Episodes

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    In this engaging episode, we explore the essential topic of respect and its pivotal role in cultivating thriving and harmonious professional environments. Join us as we delve into the power of respect, and its profound impact on fostering collaboration, enhancing productivity, and nurturing meaningful connections within the business world.

    Our hosts engage in a dynamic conversation about the fundamental importance of mutual respect in the workplace. Through relatable anecdotes, we highlight how respect forms the bedrock of effective communication, trust, and teamwork. By examining real-life scenarios, we illustrate the tangible benefits that respectful interactions bring to individuals and organizations alike.

    Drawing from practical experiences, we share insight to help you foster a culture of respect within your own business or team. We explore the significance of empathy, active listening, and creating an inclusive environment that values and celebrates diverse perspectives. Whether you're a leader, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a professional seeking to enhance your relationships in the workplace, this episode will provide you with valuable tools and perspectives to build stronger connections and drive long-term success.


    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.


    In this captivating episode, we explore the art of prioritization and its profound impact on achieving success and maintaining a balanced professional life. Join us as we dive into the realm of strategic decision-making, discovering how to effectively identify and focus on what truly matters amidst the myriad of tasks and responsibilities we face.

    Our hosts, offer practical insights and actionable strategies to help you master the art of setting priorities. Through relatable examples and scenarios, we discuss the challenges professionals encounter and provide guidance on overcoming obstacles, streamlining workflows, and making informed choices that align with your core values and long-term goals.

    We delve into techniques for time management, discerning between urgent and important tasks, and maximizing productivity. By embracing strategic prioritization, you can optimize your efforts, reduce stress, and achieve greater results in both your professional and personal endeavors.

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

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  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the impact of appreciation on cultivating a positive work environment. Join us as we explore the importance of expressing gratitude and recognition, and how it can transform team dynamics and boost motivation.

    Our hosts provide practical strategies that leaders can implement to nurture a culture of appreciation within their organizations. From small, meaningful gestures of gratitude to ongoing efforts to recognize and acknowledge employees, we offer actionable steps to integrate appreciation into the fabric of your company.

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Honoring and respecting people during difficult conversations holds immense value due to several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it cultivates an environment of trust and openness. When individuals feel respected, acknowledged, and heard, they are more likely to engage in productive dialogue and share their perspectives honestly. This creates a safe space for authentic communication, leading to a better understanding of different viewpoints and potential solutions.


    Additionally, honoring and respecting people during difficult conversations promotes empathy and compassion. Recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of each individual involved encourages a deeper appreciation for their experiences, values, and emotions. This empathy enables participants to approach the conversation with greater sensitivity and consideration, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that seeks common ground and mutual understanding.


    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    This podcast that dives deep into the fascinating and often misunderstood world of imposter syndrome. Join us as we explore the experiences, emotions, and strategies surrounding this pervasive phenomenon that affects individuals from all walks of life.

    From high-achieving professionals to creative artists, entrepreneurs to students, imposter syndrome can strike anyone. Our podcast offers a safe and supportive space to acknowledge these feelings, learn from shared experiences, and develop resilience. We'll address the unique challenges faced by different demographics and explore how imposter syndrome intersects with gender, culture, and diversity.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    This episode is a transformative journey where we dive deep into the art of intentional living -- packed with insightful conversations, practical tips, and inspiring stories that will help you cultivate mindfulness, clarity, and direction in all aspects of your life.


    Join us as we explore various topics, including goal-setting strategies, mindfulness practices, self-care rituals, mindset shifts, and personal development techniques. We'll also dive into areas such as relationships, career, health, and spirituality, uncovering the keys to living with intention in every area of your life.


    Our diverse lineup of expert guests, including renowned thought leaders, authors, coaches, and everyday individuals who have mastered the art of intentional living, will share their wisdom and experiences. You'll gain valuable insights and practical tools that you can implement right away to create positive changes and make the most out of every moment.


