeting overload and 12-hour days; he asks how to raise this and create a sustainable work program?! Then Mari, a 3rd generation Japanese-American, is keen for ways to positively and productively talk about anti-Asian sentiments and activity; how can Asians respond and leaders in bigger organizations be more a part of the solution? She shares learning of her own parents being sent to the Japanese internment camps in the US and the lasting impact that had (14:30). Next, Sara presents a challenge of bringing marketing support in-house from a 3rd party firm and how to manage the transition with the key contact whose skills aren’t a fit long term (35:00). Finally, Molly shares two tips: how to use positive intention so that the other person receives you well, and when the topic is especially heated, how to lean into connection and trust before trying to solve (46:30). Molly’s thought for the week: “When you focus on the past, that’s your ego. ... When I focus on the future, that's my pride. I try to focus on the present. That's humility.” — Giannis Antetokounmpo, 2021 NBA Finals MVP, scoring 50 points in a series-clinching 105-98 Game 6 victory that ended the Milwaukee Bucks’ 50-year title drought. Tune in to the show for her conversations as you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 89 features Rosanne Haggerty, President & CEO of Community Solutions—winner of the MacArthur Foundation $100 million “100&Change” award—and internationally recognized leader in innovative strategies to end homelessness. The US alone spends $12 billion trying to support those experiencing homelessness, but most efforts are not solving the problem! Profoundly impacted by her parents, Rosanne has been at the forefront of tackling homelessness over more than 3 decades. Few in the world comprehensively understand homelessness as she does—listeners will gain an appreciation of the complexities in creating system-wide change. With humility, Rosanne shares her epiphany after 17+ years working on-the-ground about what’s broken, and of how she’d been “part of the problem.” She recounts what it was like in what was then known as “Homeless Hell” in Times Square and to garner local support for the ambitious and highly improbable task of rehabilitating the historic Times Square hotel. That successful endeavor created safe and affordable units with mental health services to help people rebuild their lives. As she continued to learn, she pivoted from focusing on housing sources to the @builtforzero approach, guided by a single aim. You may be surprised that the single biggest barrier is the mindset that homelessness isn’t solvable. IT IS! Check out the 80+ US cities/counties making it a reality every day (https://community.solutions). Your voice matters—implore your city to know who’s experiencing homelessness by name and to act with accountability for measurable results. Molly’s thought for the week: how would it feel if you didn’t have a safe place to sleep tonight? Don’t miss this informing and inspiring conversation about effecting meaningful change. Join the show to get a rare glimpse into Rosanne’s life journey, inspiring us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 88, Molly’s first caller, Bennett, is in college and trying to decide between grad school vs. going directly to a start-up. He also shares the pressure that exists on campus to “pursue your passion” and wonders if that should be the focus; he talks about his friends not wanting to take well-paying jobs in areas that really aren’t of interest and asks Molly about her career regrets. Next, Kennedy, who’s early in career—and has worked among primarily older, male colleagues—calls in keen for ways to help her be heard, contribute fully, and feel fully accepted (22:20). Then Grace joins the show and asks about speaking up when she’s aware of the stereotype that Asian women don’t. She shares being asked “Do people in China wear jeans?” Hear her response and experience with anti-AAPI sentiment, which has been a catalyst for supporting greater social justice in her own community (30:35). Finally, Molly offers thoughts on the transition from fully WFH to being back in the office—a classic opportunity to apply Say It Skillfully® principles (43:40). Molly’s thought for the week: Give yourself permission to be yourself—no one does it better than you. Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 87 is the 14th monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field and helps everyone live to their full potential. In hearing the life journeys of people you might not otherwise encounter, listeners gain empathetic understanding for what may be a very different experience of what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. The aim is for people to see a bit of themselves in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. This episode salutes the inspiration and power of youths in hearing a voice of GenZ, Brennan Wong. Now early in career at McKinsey & Company, Brennan has done more to effect positive social change at age 23 than most will do in their lifetimes and shares how purpose has served as a guiding force in his thinking and decisions.
With the epiphany of an early volunteer experience, Brennan only recalls thinking about being part of “something bigger” and keenly aware of having a finite time in life. At 16 he started a nonprofit, Pledges for Change, paving for the way for numerous leadership opportunities—named one of Canada’s 20 under 20, a Global Teen Changemaker, a Global Citizen Youth Advocate and one Canada’s delegates to the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance Summit in 2017. Brennan shares thoughts on his Chinese-Canadian-Australian identities, areas of study at university, how purpose guides him, and generational differences at work. Tune in for the wisdom of youth—to learn how he’s navigating his life journey, inspiring us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Molly’s thought for the week, courtesy of Willie Stargell, 1988 Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee: “That's where the future lies, in the youth of today.” Tune in to the show to learn how Brennan is navigating his life journey, inspiring us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 86, Louise, Molly’s first caller, is an HR professional whose company is rolling out a platform for ongoing feedback. She’s excited about this opportunity to reinforce a culture of helping people to grow, and they talk about success factors/pitfalls to avoid, including ways to enroll leaders in driving the initiative. Then, Laurel, part of a newly formed team chartered to innovate in fundraising, is keen for the team to deliver strong results to management. She asks about how to make a fast start to new working relationships and how they can best work together, including building trust and managing conflict (22:20). Finally, Jenny is pursuing a new career as a coach to those with ADHD, and she opens up about struggling to be concise and use the right words when put on the spot for her certification. She’s vulnerable about her response at times to feedback and feeling insecure, and has numerous insights, especially around her own ego (36:30). Molly’s thought for the week: Being more aware gives us the freedom to exist in this moment as we want—to best serve ourselves and those around us. Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 85, Molly’s first caller, Rob raises the topic of vulnerability—key to fostering open conversations—helping his clients do so appropriately. They also talk about differences in gender that they’ve seen as folks rise through the ranks. Lily then calls in curious about the notion of “bringing your whole self to work” and how groups and individuals do this in a way that leads to a better work environment. Lastly, Humberto asks about how to handle when people say things in meetings that they really shouldn’t! He and Molly discuss how he might handle this during meetings as well as in a private 1:1 after the fact. Molly’s Thought for the Week: “The delete key is your friend.” (For context, she just upgraded computers and finally tackled an overload of files and photos she wished she’d deleted long ago!) Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 84, Dave Whorton—entrepreneur, investor and CEO & Founder of the Tugboat Group™—joins Molly and shares a powerful journey to redefining a capitalism that goes beyond shareholders to serving society. When his father sat him down and said, “You need to carry your weight,” Dave took his responsibility to heart, applying at HP for what he figured would be a janitor job. Experiencing the “caring for people” culture that founders Bill & Dave created imprinted on him. After Berkeley engineering (“best school I could afford”), the feeling of paycheck-to-paycheck, “In Search of Excellence” and wanting to be an owner steered his career. He shares his unlikely and unexpected first entrepreneurial experience, landing in consulting at Bain and venturing into venture capital at Kleiner Perkins (yes, John Doerr reached out, not how it usually works…though Dave did not immediately take up his offer!). He talks through his decision-making to delay pursuing his passion to run a company and immense learning in supporting start-ups—Google, AutoTrader and Amazon. Going on to found Tugboat Ventures® in 2006 and co-found 4 companies, including drugstore.com and Good Technology, Dave shares the pivotal seed planted when one of his entrepreneurs said, “I hate your (VC) model.” “Let me tell you about my people, my purpose, and our impact,” vs. “your get-big-fast and exit model”. The possibility of less transactional and more enduring were intriguing to Dave and led to creating a vibrant community of Evergreen leaders and companies. He’s open about this most compelling entrepreneurial chapter—one that recognizes how ownership is critical, strategic & underappreciated and offers staying private as a means to go deeper than wealth generation and public recognition sought after in capital markets. Dave founded Tugboat Institute® in 2013 to connect, support and inspire purpose-driven leaders of Evergreen® businesses, for which the “7Ps” principles are the defining characteristics: Purpose, Perseverance, People First, Private, Profit, Paced Growth, and Pragmatic Innovation. The “7 Ps” can prevent you from outstripping your financial resources, culture and management team’s capacity to learn, grow and improve. With revenues from $10M-$10B and 10-290 years old, the Evergreen® companies show how the longest living companies most innovative. Curiosity, can-do, an eye for opportunity, and exceeding expectations are constants in Dave pursuing his true north. Tune in to hear his journey, inspiring us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard to achieve our true and best selves. Molly’s Thought for the week—thank you Dave! Evergreen leaders and their businesses are the opportunity for capitalism at its best. Learn more: www.tugboatinstitute.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 83 is the 13th feature of “Our Voices”–an opportunity to hear firsthand of people’s journeys and what it was like for them to grow-up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. Dr. Jim Yong Kim, Partner and Vice Chairman of Global Infrastructure Partners, shares his path to extraordinary change agent—what shaped his identity as an Asian American and how as educator, medical expert and global leader he made change happen at G20 summits and in remote, rural villages alike. Born in South Korea to parents uncharacteristically NOT urging “just fit in,” Dr. Jim reveals his early years in America—feelings as an outsider, often stared at, and struggles with what being Korean means. His Father, tough and unashamed of his roots, guided his son to complete medical school before other studies, so he’d “have a skill that no one can take away from you.” Unlike Asian stereotypes, Dr. Jim divulges his nature as a fighter and shares fondly his exhilarating, formative time at Brown University’s “Third World Center” and feeling closest to his fellow people of color. He may surprise you, noting studying anthropology was largely a way to resolve his identity crisis. And rather than “service” it is fighting for justice that’s his raison d'être, compelling his fearlessness to “speak truth to justice” on uncomfortable topics to the world’s most powerful political leaders and respected experts. Hear him talk of his difficulty with tough conversations, his “no cry zone” at Partners in Health, “fighting for things worth fighting for” and many insights from his roles around the world: * Global action is extremely difficult—the personalities matter a lot. * Leadership is critical; democracy, fickle. * Optimism is a moral choice: you can’t take on intractable problems without it—per Italian philosopher Antonio Gramsci, “Pessimism of the intellect, optimism of the will.” He shares his hope in the amazing movements of young people tackling tough ESG issues, and sees Asians waking up to “things not being fine” as a good thing. “People knowing how it feels to be Asian can create greater awareness for ALL underrepresented groups and a powerful sense of solidarity. With the awakening of BLM and The Asian American Foundation—there’s a sense it is possible to be respectful of all people and their choices.” Molly’s thought for the week, honoring family friend Dr. Lee Shiu, who passed peacefully at 92: “Enjoy life to the fullest. Sing, dance, laugh, be happy, and don’t worry too much.” Tune in to learn from Dr. Jim’s remarkable life journey, inspiring us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. bendingthearcfilm.com Correction: His leadership in 2014 was critical to frontline Ebola response in WEST AFRICA.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 82, innovative speaker, educator and artist, Dr. Aaron Smith, beloved as the “rapping professor” to students at Temple University, shares why he’s a racial optimist. This episode will help you to be a part of the solution—and look at humanity in a way where you see yourself in other people.