    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    In this thought-provoking episode of Awareness Advantage, join us as we delve into the depths of the scarcity mindset and explore its profound impact on our lives.


    Scarcity, both real and perceived, can influence our thoughts, beliefs, and actions, often leading to a cycle of fear, anxiety, and unhealthy competition. But how do we recognize and break free from this limiting mindset?


    Through captivating discussions and insightful interviews with experts in psychology, economics, and personal development, we uncover the roots of the scarcity mindset and its pervasive effects on our relationships, finances, and overall well-being. We discover the surprising ways scarcity thinking infiltrates our decision-making, hindering us from embracing abundance and thriving in all aspects of life.


    Our engaging guests share their own transformative experiences, offering practical strategies and tools to challenge scarcity thinking and cultivate a mindset of abundance. Together, we explore the power of gratitude, reframing perspectives, and fostering a sense of abundance, allowing us to shift from a mindset of lack to one of possibility and fulfillment.


    Whether you've struggled with scarcity thinking yourself or wish to gain a deeper understanding of this phenomenon, this episode will empower you with the knowledge and inspiration to break free from the constraints of scarcity and create a life of abundance and abundance for yourself and those around you.


    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Today we're going to be taking a deep dive on the topic of diversity - a complex and important issue that affects all of us in different ways. Specifically, we'll be diving into the topics of stereotypes and differences, and how they impact our perceptions of those around us.


    One aspect of diversity that can be particularly challenging is the presence of stereotypes. Stereotyping involves making assumptions about people based on their membership in a certain group, and can lead to unfair treatment and missed opportunities for those who don't fit these stereotypes. In today's episode, we'll be discussing the harm that stereotypes can cause and how we can work to combat them.


    We'll also be exploring the role that differences play in our interactions with others. While differences can be a source of misunderstanding and conflict, they can also be a source of growth and learning. By acknowledging and valuing our differences, we can create a more inclusive society where everyone feels valued and respected.


    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Feeling safe is an essential aspect of our well-being, and it is crucial to be able to recognize when we are not feeling safe, whether physically or emotionally. In this conversation Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji share their thoughts and experiences.

    Creating space is an essential technique when feeling unsafe. For some this means being cautious with their words and bringing in other people to help create a sense of safety. for others it means intentionally leaving the unsafe space and putting themselves in a safer place.

    There are various techniques and strategies one can use to feel safe in a situation that may be challenging or uncomfortable. Creating space, leaving the area, and gently changing the topic are all effective techniques that can help us feel safe. It is essential to recognize when we are not feeling safe and have a plan in place to address the situation and ensure our well-being.


    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Respect is an essential part of any healthy relationship, whether it's personal or professional. It involves treating others the way you would like to be treated and acknowledging their worth and value. Respect can be earned through various actions and behaviors, and it's a two-way street that requires effort and intention from both parties.

    One of the most crucial aspects of earning respect is to show empathy towards others. This means being able to understand and share their feelings, thoughts, and experiences. When you actively listen to others and validate their emotions, you show that you care and value their perspective. By doing this, you build trust and demonstrate your willingness to connect on a deeper level.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    As the saying goes, "Work is not always fun." However, there is a big difference between not enjoying work and avoiding it altogether. When employees begin to avoid their duties and responsibilities, it can lead to significant problems for both the individual and the organization as a whole.


    If you are a manager or supervisor and you have noticed that your employees are avoiding their work, it is essential to understand the reasons behind their behavior. In this article, we will explore some of the most common reasons why people avoid their jobs and provide solutions for addressing the issue.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Authenticity in the workplace refers to being true to oneself and one's values, beliefs, and personality while interacting with colleagues, superiors, and subordinates. It means being honest, transparent, and genuine in all interactions, and avoiding putting up a façade or wearing a mask to fit in or please others. Authenticity is crucial in the workplace because it fosters trust, openness, and a positive work culture.


    By practicing these habits, you can create a workplace culture that values authenticity and encourages people to be their true selves.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Micromanagement is a common problem in many workplaces. It can be frustrating and demotivating for employees, as well as detrimental to productivity and overall company culture. In this article, we will explore some strategies for dealing with micromanagement and creating a more positive work environment.

    Communicate with your manager
    One of the first steps to dealing with micromanagement is to communicate with your manager. It is important to be respectful and professional, but also assertive in expressing your concerns. Let your manager know how their micromanagement is impacting your work and how it makes you feel. Use specific examples and be prepared to offer suggestions for how things could be done differently.Build trust
    Micromanagement often stems from a lack of trust between the manager and the employee. Building trust can be a long process, but it is essential for creating a more positive work environment. Be reliable and consistent in your work, communicate openly and honestly with your manager, and follow through on your commitments.Clarify expectations
    Often, micromanagers feel the need to control every aspect of a project because they are uncertain about what is expected of them or their team. To combat this, it is important to clarify expectations upfront. Make sure you understand your manager's goals and priorities, as well as your role and responsibilities. Agree on specific milestones and deadlines, and communicate regularly on progress.Take initiative
    Micromanagers often feel the need to be in control because they are not confident in their team's abilities. To counteract this, take the initiative and demonstrate your competence. Look for opportunities to take on additional responsibilities, suggest new ideas, and take ownership of your work. By demonstrating your competence and taking the initiative, you can build trust and reduce the need for micromanagement.Focus on results
    Ultimately, the most important thing is achieving results. Focus on delivering high-quality work and meeting your goals, rather than worrying about the details of how you get there. If you can consistently deliver results, your manager will be more likely to trust you and give you more autonomy.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times, and it's normal to experience a range of emotions, including sadness, anxiety, stress, and frustration.


    It's important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health, and taking care of our mental and emotional wellbeing is crucial to living a fulfilling and happy life. It's okay to reach out for help when you need it, whether that's from a friend, family member, or mental health professional.


    If you're struggling with your mental health, know that you're not alone and that there is support available. It's okay to not be okay, but it's also important to take steps towards healing and recovery.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.


    Acknowledgement and compliment are similar in that they both involve expressing recognition or appreciation for something. However, there are some key differences between the two.


    An acknowledgement is a statement of recognition or appreciation for someone's efforts, contributions, or achievements. It is usually more focused on the action or behavior itself rather than the person. For example, you might acknowledge a colleague for their hard work on a project or for their helpful input during a meeting.


    A compliment, on the other hand, is a statement of admiration or praise for someone's qualities, characteristics, or appearance. It is usually more focused on the person as a whole. For example, you might compliment a friend on their sense of humor or on how well they've styled their hair.


    To summarize, acknowledgement is about recognizing someone's actions or efforts, while a compliment is about praising someone's qualities or characteristics. Both can be powerful ways to show appreciation and build positive relationships.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    The Albert Wong Emotions Wheel, also known as the "Feelings Wheel," is a visual tool that was developed by Dr. Gloria Willcox and Dr. Albert Wong to help individuals better understand and articulate their emotions.


    The emotions wheel is divided into different levels of emotional granularity, with the innermost circle containing more general emotions and the outermost circle containing more specific emotions. For example, the innermost circle may include broad emotions such as "happy" or "sad," while the outermost circle may include more specific emotions such as "optimistic" or "hopeful" under the category of "happy," and "lonely" or "heartbroken" under the category of "sad."


    By using the emotions wheel, individuals can more accurately identify and label their emotions, which can be helpful in regulating and expressing their feelings. This tool has been widely used in various fields such as psychology, therapy, and education to help people increase their emotional awareness and intelligence.