As a youth, when Aaron witnessed racism, his response was feeling that people were being cheated… cheated by not having the interest or tolerance to appreciate other people—because they lacked skill set, language & courage to step out of “boxes” and consider people on individual merit. And he saw this could be remedied by education and exposure to the full humanity of other people.
His African-American and Asian studies equipped him to see how systemic oppression and unequal justice were the enemies, not the communities who seemed different. He shares how a teacher’s single statement changed his life trajectory, and taught him to “weigh his words.” He implores all to understand the chronology of human history as a starting point (see his reading list!)
“Race is not a zero sum game about winners and losers—racism is.”
“Underlying issues, challenges and problems related to xenophobia and intolerance along racial lines could be resolved with greater empathy.”
And he talks of the extraordinary energy and appetite of young people today to take on the messes previous generations have not—racially, environmentally and more—and how the skeptical are some of his best students. HOPE!
Then Yen calls in for a thought-provoking discussion around the “felt sense” of interacting with others and how to tap into this to deepen our relationships. We also talk family, and the “roles” we play, not always so consciously. Lastly, Roger shares a major win—turning a job losing situation into an unexpected promotion, not only by saying it skillfully, but by “being” it skillfully. Molly's thought for the week – Wise words from the rapping professor: When met with adversity, it’s preparing you to learn—look at it with joy and embrace. Tune in and learn how to navigate work, and life, while being invaluable and true to yourself. And check out Dr. Aaron Smith’s recommended reading – be a racial optimist. Caste by Isabel Wilkerson, The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi, African Pyramids of Knowledge by Molefi Kete Asantev (or any of his work!). More about Dr. Smith: https://liberalarts.temple.edu/academics/faculty/smith-aaron
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. What happens when Mother Teresa is your role model? Over a billion people see your work! In Episode 81, learn from Molly’s guest—extraordinary social innovator Firdaus Kharas, master of social change via animations that compel viewers to accept his messages and come to their own conclusion to change for the better. In Calcutta, Firdaus—influenced more by his pioneering, attorney Mother than Father (wanting him to be an accountant!)—saw poverty firsthand and knew his destiny was to do something about it. Aspiring to see 100 countries (now at 146…), he arrived in Pennsylvania as the 1st ever Bombay Rotary Club exchange student. Studying human rights, researching methods of torture, and working in Canada’s immigration/refugee affairs were part of his schooling to improve the human condition. Believing that “people everywhere matter,” “we are one human family” and “we’re all creative beings”, Firdaus talks of his eternal optimism, helping him confront the atrocities and injustices he aims to end. Motivated by impact, never money, he recounts his journey to build his media company and leverage his creativity—a breakthrough with UNICEF and epiphany of the power of humor in mid 2000, when his Three Amigos animated condoms appeared in 150 countries—widely credited for assisting the stopping the spread of HIV aids. His topics are many: human rights, health education/disease prevention, children at risk, environment, preserving culture, sexual violence, racism, to name a few. He talks of his two kinds of animation: behavior change communications and catalyst videos to ignite discussion that drive social change, and notes the irony of today’s instant two-way communications bringing us closer, while populism that divides. How Firdaus is driven by his values inspires as much as his passion to make the world a better place for all. Tune in to hear how one human makes a world of difference, inspiring us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. See his animations here: https://vimeo.com/412745660
Chocolate Moose Media: http://chocmoose.com
Creativity: The Key to a Remarkable Life: https://chocolate-moose-media.myshopify.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 80, Sam Allen, Executive Vice President & COO of salesforce.org, joins Molly and shares his journey from his youth in the Midwest to combat veteran and Commissioned Officer in the US Marines to entrepreneur and high-tech mergers and acquisitions and running a multi-billion dollar business. With little guidance in his modest youth, Sam had to chart a path for himself and enlisted in the military. Fortunately, this provided an opportunity to attend college. He describes combat as, The ultimate assault on the senses…survival instincts on steroids. Under extreme duress as people are trying to kill you or your people, you dig deep into a central reservoir of the mission.” He’s honest about early deer-in-headlights feelings as he re-joined civilian life and his thought process and intention to develop himself and his career and support his family. The “best laid plans never survive the 1st bullet.” Sam offers his experiences with bias and never spending more than a few hours or day thinking about job changes. He reveals how a virtue may also be vice and learning to manage this so that others perceive him as he intends. Don’t miss his “operating manual,” a brilliant tool to help people know who he really is as a leader and human being. He sets the tone for all he interacts with to be real and their true selves. And hear how he’s charged up about his current role and the opportunities for business to help create a better world. Molly’s thought for the week are the three values that guide Sam: Integrity-Courage-Dependability. Join the show and learn how to navigate life while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 79, Molly’s first caller is Shuang, an academic researcher making a career shift into business consulting, who has given her boss ample time for a proper transition, but now their interactions are awkward. She’s keen to fix this situation. Next, Mike finds himself promoted to a role that’s exactly how he wants to grow, yet senior management has not relieved him of his former job. We discuss how to raise this with his supportive boss to address his burnout and enable him to succeed in his new position (11:30). Then, Kit has a team member who is underperforming—this seems less about capability and more about motivation—and asks how to talk openly and provide feedback in a manner that motivates (21:45). Molly covers a delicate scenario in which you were thrown under the bus by a newly promoted former peer... how to skillfully engage with this new leader and right the ship (33:00)? Lastly, Michael opens his heart as a 26-year old start-up entrepreneur with many downs who finally now sees some light at the end of the tunnel. The son of Asian immigrants, he shares poignantly his desire to support his parents who’ve given everything they have to stand behind him (37:35). Molly’s thought for the week: Be here now. . Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 78, the 12th feature of “Our Voices,” Molly is joined by architect, inventor and social entrepreneur Alice Chun. Separated from her parents at age 1, Alice shares her cross-cultural upbringing between South Korea and the US—at times feeling she fit in neither. Trained in architecture she’s both teacher and innovator; the Haiti earthquake compelled her 1st invention—the Solar Puff™—world’s only self-inflatable, portable solar light. Alice embraces business failures as moments of inspiration & invention, mistakes in “getting the right people on the bus,” and the fleeting moments of “I should just give up.” She personifies GRIT–at one point, holding 3 jobs, breast feeding her baby and going through a divorce. MLK saying that racism is a sickness, a disease…can’t hate people for being sick..was profound for Alice. Hear her compassion for those projecting their own emptiness outward. She recounts a moving experience teaching children in developing areas and asks how can you make lives better, what problems can you help to solve, how can you make an existing solution a bit better? Alice’s latest invention, transparent, soft, self-adhesive and CLEAR masks will transform protecting healthcare workers. Alice lives her passion and demonstrates the power of never giving up with admirable humility and self-belief!
Thought for the week. Thank you Alice! Be a fighter, not with your fists or words—fight with the light of your mind, imagination and heart.
Tune in to hear her journey, inspiring us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Learn more at: Https://solight-design.com Https://seesu-95.com
And follow Alice's inventions at IG @solight_design IG @seeus95
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 77, Molly’s first caller, Kathy, is keen to understand “metaskills”—your intentional energy or vibe—that impact how people perceive you, and how work gets done. Next, Kevin calls in about how to respond when asked for his thoughts on working from home and “how would you like to work going forward?” He also asks about a personal dilemma around preserving friendships when politically polarized and neither side appears to value diversity (11:40). Then Ed, who’s in charge of security and safety for a retail-based organization, asks about how best to have sensitive conversations with store staff to alert him if they sense any risk of workplace violence (32:25). Lastly, Cathy raises an observation of unconscious bias and asks for ways to approach a professor when they unintentionally may have offended a bunch of folks (41:40). Molly closes by encouraging parents that it’s never too early to help our youths find their voices – using an example of how a teenager making a food delivery might respond to an irate customer (50:55). Molly’s thought for the week, from tennis pro Jorge Capestany: There’s no failure… there’s only feedback. Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 76, Molly is joined by Matt Giordano, who shares an enthralling journey to his passion and purpose as internationally-known yoga instructor. He talks of a pivotal guide in art teacher Mrs. Walk, and the painful wake-up call of an intervention of friends saying they didn’t like who he was becoming. Hear of Matt’s remarkable curiosity, self-reflection and open-mindedness from a young age, which helped him first land on a yoga mat; there was no turning back! He’s upfront about travel burnout and working 4 a.m. to midnight, leading him to intentionally shift his business approach (which luckily set him up well to adapt to Covid times). Matt also adds perspective for those who might consider yoga, and those for whom it may not be a fit. Don't miss his wisdom around embracing change, the power of observing your own thoughts and behaviors and keeping your ego in check. Then, Keishla joins Molly keen to help a friend confront her micromanaging boss in a positive and productive way. Tune in and learn how to navigate life while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Thought for the week, inspired by Matt: Build humble confidence.
Learn more: https://www.instagram.com/theyogimatt/ https://www.youtube.com/user/TheYogiMatt https://www.facebook.com/TheYogiMatt https://twitter.com/TheYogiMatt
Effortless Mastery: Liberating the Master Musician Within, by Kenny Werner was an “a-ha” read for Matt!
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 75, master storyteller and one of the most influential leaders on the day-to-day management of people and companies, Ken Blanchard joins Molly for inside look into what’s most shape him and his success. He chronicles his parents’ profound impact and not exactly planful academic and career paths! Being the 7th grade “compromise candidate” for president started his leadership training, his Dad noting: “Don’t ever use your position—leaders are great because people trust and respect them, not because they have power.” From his Mother, “don’t you act like you’re better than anybody else, and don’t let anyone act like they’re better than you. There’s a pearl of goodness in every human being–dig for it and you’ll find it.”
Being a dormitory counselor at Cornell had Ken wanting to be a dean of students, so he earned masters and doctorate degrees (by the way, he was told “you can’t write!”). A magnificent personal and professional partnership with wife Margie led to a family enterprise with humility, humor and love as constants. Hear how The One Minute Manager came to be, opening his eyes to servant leadership and a lifetime of joyful collaboration with authors. Co-founder of the Lead like Jesus ministry—teaching people about servant leadership worldwide—Ken shares how servant leadership is especially vital now, and how this was demonstrated in his own firm so that they could navigate challenging Covid times. Gems galore! The most important thing about leadership is what people do when you’re not around. Keep your head up and listen. Worst thing that can happen is you learn… Ken inspires us to be the best version of ourselves. Tune in and learn how to navigate life while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Thought for the week from Ken: None of us is as smart as all of us.
Learn more at: www.kenblanchard.com www.kenblanchardbooks.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode #74 is Molly’s #1 “growth” episode for you. If you’ve had self-doubt, if you’ve been confused about what’s next… if you’re a parent, please have a listen (perhaps with your kids)—without judgment and with compassion. She hopes you’ll be a better you for doing so. Molly’s guest is Noah Fense, hip hop artist, entrepreneur, event curator, and founder of Foresee—a music and arts collective label (4C: Conscious Conduits Constantly Connected). He shares his journey; one that is simultaneously sobering, humbling and enlightening. After years of suffering from drug addiction, mental illness, homelessness, low self-confidence and legal issues, Noah rediscovered himself at his lowest and realized the unlimited potential that we all possess within. His spiritual awakening led to a complete transformation as he met the essence of his true self.
“Calculated rhymes, carefully spiced and layered with thought-provoking word play, emotional concepts and storytelling, multisyllabic rhyme schemes, ill punchlines, hard bars and deep metaphors...” Noah now creates music with the intention to uplift and drops gems that if caught, can transform the listener into something greater than who they believed themselves to be. As he fulfills his potential, Noah inspires others to realize theirs. This episode will help you reconsider the meaning you give to life. Tune in and learn how to navigate life while being invaluable and true to yourself. Follow Noah on IG: @noahfense4C and FB: @noahfensebeers Molly’s Thought for the Week, from a Taoist parable: “Who knows what is good and what is bad.”
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 73, the 11th feature of OUR VOICES, Chris Yeh—author, investor, speaker and mentor—shares his journey as a first generation born in the US after his parents were exiled from mainland China. Precocious, extroverted and audience-seeking, he recalls his anti-Tiger Mom and pivotal early mentor Harold Connolly, who won Olympic Gold despite being disabled. Product design engineering and creative writing majors at Stanford (along with improv, peer counseling, public speaking) led to a fascinating job search, including a D.E. Shaw “mystery letter” and 1st class flight (unthinkable). Luck was a theme; he stresses preparation is key. He notes the role of his competitive spirit and confronting reality: you can have it all, but not at the same time. With two young kids, he put family first and left all-consuming CEO life. He discusses his and Reid Hoffman’s interest to explore and impact the world and how friends helped him gain self-awareness and empathy. He now thinks it vital to take on others’ viewpoints and overcome racism. Other gems: “Take control of your own narrative” and “Don’t get caught up with job title labels.” Thought for the week: “In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s there are few.” —Suzuki Roshi. Join the show to hear Chris’ journey, inspiring us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves. Learn more at https://chrisyeh.com and books Chris has co-authored: https://www.blitzscaling.com http://www.theallianceframework.com
And his beloved high school vice principal and mentor: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hal_Connolly
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 72 Molly’s first caller Ryan opens vulnerably by acknowledging his “bubble” of white, male privilege. Feeling disappointment and shame for events of the past 18 months, he’s keen to be a part of the solution. Jane then shares how she felt asleep at the wheel, witnessing a newly acquainted Caucasian, male professional—who should know better—say to an early-in-career Asian woman at his company, “I don’t understand how your Asian boyfriend doesn’t have an accent, but you do. We need to fix that.” How to respond in the moment? And Molly helps Jane, Asian as well, unpack her own feelings (10:30). Then Jason calls in with mixed experiences on diversity in corporate America. While optimistic, he’s seen firsthand the negative impact when transparency is lacking and senior leaders are left off the hook for poor behavior. They also discuss ways employees and managers can help all to feel safe, seen and heard (22:45). Thought for the week: “Learn to calm down the winds of your mind, and you will enjoy great inner peace” – Remez Sasson (52:30). Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 72 Molly’s first caller Ryan opens vulnerably by acknowledging his “bubble” of white, male privilege. Feeling disappointment and shame for events of the past 18 months, he’s keen to be a part of the solution. Jane then shares how she felt asleep at the wheel, witnessing a newly acquainted Caucasian, male professional—who should know better—say to an early-in-career Asian woman at his company, “I don’t understand how your Asian boyfriend doesn’t have an accent, but you do. We need to fix that.” How to respond in the moment? And Molly helps Jane, Asian as well, unpack her own feelings (10:30). Then Jason calls in with mixed experiences on diversity in corporate America. While optimistic, he’s seen firsthand the negative impact when transparency is lacking and senior leaders are left off the hook for poor behavior. They also discuss ways employees and managers can help all to feel safe, seen and heard (22:45). Thought for the week: “Learn to calm down the winds of your mind, and you will enjoy great inner peace” – Remez Sasson (52:30). Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive & productive manner. In Episode 71 Molly’s first caller, Adam, is starting out with a new organization and team; he wants to get started in the right way, especially as lots of change is in the air. Then Jon, who leads an amazing non-profit organization that helps people rehabilitate after serious health issues, has stakeholders all over the globe and is keen to instill a “say it skillfully” culture. As they’ve been onboarding many new folks, it’s top of mind for him that everyone communicates openly and productively, regardless of tenure, introvert or extrovert...(15:50). And Nayantara is inspired by how we can emerge better from the pandemic; we chat about having actionable conversations around equity (40:50). Molly’s Thought for the Week—what she wishes for all: “Finding your voice, one that is effective and authentic to you, is how you can be who you are and say what needs to be said.” (from her TEDx talk, https://bit.ly/3nlZ7kG) Tune in AND learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive & productive manner. Molly’s first caller, Keishla, is keen to succeed in change management and engage her entire team: “leapers, road builders and tradition holders” alike. Then, Heidi had three different friends reach out to her... on their behalf we unpack how to return after a medical leave, to not be caught as a “go-between” when some wants you to relay information to another, and to call out gossip in a constructive way (20:45). I then cover two situations: 1) someone caught between 80-hour work weeks and having a life with his young family, and 2) being self-confident to go for a promotion and knowing how to be lucky (38:30)! Molly closes with a Harry Palmer’s Avatar compassion exercise and urges you to take a few minutes to experience this ???? (45:40).