    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Changing limiting beliefs requires a deliberate and conscious effort, but it is definitely possible. Here are some steps you can take:

    Identify your limiting beliefs: Start by identifying the beliefs that are holding you back. What are the thoughts that come to mind when you think about your limitations? Write them down and be specific.Challenge your beliefs: Once you have identified your limiting beliefs, examine them objectively. Ask yourself, "Is this belief really true? What evidence do I have to support it?" Try to look at your beliefs from different perspectives and consider alternative viewpoints.Replace your limiting beliefs with empowering beliefs: After challenging your limiting beliefs, replace them with empowering beliefs. For example, if you believe that you're not smart enough to succeed, replace that belief with the thought that "I am capable of learning and improving."Repeat new empowering beliefs: Repeat these new empowering beliefs to yourself on a regular basis until they become your new default way of thinking.Take action: Finally, take action to reinforce your new beliefs. Start doing things that align with your new beliefs. Take small steps towards your goals and celebrate your progress along the way. This will help you build confidence and reinforce your new empowering beliefs.


    Remember, changing limiting beliefs is a process, so be patient with yourself and keep working at it. With time and effort, you can overcome your limiting beliefs and achieve your full potential.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Communicating expectations effectively is an important part of building strong relationships, whether in a personal or professional context. Here are some tips for communicating expectations:

    Be clear and specific: When communicating expectations, it's important to be clear and specific about what you want or need. Avoid using vague language that could lead to misunderstandings.Use "I" statements: When expressing expectations, it's helpful to use "I" statements rather than "you" statements. This can help avoid coming across as accusatory or confrontational, and instead focus on your own needs and feelings.Listen actively: Effective communication is a two-way street. Be sure to listen actively to the other person's response and be open to their perspective. This can help build mutual understanding and trust.Check for understanding: After communicating your expectations, it's important to check for understanding. Ask the other person to repeat back what they heard to ensure that you are on the same page.Follow up: Following up on expectations can help ensure that everyone is on track and that any issues or concerns are addressed in a timely manner. Set up a timeline or schedule to revisit the expectations and assess progress.


    Overall, clear and respectful communication is key to effectively communicating expectations and building strong relationships.


    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Holding others accountable is an important aspect of building trust and ensuring that everyone is working towards common goals. Here are some steps you can take to hold others accountable:

    Set clear expectations: Make sure that everyone involved understands what is expected of them. This means setting specific, measurable goals and deadlines, and outlining the consequences of not meeting them.Communicate regularly: Check in with those you are holding accountable on a regular basis to see how things are going. Use these opportunities to provide feedback and course-correct if needed.Provide resources and support: Ensure that those you are holding accountable have the resources and support they need to succeed. This could mean providing training, mentoring, or access to additional resources.Follow through on consequences: If someone is not meeting expectations, follow through on the consequences outlined earlier. This helps establish a culture of accountability and ensures that everyone understands the importance of meeting their commitments.Lead by example: As a leader or someone holding others accountable, you need to set the tone by holding yourself accountable as well. This means being transparent, admitting mistakes, and taking ownership of your own commitments.


    Remember that holding others accountable is not about punishment, but about ensuring that everyone is working towards the same goals and that everyone is contributing to the team's success. By setting clear expectations, communicating regularly, providing resources and support, following through on consequences, and leading by example, you can create a culture of accountability that leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

  • Each week, best selling authors, Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

    Psychologist Joseph A. Shrand explains that being valued is a basic human instinct that goes back millions of years when our ancestors figured out that when we work together, we are less likely to be prey, and more likely to have food, shelter and comfort. Dr Shrand says that in the back of our brains “When we sense that somebody else sees us with less value, we worry that we will be kicked out of our protective group, and some predator will come and eat us. That we will be lunch. That we will not survive.”

    Broken down like that, it is easy to see why when we think we are not being valued, anxiety creeps in, and we get upset! So how do we get people to value us?

    Some people will always be in their own heads and not value those around them. Frankly, you can’t do a lot about those people, but you CAN make an effort to show the people around you that they are valued.

    We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

    Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.

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