Molly’s thought for the week – Thank you Seth Godin! We have the power (and perhaps the obligation) to use shared knowledge to make better, more thoughtful decisions. And to intentionally edit out the manipulations and falsehoods that are designed to spread, not to improve our lives.
Join the show and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive & productive manner. In Episode 69, 10th feature of OUR VOICES, Molly’s childhood friend and CEO of world-class branding agency Turner Duckworth, Joanne Chan, recounts growing up in upstate NY, the lone Asian until high school...wanting to fit in, even attending Hebrew school! Supportive parents had high expectations, but were clear: do what you love. Her art gallery dream job meant living in debt and compelled a career change. Thanks to an amazing mentor’s advice, Joanne joined Turner Duckworth as employee #2, working her way to CEO and building a culture for creativity to thrive. She shares her focus on sustaining culture as Publicis acquired them and credits her husband for being lead parent—enabling her career and their daughter’s growth. Joanne shares a profound early-in-career learning moment and urges “stand together, be our best selves and keep marching forward.” Molly’s thought for the week: Your relationship—with yourself and others—makes or breaks your success. Listen in as Joanne inspires us to “do what makes us happy,” to know no boundaries, and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 68, branding and culture expert Martin Lindstrom masterfully brings you on his remarkable journey—childhood LEGO®mania, a lawsuit before he was a teen, starting/selling an ad agency. He shares learning the hard way with eureka moments of corporate politics at 18 and “Merry Christmas” emails—helping him internalize deep empathy, which has been instrumental to his success, and what he sees as an enormous need in organizations everywhere. Then Vince, weeks into a new job, calls about how to respond to his boss, seemingly not pleased with his performance. And Virginia recalls a leader publicly bullying a teammate and wonders if with a different response, she might not have faced the retribution she did (38:45). Join the show and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 67, CV shares a situation in which several team members blatantly won’t follow her direction, although they used to when her boss (who was white) was in place. Racism? How to handle? Next, Jan calls in for a lively conversation, including how to be the voice when a change program may risk losing what worked in the past (15:25). Check out Jan’s amazing videos—consider “how much am I being me at work?” (https://bit.ly/2LYqjIW). Among his gems, “Failure is unfinished success”, “A good leader is produced at age 3.” He shares how he & his boss formed a strong relationship (31:00). Thought for the week, inspired by John Chambers: If it’s getting tough, don’t go down alone—get help. We lose together—we win together. Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive, productive manner. In Episode 66, 9th feature of OUR VOICES, Molly’s friend and top healthcare venture capitalist Nisa Leung shares her vivid journey across continents. Time in the US helped her mindset blossom; an unexpected and life-changing MBA experience culminated in a market crash—half her class couldn’t find jobs; 50% of friends in VC lost theirs. Before healthcare investing was vogue—Nisa saw China’s underserved market. Asked to set-up Qiming’s healthcare practice she led the firm to invest in 130 companies…vaccines, diagnostics, drugs to HC IT. She reveals intense commitment & collaboration of her companies on Covid front lines, thoughts on why China’s VC playing field is more gender-level and her aspirations ahead. Nisa inspires us to know no boundaries and models the best way to help others is to help them to succeed.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 65, Zaza Pachulia, whose 20-year career included 6 NBA teams and 2 Championships with the Warriors, opens up about starting in former Soviet Union in tough times—no jobs, no electricity, standing in bread lines. He recalls his Mom's role in picking basketball. His joy became his passion, then obsession. He shares poignantly the exuberance in his breakthrough at age 14—invited to play in Istanbul—then the devastating passing of his Dad. Discipline, work ethic and embracing challenge laid the foundation to be lucky so that his sport could be his life. Zaza’s groundedness and appreciation for his roots are only rivaled by his zeal to fulfill new dreams—raising 4 kids, building businesses—to inspire and help others. Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 64, Dr. Mara Harvey, shares her journey to passionate advocate for gender financial equality and youth financial literacy. Her positive, blissful sense of money vanished overnight at age 10 with her parents’ divorce. Her incomeless mother, raising 2 daughters, modeled determination and belief that has served Mara well. She turned to the numbers to identify key factors with real consequences; e.g., a 10% pay gap can result in a 40% wealth gap (11:00). Mara shares how bias starts at home, and we discuss ways to close gender gaps. Then Aysha, an MD, calls in: without warning, she was suspended and later fired for moderating a student discussion on bias/racial health disparities (students supported Dr Khoury, 36:00). Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 63, Mike, an introvert who leads technical folks, calls in about a team member’s lack of motivation. Next, Denise has apprehension about a familiar situation...how to get clarity on a project that you need to execute when the sr executive isn’t communicating the purpose or details clearly (20:40). Then, Uri calls in about a client in a precarious place: exhausted & desperate in an 80-hr a week job with no end in sight (40:15). Molly’s thought for the wk honors one of the most remarkable, impactful human beings and a leader of leaders, Dr. Jim Yong Kim, “Leadership is how much do you care to humble yourself, listen to others and change your behavior so that a group of people does something they wouldn’t do otherwise.” Tune in & learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 62 Molly’s first caller, Joey, is excited about a job offer from an industry leader, but not fully clear on the actual role; he asks about getting clarity. Next, Brett has a new boss after a reorg and is keen for how to contribute his expertise (which his boss doesn’t have) without ruffling feathers. (10:30). I tackle a couple of topics: when others underestimate your capability and also engendering a real conversation on diversity (28:00). Lastly, Heidi asks how to advise a friend in need of mental health support from work, though she isn’t sure how to raise this sensitive topic without risking that others diminish their perceptions of her (37:00). Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 61, the 8th feature of OUR VOICES, NFL pro turned entrepreneur Marques Ogden shares his remarkable story of diversity on many levels. With a supreme role model in his father, he opens up about a fractured relationship with his mother & the reality of going from plenty at home to deliberately overeating when at friends’ because his own fridge was bare. Marques talks of early struggles at Howard Univ—tough love when his GPA was 1.8 made all the difference (and a 3.8)—the business of football, and how arrogance in his 1st company led to the lowest of lows…just $400 left to his name. Marques tells it like it is; self-doubt bent him, but never broke him. He encourages all to realize that little things can go a long way to create a society in which all are safe, seen & heard, and our true, best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 60 futurist Jonathan Tavss helps you take pause on this unreal year—and recalibrate, celebrate the seeming small victories and be present for those who matter most. He shares early days in Miami as a fearless, self-directed youth, struggle when first faced with uncertainty post-graduation and navigating his career in a radically shifting entertainment industry once clarifying his own passion. Jonathan opens up about deciding with his wife to adopt–embracing a beautiful black baby boy entering the world under much less than ideal circumstances–and later stepping up to weather profound health challenges. Don’t miss his heart-felt thoughts. Next, Prashant’s challenge is someone taking credit for others’ work (45:30)! Tune in and learn how to navigate life while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 59 Molly’s first caller, Olivia, frustrated that a conversation with a family member on keeping everyone safe with Covid had not gone well, is keen for how to give it another try. Howard, well aware of the end-of-year frenzy, inquires about how to effectively, and positively, follow-up with a client (12:00). I share Part 2 of managing when your boss yells at you. Then Eric, who onboarded to new role 5 months ago and has never met in-person any colleagues, wants to strengthen these connections and handle Zoom overload (23:20). Finally, Vivian shows her vulnerability—sharing that often she doesn’t speak up and why that is (36:35). Molly’s thought for the week: Presence starts by experiencing the now—Matt Giordano. Tune in and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 58 Alejandra, passionate about empowering women in business in Mexico, is Molly’s first caller. They discuss how to balance being vulnerable while leading, and to handle dynamics of women with male bosses. Next, Ron calls in with 2 potential career paths, one well-worn with great impact; the other, true to his creative passion yet lacking clarity (17:00). They talk through how he might take advantage of his creative genius to decide. Then Kelly is gearing up for a new role and keen for ways to make the most of her early days (35:35). Molly wraps with thoughts if you find yourself being yelled at by your boss (49:20)! Her thought for the week: It’s not the journey or destination that’s most important—it’s the company. Tune in learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 57 is Graham Weaver’s humor-filled, inspiring and at times unbelievable journey. His youth in blue-collar, small town Ohio laid the foundation for an insatiable appetite to learn, grow and push the limits. 1000’s of hours of self-help cassettes—listened to while mowing lawns—and wrestling ignited in Graham the magic of pursuing big goals. Disbelief in first jobs out of college paves the way for a remarkable journey founding Alpine Investors, a 19-year old PE firm putting people first. He talks of conversations on diversity and asks about helping his Stanford students navigate to their true north. Feel the aliveness, passion & make-it-happen zeal that propels Graham & Alpine to lift people and businesses to new heights. Tune in learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 56, 7th feature of OUR VOICES, 3-time Olympian, 12-time Great Britain national champion, Robert Weir, shares a very personal account of his journey as professional athlete & coach. One of 7 raised by Jamaican parents, he was taught early how to hold his own & to expect to work twice as hard. Early injustice fueled his drive to control his own destiny (21:00). Robert shares keys to competing at the highest levels and his choices between business & athletics, harnessing his competitive spirit throughout. Coaching elite athletes was serendipity; humbly, he details his profound impact on Olympians in multiple sports and professionals in medicine & banking, alike. Robert talks about parenting, regrets & ways he finds common ground when people are at odds.He implores: help others; reach for the stars.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 55, Laurie, raises a personal challenge—blessed that adult kids are back, but feeling a bit of stress with the full household, with particular concern around how to best support a child struggling at times with their mental health. Then Cyrill, who advises businesses and knows “getting to truth” is vital, inquires about handling excess optimism; how to be direct with executives and ensure no holding back when things aren’t on track (9:15). Roger is keen for advice about bringing up to his boss that his compensation seems significantly below market (24:30). I close with suggestions to help people in a “dominant group” widen their lenses to appreciate what it’s like for those not. Join the show for these conversations as you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 54, BJ Fogg, PhD. joins Molly in an insightful conversation about his path to being a behavior scientist, professional writer and teacher. His early work on Persuasive Technology has informed the design of products used by millions (incl. Instagram). BJ shares how his teacher at age 8 made all the difference and about his early experiences in overcoming hurtful adversity as a youth. Perseverance resulted in turning a writing weakness into a strength that supported his career, and the serendipity of hacking his own habits led him to create a new method of habit formation, Tiny Habits. Molly wraps w/ a scenario where someone attacks everything you said, arguing for a topic you weren't assigned! Tune in for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 53, Molly's 1st caller, Jim is interested in approaches and specific phrases to help him raise and discuss topics when people may have emotionally-charged, opposing viewpoints. Next, Chris shares his experience in being unexpectedly laid off, and wonders how to handle the shock (and disappointment) when people he thought were close colleagues just weren’t there (18:45). Then, Chantalle calls in keen to be intentional about her growth opportunities for 2021 and asks how she might think about this (30:45). Molly closes with ideas for a parent who wants to tactfully raise their child’s sub-optimal Zoom classes with the school. Thought for the week: Live healthy, be happy, express hope. Join the show for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 52, the 6th feature of OUR VOICES, legendary harpist, Ann Hobson Pilot shares her journey to defy color and gender barriers to join the Washington Nat’l Symphony—the 1st African American woman in any orchestra—and then the Boston Symphony Orchestra. At times unable to dine or reside where white members could, Ann demonstrated grace, conviction and tenacity. Hear how self-doubt had no role for her & her strength to not take things personally. She talks of staying at peak performance levels—playing to perfection over a 50-year career—and the changes needed to increase diversity in her field. A zen trailblazer, Ann combines calm confidence, humility & self-belief, inspiring us to know no boundaries and to commit to taking action so that all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 51, Ami calls in first, keen on ways to handle the struggles so many are experiencing with friends & family around highly emotional topics such as politics (and when the conversation has gone off the rails, how to recover and mend the relationship). Next, Tamara needs strategies to give performance feedback to a team member who's a peer not pulling their weight (16:00). With so much virtual work, Peter has a team in which the energy has been dropping & tensions rising, and wants to reverse the trend for an open environment where members can be the best versions of themselves (28:40). Molly closes w/ 2 scenarios: when you dismiss someone’s reality as your perception & requesting feedback. Join the show for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 50, Molly is joined by finance guru Laurence Black, founder of The Index Standard. Born in Zimbabwe & educated in South Africa, Laurence recounts strong family support as they moved across continents. He also describes his lucky start as a trader in London and talks of what he learned from prominent mentors along the way. Laurence shares his transition from focus on his own success, to empowering his team and focusing on theirs, which has made all the difference. He’s open about agonizing over leaving corporate life and re-balancing family life, as well as his own growth areas. Molly then covers how to handle 3 tough conversations: being overworked, condescended to and when someone goes radio silent. Tune in to the show and learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 49, Tay calls in first, enthused and also a bit nervous, about a new stage in life: co-habitating with her significant other, which came about sooner due to Covid. My guest Dr. Bruce Y. Lee—whose journey has included investment banking, medicine, entrepreneurship, and also building and researching computer models to simulate health and public health situations—provides gems on navigating one’s career. He shares how his was an unconventional, “try & learn” path, one he’s thrilled to have traveled, though his “career GPS” was frequently recalculating. Bruce offers thoughts on Covid and also implores: science is fun! (11:00). Franciscus then calls in about family-led enterprises & oversized egos. Tune in for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive & productive manner. In Episode 48, the 5th feature of “Our Voices”, sports & entertainment attorney Jaia Thomas shares her journey of both serendipity & conscious choices. She recounts learning early not to fear speaking up on issues of injustice or inequality and shows how her habit of taking the initiative has repeatedly led to opening doors and creating opportunity (including working w/ actor Will Smith). A stint supporting Barack Obama’s presidential campaign opened her eyes to politics & voting (16:00). Jaia founded Diverse Representation to promote diversity in sports & entertainment (26:05). She talks of being a trial-and-error entrepreneur. We tackle a sensitive conversation re: an introduction she’s not comfortable making (36:15). Join the show to hear how all can be safe, seen and heard, and our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 47, Jennifer—an entrepreneur—calls in eager for ways to support her team members being more open about the reality of navigating life in Covid times; she also wants to provide the leadership to serve clients whose budgets are decreasing. Then, Matt, who is earlier in his career, inquires about when and how exactly he might speak up with a different point of view, yet not risk coming across as a know-it-all or disrespectful to more tenured staff (20:45). We also discuss when you sense someone isn’t open to your input and how to work through that and create connection. Finally, Molly covers a situation in which a leader is caught off guard when a team member who’s not performing blame. Tune in for her live conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 46, Molly's first caller, Luke—deep in the throes of medical school applications—talks of the challenge in balancing writing “what you’re supposed to” to get accepted vs. being more true to himself. Aimee then shares her desire to rebuild a key relationship with a boss after a sensitive situation that required several people to leave the firm. And finally, Lucy re-considers how to coach a team member whose listening skills within the team are fine, but somehow aren’t with her. And we also talk about helping this person communicate with clarity. Molly's thought for the week: the power of positivity – it’s something you can bring in your own spirit to all those you’re with. Keep the faith. Tune in for these conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 45, John, a former consultant, calls in 1st to raise the tricky situation of clients airing internal “dirty laundry” to external consultants and how to handle being in the crossfire if you’re told in confidence and somehow want to be helpful; we also discuss navigating this if you’re more junior in rank. Next Rhonda, supporting a star team member's promotion, asks for a different approach to a conversation that had this star in tears (it’s a good ending 18:00). Vince calls in for a lively chat on transforming a group of leaders abdicating their roles in employee feedback, to then becoming the top performing unit (36:00). Thought for the week: change what you see (53:05). Tune in for these conversations and more, as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 44, the extraordinary Sandy Ogg, Founder of CEO.works, shares his unscripted path to a vibrant, high-impact & meaningful life. Grounded by amazing parents and a passion for sport, Sandy describes the gift of serendipity and role of key people & institutions, esp. at U.S. Coast Guard Academy and early jobs: boarding Japanese fishing vessels in the Bering Sea (65’ waves!), gratification of saving a life & pain when unable to do so. Discovering his passion for leadership at The Center for Leadership Studies opened doors at Motorola, Unilever & Blackstone Group. Sandy talks about his firm today and return to his passion via New York Youth Baseball Foundation (nyybf.org). Answering “Are you doing something significant?” has been life-changing. Lastly Sandy reflects on his life’s work with his “5 C’s”.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 43 the inspiring Elijah Heyward describes his beginnings in Beaufort, SC. He shares his profound connection to his southern roots & Gullah Geechee cultural identity and the affirming experience of attending HBCU Hampton University, which led him to Yale Divinity School & being the 1st African American graduate in the American Studies PhD program at UNC, Chapel Hill. He speaks passionately of his journey; generously of his learnings. “The blessing of life is meeting people who have different experiences than you.” (17:45). Elijah’s is an abundance mindset: “There’s enough success for everyone.” He notes there are so many ways to be American (37:00) & offers perspective on becoming better educated on the human condition (43:30). Tune in for how to be safe, seen & heard, and our true & best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 42, her 1st caller, Reed, a sales manager, asks how to talk with a team member who wants to grow into a leadership role but doesn’t seem to be taking the cues to develop. Next Jen has a tough situation of being asked to transition from a high-profile project when the person who will be owning the work isn’t exactly up to speed. They also discuss how to further amp up how she communicates to create even more impact and be recognized for it (20:20). Molly then covers 2 scenarios: how to provide unsolicited feedback that’s well received and coaching folks whose inexperience results in errors & missed deadlines (46:40). Molly's thought for the week: practice empathetic understanding (53:55). Join the show for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 41, Jeff Saviano—EY Global Tax Innovation Leader & host of podcast Better Innovation—shares how sport was a grounding force in his youth and college choice. He also reveals how overcoming a setback early in his career makes his taking the stage at TEDx and the Davos World Economic Forum even more meaningful. Those who struggle some with public speaking, keep the faith! Jeff talks about areas he’s keen to grow as he pursues innovations that help business & society. Next retiree John talks about friction with those at opposite ends of the political spectrum & deciding it’s time to move on. Seth raises how 2 peers on his team “confidentially” confide in him that the other is the problem (44:45). Tune in for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 40, Molly’s first caller, Jon, is keen to help his second-in-command realize that his being perceived as “Mr. No” is not serving the team or himself; leaders, like everyone in the organization, must have opportunities for growth. Next, from an academic research environment, John asks if and how to appropriately support two different colleagues struggling with their bosses, one of whom is at risk of leaving the organization (15:30)! Then JoAnn calls in to discuss how over the past few decades—despite positive intention and inclusion programs—the workplace hasn’t progressed as much as we’d like…what needs to happen (28:20)? Molly closes w/ how to handle when you're not heard (50:45). Join the show for her live conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 39 Dr. Terry Jackson shares his inspiring journey growing up in segregated Wilmington, NC. Though he didn't feel bias until he was almost out of high school, his early experiences with it motivated him to excel. As a TEDx speaker, author and organizational change expert, Terry is helping to transform what it means to lead. His awareness and foundation of black excellence supported his own groundedness and sense of self, inspiring all to believe in oneself, first and foremost. To advance both social and economic justice, he shares how we can see the “sameness” in each other and treat all human beings as human beings. Keep in mind, “It doesn’t matter how often you talk, but what you say when you do. Tune in for ways to support us all in being safe, seen and heard... being our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 38, Molly's first caller, Veronica, asks for advice on how to begin to network with people in a new career field. Next, Vince and Molly work through how to communicate most effectively with a culturally diverse team to learn from mistakes without instilling fear of making them (14:55). Carrie then asks about handling when a company “ghosts” you in the interview process (28:30). Annette calls in about raising the topic of travel with the pandemic, and also wonders about when to share very personal details, and doing so in a way that fosters trust (36:30). Finally, Geoff asks how to handle receiving sensitive information which ends up impeding his work (47:15). Tune into the show for Molly's conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 37, Sameer Munshi, EY Consulting Manager, talks about being a late bloomer, overcoming perceived early failures to get on a track to thrive. One key was learning to speak kindly and skillfully to himself, which led to a more positive mindset. He also reveals his own takeaways for financial wellness and what’s meaningful. Tay joins Molly keen for ways to address people asking about her race, while staying true to herself (35:50). Then Fred shares thoughts on leading his hospitality business through Covid & racial tensions (40:50). Finally, kudos to Community Solutions, named 1 of 6 finalists in MacArthur Foundation’s #100andChange competition for a $100 million grant. End homelessness! Tune in for Molly's conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 36, Molly’s 1st caller, Meadow, was looking for ways to constructively deal with passive-aggressive behaviors at both work and home. Eric then raised the big question of how to be a “corporate human” and take substantive actions on social justice; he offered the metaphor of crossing the bridge from Facebook to LinkedIn - more here: https://bit.ly/3j5NZqm (15:30). Mian was keen for ways to approach an angry CEO with the truth (33:00). Lastly, Molly offered thoughts for getting started with a new team when there’s no chance to actually meet face-to-face (47:30). Join the show for her conversations on these topics as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. More ways to help you interact powerfully, openly and honestly at https://sayitskillfully.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Joining her for the 2nd OUR VOICES episode is visionary entrepreneur Franz Alphonse, who overcame self-doubt to learn how to live life to the fullest. Franz shares how his father’s tough love at age 19 was the catalyst for him to believe in himself & create his life manifesto, which he's followed to this day. His humble beginnings—living in different countries & focused on education—created a culture of hard work within his family which helped Franz succeed (12:55). Starting life with few role models, Franz reveals how he creatively formed an inspiring board of directors to guide him (18:30). Franz then discusses his simultaneous outcome thinking & how his firm is creating global win-win outcomes for economic development where needed and delivering financial performance (36:00). More at https://www.apch.com
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 34, Dr. Paul L. Corona—Clinical professor of leadership in the Kellogg School of Mgt at Northwestern University—shares his very unexpected journey into higher education. He was perhaps one of the least likely to earn a doctorate in higher education and pursue a passion of helping people realize their potential, much less co-found the Lee’s 3 Habits system for stronger relationships and greater happiness. Paul then discusses the opportunity leaders have to go “beyond the bio” to find fulfillment and meaning. Next, Molly covers a few scenarios: how to respond when you notice racism (41:30); ideas on networking for a new job or internship (41:10). And see lees3habits.com to “Ask, Listen & Give. Tune in for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. By popular demand, Alan Mulally returns in Episode 33 and applies his “Working Together” principles—honed at Boeing & Ford—to his family. Download his framework on the principles of “Working Together” on from Molly's 3/11/20 LinkedIn post at https://bit.ly/2N61zva. Hear how the Mulally “weekly family meeting” supported the growth of adults, kids and family... and how you can bring it to yours. Next, Natasha calls in to understand more about unconscious bias while WFH and best practices for professionals to proactively shift such bias (40:30). And Heidi shares how she was running into roadblocks when suggesting keynote speakers of color; applying my simple suggestions, she was able to find great success! Tune in for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 32, Jorge calls in to discuss the transition with his team to support onsite clients remotely, including how to open communications and deliver tough news. He also talks about his own growth and building greater resilience. Next, Kelly calls in to gain clarity on how to handle being laid off without a reason why and how to be self-compassionate as she moves forward to create new job possibilities (15:50). Next, Desiree is keen to make a smooth transition to a new role: balancing training for a new position while also working the old position and adding the value she wants (34:30). Finally, Mark raises the challenge of work overload demoralizing the team, and how to approach the leader about it. Tune in for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 31, Molly launches Our Voices, a feature in which you will hear firsthand the stories of her guests becoming who they are. When you can hear different voices with curiosity and without judgment, it helps create empathetic understanding of vastly different experiences around what it means to grow up, go to school, struggle, work and live in our world. Molly’s friend, Patrick Brown shares his inspiring journey from high school dropout—in a land of pain and poverty—to renting his first computer at 17, and then defying the odds to become a successful, Fortune 50 high tech leader. While honoring his roots, he shares his optimism and excitement about the legacy he wants in the future. Patrick also shares actionable ways to support all of us in being safe, seen and heard... being our true and best selves.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 30, Molly's conversations center around jobs. Her 1st caller, Kai, raises how to ask for a promotion, while still being sensitive & appreciative to have a job in these tough times. They also cover how to act on difficult feedback and stay true to yourself. Paloma, a headhunter, raises the importance of soft skills, in addition to technical, for leaders to have and apply (20:30). Then Aditya calls in to understand how to discuss with his boss the work overload that’s leading toward burn out (27:20). Finally, Molly cover self-coaching and how to bolster your own self-esteem and give yourself credit for the value that you add (47:30). Her thought for the week: Choose compassion (50:00). Tune in for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 29, Marshall Goldsmith, recognized as World’s #1 Executive Coach and a Top Ten business thinker for the past eight years by Thinkers50, shares wise words to help you lead during the pandemic. He also reveals a fantastic way to shift from feedback to feedforward. Then, Louisa poses a challenge of how to approach a conversation around more diverse representation in the sciences (16:40). And, Chris is keen for different ways to effectively connect and communicate with a leader to whom you haven’t had a lot of access (26:10). Finally, Mark shares how game-changing it is to be a “mood engineer!” (38:20). Marshall’s powerful, 6-question process: bit.ly/3ep8Guz Try Feedforward! bit.ly/3eq8VWd Tune in for her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 28, named “one of the most influential entrepreneurs on the planet” by The Times, 21-year old Ben Towers joins Molly to examine the importance of asking for help, and also discusses improving mental health in the workplace by forming communities. Molly's next caller Matt is keen on ways to gracefully leave a job while giving open honest feedback to be part of the solution (21:00). Then, Brandon calls in to talk about gaining new clients by showing confidence, yet not being too forceful (31:50). Finally, Molly covers a question from an HR professional about feeling unmotivated after turnover within the company (43:00). Her thought for the week: Breathe with your whole body (51:15). Tune in for Molly's conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 27, renowned expert for girls and young women in leadership development, Julie Carrier, shared some of the science on building confidence and overcoming negative self-talk. She highlighted the importance of leadership development beginning in school, and also right upon entering the workforce (check out http://girlslead.com). Molly's next callers, 18-year old Maryam & Nivaal, activists and award-winning filmmakers, shared their experience working together as sisters and creating a positive relationship (25:00). Then college sophomore Jackson called in keen for ways to respond to a student leader who dismissed his idea in a meeting and didn't help the team (51:00). Tune in for these live conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 26, Molly started with several powerful learnings from a piece on Kobe Bryant, including the notion of being psychologically flexible: to be in touch with your emotions but not completely absorbed by them, a key to both Kobe’s success and saying it skillfully. President & CEO of Junior Achievement (JA) Worldwide, Asheesh Advani, generously shared his journey in building an entrepreneurial mindset and how one positive comment to a young person can literally change their life! Then, JA alum, 21-year old Ben Towers, unpacked the importance of different generations learning from each other to solve problems creatively. Ben and Molly then talked about personal brand & consistently developing a leader throughout one's life. Tune in and learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 25, self-awareness expert & best-selling author Tasha Eurich provided insights on building the essential skill of self-awareness, which may be more nuanced than you think ( also key for you in learning to Say It Skillfully™!) Ben called in keen for ideas on how to respond to what seemed to be a one-sided demand (18:15). Amanta, an artist, & I discussed how to raise her interest in celebrating wise & willful women who are making a difference in the world in a unifying way (30:15). Molly covered a LinkedIn scenario in which you think your boss is taking credit for your idea. (43:00). My thought for the week: Lead people; manage work. Lead from the heart; manage from the mind. Tune in for these topics & Molly's conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 24, Rhett Power shared highs, lows and aha’s as an entrepreneur...and how following his intuition continues to serve him. Jodi called in about the tough task of communicating to a colleague that they’re being let go, to no fault of their own (25:00). And early in his career in Nigeria, Uchebenu asked for advice in communicating new ideas and influencing elders in a respectful way (34:00). Molly responded to a scenario in which you want to help a boss be aware they take more airtime than they may think (46:15). Molly's thought for the week: Be your own best friend, not worst enemy (49:15). Tune in for these topics and her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 23, Dr. Chris Sidford, board-certified emergency medicine physician, joined to share practical advice both to protect against Covid-19 and be proactive in your career possibilities, which led to his medical consultancy. Mitali, an executive coach, raised the topic of how do leaders convey tough information to their people about the state of the business, including layoffs (21:00). And Yoon-hee was open with her English-as-a-second language struggles and keen to find a way to overcome them (34:15). Molly's thought for the week: Be present. Be hopeful. Meet people where they are, not where you wish they’d be, so they feel heard and seen. And know this time of uncertainty shall pass with new opportunities to emerge. Listen in and learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 22, Molly’s 1st caller Jilly, a 4th grade teacher asked about effectively giving feedback, so that both a student and their parents better receive it. Darren, from Sydney, was keen for ways to help his leadership team adapt to working virtually in these Covid-19 times, and best support one another and their whole group (9:40). Jim, who leads a salesforce, discussed the balancing act of compassion and empathy for customers with the need to also sell (27:40). Molly responded to 2 LinkedIn questions (35:20). Lastly, from Cairo, Ahmed wanted to handle his frustration when different generations on his team have different perceptions of good work ethic (41:15). Tune in & learn to navigate work while being invaluable & true to yourself. “Knowing others is knowledge, knowing yourself is wisdom.” –Lao Tzu
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 21 Molly shared learnings, including “compassionate directness,” from Arianna Huffington’s 3/30 newsletter and a new Thrive Global study: Thriving in the New Normal. Her 1st caller, Nicholas, a consultant, needed to approach a key senior exec who sends nasty, company-wide emails to admonish people. Then Rafael asked how to provide tough feedback to a valued, high potential colleague, who he thinks will be blind-sided by how mgt perceives her (27:30). Molly shared negotiation expert Chris Voss’ strategy to save deals falling apart in Covid-19 times (44:15). Lastly & most importantly, please donate - show your gratitude to 1st responders: 1strcf.org and #firstrespondersfirst. Tune in for these topics and her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 20, Molly's 1st caller, from Italy, shared an early learning of always creating a positive interaction—even with someone he may never see again—and asked about how to be complimentary, but not too much so. Tom called interested in how to keep his emotions in check when handling adversarial situations in meetings. (18:30). Next, Christy asked about a sensitive conversation with her husband when they don’t quite see eye-to-eye on how safe it is to travel in these COVID-19 times (31:15). Then a recent new hire, Hailey, was keen on how she could approach her manager to take on more responsibility, now that more senior folks had unexpectedly departed the firm (38:00). Join the show and learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 19, Forbes 30 under 30 & BBC 100 Most Inspiring Woman, Betsy Fore shared her entrepreneurial journey. Her latest company, Tiny Organics, helps babies eat smart from the smart and develop a lifelong positive relationship with food. Molly’s 1st caller, Sophia asked how to navigate when an executive wanted her to give feedback to a peer (23:30). Then Jim, a baby boomer, wanted advice on leading a multi-generational team and creating team dynamics for both individual and collective success (34:15). I addressed a couple questions from LinkedIn followers as well (45:15). Lastly, inspired by Betsy, my thought for the week: If you can dream it you can build it. Empower those with “hustle heart” and make those dreams come true. Tune in and learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive & productive manner. In Episode 18, Alan Mulally shared his secrets to getting hundreds of thousands of people “Working Together”, which incidentally helped his family’s success! Caroline, early in her career, was keen to push back on managers who’ve been saying, “just deal with it, roll over and apologize” when she wasn’t at fault (22:45). David asked about how to tactfully help friends who constantly talk about feeling low energy & burnout, yet don’t seem to do anything about it (35:15). Finally, Stever raised a sensitive situation of a friend asking to write a review for a book that he wasn’t comfortable being associated with (42:30). Finally, my thought of the week, learned from Alan: “Love ‘em up” (if you need ideas: http://bit.ly/39TEOER). Join the show and learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 17, Robert Glazer, founder & CEO of Acceleration Partners, a global partner marketing agency, shared how growing culture has led to the company’s growth, and core to this is holistically supporting each individual’s growth. Molly’s first caller, Mary, inquired about managing volunteers, and how to have a conversation when delegating work isn’t someone’s forte (20:00). Kate presented a tough situation where management allows a high performer to play by a different set of rules… how to maintain people’s motivation where the inequity isn’t subtle (33:30)? And Molly’s thought for the week: being grateful. A simple gratitude journal has been a powerfully positive habit. Join the show for these topics and her live conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 16, Molly’s 1st caller Jennifer—several years into her job in financial services—asked about “managing up... how to provide feedback to people in more senior positions. Scott inquired about a past experience with an African nonprofit and navigating tricky culture and ethical waters (16:30). Gail was keen to beat the “bad habit” of people failing to respond to emails and needing to nag (31:30)! Finally, Bill was upfront about how decisions on layoffs aren’t as well informed as one might hope, and shared how he successfully took a very different tact (40:00). Molly shared thoughts on Arianna Huffington’s NYT piece, “How to Give Compassionate Feedback While Still Being Constructive” (2/24/20). Join the show for these topics and learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 15 Molly’s 1st caller, Alyssa, wanted to “break up with a friend” and asked about how to handle ending, or perhaps preserving this relationship. Jerry called on the topic of kids going to college, taking large loans, and navigating tight job markets – how can they gain entrepreneurial skills (12:15)? Tony, a coach, asked about getting folks to speak up at work and be inspired to use their voice (26:45). Finally Terry, also a coach, inquired about handling a new client, a leader whose heels seemed dug in and very resistant to change (41:30)! Tune into this show and learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive & productive manner. In Episode 14, special guest Kris Maynard shares his journey to sell his company, Essential Ingredients, to all employees, and pursue creating a company to last 100 years. Hear about EI's purpose-driven and people-first culture. My 1st caller Justin brought up balancing your well-being & achieving high performance, and also shared his own career transition/re-branding from academic research to executive coaching (16:45). Fahad, who’s been trying to raise funding from investors asked how to gain feedback to help him improve his pitch (25:35). Sander, whose first language isn’t English asked how to skillfully jump in during meetings when people aren’t on the same page. Lastly May asked about bringing much needed mindfulness & compassion into the workplace (39:45). Join in and learn to navigate work while being true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 13, Molly’s 1st caller, Gary, disappointed by a friend letting him down, asked how to handle this. Nancy, typically the caregiver for everyone else when times are tough, inquired about how to give herself space to grieve over the passing of a friend as others count on her. And Matt raised his challenge of influencing management to support him in a new role, when he’s viewed as essential to his current one. Molly then offered a way to handle the “always on” colleague that Garry Ridge raised last week. She also addressed a question on how to respond to performance review input that you really don’t agree with, and shared how SuperBowl MVP Pat Mahomes communicates skillfully. Tune in to the show for these topics and her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 12, Chairman & CEO of the WD-40 Company, Garry O. Ridge shares insights on creating and sustaining people-center cultures, and one that embraces say it skillfully and learning moments at all levels. Call in and ask Molly how to handle that conversation or specific situation you’ve been avoiding. Or you can email Molly from her host page (https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/3923/say-it-skillfully). Join the show for these topics and her live conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 11, Molly's 1st caller, Diane, asked about how to influence a leader who doesn’t report to her and whose inexperience as a leader was very damaging the team. Molly then shared insights from former Baxter CEO Harry Kraemer to help every individual lead themselves (24:00). Former Olympian and coach Robert Weir joined Molly for an insightful conversation on bringing out the highest levels of performance (30:30). And finally, leadership coach Paul asked about ways to help individuals realize they need to “do the work” (and not rely on their coach to do it for them 46:30) Tune in to the show for these topics and her conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 10 started with a caller, Sunder, who wanted help to “say no,” especially to those in senior positions. William called in for a lively conversation on ways parents and their beloved college-age children can more skillfully relate (7:00). Teresa, 10 years into her career, asked about how to get started on exploring “what’s next” (27:30). My final caller, Gal, shared his experience with bullying in the workplace, and we discussed what you can do to overcome this, and when it may be the right thing to leave the bully behind (38:15). Join the show for these topics and her live conversations as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 9, Bex explored her inner dialogue about doing work she loves, though not the compensation. How to consider the opportunity cost and position herself to be valued in a way that feels right? Christian asked how to “say no” when senior stakeholders want you to take on more work than you have bandwidth for. And we talked about approaching a colleague who’s executing fine on the job, but isn’t exactly superb in their people interactions and softskills (17:50). Steeped in the rapidly-changing IT industry, Patrick wanted to better utilize his own metaskills to more quickly connect with people and help them to fully embrace change (30:45). Join the show and learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that allows you to get Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. At the start of Episode 8, Paul asked about ways to help his new boss, who’s constantly overloaded, to digest key information and avoid ill-informed decisions.
Jeff, a seasoned executive, spoke candidly about his experience where those in the CEO role tend toward leading by directive and don’t seem interested in promoting open, inclusive environments (15:45).
Finally, Brad was keen to discuss how to handle situations where it appears someone isn’t putting forth their best effort (30:30) . I wrapped by responding to a request from someone who was happily in between jobs, though not comfortable with how exactly to talk about being so. Join the show and learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® helps you benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 7 starts with the flip-side to “If you’re good enough, you’re old enough.” What’s it like to be later in career aspiring to re-invent? Molly’s 1st guest, Simon, aware of bias that non-digital natives are “definitionally irrelevant” shows his vulnerability as he shares his experience along the way to the CEO ranks. Hear thought-provoking questions about what’s next on his journey. Cathy called in about getting through to a colleague who attempts to save time by cutting corners, but unintentionally creates fire drills for everyone else (34:30). And Brian, who in the past turned a blind eye to a respected colleague’s tendency to be a top talker, was keen for options to skillfully help his colleague say less and add more value (47:30). Join Molly as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® gives you Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 6 started with techniques to help leaders create safe space and handle egos in the room. Brian shared his journey in leading his company, from being not so aware of how he was coming across to empowering his team to tell it how it is and become more skillful themselves (5:30). Gary, in a highly metric-driven environment, called in for a robust conversation on conveying disappointing results, setting expectations upfront, and ending a client relationship you want to move on from (26:30). Engendering greater accountability was on Michael’s mind–in an inspiring, not authoritative way (37:30). And Vandana observed mentoring where the mentors aren’t exactly best serving mentees and inquired how to turn this around? Lastly, Molly responded to an inquiry from Daniel on how to “brag tactfully” and ensure due credit is given (47:30)!
Say It Skillfully® gives you Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 5, several callers wanted to effectively disagree or convey an opposing point of view. Fear of offending or looking bad was a common challenge. Join Molly for these topics as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Her first caller Chuck was stunned when his boss flew off the handle about an email. Hear how he could have de-escalated the situation, while helping his boss grow. Jim, team leader and ‘boomer’, asked about leading Gen X and Y’s and building the trust needed to work well together (15:45). Preparing to discuss a promotion she felt qualified for, Liv was unsure of her boss’ support. How could she share her true feelings without creating ‘career suicide’ (28:30)? An entrepreneur, Johannes needed help to set client expectations upfront, vs accept timelines he knew wouldn’t work (44:)
Say It Skillfully® gives you Molly Tschang's expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 4, Chester Elton, best-selling author & culture expert, joined and shared how the gift of gratitude, one of the precious gifts money can't buy, dramatically improves your relationships, at work & home. Molly spoke with callers and responded to her LinkedIn network about their challenges: Sophie asked about creating connection when the whole team is virtual (10:10). Garrett, recently out of college and new to his company, inquired about how to share a different point of view, respectfully - without appearing to be difficult. (28:50). What to do when someone appears to be tuning you out? (40:20 min). Vyette called in about being a leader and how to be vulnerable in a positive way with your team and ask for help (42:55) How to confront—without being confrontational—a colleague who’s dragging down the team’s positivity (49:30)
Say It Skillfully® is a show that allows you to get Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 3, Molly helps professionals handle their challenges, including:
How to gain confidence to participate more during meetings when you’re inclined to hang back. As a team leader, communicating tough news in a motivating way to a valued employee who didn’t get a much desired promotion. Confronting a team member who seems disengaged without being confrontational. Staying composed when you’re shocked by what someone has said. Join Molly for these topics and more as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you with Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 2, Bruce Kasanoff, social media ghostwriter and expert on being genuine, shares how “MetaSkills” have been a gamechanger in how others perceive him, in both work and personal settings. Molly then helps professionals handle their challenges, including:
Bringing team members together to co-create how you’ll do your best work together and how to keep the team’s energy upbeat and deal with it when it’s not. Ways to teach young Board members to say no to gifts that don’t align with your nonprofit’s mission. Putting yourself in your peer’s shoes so they’ll embrace your constructive feedback, even when they have more experience, and overcoming what holds us back from being transparent and direct. Join Molly for these topics and more as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In this kick off episode, Molly provides context for the series and you’ll hear her help professionals handle their challenges, including:
If you’re the boss, how can you make suggestions without being too bossy? On the flip side, how can an employee turn around poor behavior from their boss? You’ll learn to deal with a not so aware, too controlling colleague, and how to make a stellar first impression in your first big presentation in your new job. Join Molly for these topics and more as you learn to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself.